bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Impact of high-fat overfeeding on white adipose tissue and systemic metabolic and inflammatory responses
Authors: Dewhurst-Trigg Rebecca , Woods Rachel M. , Hulston Carl J. , Markey Oonagh
Published: June 2020

White adipose tissue (WAT) inflammation is linked to the development of cardiometabolic disease. A high intake of saturated fatty acids (SFA) may promote a more pro-inflammatory WAT gene expression profile, compared to monounsaturated fatty acids(1,2). This is concerning as the UK adult population currently exceeds the SFA intake target of < 10% total energy (TE), at 11.9%TE(3). However, further research is needed to understand how SFA ingestion impacts the protein content and phosphorylation of key targets involved in WAT inflammatory signalling. Therefore, this study investigated the effect of short-term, high-fat overfeeding on WAT and systemic metabolic and inflammatory responses in healthy, non-obese individuals.

Fifteen (9 men, 6 women) apparently healthy participants (mean (SE) age; 26.6 (1.2) y, BMI; 24.4 (0.6) kg/m2) consumed a high-fat (dietary target: 65.0%TE total fat; 32.5%TE SFA), high-calorie (+ 50% estimated energy requirements) diet for 7 days. Fasted venous blood and WAT samples were collected pre- and post-intervention.

Body mass increased following the intervention (pre-intervention vs. post-intervention: 75.2 (2.9) kg vs. 76.4 (2.9) kg; P < 0.0001). The intervention also led to increases in glucose (4.4 (0.1) vs. 4.6 (0.1) mmol/L; P = 0.022) and lipopolysaccharide-binding protein (12.9 (1.3) vs. 17.7 (3.0) μg/mL; P = 0.038), and a decrease in triacylglycerol (0.91 (0.08) vs. 0.72 (0.05) mmol/L; P = 0.007). Insulin, IL-6 and soluble CD14 concentrations remained unchanged (all P > 0.05). At the WAT level, total protein (TLR4; NF-κB; IKβα; P38; MCP-1) and phosphorylation (p) of proteins (p-NF-κB; p-IKβα; p-P38) involved in inflammatory signalling were unchanged following the intervention (all P > 0.05).

In conclusion, although short-term, high-fat overfeeding led to an increase in body mass as well as systemic metabolic alterations, the content and phosphorylation of proteins involved in WAT inflammatory signalling were unaltered in healthy, non-obese individuals. Further analysis will reveal the impact of high-fat overfeeding on peripheral blood monocyte populations, which are involved in mediating pro- and anti-inflammatory responses.

This research was supported by a Society for Endocrinology Early Career Grant.
Advanced glycation end products (AGEs) in metabolic disease: linking diet, inflammation and microbiota
Authors: Gaudioso Giulia , Collotta Debora , Chiazza Fausto , Mastrocola Raffaella , Cento Alessia , Fava Francesca , Aragno Manuela , Collino Massimo , Tuohy Kieran
Published: June 2020

Introduction:

High sugar consumption promotes endogenous formation of advanced glycation end-products (AGEs), a heterogeneous class of molecules originated from non-enzymatic glycation between reducing sugars and free amino groups of proteins, nucleic acids, or lipids. AGEs accumulation in tissues has been linked to aging and diabetes complications. AGEs might also play an independent role in inflammation and development of cardiovascular disease (CVD). Exogenous dietary AGEs, due to excess intake of modern heat-treated foods, might act synergistically with endogenous AGEs, thus contributing to increase inflammation and CVD. A large amount of ingested AGEs reaches the colon, where they might affect gut microbial metabolism, for example, by acting as substrate for colonic bacterial fermentation, driving alterations of microbiota composition and of intestinal permeability. However in vitro and in vivo studies (animal and human) on the impact of AGEs on the gut microbiota are discordant. This study on mice aims to link the modulation of gut microbiota by AGEs-enriched diet (AGE-D) with metabolic and inflammatory markers.

Materials and methods:

C57BL/6 mice were randomly allocated into the following dietary regimens: Control (n = 24) and AGE-D (n = 20) for 22 weeks. AGE-D was prepared replacing casein (200 g/kg diet) by an equal amount of modified casein where 10% of arginine was glycated with MG-H1 (methylglyoxal 5-hydro-5-methylimidazolone) for a total of 4 μmol of MG-H1 per g of diet. Faeces were collected using metabolic cages (18 h starving) at week 0, 11 and 22 for fecal DNA extraction and 16SrRNA analysis through Illumina MiSeq using V3-V4 targeted primers. After 22 weeks of dietary manipulation, mice were sacrificed, plasma and organ lipid profiles and serum metabolic and inflammatory profiles were determined.

Results and discussion:

AGE-D caused a significant reduction in the blood levels of two important components of the incretin system, GIP and GLP-1, when compared to control diet, suggestive of unbalance in the incretin-insulin axis. AGE-D exposure was associated with a significant increase in systemic concentrations of inflammatory cytokines, e.g. IL-1β and IL-17, and PAI-1, which has been suggested as both reliable marker and critical mediator of cellular senescence. We will present how AGEs impact on microbiome community structure and correlate changes in gut microbiota with GIP and GLP-1 levels.

Conclusions:

AGEs, characteristic of modern processed foods, appear to impact on the incretin-insulin axis, a key regulator of metabolic disease risk. Diets rich in AGEs may mediate these physiological effects at least in part, by reshaping intestinal microbiota structure.
Diet quality, anthropometrics, and gut microbiota composition in healthy adults
Authors: Malinowska Anna M. , Schmidt Marcin , Chmurzynska Agata
Published: June 2020

Human gut microbiota may affect metabolism and health by synthesizing metabolites and processing of food components. Those processes are specific to genus and species (or even strain), and dietary intake and metabolic state (such as obesity) can affect the composition of gut microbiota. The aim of the study was to assess the effect of dietary patterns and intake of several groups of food products and macronutrients, as well as the impact of anthropometric parameters on gut microbiota composition.

The study group consisted of 200 men and women between 31 and 50 years of age. The diet was assessed using three-day dietary records and the dietary pattern was determined with the use of the original score method and two dietary indices, namely the Diet Quality Index – International (DQI-I) and the Healthy Eating Index (HEI). Bacterial DNA was isolated from the feces of the participants and microbiota composition was determined using metagenomic sequencing of the V3–V4 region of the 16S rRNA gene.

Dietary indices and intake of energy from macronutrients did not correlate with the Firmicutes to Bacteroidetes phylum ratio. However people with greater abundance of the Firmicutes phylum compared to Bacteroidetes consumed higher amounts of fermented milk beverages, hard cheese, and salt (78%, 48%, 14% higher intake respectively; p < 0.05). A higher diet quality as measured by the diet indices was positively correlated with the relative abundance of the Firmicutes phylum, Bacilli, Clostridia class, Lachnospira, Faecalibacterium, Coprococcus, and Prevotella genus and negatively correlated with the relative abundance of the Bacteroidetes phylum, Bacteroidia class, and Bacteroides genus. Higher dietary fiber intake positively correlated with the relative abundance of the Coprococcus, Lachnospira, and Roseburia genera, whereas energy intake from simple carbohydrates was positively correlated with the relative abundance of the Tenericutes phylum and the Mollicutes class. Energy intake from alcohol correlated positively with the relative abundance of Bacteroidetes phylum and Bacteroides class and correlated negatively with Firmicutes phylum and Clostridia class. Lower waist-to-hip-ratio, body mass index, and fat mass led to higher abundance of the Fecalibacterium genus.

Both diet and anthropometric parameters are associated with gut microbiota composition. Associations between diet and the relative abundance of microbiota are nutrient-specific.
Associations between choline intake, body composition, lipid profile, and liver status in healthy adults
Authors: Młodzik-Czyżewska Monika , Malinowska Anna , Chmurzyńska Agata
Published: June 2020

Choline is an essential nutrient involved in several processes, including the export of lipids from the liver. Recent studies have underlined that low choline intake may be linked to greater body weight and liver dysfunction. The aim of this study was thus to determine whether choline intake is associated with body weight, body mass index (BMI), body composition, lipid profile, or liver steatosis indices.

407 healthy subjects aged 20–40 were enrolled in Poznań, Poland from 2016 to 2018. Food intake was assessed using three-day food records. Choline intake was analyzed using the USDA Database for the Choline Content of Common Foods, which summarizes the levels of choline found in a range of food items. Weight to 0.1 kg and height to 0.01 m were measured using an electronic scale and a stadiometer, respectively. BMI was calculated as body weight in kilograms divided by height in meters squared. Fat mass and lean body mass were determined using whole-body air-displacement plethysmography. Waist and hip circumferences were measured to 0.5 cm using nonelastic tape. Total cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, HDL cholesterol, and triglyceride levels in serum were determined using a biochemical analyzer. The following biomarkers of liver steatosis were calculated: NAFLD liver fat score (NAFLD-LFS), fatty liver index (FLI), and hepatic steatosis index (HSI). To analyze associations between choline intake and these parameters, we used multiple regression with adjustments for age, sex, and energy intake.

The mean BMI was 25.9 ± 5.28 kg/m2, the mean body weight was 78.39 ± 18.03 kg, the mean body fat percentage was 29.1 ± 10.79%, and the mean choline intake was 447.93 ± 235 mg/day. Choline intake was negatively associated with body weight, body fat percentage, waist circumference, and FLI index (p < 0.05 for all associations) and positively associated with HDL cholesterol (p < 0.05). There were no associations between choline intake and BMI, hip circumference, total cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, and the following fatty liver indexes: HSI and NAFLD-LFS.

Our study suggests that higher choline intake is associated with favorable body composition and may have a protective role on liver status. However, additional studies are needed to understand the effect of choline on these parameters.

The authors declare that they have no conflict of interests.

This work was supported by the Polish National Science Centre (grants 2014/15/B/NZ9/02134 and 2016/21/N/NZ9/01195).
Depressive symptoms and liver fat in subjects with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease after 6-month weight loss intervention: The FLiO study
Authors: Marin-Alejandre Bertha Araceli , Abete Itziar , Cantero Irene , Galarregui Cristina , Elorz Mariana , Tur Josep A. , Alfredo Martinez J. , Angeles Zulet M.
Published: June 2020

Introduction:

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is the most common cause of liver disease in Western countries and is strongly associated with obesity and insulin resistance-related comorbidities. Moreover, there is some evidence of a relationship between NAFLD and depression. The aim of this study was to compare the effect of two personalized energy-restricted diets on liver fat and depressive symptoms in overweight or obese subjects with NAFLD after a 6-month follow-up.

Materials and methods:

Ninety-eight overweight or obese adults with NAFLD were enrolled and randomized to follow one of two different personalized energy-restricted diets (American Heart Association vs. FLiO diet) accompanied by healthy lifestyle advice. Study registered as FLiO: Fatty Liver in Obesity; NCT03183193. Anthropometry, body composition, biochemical features and liver status were assessed at baseline and after a 6-month follow-up. Liver fat was evaluated by Magnetic Resonance Imaging and depressive symptoms using the Beck's Depression Inventory-II (BDI-II).

Results:

Participants of both groups showed significant reductions in body weight, total fat mass, glucose, insulin and alanine aminotransferase (p < 0.001 for all these parameters in both groups). A significant decrease in liver fat (p < 0.001 in both groups) and depressive symptoms (p < 0.01 in both groups) was observed after the follow-up. The effects of the intervention in the evaluated variables did not differ when both diets were compared. Consequently, the two groups were considered together as one sample for the further analyses. Correlation analyses evidenced a positive association between the decrease in depressive symptoms and the reduction in body weight (r = 0.241; p = 0.044) and liver fat (r = 0.251; p = 0.046).

Discussion:

Previous studies have reported that the prevalence of depression in patients with chronic liver disease (including NAFLD) is higher than in the general population and that major depressive disorder is associated with more severe hepatic steatosis and with worse outcomes in the treatment of NAFLD subjects. In our study, both healthy personalized energy-restricted diets were able to improve metabolic parameters, liver fat content and depressive symptoms in overweight and obese participants with NAFLD. To our knowledge, this is the first study to report an association between the changes in depressive symptoms and the decrease in liver fat after a dietary randomized controlled trial. Further investigation is needed to clarify the relationship between depression and the development and treatment of NAFLD.
An almond-enriched diet improves biomarkers of cardiometabolic health and increases alertness without changing cognitive performance in older overweight adults
Authors: Coates Alison , Morgillo Samantha , Yandell Catherine , Scholey Andrew , Buckley Jonathan , Hill Alison
Published: June 2020

Longitudinal studies report that regular nut consumption is associated with reduced risk of coronary heart disease and better cognitive function. Thus, nuts may improve cardiovascular and neurocognitive health – especially in ‘at-risk’ populations (e.g. overweight/obese). This study examined the effect of supplementing habitual diets of overweight/obese individuals for 12 weeks with either almonds or carbohydrate rich (CHO-rich) snack foods on biomarkers of cardiovascular and metabolic health, mood and cognitive performance. Participants (n = 151; overweight/obese, 50–80 years) were randomised to replace 15% energy intake with either almonds (Almond) or isocaloric CHO-rich snack foods (Comparator). Body weight, blood lipids, glucose, insulin, blood pressure (BP), arterial stiffness, mood and cognitive performance (memory, executive function, speed of processing) were measured at baseline and 12 weeks. One hundred and twenty eight participants (78F:50M, n = 63 almond, n = 65 control) completed the intervention (M ± SD: age 64 ± 8years, BMI 30.3 ± 3.6kg/m2, stable medication use: 32% BP and 19% lipid lowering). Compared with the CHO-rich comparator foods, there were a number of significant improvements associated with almond consumption. These included reduced serum triglycerides (M ± SEM, almond: 1.30 ± 0.062 to 1.16 ± 0.062 mmol/L vs CHO-rich 1.13 ± 0.061 to 1.17 ± 0.061 mmol/L, p = 0.005 whole population). In those with cholesterol below the ATPIII cut point of < 6.2mmol/L (84% of sample), almond consumption reduced total cholesterol (almond: 5.12 ± 0.13 to 4.93 ± 0.12 mmol/L vs CHO-rich 5.24 ± 0.13 to 5.21 ± 0.11 mmol/L, p < 0.001) and LDL-cholesterol (almond: 3.03 ± 0.11 to 2.87 ± 0.11 mmol/L vs CHO-rich 2.98 ± 0.10 to 3.07 ± 0.10 mmol/L, p = 0.002).). Additionally in a non-BP medicated subgroup only (n = 87, 68% of sample), there was a reduction in systolic BP (almond: 130.73 ± 2.19 to 127.02 ± 2.19 mmHg vs control:128.63 ± 2.32 to 129.48 ± 2.32mmHg, p = 0.035; and improved self-rated alertness (almond 54.73 ± 2.32 to 58.64 ± 2.32 vs CHO-rich 61.75 ± 2.28 to 61.13 ± 2.28, p = 0.048). The inclusion of almonds in the diet has the ability to improve aspects of cardiometabolic health and mood in overweight/obese adults. The lack of change in cognitive performance may reflect the fact that the study population was cognitively high performing at baseline. Future research should be directed at examining the effects of this relatively simple, cost-effective nutritional intervention in populations at greater risk of cardiometabolic and cognitive decline.
Can eating harder textured foods slowly influence appetite?
Authors: Wallace Sara Megan , Watson Sinead , Schimmel Martin , Forde Ciaran , McKenna Gerry , Woodside Jayne
Published: June 2020

Introduction

Chewing a greater number of chews per bite has been shown to increase fullness, lower hunger levels and lead to a lower energy intake, when compared to chewing each bite fewer times. Increased levels of fullness and decreased levels of hunger have also been observed after consuming harder textured foods which require more chewing activity and have a longer oro-sensory exposure time. The aim of this study was to investigate whether consumption of foods differing in texture, classified as ‘fast’ or ‘slow’ foods, combined with differences in oral processing behaviours (chewing normally or more slowly), has an impact on self-reported hunger, fullness and satiety outcomes.

Materials and Methods

This is an interim analysis of a randomised crossover experiment designed to test the impact of both oral processing behaviours and food texture on self-reported hunger, fullness and satiety. Participants consumed two breakfasts of different texture (a ‘fast’ yoghurt and fruit compote option, and a ‘slow’ granola option) twice; once at their normal rate of eating and once after being instructed to eat slowly. Measures of self-reported appetite (hunger, fullness, satiety, desire to eat and prospective food consumption) were assessed using a visual analogue scale at three time points; baseline (minimum 20 minutes before consumption), immediately pre-consumption and post-consumption. Statistical analysis was conducted in SPSS; paired sample t tests and one-way analysis of variance was conducted to measure whether change in appetite ratings between the time points differed between the four breakfast options.

Results

Data were collected from 16 healthy volunteers (study aiming to recruit n = 21; mean age 32.1 y, female n = 13, 81.3%). For all four breakfast options, levels of hunger, desire to eat and prospective food consumption significantly decreased, and levels of fullness and satiety significantly increased between both baseline and post-consumption, (p < 0.05) and between pre-consumption and post-consumption (p < 0.05). However, amongst the four breakfast options, no significant differences were observed in change in these appetite measures between baseline and post-consumption and pre- and post-consumption (p > 0.05).

Discussion

This interim analysis demonstrates no differences in mean change in appetite measures for breakfast options of different texture chewed normally or more slowly. Analysis of the full study will determine the effect of oral processing behaviours and food texture on self-reported hunger, fullness and satiety outcomes.
Nutritional status assessment of the Polish Border Guards officers – Body Mass Index or Fat Mass Index?
Authors: Anyzewska Anna , Lakomy Roman , Lepionka Tomasz , Szarska Ewa , Maculewicz Ewelina , Bolczyk Izabela , Tomczak Andrzej , Bertrandt Jerzy
Published: June 2020

Introduction:

Border Guards service requirements are very specific. Very good health and excellent psycho-physical condition are the main factors that determine effectiveness and reliability of designated tasks. Disorders of nutritional status, such as underweight, overweight or obesity not only impairs well-being, but also are health problem associated with limitation of possibilities to perform Border Guard's tasks and duties and can lead to earlier elimination from the service. The aim of the study was to assess nutritional status, using two indicators: Body Mass Index (BMI) and Fat Mass Index (FMI).

Materials and methods:

The study was carried out with participation of 259 Border Guards (64 women and 195 men), aged 38 ± 6; years of service: 12 ± 6. An electric bioimpedance method (TANITA MC-780) was used to determine body composition. Body Mass Index (BMI [kg/m2] = body mass [kg] / height2 [m2]) and Fat Mass Index FMI [kg/m2] = fat mass [kg] / height2 [m2]) were calculated for each of the participants.

Results and discussion:

Examined group of Polish Border Guards officers was characterized by a large variety of assessed anthropometric indicators. According to the BMI classification excess body mass was more often (p < 0.001) observed in men (68%) than in women (25%) and according to the FMI classification excess fat was also more often (p < 0.001) observed in men (55%) than in women (28%). BMI classification of overweight or obese was observed in 41 of participants with the normal FMI level. Fat percentage of women with normal BMI ranged from 11.6 to 33.5% and tat percentage of men with normal BMI ranged from 7.3 to 21.6%. There are difficulties in BMI interpretation in adults with increased physical activity. It seems more reasonable to assess correctness of nutritional status on the basis of an analyze of FMI value, as this indicator assesses degree of fatness, and not the entire body weight, which, in case of uniformed services usually is greater due to extensive muscle mass, which can increase BMI value. It is necessary to take educational activities in the field of health promotion of these people, with a focus on nutrition prevention of metabolic civilization diseases, as well as to motivate Border Guards officers to respect basic principles of proper nutrition to maintain proper body mass and fat mass.
Mobile health (mHealth) applications with children in treatment for obesity: A randomised feasibility study
Authors: Browne Sarah , Doyle Gerardine , Kechadi Tahar , O'Donnell Shane , O'Connor James , Tully Louise , Dow Mckenzie , O'Malley Grace
Published: June 2020

Introduction

Smartphone mHealth apps can help children with obesity modify their rate of eating(1) and monitor physical activity(2). However, owing to issues with adherence, mHealth interventions require rigorous feasibility testing(3).

Aim

To evaluate, using a randomised design, the feasibility and acceptability of a mHealth intervention to reduce rate of eating and track physical activity among children in treatment for obesity.

Methods

Children (9–16 years) with obesity (BMI ≥ 98th centile) were recruited at a tertiary healthcare centre. The Research Ethics Committee at Temple St. Children's University Hospital granted ethical approval. Upon completing informed consent and assent, participants completed 2-week baseline testing including anthropometry, rate of eating by Mandometer® and physical activity using myBigO app. Thereafter participants were randomised to:(1)Treatment: Usual clinical care + Mandometer® training or (2)Control: Usual clinical care. Gender and age (9.0–12.9 years and 13.0–16.9 years) stratifications were applied. After a 4-week treatment period, participants repeated the 2-week testing period. Feasibility measures included fidelity with planned recruitment, randomisation, and intervention delivery and attrition. Acceptability measures included objective clinical portal engagement data and feedback from participants.

Results

Of 20 recruited, eight were randomised to intervention and 12 to control, with no significant age, gender or BMI SDS differences between groups. At baseline, 7 intervention (87.5%) and 8 control (66.7%) participants recorded rate of eating. Eighteen participants (90%) registered with myBigO app, with 16 recording data successfully. Two had smartphones incompatible with myBigO (n = 1 intervention;n = 1 control) and two did not engage with myBigO app (n = 1 intervention;n = 1 control). Among 4 participants who completed Mandometer® intervention, dose received ranged from 7%-92% of planned meals. 37.5% intervention and 58.3% control participants completed post-intervention measures. Attrition was higher in the intervention (n = 5;62.5%) than control (n = 3;25%) group. Reasons cited for withdrawing included loss of interest (n = 3 intervention), child felt overwhelmed or self-conscious (n = 2 control), lack of time (n = 1 intervention), behavioural issue with child (n = 1 control), and family illness (n = 1 intervention). No significant age, gender or BMI SDS differences were observed between non-completers and completers. Participant engagement and feedback indicated mixed acceptability among this cohort.

Conclusion

Based on results, the current protocol for study design and intervention should be improved, if engagement is to be maximised.

The study is part of EU H2020 BigO Study (Big Data Against Childhood Obesity, Grant No. 727688.https://bigoprogram.eu/).
Effect of low-FODMAP diet in Finnish IBS patients. Results from non-controlled 12-week intervention study
Authors: Laatikainen Reijo , Poussa Tuija , Koskenpato Jari , Hillilä Markku , Loponen Jussi , Hongisto Sanna-Maria , Korpela Riitta
Published: June 2020

Introduction

Low FODMAP diet is shown to alleviate symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome in many populations. Until today, no holistic FODMAP diet studies have been published among Finnish IBS patients.

Materials and Methods

This study was a 12-week non-controlled follow-up study of a previously published randomised cross-over trial on different rye bread products 1. In this follow-up study (n = 50) symptom values during rye bread periods, i.e. low-FODMAP and regular rye periods, are used as baseline values.

Participants were instructed to follow holistic low-FODMAP diet after they had first consumed regular and low-FODMAP rye bread for 4 weeks of each bread. Symptoms were measured with a validated symptom severity scoring system (IBS-SSS. Quality of life (QOL) was monitored and fiber intake during the rye bread periods and low-FODMAP diet was calculated from 4-day food diaries.

Results

Mean IBS-SSS was 211 (SD 84) during low-FODMAP rye bread and 218 (86) during regular rye bread. During low-FODMAP diet IBS-SSS was 178 (79) at week 1 and reduced further to 135 (80) by the end of week 12 (p < 0.001). IBS-SSS scores at week 1 and week 12 during low-FODMAP diet were lower compared to low-FODMAP rye bread and regular rye bread (p < 0.01 for all comparisons.

Mean QOL was 68 during low-FODMAP rye bread, 67 during regular rye bread ; 68 at week 1 and 74 at week 12 during low-FODMAP diet. At week 1 no improvement was found in QOL vs. either rye bread period, but at week 12 the improvement was significant (p < 0.001 vs. both rye breads).

Fiber intake was lower at the end of week 12 (median 19 g/d) than during either low-FODMAP rye bread (28 g/d) or regular rye bread period (31 g) (p < 0.001 vs. both rye breads).

Discussion

Low-FODMAP diet reduced the symptoms of IBS and improved quality of life in Finnish IBS patients. However, due to non-controlled nature of this follow-up study, the results need to be interpreted with caution, and randomised studies are warranted also in Finland. Achieving recommended intake of fiber seems to be challenging for Finnish patients with IBS, and therefore the use high fiber food items and/or fiber supplements which are also low in FODMAP should be encouraged.
Mild-to-moderate iodine deficiency is associated with lower birthweight and increased risk of preterm delivery in a large Norwegian pregnancy cohort
Authors: Abel Marianne H. , Caspersen Ida H. , Sengpiel Verena , Jacobsson Bo , Magnus Per M. , Alexander Jan , Meltzer Helle Margrete , Brantsaeter Anne Lise
Published: June 2020

Iodine is essential in foetal development through being an integral part of the thyroid hormones. Severe iodine deficiency is associated with foetal growth restriction and preterm delivery. Less is known about the potential impact of mild-to-moderate iodine deficiency on these outcomes.

The aim of this study was to investigate whether maternal iodine intake in pregnancy was associated with birth weight (BW) z-score (i.e. BW adjusted for gestational length and sex) and preterm delivery (before week 37).

The study population included 77,995 singleton pregnancies from The Norwegian Mother and Child Cohort Study recruited in gestational week 15 in the period 2002–2008. Habitual iodine intake was calculated from a validated food frequency questionnaire covering the first half of pregnancy. Use of supplements was reported in questionnaires. Urinary iodine concentration (UIC) was measured in gestational week 18 in a subsample of n = 2795 women. Median iodine intake from food was 121 μg/day and median UIC was 69 μg/L. Median UIC < 150 μg/L is considered insufficient in pregnant women. Median birthweight was 3610 g and 5.0% were born before gestational week 37. Associations were modelled flexibly by use of restricted cubic splines, and adjusted for age, parity, pre-pregnancy BMI, education, smoking in pregnancy, energy intake, and fibre intake.

In non-users of iodine-containing supplements (n = 48,958), a low habitual iodine intake from food (lower than about 150 μg/day) was associated with a lower mean BW z-score (p < 0.001). Compared to an intake of 150 μg/day (reference), mean z-score was 0.04 SD lower at 100 μg/day and 0.12 SD lower at 75 μg/day. Results were similar when using UIC as the exposure (n = 2795, p = 0.017). Any use of iodine containing supplements in pregnancy was associated with 0.03 (95% CI: 0.01, 0.04) SD increase in BW z-score compared to no use (n = 77,949, p < 0.001).

A low habitual iodine intake from food (lower than about 100 μg/day) was associated with increased risk of preterm delivery (p = 0.003). Compared to an intake of 100 μg/day (reference), 75 μg/day was associated with 10% increased risk, and 50 μg/day with 28% increased risk. Use of an iodine-containing supplement was not associated with the risk of preterm delivery (OR: 0.97 (95%CI: 0.91, 1.04, p = 0.42)).

Inadequate iodine intake is prevalent in women of childbearing age in otherwise well-nourished populations. Our results indicate that mild-to-moderate iodine deficiency in pregnancy is associated with restricted foetal growth and increased risk of preterm delivery.
The effect of elderly simulated gastrointestinal in vitro digestion (SGID) on the antioxidant properties of different cheese matrices
Authors: Plante Aimee M. , McCarthy Aoife L. , O'Halloran Fiona
Published: June 2020

The world's population is getting older. By 2050 it is projected that 22% of the global population will be over 60 years of age. Aging is characterized by a decline in physiological functions and an increase in malnutrition and associated disease. Oxidative stress is associated with several age-related conditions, including cardiovascular disease, obesity, neurodegenerative disease and cancer. The negative effects of reactive oxygen species (ROS) are neutralized by antioxidants, which can be endogenously synthesised or consumed through the diet. Cheese is a nutritious dairy food and previous research has highlighted the antioxidant potential of some cheese types. Physiological changes associated with age can impact digestion processes, thus the ability to efficiently release bioactive compounds, including antioxidants, may be impaired with age. Cheese products varying by milk source, texture and fat content were subjected to simulated gastrointestinal in vitro digestion (SGID) using a modified model to account for physiological changes associated with aging. The antioxidant potential of undigested and digested cheese (n = 11) was determined in vitro using DPPH radical scavenging, ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) and total phenolic content (TPC) assays. Cellular antioxidant potential was also investigated using the reduced glutathione assay (GSH) in the human macrophage cell line (U937). Experiments were carried out in triplicate. Statistical analysis by T-test demonstrated that digestion significantly increased (P < 0.05) FRAP and TPC of all cheese products analysed. Of the eleven cheese products investigated, goats’ cheese displayed a significant increase (P < 0.05) in radical scavenging properties (89.8% inhibition). Low fat white cheddar had significantly higher (P < 0.05) GSH levels compared to full fat white cheddar (0.16 ± 0.01, 0.11 ± 0.01 μmol GSH/mg protein, respectively). Findings from this study suggest that despite physiological changes associated with age, cheese digestates retain, and in some cases, possess higher antioxidant potential than undigested samples. Cheese demonstrates potential as a functional food for the elderly by neutralizing the negative effects associated with age-related oxidative stress.
Cage Bedding affects Microbiota and Metabolism in Mice
Authors: Gregor András , Fragner Lena , Trajanoski Slave , Weckwerth Wolfram , König Jürgen , Duszka Kalina
Published: June 2020

The growing problem with the irreproducibility of the results of metabolic research urged us to analyse potential critical factors contributing to the disparities. Microbiota composition constitutes crucial variable in animal research. Gut flora changes depending on multiple factors including fibre intake. Mice derive fibre from diet but, especially under fasted conditions, also from bedding ingestion. Our project aims at assessing the impact of cage bedding on several aspects of metabolic research. Mice were divided into an overnight (ON) fasted, caloric restricted (CR) and ad libitum groups. In order to evaluate the effects of different beddings, mice were housed in cages with the most commonly used beddings: wooden, corncob or cellulose. Additionally, ON-fasted mice were kept without bedding or on metal grid preventing coprophagy. Mice bedding consumption and faeces production were measured. Oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) was performed. Metabolites composition and microbial diversity were analysed in caecum content. Mice organ weight and gene expression measurements were conducted. Mice show preference towards wooden bedding and consume it in highest amount followed by corncob and cellulose beddings. As a result of the bedding ingestion, caecum weight increases in the CR compared to ad libitum fed mice. CR leads to a reduced faeces production and it is the lowest in the CR wood and CR cellulose groups. Housing on metal grid results in greater body weight loss and decreases stomach and caecum size. ON-fasted mice housed without bedding or on grids show lower glucose levels when submitted to OGTT. CR influences the caecal bacterial diversity as well as the caecal metabolic profile. In the CR group, mice on the corncob bedding show a distinct caecal microbial composition and caecal metabolic profile compared to wooden and cellulose groups. CR is associated with increased abundance of Marinifilaceaefrom the phylum Bacteroidales, and Erysipelotrichaceaefrom the phylum Firmicutes and with a decreased abundance of Lachnospiraceaefrom the phylum Firmicutes. The main metabolites effected by CR are organic acids, fructose, sucrose and glutamine. The type of bedding exerts the strongest effect on valeric acid, lysine, threonine and organic acids. CR- and ON-fasting-associated weight loss, bedding consumption and fibre accumulation in the caecum depends on the bedding type. CR mice housed on wooden and cellulose beddings show similarities and are distinguishable from CR corncob group. Thus, depending on the composition and consumed amount, bedding intake affects numerous parameters and shapes the microbiome.
Development of a food-based diet quality score and associations with eating styles and nutrient intakes in Finnish twins
Authors: Masip Guiomar , Keski-Rahkonen Anna , Pietiläinen Kirsi H. , Kujala Urho M. , Rottensteiner Mirva , Väisänen Karoliina , Kaprio Jaakko , Bogl Leonie H.
Published: June 2020

Short dietary assessment instruments are often included to large-scale twin studies that focus on multiple health behaviors and disease outcomes. Due to their feasibility and low cost, food frequency questionnaires (FFQs) are usually employed to provide data on dietary intake and diet quality. Diet quality have been linked with eating styles such as meal and snacking frequency. However, little is known about how diet quality is related with various eating styles. We aimed to construct a food-based diet quality score (DQS) from a short FFQ to estimate diet quality and to examine its association with eating styles and nutrient intakes in Finnish twins. Participants were 3592 twin individuals (764 dizygotic [DZ] pairs and 430 monozygotic [MZ] pairs) aged 31–37 from the wave 5 of the FinnTwin16 study. The DQS (range 0–12 points) was constructed from a short FFQ that included dark bread, white bread, fruits and berries, vegetables, fish, whole grain, fast food, fat free or reduced-fat milk or milk products, sugar-sweetened soft drinks or juices, energy drinks, butter and margarine/vegetable oils. Eating styles were self-reported by questionnaire. Nutrient intakes were calculated from food diaries completed in a subsample of 249 twin individuals (45 same-sex DZ pairs and 60 MZ pairs). Data were analyzed using Pearson correlations and multiple regression models adjusted for covariates in individuals and pairwise analyses. Both in individuals and within twin pairs, a higher diet quality was associated with health-conscious eating, having breakfast, fewer evening meals, and a higher frequency and regularity of eating. No associations were found with night eating styles, food as a reward or food restricting/overeating. Among individuals, the DQS was positively correlated with the intakes of protein, fiber and magnesium and negatively with the intakes of total fat, saturated fat and sucrose (rmax = 0.30 for magnesium). The associations with saturated fat, fiber and magnesium remained significant within same-sex DZ twin pairs (rmax = 0.40 for magnesium) and with sucrose within MZ twin pairs (r = -0.42). The DQS is an easy-to-use short tool for ranking individuals and twin pairs according to overall diet quality. The DQS reflects eating styles and intakes of key nutrients related to diet quality.
Consumer understanding of health, nutrition and ingredient claims on sweet and savoury snacks: potential tool for encouraging healthier snacking choices
Authors: Le Mare Dominic , Thoebald Hannah , Lescop Olivier , Bennett Emma
Published: June 2020

Health, nutrition and/or ingredient claims are frequently used on prepacked snack products. Despite much research on consumer understanding of health and nutrition claims in general, consumers’ understanding and perception of claims on biscuits, cereal bars and savoury snack products is not well understood. While most of these products are treats, healthier alternatives are increasingly available, therefore claims could be used as a tool to encourage consumers to select healthier snack products.

To assess whether UK consumers understand and accept the use of health, nutrition and ingredient claims on snack products, three online surveys (Toluna QuickSurveys, Wilton Connecticut), were conducted on each of biscuits (n = 175 participants), cereal bars (n = 183) and savoury snacks (n = 180). Participants were aged 18–74 years. Each survey comprised of 21 questions, which included the Consumer Understanding Test (assessing the understanding of specific claims). The Kano Model assessed how consumers felt when each claim was placed on pack and assessed how consumers perceived a snack carrying such claims in comparison to the same snack without a claim. Participants were also asked to provide details of the acceptable nutrition profile of snacks with each claim (i.e. maximum kcals, fat, sugar and salt) per portion of snack.

Participants did not fully understand health or ingredient claims. In the Consumer Understanding Test, 76% of participants correctly interpreted nutrition claims, while 64% and 19% of participants correctly interpreted ingredient claims and health claims respectively. Participants were more accepting of nutrition claims than health claims, potentially due to their increased understanding and familiarity with them. Six claims on cereal bars were rated as attractive on pack including four nutrition claims, plus claims on ‘no artificial additives/preservatives’ and ‘100% natural ingredients’. None were attractive on biscuits, with ‘low sugar’ and ‘100% natural ingredients’ attractive on savoury snacks. Participants made incorrect presumptions about certain claims, e.g. perceiving low sugar products to contain artificial sweeteners or that vegan products were healthier. Older consumers were more health conscious and wanted more claims on pack.

In conclusion, consumer acceptability of claims on cereal bars, biscuits and savoury snacks varies by product and claim type. Nutrition claims are most accepted, with health claims least accepted. Acceptance of claims on biscuits was low, potentially due to the fact these products are seen as treats. Participants, overall, were cautious about the use of claims on snacks. However, responsibly used claims directed to more health-conscious consumers might encourage healthier snacking choices.
Development of a food literacy intervention for couples trying to conceive
Authors: Boedt Tessy , Voorend Roos , Derboven Jan , Dancet Eline , Spiessens Carl , Matthys Christophe
Published: June 2020

Introduction

As a preconception healthy diet is not only beneficial for couples’ general health but also for their reproductive health, effective interventions are necessary and lacking. In the field of nutrition, the concept of food literacy is emerging. Food literacy is the interrelated combination of knowledge, skills and self-efficacy on food planning, selecting foods, food preparation, eating and evaluating information about food with the ultimate goal of developing a lifelong healthy, sustainable and gastronomic relationship with food. The present study describes the systematic development of a food literacy intervention for couples trying to conceive.

Materials and methods

The development of the food literacy intervention was guided by Intervention Mapping, a protocol for developing theory- and evidence-based health promotion interventions in combination with consulting stakeholders. Decisions during intervention development were based on literature, an observational study evaluating the diet of couples trying to conceive using a food frequency questionnaire (FFQ) and semi-structured interviews and user tests with experts in the field and couples trying to conceive.

Results

An innovative intervention to influence preconception diet and food literacy based on stakeholders opinion, effective behavior change strategies and attractive intervention channels was developed. Regarding needs assessment, the observational study showed that the diet of couples trying to conceive (n = 57) was inadequate (i.e. lack of vegetable intake) and highly correlated between partners. Objectives regarding food literacy were determined by participating experts (n = 12) rating ‘making healthy food choices’ as most important objective. A blended format (i.e. a mobile application in combination with telephone interaction with a health care professional) was selected as intervention channel based on semi-structured interviews with people trying to conceive (n = 17) as they highlighted the importance of support by experts and a time efficient intervention. Knowledge and self-efficacy regarding food literacy were selected as determinants to address. The main behavioral change strategies included in the intervention were tailoring, goal setting and motivational interviewing resulting in tailored goals, tips about food literacy and recipes. Experts (n = 15) and couples trying to conceive (n = 8) evaluated the intervention as easy to use.

Discussion

This intervention will be evaluated on reproductive and dietary outcomes via a randomized controlled trial in Belgian Fertility clinics among 460 couples trying to conceive. If this theory- and evidence based food literacy intervention proves to be effective on reproductive and dietary outcomes in couples trying to conceive, it will offer vision and practical tools for implementing food literacy interventions in preconception care.
Osteoporosis in older black South African women and relationships with body composition, dietary intake and physical activity
Authors: Mendham Amy , Brooks Naomi E. , Micklesfield Lisa K. , Faber Mieke , Christensen Dirk L. , Gallagher Iain J. , Lundin-Olsson Lillemor , Myburgh Kathryn H. , Kalula Sebastiana , Odunitan-Wayas Feyisayo , Lambert Estelle V. , Goedecke Julia H. , Hunter Angus M
Published: June 2020

Introduction

Osteoporosis was not a public health concern in black South African (SA) women, until recently when it was reported that the prevalence of vertebral fractures was 9.1% in black compared to 5.0% in white SA women. Accordingly, this study aimed to measure bone mineral density (BMD) of older black SA women and to investigate its association with risk factors for osteoporosis, including strength, muscle and fat mass, dietary intake and objectively measured physical activity (PA).

Methods and materials

Older black SA women (age, 68 (range; 60–85 years) n = 122) completed sociodemographic and quantitative food frequency questionnaires (QFFQ), fasting venous blood samples (25-hydroxycholecalciferol: Vitamin D-25), 24 h urine collection (estimate protein intake), grip strength and PA monitoring (activPAL). Dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry (DXA) scans of the hip (femoral neck and total) and lumbar spine determined BMD and whole-body scans for fat and fat-free soft tissue mass (FFSTM). WHO classifications were used to determine osteopenia (t-score -2.5 to -1), and osteoporosis (t-score < -2.5).

Results

At the lumbar spine 34.4% of the women (n = 42) had osteopenia and 19.7% (n = 24) had osteoporosis. Osteopenia at the left femoral neck was 32% (n = 40) and osteoporosis was 13.1% (n = 16) of participants. The total left hip BMD indicated osteopenia in 27.9% (n = 34) and osteoporosis in 13.1% (n = 16) of participants. Multinomial regression revealed no differences in age (y) or frequency of falls in the past year between all groups (p = 0.727). Compared to those with normal BMD, participants with osteoporosis at the hip neck and lumbar spine were shorter, weighed less and had a lower body mass index (BMI) (all p < 0.05). When adjusted for height, the osteoporotic group (hip neck and lumbar spine) had lower trunk fat (% whole body), FFSTM (kg) and grip strength (kg), compared to those with normal BMD (p < 0.05). Only protein intake (g; 24 h urine analyses) was lower in women with osteoporosis (all sites) compared to those with normal BMD. Fat, carbohydrate and micronutrient intakes (relative to total daily energy intake), and vitamin D concentrations were not associated with BMD (all sites). Number of daily step count and stepping time (min) were inversely associated with BMI (p < 0.05), but not with BMD (all sites; p > 0.05).

Discussion

A high prevalence of osteopenia and osteoporosis was evident at the lumbar spine and hip in older black SA women. This study highlights the importance of strength, body composition, and protein intake in maintaining BMD and preventing the development of osteoporosis in older women.