bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Nutritional assessment of rural villages and estates in peninsular Malaysia: Total blood cholesterol values in children, adolescents and adults*
Authors: Wai Tony Ng Kock , Lin Khor Geok , Siong Tee E , Hashim Normah
Published: March 2003

The present study is unique in the Malaysian context on two counts; first, it employs for the first time a functional group approach (groups based on occupational or economic activity) in the assessment of community nutritional status. Second, the study provides on a nationwide‐sampling basis, information on total blood cholesterol (TC) levels in rural children (7.0–12.9 years; n = 1921) and adolescents (13.0–17.9 years; n = 753) which were hitherto unavailable. Total blood cholesterol measurements were performed on 7184 subjects ranging from 7 to 75‐years‐old (males = 3151; females = 4033) from households in 69 rural villages and seven estates in peninsular Malaysia, which were based on selected multistage random sampling according to the household’s involvement in the following economic activities: rice farming, rubber smallholding, coconut smallholding, fishing and employment in estates. In all functional groups, TC values increased with age and there was a distinct gender effect, namely females had higher TC values than males throughout the age spectrum analyzed. Mean TC levels for children and adolescents were in the range 3.85–4.37 mmol/L, rising markedly during adulthood to an overall mean of 4.91 ± 1.13 mmol/L for men and 5.17 ± 1.11 mmol/L for women. In adults (≥ 18.0 years), there was marked disparity in mean TC values among the functional groups; males and females from rice households had the lowest mean TC values (4.58 and 4.99 mmol/L, respectively). Individuals at ‘high risk’ (TC > 6.20 mmol/L) averaged 16.0% in women and 11.6% in men, with women from the fishing, rubber and coconut households particularly affected (17.1–21.1%). When compared to earlier rural TC data reported for closely similar rural communities in the peninsula, the present findings suggest a ‘hypercholesterolemic shift’ approximating 0.39 mmol/L (15 mg/dL) in the adult population; however, this was not apparent in the children and adolescents from these rural communities.
Nutritional and anthropometric assessment of a sample of pregnant women and young children in Palau
Authors: Pobocik Rebecca S , Heathcote GM , Spiers JB , Otto CT
Published: March 2003

This study examines the diet and body constitution of a small sample of pregnant women, n = 27, and children, n = 32, enrolled in the Maternal and Child Health program at the Public Health/Community Health Center in Koror, Palau. Twenty‐four hour diet recalls were collected from both groups, 17 anthropometric and body composition measurements were made on the women and a range of body measurements from height to a full battery of 28 measures were obtained from the children. Diets were found to be low in energy, calcium and zinc. Women consume micronutrients primarily from fish, traditional starches, vegetables and fruits, while children rely more on fortified grain products and milk. The energy distribution is higher in protein and fat and lower in carbohydrate than earlier reports of adult Palauans. A significant minority of the women (27%) have body fat or body mass index profiles indicative of clinically significant obesity or energy storage deficit, both problematic in terms of pregnancy outcomes. While sample sizes of infant and young child cohorts are very small, our findings indicate that a relatively high proportion of these younger children, have experienced inadequate growth and development This is especially true of females, among whom stunting (height deficients) and especially wasting (weight and arm circumference deficits) were in greater evidence.
Concurrent management of postprandial glycaemia and nutrient intake using glycaemic glucose equivalents, food composition data and computer‐assisted meal design
Authors: Monro John A , Williams Mike
Published: March 2003

A computer system, called SERVE‐NZ Nutririon Management System, for use in diabetes management, addresses the problem of concurrently controlling postprandial glycaemic response and nutrient intake in meals containing a number of foods, is described. It converts the weight and relative glycaemic potency of each food to its content of glycaemic glucose equivalents (GGE) – the amount of glucose theoretically inducing the same blood glucose response as would the specified quantity of food. Glycaemic glucose equivalents in a meal can be simply obtained by adding the GGE content of all foods in the meal to give a figure for the maximal glycaemic impact of the meal. Glycaemic glucose equivalents may be calculated using food composition databases that include available carbohydrate, common standard measure weights and glycaemic index values. If GGE is treated as a nutrient, an output of the total nutrient profile of a food or meal, and its glycaemic impact as GGE, can be obtained simultaneously. Application of a nutritional software system incorporating GGE values to management of glycaemic loadings and nutrient intakes over five meals within a day is demonstrated. The system may be a useful aid in self‐management of glycaemia, as it will identify quantities of foods that can be consumed without exceeding the predetermined glucose tolerances of individuals. The graphical presentation of GGE and nutrient composition of meals may be a useful visual aid in educating clients with diabetes. The GGE values on food labels would provide easily understood guidance, not obtained from glycaemic index values, to the maximum number of items or quantity of a food that an individual should eat at a time. In its present basic form the calculation of GGE is most likely to slightly overestimate glycaemic impact, so it presents a worst‐case prediction.
Prediction of percentage body fat from anthropometry and bioelectrical impedance in Singaporean and Beijing Chinese
Authors: Deurenberg Paul , Deurenberg‐Yap Mabel , Wang Jingzhong , Lin Fu Po , Schmidt Gordon
Published: March 2003

Body composition was measured in 205 male and female Beijing Chinese and in 148 male and female Singaporean Chinese, age 34 (mean) (range 18–68) years and body mass index (BMI) 22.3 (15.9–38.5) kg/m2. In Beijing Siri’s two‐compartment model based on densitometry was used as a reference technique and in Singapore Siri’s three‐compartment model based on densitometry and deuterium oxide dilution was used. In addition, body composition was predicted using equations based on anthropometry and bioelectrical impedance developed in Caucasian populations. Percentage body fat (BF%) predicted from BMI was systematically underestimated by about 1% in Beijing Chinese and by about 3.5% in Singaporean Chinese. The difference in bias (measured minus predicted BF%) between the two population groups could be explained by differences in frame size. The Durnin and Womersley equations for BF% based on skinfold thickness predicted BF% in the male and female Chinese groups adequately, with only a slight (less than 1% body fat) and not significant bias. The prediction of BF% based on the waist circumference (Lean’s formula) resulted in an unbiased estimate of BF% in females (bias about 1% body fat), whereas in males the formula systematically underestimated BF% by 3.5–5%. Bioelectrical impedance underestimated BF% systematically by 3%, in males and females to about the same extent. The bias of all prediction formulas was positively correlated with the level of body fatness and, except for impedance, also negatively correlated with age. The negative association of the bias with age indicates that the age‐related increase in body fatness is lower in Chinese than in Caucasians. It can be concluded of the studied prediction techniques that only the skinfold methodology using the equations of Durnin and Womersley give valid mean estimates for both Chinese males and females. The other techniques require the development of population‐specific prediction formula.
Key role of dietary fats in coronary heart disease under progressive urbanization and nutritional transition
Authors: Bulliyya Gandham
Published: March 2003

The increased vulnerability to non‐communicable diseases (NCD) of developing populations experiencing a demographic and epidemiological transitions to increased risk of NCD at a time when the battle against infectious diseases, is ongoing. Apart from population growth, the major attributes of developmental transition are confined to changes in occupational pattern in family structure, lifestyle, dietary practices and progressive ageing of population. The emergence of the NCD is significantly associated with changes in dietary pattern, in most of the countries. Coronary heart disease (CHD) is the leading cause of death in developed countries and the incidence is increasing in developing countries, including India. The disease needs awareness of the risk factors responsible for prevention. The purpose of this review is to present an overview of the role of dietary fats in growth and development and in health and disease. Although the causation of CHD is multifaceted and the risk factors associated in general are several, there are specific and important elements, such as dietary fats and lifestyle. Dietary fats are an important component as they serve a number of functions in the body. The minimum desirable and upper limits of fat intake have been given, based on recommendations of expert groups. Sources of different fats are made available worldwide and the production, consumption, storage, oxidation and nomenclature are being discussed in the light of health and disease. The relative essentiality of the omega‐6 and omega‐3 fatty acids is recognized in terms of pharmacologically active eicosanoid metabolism. Nevertheless, epidemiological, physiological and clinical studies have demonstrated that long‐chain omega‐3 fatty acids present in fish oils have quite diverse health benefits. Appropriate guidelines need to be recommended at a national level consistent with dietary habits. The ratios of balanced fatty acids, namely omega‐11, omega‐9, omega‐6 and omega‐3, should be worked out appropriately in ameliorating nutrition‐related disease states. Any simple dietary modification that can lead to a substantial reduction in morbidity and mortality from CHD would be of great medical, social and economic benefit.
Predicting stature from knee height in Chinese elderly subjects
Authors: Li Edmund Ts , Tang Emily Ky , Wong Cora Ym , Lui Susan Sh , Chan Veronica Yn , Dai David Lk
Published: March 2003

The main aim of this study was to validate the use of the Caucasian‐based knee height equations for predicting stature of Chinese elderly subjects and to compare the predicted height to those estimated by equations derived from elderly subjects of Chinese origin. The study was performed by a survey by measurement of convenience samples. Twenty‐one women and 26 men were recruited to validate the use of the Caucasian‐based equations. The Chinese‐based predictive equations were derived from 164 women and 89 men. The sample included ambulatory elderly subjects of Chinese origin, 60 years of age or older. These subjects were without spinal curvature and able to stand erect. Measurements were taken for height by a standard hospital scale. Calipers was used to measure knee height while the subject was in the sitting position. The measured stature and that predicted by the Caucasian‐based equations were significantly different in Chinese elderly women but not in men. New regression models are being developed for the elderly Chinese population in Hong Kong. The relationship between stature, knee height and age appears to be ethnicity‐ and gender‐dependent. While stature of elderly Chinese men can be estimated by either the Caucasian‐based or Chinese‐based equation, the regression model developed in the present study will better estimate the stature in elderly Chinese women.
Blood glucose responses of diabetes mellitus type II patients to some local fruits
Authors: Guevarra Maria Teresa B , Panlasigui Leonora N
Published: March 2003

To determine the glucose responses of diabetes mellitus type II subjects to fruits, four locally available fruits (containing 25 g of available carbohydrates per serving portion) of chico, mango, pineapple, and papaya were tested among ten type II diabetic subjects, using wheat bread as the control. Results of the in vivo test indicated that chico and mango had significantly lower (P≤ 0.05) blood glucose areas compared to wheat bread. Chico and mango also had a much lower glycemic index (GI), 57 and 59, respectively, compared to pineapple, 73 and papaya, 86. Differences in glucose responses to fruits and their varying GI are attributed to the amount of fiber, type and amount of sugars found, presence of antinutrients, acidity and physical characteristics of the fruits when chewed. The high fiber content of chico (7.9%), its fructose content (5.3%), its grainy texture when chewed and the presence of antinutrients (saponin, sapotin and achrasaponin) may contribute to its slow digestion and absorption. The low GI and blood glucose response of mango may be because of its fructose content (3.0%), acidity content (malic, citric and tartaric) and its phytic acid content (0.03%). Furthermore, starch, which is a possible factor contributing to low GI, is present in chico (0.8%) and mango (0.3%). Pineapple and papaya, the test fruits that elicited higher blood glucose responses and GI, have much lower fiber contents, less acids and contain glucose and sucrose sugars.
Green vegetable juice increases polyunsaturated fatty acid of erythrocyte membrane phospholipid in hypercholesterolaemic patients
Authors: Okita Misako , Sasagawa Takayo , Kotani Mayumi , Hayashi Mayumi , Yamashita Hiromi , Kimoto Masumi , Suzuki Kazuhiko , Tsuji Hideaki , Tabei Toshio
Published: March 2003

Treatment with green vegetable juice rich in dark‐green leafy and cruciferous vegetables, such as cabbage, was tested in 31 hypercholesterolaemic patients for three weeks. Green vegetable juice supplementation significantly increased the content of polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA; P); 18:2n‐6, 20:3n‐6, 20:4n‐6, 20:5n‐3, 22:4n‐6, 22:5n‐3 and 22:6n‐3 of erythrocyte membrane phospholipid and decreased saturated fatty acids (SFA; S): 14:0 and 18:0, and therefore increased the polyunsaturated fatty acids/saturated fatty acids (P/S) ratio markedly from 0.26 ± 0.01 to 0.49 ± 0.01 (P < 0.001). Green vegetable juice supplementation increased both n‐6 and n‐3 PUFA, but the increase of n‐3 PUFA was greater than that of n‐6 PUFA. Therefore, the n‐6/n‐3 ratio decreased significantly from 4.29 ± 0.42 to 3.00 ± 0.16 (P < 0.05). Plasma thiobarbituric acid reactive substance production decreased, following the green vegetable juice supplementation. These results suggest that green vegetable juice may protect the erythrocyte membrane from oxidative stress, and the decrease in n‐6/n‐3 and increase in P/S ratio in the erythrocyte membrane phospholipid may be accompanied by rheological and functional changes in erythrocytes in hypercholesterolaemic patients.
The Garden of Eden: Implications for cardiovascular disease prevention
Authors: Jenkins David Ja , Jenkins Al , Kendall Cwc , Vuksan V , Vidgen E
Published: March 2003

Creationists and evolutionists acknowledge that the human diet has passed through at least four phases. The original plant food‐based diet; a second phase of increasing meat consumption; a third phase of agricultural dependence on starchy foods; and, finally, the supermarket high‐saturated fat, low‐fibre phase with minimal energy expenditure. Our aim is to define the value of the original or ‘Garden of Eden’ diet and to speculate on which components should be retained in the modern supermarket diet. The original plant‐based diet would have been high in vegetable proteins, plant sterols, dietary fibre and antioxidants, and low in saturated fats with no trans fatty acids. This diet would increase fecal cholesterol losses from the body as bile acids and neutral sterols, while providing little stimulus to cholesterol synthesis. To replace the bile acid losses we would have adapted to a relatively high capacity for cholesterol synthesis. Now, in the high‐saturated fat, low‐fibre supermarket age, this may be a disadvantage and predisposes consumers to high serum cholesterol and increased risk of cardiovascular disease. We believe part of the solution is a return to the plant‐based ‘Garden of Eden’ diet combined with physical activity. A lipid‐lowering portfolio containing vegetable proteins, especially soy, plant sterols and high fibre intakes combined with low saturated and trans fatty acids and cholesterol, would go a long way to reducing serum lipids and coronary heart disease risk seen in the modern Western diet.
Plant‐based diets are traditional in developing countries: 21st century challenges for better nutrition and health
Authors: Solomons Noel W
Published: March 2003

The chronic degenerative diseases were virtually unknown in original hunter–gatherer societies. At the dawn of the 21st century, however, they represent the most important public health challenge to populations of both the industrialized, affluent nations of the temperate zones and the low‐income developing countries of the tropics. The developing countries most closely reflect the legacy of our traditional foreparents while constituting three‐quarters of the world’s populace and public health interest. For economic, traditional, religious and cultural reasons, the majority of the dietary fares in the developing world are largely plant based. This is associated with high prevalences of deficiency states in vitamin A, iron, zinc, riboflavin and vitamin B12. Poor linear growth and chronic energy deficiency are concomitant conditions. Conversely, the major chronic diseases have low prevalences among the rural peasantry and tribal groups, with the exception of gastro‐esophageal cancer, osteoarthritis and cataract. As a site for intensive research in food and nutritional sciences, Guatemala provides important lessons about the origin and evolvement of a congruent plant‐based diet within a food system and which factors of demographic expansion, urbanization, environmental stress and food technology will carry it through the 21st century. We can conclude that, whatever was the ‘original’ dietary pattern of pre‐agricultural humankind, a plant‐based diet regimen provides the lowest content of promoters and the highest content of inhibitors of metabolic dysregulation that lead to the major causes of disease and debility in adults over 40 years of age. For developing countries, the challenge is to maintain and reinforce the traditional eating patterns while improving their delivery of micronutrients and obviating any adverse environmental consequences in their traditional preparation patterns. For developed countries, there is an opportunity to find a ‘road map’ of guidelines to allow correction of current, pathogenic dietary and lifestyle patterns by examining the food‐ways of traditional developing societies’ cuisines.
Eat Well Australia: Developing a national strategic framework for public health nutrition
Authors: Catford John
Published: March 2003

In Australia, diet‐related disease ranks alongside tobacco‐related disease as the most important preventable health area, accounting for at least 10% of the total burden of disease. A population approach to improve the nutrition of all Australians is a vital contribution to the nation’s overall health and well‐being, yet action has often been ineffective, uncoordinated and poorly resourced. Through the National Public Health Partnership’s nutrition group, SIGNAL, an ambitious work program has been commenced to address this situation. This includes the development of a national framework for action in public health nutrition 2000–2010. Following extensive consultation with health groups and the food industry, the strategy, Eat Well Australia, is now in a late stage of development. Key priorities have been agreed and focus on: (i) Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people; (ii) vulnerable groups; (iii) maternal and child health; (iv) overweight and obesity; and (v) fruit, vegetables and legumes. Eat Well Australia should provide a new pathway for more concerted and integrated action from a wide range of organizations and interest groups. As a core component, SIGNAL has also developed an action plan to promote comsumption of fruits, vegetables and legumes, which should mobilize responses at local, regional and national levels. Close cooperation between the food industry and the governmental and non‐governmental sectors will be vital for success. A partnership platform is needed with clearly defined directions, operating principles and roles and responsibilities. Encouragingly, new and energetic alliances are now developing, which will be supported by Eat Well Australia.
Evidence‐based nutrition
Authors: Trichopoulos Dimitrios , Lagiou Pagona , Trichopoulou Antonia
Published: March 2003

What are the objectives of an ideal diet? Are they to prolong life or maximize quality adjusted life expectancy? Does this focus on individuals or on the population at large, taking equity and resources into account? What about externalities that should take into account cultural heritage, protection of the environment and macroeconomic considerations? Few people have the experience, expertise and knowledge to adequately address these questions. It is only feasible to argue that there are two approaches in order to establish the proper diet, with the limited objective of longevity. Contrary to the assertions of several influential groups, there is no such thing as a ‘positive health’, and longevity can only be defined as the inverse of mortality from all causes. The crucial questions are: do we need to study the proper diet to reduce incidence of and mortality from particular common diseases and then find the common elements in these various diets in order to construct de novo the ideal diet (bottom up approach)? Alternatively, is it better to harvest the experience of various cultures whose diets appear to protect against premature morbidity and mortality (top down approach)? The first approach would rely on associations between food groups, foods and nutrients on the one hand and the incidence of specific diseases on the other, whereas the second would evaluate and quantify the effects of ‘natural’ diets on longevity. The first approach has been largely followed by mainstream nutritional epidemiologists, whereas the second has been advocated by a few international experts.
Changing what we eat: Can a professional association play a role?
Authors: Capra Sandra
Published: March 2003

Professional associations have traditionally focused their activities in the provision of services to members. However, this need not be their only role. The Dietitians Association of Australia has chosen to take a proactive approach to changing the way that the Australian people eat. Through a variety of strategies assisted by partnerships with industry, the Association has been able to increase skills of individual members, provide skills to other health providers, increase advocacy, implement health promotion programs and use the media to provide nutrition messages. Encouraging results have been achieved to date that support such a role for professional associations.
Tempe, a nutritious and healthy food from Indonesia
Authors: Astuti Mary , Meliala Andreanyta , Dalais Fabien S , Wahlqvist Mark L
Published: March 2003

Tempe is a fermented soy bean product originally made by Central Javanese people through fermentation with Rhizopus species. Although there is evidence of earlier fermentation of soy, tempe had appeared in the Central Javanese food pattern in the 1700s. Through its extensive use in main meals and snacks, it has led to people in the Jakarta prectinct having the highest known soy intake in the world and accordingly of the isoflavones contained. This provides an unique opportunity to consider the health effects of tempe (and soy), both beneficial and potentially toxic. Apparent health benefits are bowel health, protection against cardiovascular disease, certain cancers (e.g. breast and prostate) and menopausal health (including bone health). The long use of tempe at all stages of life, without recognised adverse effects, suggests it is relatively safe at the levels of intake seen in Central Java. However, further research on soy, both fermented and non‐fermented, in Central Java should yield more insight into the mechanisms of action and the safe ranges of intake.
Association of dietary factors and other coronary risk factors with social class in women in five Indian cities
Authors: Singh Ram B , Beegom Raheena , Verma Satya P , Haque Memuna , Singh Reema , Mehta Amita S , De Amit K , Kundu Soma , Roy Subarna , Krishnan Aparna , Simhadri Harita , Paranjpe Nikhila B , Agarwal Nisha
Published: March 2003

The association between social classes, food intake and coronary risk factors was determined. Cross‐sectional surveys were conducted in 6–12 urban streets in each of five cities, each one from five different regions of India using similar methods of dietary intakes and criteria of diagnosis. We randomly selected 3257 women aged 25–64 years inclusive, from Moradabad (n = 902), Trivandrum (n = 760), Calcutta (n = 410), Nagpur (n = 405) and Bombay (n = 780). All subjects, after pooling of data, were divided into social class 1 (n = 985), class 2 (n = 790), class 3 (n = 774), class 4 (n = 602) and class 5 (n = 206) based on various attributes of socioeconomic status. Social class 1 was the highest and 5 was the lowest social class. Social classes 1–3 had greater intake of pro‐atherogenic foods; total visible fat, milk and milk products, meat and eggs, as well as sugar and confectionery, compared to social classes 4 and 5. The consumption of wheat, rice, millets, fruits, vegetables and legume/total visible fat ratio were inversely associated with social class. Mean body mass index (BMI), obesity, overweight, central obesity and sedentary lifestyle were also significantly more common among subjects from higher social classes. Spearman’s rank correlation showed that bodyweight, BMI, wheat, rice, millets, total visible fat, milk and milk products, meat, eggs, sugar and jaggery intakes were significantly correlated with social class. Social class 5 subjects had a lower intake of all foods and a lower BMI, suggestive of a higher rate of undernutrition among them. The findings indicate that the consumption of pro‐atherogenic foods and other coronary risk factors are more common in higher social classes compared to lower social classes.
Changing the diet of a nation: Population/regulatory strategies for a developed economy
Authors: Nestle Marion
Published: March 2003

The principal nutritional problems of developed economies are related to the excessive and unbalanced intake of energy and nutrients. During the 20th century, as economies improved and food production became more efficient, conditions related to undernutrition were replaced by epidemics of coronary heart disease, certain cancers and other chronic conditions related to food overconsumption. In developed countries such as the United States, obesity became the predominant public health nutrition problem. To prevent obesity, people must consume less energy and be more active, but the food supplies of developed economies offer their populations amounts of energy that greatly exceed physiological need. Food overproduction causes competition in the food industry, limits its expansion, and leads food producers to invest heavily in marketing. To increase sales, food companies must encourage people to consume more of their products, substitute their products for others or develop new markets. Such efforts create an environment in which food is readily available at all times and readily overconsumed. Marketing expenditures for any single food product greatly exceed the total amounts available to governments for national campaigns to prevent chronic diseases. Existing government policies often support this environment through price supports and other means. To reverse obesity and its health consequences, governments need to consider ways to address the food environment through policies in education, agriculture, school meals, pricing, taxation and other means, as well as to develop mechanisms to fund new programme initiatives.
Nutrition and educational achievement of urban primary schoolchildren in Malaysia
Authors: Shariff Zalilah Mohd , Bond Jenny T , Johnson Nan E
Published: March 2003

The relationship between nutrition, health and educational achievement of school‐age population in less developed countries has been of interest to many researchers due to the frequent observation that many children did not complete primary school and those who completed, did not do as well as children in the developed countries. Nevertheless, nutritional and health status by itself is not the only variable affecting educational achievement, since biological, psychological, socioeconomic and cultural factors could directly or indirectly affect both nutrition, health status and educational achievement. The mechanism by which health and nutrition influence educational achievement is not well established, but poor health and malnutrition in early childhood may affect cognitive abilities, necessary for learning process and consequently educational achievement. A study was conducted in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, to investigate the relationship between nutritional status and educational achievement among primary schoolchildren from low income households (n = 399). A high percentage of them were mild‐significantly underweight (52%), stunted (47%) and wasted (36%) and increasingly overweight (6%). In general, more boys than girls were found to experience some form of malnutrition. While weight‐for‐height did not differ significantly according to family, child and school factors, weight‐for‐age and height‐for‐age differed significantly by gender. Also, height‐for‐age was significantly related to household income. This indicates that stunting may be a consequence of prolonged socioeconomic deprivation. Educational achievement was measured based on test scores for Malay language (ML), English language (EL) and mathematics (MT). While a majority of the schoolchildren obtained optimum scores (>75) for ML and MT, the majority of them had insufficient scores (<50) for EL. Children’s total score (TS) for the three subjects was significantly associated with household socioeconomic status, gender, birth order and height‐for‐age. Even after controlling for household socioeconomic status, significant association between TS and height‐for‐age persisted. In this sample of schoolchildren, household income, gender, birth order and height‐for‐age were significant predictors of TS. The finding that height‐for‐age is related to educational achievement agrees with other studies, which have reported that height‐for‐age, compared to weight‐for‐height or weight‐for‐age is linked to educational achievement. Height‐for‐age reflects the accumulation of nutritional deprivation throughout the years, which may consequently affect the cognitive development of the children.
Soy and other legumes: ‘Bean’ around a long time but are they the ‘superfoods’ of the millennium and what are the safety issues for their constituent phytoestrogens?
Authors: Setchell Kenneth Dr , Radd Sue
Published: March 2003

The recognition that legumes and, in particular, soybeans provide not only an excellent source of vegetable protein but also contain appreciable amounts of a number of phytoprotectants has increased general awareness of their potential nutritional and health properties. Since the discovery that soybeans are one of the richest dietary sources of bioavailable phytoestrogens, this legume has been elevated to the forefront of clinical nutritional research. These natural ‘selective oestrogen receptor modulators’ have been shown to be bioactive. The recent approval by the Food and Drug Administration in the United States for a health claim for soy protein reducing risk for heart disease by its effects on lowering cholesterol levels has led to the increased awareness of the health benefits of soy protein. However, the presence of high levels of phytoestrogens in soybeans has also led to concerns over the potential safety of soy foods. This review will focus on the cardioprotective benefits of legumes and discuss the hypothetical concerns regarding the constituent phytoestrogens.
Focused gut‐mucosal nutrition for diarrhoeal disease: improved nutrient therapy
Authors: Roediger William EW , Millard Susan H , Bird Anthony R
Published: March 2003

The main substrates fuelling ion absorption in the mucosa of the small intestine and large intestine are respectively glutamine and short‐chain fatty acids, . Measurements now reported showed that derivation of both glutamine and fibre for short‐chain fatty acid production can be achieved from a single foodstuff – macerated groundnuts. Macerated groundnuts may be more suitable as an additive in oral rehydration solutions for promoting ion absorption than other agents that are low either in glutamine or fibre, such as rice water or resistant starch.
Elimination of iodine deficiency disorders by 2000 and its bearing on the people in a district of Orissa, India: a knowledge–attitude–practices study
Authors: Mohapatra Surendra SS , Bulliyya Gandham , Kerketta Anna S , Geddam Jagajivan JB , Acharya Ardhendu S
Published: March 2003

A knowledge–attitude–practices (KAP) study was conducted along with a prevalence study of iodine deficiency disorders (IDD) between 1998–99 in the district of Bargarh, Orissa state, India. A total of 635 people were interviewed by a pretested structured questionnaire, adopting the probability proportional to size cluster sampling method. The aim was to assess the baseline information on the KAP of the people regarding IDD. Only 37% of the males and 29.3% of the females perceived goitre as a disease. Less than 5% of both sexes knew how goitre is caused. Only 16.4% used iodised salt regularly. The awareness and perception of IDD does not correspond with the time and effort we have spent in education of this disease. The implications of this poor knowledge about IDD and consequent poor use of iodised salt is contrasted to the optimistic target of elimination of IDD. This aspect is discussed in this paper, at a time when we are at the beginning of the new millennium.
Similar therapeutic serum levels attained with emulsified and oil‐based preparations of coenzyme Q10
Authors: Lyon William , Van den Brink Olivier , Pepe Salvatore , Wowk Michelle , Marasco Silvana , Rosenfeldt Franklin L
Published: March 2003

Studies of the therapeutic efficacy of coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) have been confounded by the variable bioavailability of numerous CoQ10 preparations. The aims of the present study were to determine the early serum levels attained by two different preparations of CoQ10, a soybean oil‐based preparation and a complex micelle emulsion and to assess whether these preparations of oral CoQ10 influence plasma lipid profiles. Twelve healthy individuals received 300 mg CoQ10 daily of either preparation for 7 days in a double‐blind cross‐over design with a 21‐day washout period. Blood samples to determine serum levels of CoQ10 and lipids were taken at baseline, after 24 h and 7 days. Both preparations induced significant increases in serum CoQ10 levels at 24 h and 7 days. These were for soy oil: baseline 0.27 ± 0.03 mol/L, 24 h 0.50 ± 0.04 mol/L (180%) and 7 days 0.80 ± 0.05 mol/L (291%), mean ± SEM; for emulsion: baseline 0.29 ± 0.03 mol/L, 24 h 0.45 ± 0.03 mol/L (150%) and 7 days 0.79 ± 0.06 mol/L (270%). There were no significant differences between CoQ10 levels for the two preparations at either time point. There was no change in any of the serum lipids following the 7 days treatment. We conclude that administration of either a soy oil suspension or a complex emulsion of CoQ10 increases serum levels to the therapeutic range within 1 week.
Self‐rated health and its relationship to functional status and well‐being in a group of elderly Guatemalan subjects
Authors: Herman Dena R , Solomons Noel W , Mendoza Ivan , Qureshi Azhar K
Published: March 2003

This study examined the association of self‐rated health with physical function and emotional well‐being, while controlling for differences in sex, age and anthropometry. Subjects were participants in a multicentre study originated by the International Union of Nutritional Sciences (IUNS). A total of 151 elderly Guatemalan subjects were examined using a questionnaire which included information on self‐rated health, activities of daily living, well‐being, and a common battery of anthropometric variables. Adjusted odds ratios (OR) obtained with polytomous logistic regression showed that subjects with the highest score on the well‐being index compared with those with the lowest were 1.67 times more likely (P‐value <0.001, confidence interval (C.I.) = 1.31–2.14) to rate themselves in ‘good’ health versus ‘fair’ and ‘poor’ health. Subjects with the highest score versus those with the lowest on the mobility index were 1.15 times more likely (P‐value <0.05, (C.I.) = 1.00–1.32) to rate themselves in ‘good’ health versus the other health ratings. These are the first results to examine the relationship of self‐rated health to physical function and emotional well‐being of elderly, free‐living Guatemalans.
DietaryD‐psicose, a C‐3 epimer ofD‐fructose, suppresses the activity of hepatic lipogenic enzymes in rats
Authors: Matsuo Tatsuhiro , Baba Yoshitake , Hashiguchi Mineo , Takeshita Kei , Izumori Ken , Suzuki Hiroo
Published: March 2003

D‐Psicose (D‐ribo‐2‐hexulose), a C‐3 epimer ofD‐fructose, is present in small quantities in commercial carbohydrate complexes or agricultural products. Wistar male rats were fed experimental diets which consisted of 5%D‐psicose, cellulose,D‐fructose orD‐glucose for 28 days. Abdominal adipose tissue weight was significantly lower (P< 0.05) in rats fed theD‐psicose diet than in rats fed aD‐fructose andD‐glucose diets, even though the four dietary groups were offered the same amount throughout the experimental period. Fatty acid synthase and glucose 6‐phosphate dehydrogenase activities in the liver were significantly lower (P< 0.05) in rats fed theD‐psicose diet than in rats fed theD‐fructose andD‐glucose diets. However, lipoprotein lipase activities in the heart, soleus muscle and perirenal adipose tissue were the same. These results suggest that a supplement ofD‐psicose in the diet suppresses hepatic lipogenic enzyme activities. The lower abdominal fat accumulation in rats fed aD‐psicose diet might result from lower lipogenesis in the liver.
New approach for weight reduction by a combination of diet, light resistance exercise and the timing of ingesting a protein supplement
Authors: Doi Tatsuya , Matsuo Tatsuhiro , Sugawara Mayumi , Matsumoto Keitaro , Minehira Kaori , Hamada Koichiro , Okamura Koji , Suzuki Masashige
Published: March 2003

We have reported that ingesting a meal immediately after exercise increased skeletal muscle accretion and less adipose tissue accumulation in rats employed in a 10 week resistance exercise program. We hypothesized that a possible increase in the resting metabolic rate (RMR) as a result of the larger skeletal muscle mass might be responsible for the less adipose deposition. Therefore, the effect of the timing of a protein supplement after resistance exercise on body composition and the RMR was investigated in 17 slightly overweight men. The subjects participated in a 12‐week weight reduction program consisting of mild energy restriction (17% energy intake reduction) and a light resistance exercise using a pair of dumbbells (3–5 kg). The subjects were assigned to two groups. Group S ingested a protein supplement (10 g protein, 7 g carbohydrate, 3.3 g fat and one‐third of recommended daily allowance (RDA) of vitamins and minerals) immediately after exercise. Group C did not ingest the supplement. Daily intake of both energy and protein was equal between the two groups and the protein intake met the RDA. After 12 weeks, the bodyweight, skinfold thickness, girth of waist and hip and percentage bodyfat significantly decreased in the both groups, however, no significant differences were observed between the groups. The fat‐free mass significantly decreased in C, whereas its decrease in S was not significant. The RMR and post‐meal total energy output significantly increased in S, while these variables did not change in C. In addition, the urinary nitrogen excretion tended to increase in C but not in S. These results suggest that the RMR increase observed in S might be associated with an increase in body protein synthesis.
Protection of N‐methyl‐N′‐nitro‐N‐nitrosoguanidine‐induced in vivo clastogenicity by aqueous garlic extract
Authors: Arivazhagan S , Nagini S , Santhiya St , Ramesh A
Published: March 2003

The modulatory effects of garlic extract on the in vivo clastogenicity of N‐methyl‐N′‐nitro‐N‐nitrosoguanidine (MNNG), a carcinogenic nitrosamine, were evaluated by quantification of micronuclei and chromosomal aberrations in metaphase cells from the bone marrow of male Wistar rats. A single intraperitoneal injection of MNNG (40 mg/kg bodyweight) was found to be clastogenic as revealed by the increased frequency of micronucleated polychromatic erythrocytes and chromosomal aberrations. Pretreatment with aqueous garlic extract (250 mg/kg bodyweight) for 5 days significantly reduced the frequencies of MNNG‐induced micronuclei and chromosomal aberrations. The results demonstrate that administration of garlic extract protects against the clastogenic effects of MNNG.
Plasma homocysteine level in relation to folate and vitamin B6 status in apparently normal men
Authors: Lakshmi Amble Vasudevayya , Maniprabha Chalasani , Krishna Tripuraribhatla Prasanna
Published: March 2003

The prevalence of subclinical deficiencies of folate and vitamin B6 in India is high and preliminary investigation showed higher mean plasma total homocysteine level in Indians compared with the values reported for western populations. The present study was carried out in 40 apparently normal men to examine the relationship between plasma total homocysteine level and folate and vitamin B6 status. The mean plasma homocysteine level was high and was inversely related to folate status as judged by red blood cells or plasma folate concentrations. There was no significant relationship between fasting homocysteine level and vitamin B6 status.
Cholesterol lowering benefits of soy and linseed enriched foods
Authors: Ridges Leisa , Sunderland Rachel , Moerman Katherine , Meyer Barbara , Astheimer Lee , Howe Peter
Published: March 2003

Foods such as breads and breakfast cereals enriched with a combination of soy protein (soy grits and/or soy flour) and whole linseed are gaining popularity. Regular consumption of either whole grains or soy protein can lower risk factors for coronary heart disease. Furthermore, linseed is a rich source of the omega‐3 fatty acid, α‐linolenic acid (LNA), with purported cardiovascular benefits. The aim of this study was to determine the effect of daily consumption of soy and linseed containing foods and Canola (as an added source of LNA) on plasma lipid concentrations in 20 mildly hypercholesterolaemic postmenopausal women. Fasted blood samples were taken initially and after 3 and 8 weeks to assay plasma lipids and both plasma and erythrocyte membrane fatty acids. Urinary isoflavones were also measured. Data from 18 subjects were used for analysis. Plasma total, low‐density lipoprotein (LDL) and non‐high‐density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol concentrations fell significantly (10, 12.5 and 12%, respectively) within 3 weeks. Although attenuated, there were still significant reductions in total and non‐HDL cholesterol (5 and 6.5%, respectively) after 8 weeks of intervention. These reductions were associated with increases in urinary isoflavone excretion. This pilot study indicates that regular inclusion of foods containing soy and linseed in the diet may improve plasma lipids in subjects with hypercholesterolaemia.
Re‐emergence of iodine deficiency in Australia
Authors: Li Mu , Ma Gary , Guttikonda Karmala , Boyages Steven C , Eastman Creswell J
Published: March 2003

Iodine is an essential nutrient for human growth and development. The thyroid gland is dependent upon iodine for production of thyroid hormone. It is a common perception that iodine deficiency is not a major public health concern in mainland Australia, with sporadic studies carried out about a decade ago showing average urinary iodine excretion levels of around 200 μg/day. Recent evidence, however, has shown that the consumption of iodine is declining in Australia. A similar situation has occurred in the USA. The present study was designed to evaluate the urinary iodine excretion (UIE), as the indicator of iodine nutrition, in samples obtained from various demographic groups in the Sydney metropolitian area, namely: schoolchildren, healthy adult volunteers, pregnant women and patients with diabetes. Urinary iodine in spot urine sample was measured in a Technicon II autoanalyser using an in‐house, semiautomated method. The results in this communication show that all four study groups had the median UIE below 100 μg/L, the criteria set by the World Health Organization for iodine repletion, and confirm what has been described previously, that iodine deficiency has reemerged in Sydney, Australia. One of the major causes of the reduced iodine intake is the reduction of iodine in milk since the dairy industry replaced iodine‐rich cleaning solutions with other sanitisers. Secondly, less than 10% of the population are currently using iodised salt. A national survey into the iodine nutrition status in Australia is urgently required as part of the establishment of a systematic surveillance and legislation is required to iodise all edible salt.
Nutrition in transition: The changing global nutrition challenge
Authors: Popkin Barry M
Published: March 2003

The rapid shift in the stage of nutrition towards a pattern of degenerative disease is accelerating in the developing world. Data from China, as shown by the China Health and Nutrition Survey, between 1989 and 1993, are illustrative of these shifts. For example, an increase from 22.8 to 66.6% in the proportion of adults consuming a higher‐fat diet, rapid shifts in the structure of diet as income changes, and important price relationships are examples that are presented. There appears to reflect a basic shift in eating preferences, induced mainly by shifts in income, prices and food availability, but also by the modern food industry and the mass media. Furthermore, the remarkable shift in the occupations structure in lower‐income countries from agricultural labour towards employment in manufacturing and services implies a reduction in energy expenditure. One consequence of the nutrition transition has been a decline in undernutrition accompanied by a rapid increase in obesity. There are marked differences between urban and rural eating patterns, particularly regarding the consumption of food prepared away from home. Other issues considered are the fetal origins hypothesis, whereby the metabolic efficiencies that served well in conditions of fetal undernutrition become maladaptive with overnutrition, leading to the development of abnormal lipid profiles, altered glucose and insulin metabolism and obesity. Furthermore, obesity and activity are closely linked with adult‐onset diabetes. The shift towards a diet higher in fat and meat and lower in carbohydrates and fibre, together with the shift towards less onerous physical activity, carries unwanted nutritional and health effects. It is also clear that the causes of obesity must be viewed as environmental rather than personal or genetic.