bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comparison between self-reported and measured anthropometric data of energy intake under-reporters: 2015 Healthy Survey of São Paulo
Authors: Batista Lais Duarte , de França Natasha Aparecida Grande , Leme Ana Carolina Barco , Molina Marcela Riccioppo Garcez , Martini Lígia Araújo , Fisberg Regina Mara
Published: June 2020

Introduction

Misreporting in adults has been associated with socioeconomic and anthropometric characteristics, such as sex, age and weight status. Body Mass Index (BMI) is an important factor that has been associated with underreporting of energy intake. Many epidemiological studies often use self-reported values of height and weight, in order to reduce the cost and viability of population-base studies. Therefore, it is important to test the reliability of self-reported against measured values of height, weight and BMI in individuals who tend to underestimate their energy consumption.

Objective

To compare self-reported and measured anthropometric data of individuals who are underreporting their energy intake.

Materials and Methods

The sample included forty-six men and women who participated on the Health Survey of São Paulo, Brazil and had their total energy expenditure (TEE) measured by the doubly labelled water technique. Self-reported data were obtained from questionnaires and trained professional conducted the measurements of height and weight. BMI was classified based on the World Health Organization cutoff points for adults and the Pan-American Health Organization for elderlies. Correlation analysis and paired t test was used to test the differences between both values. Energy intake (EI) was assessed using two 24-hours dietary recall. The ratio of EI:TEE was used to identify misreporting considering the 95% confidence intervals. Respondents were classified in under-reporters, plausible reporters and over-reporters.

Results

Twenty-six (57.8%) were classified as under-reporters, thirteen (28.9%) as plausible reporters, and six (13.3%) as over-reporters. Significant differences were found comparing measured vs. self-reported anthropometric values of under-reporters with height (1.60 m vs. 1.62 m, p < 0.00) and BMI (29.1kg/m2 vs. 27.9kg/m2, p < 0.02), but no significant differences for weight (74.6 kg vs. 75.7 kg, p = 0.28). Overweight and obesity were higher in under-reporters comparing self-reported (11.5% and 30.8%) and measured (15.4% and 46.2%) anthropometric values. Pearson correlation coefficient between measured and self-reported values was 0.95 (p < 0.00) for weight, 0.96 (p < 0.00) for height and 0.92 (p < 0.00) for BMI.

Discussion

Although results showed a strong and significant correlation between self-reported and measured anthropometric values in under-reporters, it is important to consider BMI and obesity are important factors related to underreporting. Therefore, it recommends to measure anthropometric data in studies that aim to characterize misreporting based on nutritional status, since the classification and prevalence of BMI and obesity can be affected by the chosen approach.
Developing a mobile application to increase pre-schoolers’ vegetable acceptance and self-regulation skills – The ‘Mole Minds Veggies’ game
Authors: Vepsäläinen Henna , Skaffari Essi , Ray Carola , Suhonen Eira , Lehtovirta Mikko , Sajaniemi Nina , Erkkola Maijaliisa
Published: June 2020

Introduction:

Many pre-schoolers in Finland eat too little vegetables, fruits and berries. Compared to fruits, vegetables are in general less well accepted. Since most of the Finnish 4–6-year-olds attend pre-schools, they are an ideal setting for promoting vegetable consumption. However, early educators in the pre-schools need engaging methods for food education. The aim of this project is to develop a mobile application that can be used in pre-schools to improve vegetable acceptance among pre-schoolers. An additional aim of the application is to increase self-regulation skills, i.e., we aimed to build the application in a way that, instead of immediate reward and impulsivity encourages self-regulation and delayed gratification.

Materials and methods:

We organized workshops in three pre-schools in order to collect ideas and experiences from pre-schoolers and early childhood professionals. Based on the workshops, a Finnish educational game company NordicEdu designed the first version of the prototype. A multi-professional team with expertise in early childhood education and pre-schoolers’ health behaviours commented the prototype, which was then updated and uploaded to application stores. The prototype consisted of two sections: a teacher-led ‘Learn’ section that encourages a group of children to share their knowledge and feelings about vegetables and fruits with each other and mini-games as well as physical exercises that can be played in a group. The application also allows the group to record which vegetables they have tasted. The feasibility of the prototype was tested in the three pre-schools. We collected feedback from the early childhood professionals and children with video-recordings and interviews.

Results:

Based on the feasibility tests, the children enjoyed using the application and they also gave positive feedback about the visual identity of the application. However, the early childhood professionals thought that the application could be a bit more challenging. Additional contents as well as tasks requiring more self-regulation and patience were also hoped for.

Discussion:

In 2019, the prototype will be further developed into a full demo. Additional vegetables will be added to the ‘Learn’ sections and organized into seasons. The application will be accompanied by a teacher's guide containing more information about the vegetables and fruits. The full demo will be completed in spring 2019 and translated into English and Polish. The effectiveness of the application to increase the acceptability of vegetables will be tested in a randomized intervention in pre-schools in Finland, Poland and the UK.
Is methylmercury a new candidate obesogen?
Authors: Tinant Gilles , Neefs Ineke , Rees Jean-François , Larondelle Yvan , Debier Cathy
Published: June 2020

Recent studies suggest that environmental pollutants play a role in the continuous increase of the worldwide prevalence of obesity. To our knowledge, there is only one study investigating the impacts of methylmercury, a common and more toxic form of mercury, mainly present in fish and shellfish, on adipose tissue. It shows that methylmercury can cause changes in the structure and function of 3T3-L1 preadipocytes. In this context, we decided to study the effects of methylmercury on primary cultured adipocytes of rainbow trout. This species is a well-known model to study the impact of pollution. In addition, fish adipose tissue metabolism is close to the one of humans. Using an in vitro model allows us to focus on adipocyte differentiation and lipid metabolism.

Preadipocytes were obtained after isolating precursor cells from perivisceral adipose tissue by enzymatic digestion. Cells were cultured at 19°C until confluence before being incubated for 6 days in growth medium supplemented or not with a hormonal cocktail (insulin, dexamethasone, ciglitizone) enriched with 0, 0.3, 1.7 or 3.8 mM of methylmercury and lipid mixture. Cytotoxicity was evaluated every two days via LDH assay. At day 6, quantification of total mercury in cells was performed with Direct Mercury Analyser-80. Phospholipid and neutral lipid fractions were analyzed by gas chromatography and expression of adipocyte-related genes was evaluated by RT-PCR. Three biological replicates were carried out.

No cytotoxicity was observed during the methylmercury treatment. Methylmercury was partially accumulated but in a dose-dependent manner. At day 6, all fatty acids (FA) from neutral lipid fraction significantly increased at the highest methylmercury concentration. However, the rate of increase was different for each FA. In particular, n-3 polyunsaturated FA were preferentially accumulated. The total amount of phospholipids was not impacted by methylmercury but a decrease of n-6 polyunsaturated FA was observed. Surprisingly, methylmercury decreased the expression of three adipocyte markers, FA transport protein 1 and glycerol-3-phosphate dehydrogenase in presence or absence of hormonal cocktail, and CCAAT/enhancer binding protein delta in presence of hormonal cocktail. On the other hand, methylmercury increased the expression of FA synthase and perilipin.

As a conclusion, methylmercury appears to be a candidate obesogen as it increased the cellular lipid content in primary cultured trout adipocytes. Additional genes involved in adipogenesis, FA de novo synthesis and FA intracellular transport are being investigated. Further experiments currently conducted in our lab should allow us to better clarify the mechanisms involved.
Antiproliferative activity of protein hydrolysates derived from fish by-products on human colon and breast cancer cells.
Authors: Kandyliari Aikaterini , Golla Jaya Prakash , Chen Ying , Papandroulakis Nikolaos , Kapsokefalou Maria , Vasiliou Vasilis
Published: June 2020

The consumption of fish is encouraged in dietary guidelines because of its association with health benefits; however, fish processing generates by-products (gills, bones, skin, head), which can rise up to 50–60% of fish weight after filleting. The investigation of bioactivity of fish by-products and subsequent utilization for the development of high added-value food ingredients and/or supplements will reduce waste and create new products of high nutritional value. We studied the antiproliferative activity of fish by-product protein hydrolysates (FPH) on human colon and breast cancer cells. A total of 6 Meagres “Argirosomus Regius” (1256.45 ± 232.32g) and 16 Gilthead Sea Breams “Sparus Aurata” (403.47 ± 72.92g) were obtained by HCMR Institute in Crete, Greece. The fins, skin, bones, head, and gills were isolated, lyophilized, homogenized and stored separately at -80oC. The protein hydrolysates from each byproduct were prepared using a pH extraction method. Human colorectal adenocarcinoma cells (COLO320 cells) and human breast adenocarcinoma cells (MCF7A cells) were treated with different FPH for 48 hours, and cellular proliferation was measured using the MTT assay. Results are given as mean percentage of triplicate independent analyses. Statistical significance of growth inhibition was estimated following Wilcoxon Signed-Ranks test with α = 0.05. In COLO320 cells, FPH induced a the significant antiproliferative activity at 0.5g/L. Specifically, FPH from bones, gills and skin of Meagre showed a growth inhibition of 23.7%, 9.9% and 26.4%, respectively, after 48 h of treatment. The inhibition by the same by-products from the Gilthead Sea bream was 24.6%, 21.9% and 26.4%, respectively after 48 h. In MCF7A cells, FPH exerted a significant growth inhibition at 1g/L. The skin and fins of Meagre induced a growth inhibition of 25.5% and 39.0% respectively; the gills, skin and fins of Gilthead Sea Bream showed a growth inhibition of 28.5%, 47.1% and 39.6%, respectively, after 48 h. These values were in the same range with etoposide (reference anticancer molecule) in the concentration of 3.1μM for COLO320 cells and 50μM for MCF7A. These preliminary data suggest that certain fish by-products could represent a source of anticancer peptides and may cause growth inhibition of human cancer cells. The isolation of responsible bioactive peptides from fish byproducts and the integration of them into food supplements can have beneficial effects on human health.
Evaluation of the content and bioaccessibility of magnesium, manganese, zinc and copper from buckwheat groats produced in various conditions
Authors: Klepacka Joanna , Najda Agnieszka , Klimek Kamila , Tońska Elżbieta , Michalak Joanna
Published: June 2020

In recent years special attention has been paid to gluten-free foods, and among them buckwheat grains are becoming more popular. They are a rich source of many nutrients, including mineral compounds, and are eaten in many forms, eg. as a “kasha” which is obtained from roasted and dehulled grains. Food processing causes various changes in chemical composition of raw materials and their rate depends on the treatment parameters, therefore the aim of the study was to determine how the content and bioavailability of selected minerals is influenced by conduction the buckwheat groats production under different conditions.

The experimental materials were buckwheat grains subjected in industrial conditions to a short hydrothermal treatment (ca. 100°C/15 min) conducted in cereal dryer (unroasted groats were obtained), and also roasted in pressure boilers (140°C/90 min, 0.4 MPa) to receive roasted grains. The content of selected minerals (Mg, Mn, Zn, Cu) was determined by flame atomic absorption spectrometry and their bioavailability was determined by enzymatic hydrolysis in vitro in a system, which simulated the conditions in the human gastrointestinal tract.

It was shown that different conditions of applied hydrothermal treatment had a lesser influence on the total content of analyzed minerals (determined before the digestion process), but they significantly influenced their bioaccessibility. Short treatment carried out at a lower temperature had a beneficial effect on the availability of all determined elements, increasing it to the greatest extent for Mg and Mn.

This process caused an increase in the content of Mg released after digestion from 859.4 μg/g (unheated grains) to 1233.8 μg/g (unroasted groats), and the Mn level increased respectively from 2.61 to 5.19 μg/g. The roasting process statistically significantly (p < 0.001) reduced the level of these elements (to 836.1 μg/g for Mg and 1.99 μg/g for Mn). The high parameters of seed treatment used during roasting also caused a decrease in the availability of other elements and their effect was most noticeable for Zn, whose level decreased from 31.99 μg/g (unheated grains) to 9.97 μg/g (roasted groats).

Observed dependencies allow to state, that due to the bioaccessibility of minerals, it is more beneficial to treat buckwheat grains with a lower temperature in a short time, and therefore consumers who pay attention to the nutritional value of the food, should choose unroasted buckwheat groats.
Assessment of nutritional knowledge of soldiers of the Territorial Defense Force of the Polish Armed Forces
Authors: Kler Pawel , Szczesniak Bartosz , Anyzewska Anna , Bertrand Jerzy
Published: June 2020

Introduction

Among all types of the Armed Forces of the Republic of Poland, the name of the Territorial Defense Force reflects its character and purpose to the greatest extent. The goals and tasks set for it depend on the specific defense needs of the state. In the light of current nutritional knowledge, rational nutrition is one of the basic conditions for the proper functioning of the human body and maintaining its good health. Particularly important is the state of nutrition in the case of soldiers performing combat tasks. The aim of the study was to assess the level of nutritional knowledge of soldiers in the context of the implementation of training tasks.

Material and methods

The nutritional knowledge of soldiers was verified on the basis of an open survey, with the use of a proprietary questionnaire containing 20 closed-ended questions. The study covered 106 soldiers of the Territorial Defense Force, undergoing military training. The questions included in the questionnaire concerned the principles of rational nutrition and the sources of some of the nutrients in a daily diet. In addition, the Body Mass Index (BMI) was calculated for each respondent based on the height and body weight values. The results of the survey were prepared using Excel and Statistica software.

Results and discussion

The applied BMI classification showed this may be evidenced by over 40% of the respondents being overweight, while 17% demonstrated first degree obesity, and 1% — second degree obesity. The results of the survey indicated the areas in which the nutritional knowledge of the examined group of soldiers was insufficient. One of the reasons for this is the source of information on rational nutrition. Content provided by friends or obtained from the Internet may mislead soldiers, and incorrect application of nutrition guidelines may cause them to eat unbalanced food rations, which is likely to reduce a soldier's physical capacity, concentration, responsiveness, and the possibility of intense physical activity during the performance of official tasks. Taking into account the BMI results and the low level of nutritional knowledge, it can be concluded that the nutrition safety of the Territorial Defense Force soldiers is at risk, which may stimulate the emergence and development of a number of diet-related civilization diseases. It is purposeful to conduct systematic training of Territorial Defense Force soldiers in the field of rational nutrition. This will help to improve their nutritional knowledge and maintain good health.
ToyBox Study Malaysia: a feasibility study to improve healthy energy balance and obesity-related behaviour.
Authors: Reeves Sue , Poh B. K. , Cheah Whye Lian , Essau Cecilia , Summerbell Carolyn , Koh Denise , Lee Julia , Talib Ruzita , Gibson Leigh
Published: June 2020

Over the last two decades, levels of childhood overweight and obesity have increased considerably in Malaysia, such that the country now has the highest prevalence of obesity in Asia. The preschool years are a key time for establishing healthy behaviours; hence, there is a need for effective interventions aimed at early childhood. The ToyBox Study is an intervention to prevent obesity in preschoolers that has previously been conducted successfully in six different countries but to date not outside Europe. Therefore, we conducted a feasibility study to determine whether the ToyBox Study methodology could be successfully adapted and applied in Malaysia.

The ToyBox Study Malaysia was conducted in 15 kindergartens in Kuala Lumpur and suburbs in Selangor and 7 kindergartens in Sarawak (Borneo), Malaysia. All participating kindergartens were funded by Jabatan Kemajuan Masyarakat (KEMAS), the Community Development Department, Ministry of Rural and Regional Development.The existing ToyBox resources and questionnaires were translated into Bahasa Malaysia and the materials were adapted to suit local culture. Theory of change workshops and focus groups were conducted with parents, caregivers, teachers, cooks and government officers in order to help develop the implementation model. Train-the-trainer and teacher training sessions were organised before the study commenced.

The study was a randomised controlled trial that compared the ToyBox Study with kindergarten usual practice, over a period of one year. The ToyBox Study specifically targeted four energy balance related behaviours, namely; eating healthy snacks and meals, making water the preferred drink, increasing physical activity and reducing sedentary behaviour. Food frequency questionnaires were used to assess food intake. Accelerometry was used to measure physical activity. Weight, height and waist circumference were also measured. All measurements were made at baseline and post-intervention. Equipment such as soft mats and drinking water stations were supplied where needed. Parents, caregivers and teachers were provided with relevant materials, newsletters and tip cards and encouraged to participate and act as role models. They also completed project evaluation surveys.

If successful, it is envisaged that the ToyBox Study Malaysia will be adopted by other kindergartens in Malaysia, with the intention of helping Malaysian children and their families to achieve healthy energy balance related behaviours that will benefit their health and reduce obesity risk in the long-term.
Loss of Food Nutrients orchestrated by Cooking Pots: a common trend in developing world
Authors: Onyeka Uloma , Ibeawchi Obinna
Published: June 2020

There is abundant evidence that cooking reduces the level of nutrients in foods, but the reductions are exacerbated by among other factors the type of cooking pot used. We conducted a research to determine the influence of various cooking pots on macro and micronutrients of cooked foods. Seven pots and five types of food stuffs were used for the study. The cooking pots used included unpitted aluminum, pitted aluminum, stainless steel, titanium, enamel coated, clay (earthen) and iron-cast while the food stuff were chosen from the major classes of food as to include tubers (yam), cereals (rice), fleshy (beef), vegetables (tomato) and legumes (cowpea). Cooking pot forged from titanium offered best (up to 87.7%) protection (retention) of micronutrients while pitted aluminum pot offered the least retention irrespective of the food sample cooked. Significant portions of food micro nutrients namely vitamin C, vitamin A and selenium were mostly affected compared with the macro nutrients. In the course of our investigations we observed that titanium and enamel coated cooking pots required less quantity of water to get food done. The use of less water to cook transmitted to low (69.67%) moisture content of food cooked in such pots compared to values as high as 76.89% when other pots were used. Food cooked with less water may impact better taste to food since the food is expected to be more nutrient-dense; having considerable lower moisture content. Our research evidenced that cooking pot can have a strong impact on people's morbidity since some pots can aggravate hidden hunger, that is, micronutrient malnutrition. Hidden hunger is a subtle enemy that drains away health and vitality unnoticed until it is too late to reverse. It is crucial to state here that our findings may have turned on its head the previous idea of using pressure pot to cook food. Pots that offered low-pressure cooking (80°C/0.48 bar) was found to preserve the most heat liable (vitamin C and volatiles) nutrients probably because of the lower water boiling temperature and reduced level of oxygen. Our conclusion and recommendation, therefore, is the use of titanium and enamel surface coated cooking pots which offered better protection of food micronutrients among other cooking pots tested. This is a piece of information that is quite vital and beneficial to food consumers, manufacturers of cook wares, operators and key players in the food processing industry.
Nutritional composition of commercially-produced 100% orange juice reveals large variability in vascular health bioactive, hesperidin
Authors: De Rycker Johan , Ruxton Carrie , Jungen Markus , Schweiggert Ralf
Published: June 2020

It is well-accepted that fruits contain a wide array of nutrients and bioactive substances which may contribute towards the prevention of chronic disease. Citrus fruits, as well as their juices, are recognised for their rich polyphenol content, specifically the flavanones; hesperidin, naringin and narirutin. Citrus fruits and juices are also rich in vitamin C and provide a source of folate, potassium and provitamin A.

Randomised controlled trials have reported significant improvements to vascular function and blood pressure following consumption of 100% orange juice (OJ) with the effects potentially mediated through hesperidin and/or potassium (which has an EU claim for supporting normal blood pressure). Further clinical research may be facilitated by up-to-date information on the composition of OJ.

By auditing more than 350 fruit processing companies worldwide, the non-profit organisation SGF International collects authentic OJ samples for regular compliance testing. Samples of unpasteurized OJ from the production line are removed by trained staff immediately post-extraction and frozen at -18°C within a few minutes. The samples are posted in this state to accredited laboratories where key nutrients and bioactives are tested. SGF's Database of Authentic Samples (2018) provides the following data (mg/litre) as sample size, mean, standard deviation, minimum, maximum for hesperidin (231, 520, 175, 109, 1160), L-ascorbic acid (615, 450, 98, 120, 721), potassium (1242, 1758, 204, 1197, 2340), total carotenoids (575, 7, 3, 2, 21) and pectins (1043, 334, 132, 19, 932).

On average, there was more hesperidin in OJ than vitamin C, giving an estimated composition of 78 mg hesperidin and 67.5 mg vitamin C per 150 mL serving. Samples from Chinese producers had the greatest variability in hesperidin (109–1160 mg/L) while samples from Argentina, South Africa and Spain had the smallest variability. When OJ from not-from-concentrate (n = 62) and concentrate (n = 169) were compared, mean levels of hesperidin were significantly higher in the not-from-concentrate juice (576 mg/L [sd 228 mg/L] vs. 500 mg/L [sd 146 mg/L]; P = 0.016; Welch's t-test).

Vascular benefits in humans have been detected at OJ intakes of 500 ml/day or hesperidin intakes of 290 mg/day (Morand et al. 2011). From a quality assurance perspective, the AIJN sets an acceptable range for hesperidin as 250–700mg/L. Raising the upper cut-off could increase the hesperidin content of commercially-available OJ with potential benefits for vascular health.

Morand C et al. (2011) Am J Clin Nutr 93: 73–80.
Modelling the dietary impact of health-related claims on food labels in the UK
Authors: Kaur Asha , Scarborough Peter , Rayner Mike
Published: June 2020

Health-related claims (HRCs) are statements found on food packets that convey the nutritional quality of a food (nutrition claims) and/or its impact on a health outcome (health claims). Foods carrying HRCs have a slightly improved nutritional profile than foods without HRCs, however, it's unclear whether this translates into dietary improvements. We conducted a modelling study to measure the effect of HRCs on diet. As HRCs are already present on foods it is assumed that any impact that they have upon diet are already in effect. We modelled the impact on food purchases of removing HRCs, by assuming that the sales boost they receive is neutralised. These results can be inverted to estimate the current dietary impact of HRCs. Using the Living Costs Food (LCF) survey data, we calculate the average purchases and nutrient intake per person, per day. The LCF data is divided into sales of products with HRCs and sales of products without HRCs through solving mathematical equations combining LCF sales data with odds ratios from a meta-analysis examining the impact of HRCs on choices and data from a survey of foods examining the prevalence of HRCs and the nutritional quality of foods that carry them so that the sum of the sales of products with HRCs and without HRCs is equal to the total sales of products. Similarly, mathematical equations are solved that combine nutritional composition data with the sales of foods carrying and not carrying HRCs. In the baseline scenario foods carrying HRCs made-up 37% of the total purchases, and contributed 29% (559kcal) of the total kcals purchased (1907kcal). When HRCs are removed from foods there is an average increase of 18kcal/d (95% Uncertainty Intervals [UI] -15, 52), + 2g/d increase in total fat (95% UI -1, 4) and saturated fat (95% UI 1, 3), smaller changes are seen for protein (+ 0.5g/d, 95% UI -1, 2), total sugar (+ 0.5g/d, 95% UI -4, 7) and carbohydrate (-0.5g/d, 95% UI -5, 7). There is reduction in the amount of fruit (-11g/d, 95% UI -34, 26) but an increase in vegetables (+ 6g/d, 95% UI -6, 19). These results should be interpreted with caution due to the large uncertainty intervals. When HRCs are removed, we see a small deterioration in the quality of the average diet. If we invert these findings we can assume HRCs currently have a positive, albeit small, impact on diet.
Children's acceptance of Pilot program of School meals in rural region of northern Croatia
Authors: Tomic-Obrdalj Helena , Gajari Davorka , Ranilovic Jasmina
Published: June 2020

In the rural region of northern Croatian county Koprivnica Krizevci, new school meals program “Smart meals for smart kids” was implemented since the beginning of 2019. Analysis of nutritional quality of standard school meals served in 18 primary schools indicated high consumption of cereal products, meat, particularly meat products, pastry and sweets, and lacking of fruits, vegetables, fish and legumes. New menu was designed with the aim of improving nutritional quality of schools’ meals through a new recipes based on gastronomy heritage, dietary habits and National guidelines, but also education and testing of children's acceptance. Initial step of the project was to test new menu through Pilot program in six schools during two weeks. Process was accompanied by educational activities through originally designed leaflet about healthy diet, new meals and nutritional benefits, and was distributed among all students. Children's acceptance of Pilot menu of 10 meals was analyzed on a 9-point pictured hedonic scale and qualitative discussion through focus groups. In every school questionnaire was distributed in 4th (age 9 to 10) and 7th grade (age 12 to 13). In total, 237 children filled out the questionnaire, 104 from 4th grade and 133 from 7th grade. In focus groups, 26 participated 14 students and 12 teachers. Results show that best accepted meals were Spaghetti Bolognese, Breaded fish with cabbage savoy and potatoes, and Chicken risotto. High acceptance of this meals can be explained by familiarity to the children, often being served at school, relatively simple dishes with lesser amount of known ingredients and adequate taste profile. Least preferred meals were Chickpea with barley and corn, and Gnocchi with turnip, these meals were in most schools served for the first time, ingredients were unfamiliar, and combination of tastes was not according to the children's preferences. Qualitative discussion revealed that children noticed the difference from standard meals, particularly increase in serving of fruits and different and new varieties of vegetables, and believe that new meals are healthier. They also liked the educational leaflet and think it is a good way of communicating about healthy diet. Teachers welcome the new menus, differences were noticeable in intensity of spiciness, new varieties of vegetables and legumes, and more served fruits. For a successful and sustainable Program follow-up, school meals should be adapted to children's dietary habits gradually with careful introduction of the new food and tastes, followed by continuous nutritional education.
Study on “Breastfeeding behavior, infant and child nutrition in Austria” (Sukie)
Authors: Bürger-Schwaninger Bernadette , Wolf-Spitzer Alexandra , Tripolt Tanja , Weber Adelheid , Schindler Karin
Published: June 2020

Introduction

Early childhood nutrition including breastfeeding contributes to child health as well as the prevention of obesity. This study consists of a representative and prospective data recording of breastfeeding and infant nutrition within the first year of life. It also includes a longitudinal survey of the structure of Austrian maternity wards as well as the quality of consultation provided in them.

Materials and Methods

In a first step, this study used a questionnaire to assess the structure and quality of consultation as well as the setting of maternity wards.

Postpartum women in all of Austria were eligible for participation. Inclusion criteria for participants were delivery during the recruitment period (1st February to 31st March 2019) and aged 18 or above. Excluded were mothers whose newborns were transferred to intensive care. The assessment of breastfeeding behavior and infant nutrition is performed via online questionnaire, including the WHO indicators for assessing infant and young child feeding practices, for mothers at 4 points of time (14 days, 4, 6 and 12 months postpartum). Additionally, data on factors influencing breastfeeding such as the mindset, information provided on breastfeeding and infant nutrition, help with problems regarding breastfeeding as well as sociodemographic parameters will be collected. To make data recording as simple and easily accessible for mothers, questionnaire is available via mobile application. Arabic and Turkish versions of the questionnaire are available for women with migration background. Maternity wards with the highest amount of monthly deliveries were offered fieldworkers to support with recruitment.

Results

From the 79 maternity wards existing in Austria at study start, all were contacted and 81% (n = 64) agreed to participate in the study. 83% of the included maternity wards completed the questionnaire on the setting. Currently 1653 mothers confirmed their participation and 74% of the sample completed the first questionnaire that was sent out 14 days after delivery. Provisional analysis showed that 96.7% (n = 1025) of participants attempted to breastfeed their newborns. Results of the midway analysis will be available in September 2019.

Discussion

The results of the present study will allow us to assess the efficiency of past actions on breastfeeding promotion in Austria and create the scientific basis for future improvements for child nutrition and child health. Additional insights on possible implications of this study will be attained after midway analysis.
Current breastfeeding practices in Bulgaria
Authors: Rangelova Lalka , Duleva Vesselka
Published: June 2020

The results obtained by the national monitoring of dietary intake and nutritional status of Bulgarian infants, conducted during the last ten years, show some negative characteristics and trends associated with risk of chronic non-communicable diseases and micronutrient deficiencies later in life. The data on nutrition in infants were collected through active interviews with the mothers and information from the medical documentation of their GPs during the surveys in 2007 and 2014. Wrong practices of infant feeding and serious problems in their nutritional status, such as short duration of breastfeeding, low prevalence of exclusive breastfeeding, early and inadequate complementary feeding, high prevalence of stunting, underweight and anaemia among infants, especially in minorities, were identified. Results obtained during the survey in 2007 were: the rate of children breast-fed in the first days after their births were 90.7%. Only 1.8% was breast-fed during their first hour according to WHO and UNICEF recommendations; 12.5% of the infants were at exclusive breast-feeding. Data were compared with the results obtained for children at the same age from national surveys conducted in 2014, as the rate of infants who were breast-fed in the first days after their births was 86.3%; 9.9% were breast-fed during their first hour and 21.7% of the infants were at exclusive breast-feeding. The total duration of breast-feeding was short according to both surveys. The rate of breast-fed infants in the first days after birth is high in many European countries, however, the breast-feeding practices in Bulgaria do not comply with the international recommendations. The exclusive breast-feeding has a low prevalence rate. The breast-feeding period is very short. It is necessary to develop the national recommendations for healthy nutrition of infants that will concern all these problems and will aim to improve knowledge of the mothers regarding the best practices of healthy nutrition of their infants.
Improving Health of the Next Generation: Dietary Intake and Physical Activity during Pregnancy in an Austrian Cohort
Authors: Rust Petra , Hasenegger Verena , Englert Kristina , König Jürgen
Published: June 2020

There is sufficient evidence that the periconceptional period is a key window during which poor maternal nutrition can adversely influence long-term health and disease risk into adulthood. The higher rate of obesity in women of childbearing age and bad quality of mother's diet may result in higher incidence of hyperglycemia or hyperlipidemia, associated with an impaired metabolism in the offspring.

This cross-sectional study analysed dietary habits and physical activity of 190 pregnant women aged 31 ± 6 years in the second and third trimester of their pregnancy in Austria. Dietary intake data were collected by two non-consecutive 24-h-recalls using GloboDiet software, physical activity was examined with the Pregnancy Physical Activity Questionnaire. 31.6 % of investigated women were overweight or obese; a moderate higher prevalence compared to non-pregnant women (21.9–27.8 %). Mean gestational weight gain (GWG) was 3.9 (± 4.8) kg in the second and 9.6 (± 5.1) kg in the third trimester. More than half of the pregnant women exceed the GWG recommendations of the Institute of Medicine (2009). In contrary, average energy consumption was 1765 kcal/d, which is below the DACH (German, Austrian and Swiss Society for Nutrition) reference value assuming a Physical Activity Level of 1,4. However, one quarter of participants exceeded reference value of energy intake. Ratio of energy supply by macronutrient intake was 36.2 E% fat: 48.5 E% carbohydrates: 15.3 E% protein. Mean intakes of linoleic acid and alpha-linoleic acid were within the DACH reference values, but DHA intake (125 mg/d) did not reach the recommendation of 200 mg/d. In addition, average intake of dietary fibre (19.8 g/d) was too low. Intakes of vitamins A, E, B1, B6, and folate as well as potassium, calcium, magnesium, iron, zinc, and iodine were unsatisfying. These results are in accordance with an inadequate supply with fruits, vegetables, cereals, and milk products, at the same time exceeding intake of meat(products) and sweets. Only half of the examined pregnant women have reached the recommendation of 120 minutes of physical activity of moderate to vigorous intensity per week.

This study demonstrates that dietary behaviour and physical activity during pregnancy need to be improved. Adequate energy and nutrient intake is essential before conception, as well as throughout pregnancy to support maternal needs, and to fill up stores required for foetal development. Health strategies supporting women in childbearing age in adopting a healthy lifestyle are important for the health of the next generation.
Compared to women without obesity, women with obesity have reduced odds of breastfeeding initiation and breastfeeding at hospital discharge
Authors: O'Sullivan Elizabeth J. , Fallon Laura , Byrne Fionnuala , McAuliffe Fionnuala M
Published: June 2020

Women with obesity breastfeed for shorter durations than women of normal-weight body mass index (BMI). There is also evidence to suggest that women with obesity are less likely to initiate breastfeeding. This is important because breastfeeding is associated with a small, but significant, reduced risk of obesity among offspring; which may be particularly important for the offspring of mothers with obesity as these infants are at an increased risk of obesity. Using data prospectively collected during 2015 by medical staff in a large maternity hospital, we aimed to explore the association between maternal obesity status and early breastfeeding outcomes: breastfeeding initiation and exclusive breastfeeding at hospital discharge (approx. day 2 of life). Data were obtained from electronic records for all births in The National Maternity Hospital, Dublin in 2015. We included data from mothers who delivered a healthy, full-term, singleton infant (n = 7449). At the booking visit (approx. 12 weeks’ gestation), maternal height and weight were objectively measured by nursing staff and subsequently used to calculate BMI; other demographic data were recorded at this time. At delivery, epidural use, mode of delivery, and infant sex and weight were recorded. At discharge, mode of feeding was recorded. In SPSS, we explored unadjusted and adjusted associations between obesity status (BMI < 30kg/m2 [n = 964] vs. BMI ≥ 30kg/m2 [n = 6485]) and breastfeeding outcomes (dichotomous: yes/no) using Chi-squared analysis and multivariate logistic regression, respectively. In unadjusted analyses, there was a significant association between obesity status and breastfeeding initiation; 76% of women without obesity initiated breastfeeding compared with 59% of women with obesity (P < 0.001). There was also a significant association between obesity status and exclusive breastfeeding; 69% of women without obesity were exclusively breastfeeding at discharge compared with 37% of women with obesity (P < 0.001). In logistic regression analyses adjusted for maternal age, ethnicity, marital status, smoking status, parity, epidural use and delivery mode, the odds of women with obesity initiating breastfeeding were 51% lower than women without obesity (odds ratio [OR] 0.49, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.42–0.57; P < 0.001). Similarly, in adjusted analyses, the odds of women with obesity exclusively breastfeeding at hospital discharge were 54% lower than women without obesity (OR 0.44, 95% CI 0.38–0.51; P < 0.001). Research is needed to understand whether the negative association between obesity and breastfeeding is biological or cultural in origin, or both. Interventions to promote and support breastfeeding among women with obesity may improve breastfeeding outcomes.
The impact of wealth status on dietary diversity of infants and young children in the Philippines
Authors: Lenighan Yvonne M. , Angeles-Agdeppa Imelda , Toledo Marvin B. , Capanzana Mario V. , Jacquier Emma F
Published: June 2020

Introduction

Dietary diversity and socio-economic status are recognised as determinants of childhood malnutrition. The impact of wealth status on dietary diversity of infants and toddlers in Filipino infants and toddlers is currently unknown. Therefore, the aim of this analysis was to describe the impact of wealth status on dietary patterns using data from the 2013 Feeding Infants and Toddlers Study (FITS).

Methods

The FITS is a cross-sectional, national survey of infants (6–11.9mo;n = 362), younger toddlers (12–17.9mo;n = 360) and older toddlers (18–23.9mo;n = 373). Dietary data were collected using 24-hour recalls. Percentage consumption of food groups were calculated. Data were stratified by socio-economic status (SES) based on the characteristics of their dwelling units.

Results

Fifty percent of the population were classified as low-SES, 20% middle-SES and 30% high-SES. Rice was the most commonly consumed food across all ages, followed by human milk and infant formula in infants and younger toddlers. Sixty-nine percent of infants from the low-SES consumed human milk compared to 41% of infants from the high-SES. In contrast, infant formula was consumed by 62% of high-SES infants compared to 25% of low-SES infants. Similarly, 54% of younger toddlers from the low-SES consumed human milk, compared to 24% of children from the high-SES, and only 10% of toddlers from poor-SES consumed toddler formula, compared to 47% of toddlers from the high-SES. Differences in non-milk based food groups were more evident in the older toddlers. Rice was consumed by approximately 90% of this population. Fish consumption varied by SES among toddlers (45% in low-SES compared to 33% in high-SES). However, pork, chicken and sausages were consumed by less than 10% of toddlers from the low-SES compared to 18%, 16% and 25%, respectively, from the high-SES. Vegetables were more highly consumed by toddlers from the low-SES (34%) than the high-SES (27%). Approximately 20% of older toddlers consumed cookies and 22% consumed sugar sweetened beverages, while cakes were consumed by 18% of toddlers from the high-SES compared to only 5% of toddlers from the low-SES.

Discussion

Dietary diversity in Filipino infants and toddlers is very limited. Rice, human milk and infant formula are the main source of nutrients for infants and young toddlers. Typically, there is low consumption of vegetables and protein-containing foods and high consumption of sugary foods, which is further impacted by SES. These data can be used to support public health initiatives to improve dietary diversity in the first years of life.
Energy and protein intake of older residents in private nursing homes in Finland
Authors: Suominen Merja , Jussila Henriikka , Salmenius-Suominen Heli , Rapo Johanna
Published: June 2020

Introduction:

Malnutrition, low body mass index (BMI), and nutritional problems are common among nursing home residents. Quality of care including nutrition in long term care has been criticised lately. Objective was to study nutrition of older residents in private nursing homes in Finland for preparation of the upcoming intervention study.

Methods:

Descriptive, cross-sectional study. Nutritional value of the menu used in nursing homes was evaluated. Food service personal and nurses had instructions to modify offered food suitable to different needs of residents. The residents’ food intake for one day was assessed with food records and their energy and protein intakes were calculated. Nurses filled the food records and they were advised to include all kind of eaters. Information was also gathered about residents’ weight, BMI, texture of the diet (normal, soft, mashed and smooth mashed) and their need for help in eating.

Results:

Residents, n = 161, 57% female, mean age 81.0 y (SD ± 11.1) in 70 different nursing homes took part to the study. Their mean BMI was 24.6. (SD ± 5.0), ranging from 15.0 to 45.0. The residents had five meals: breakfast, lunch, coffee, dinner and evening snack. Of the residents 68.3% had normal, 9.3% soft, 5.0% mashed and 14.3% smooth smashed texture in their food. Using average portion size it was possible to receive enough energy and protein daily. Residents’ mean intake of energy was 1723 kcal (SD ± 506), ranging from 329 kcal to 3167 kcal per day, mean intake of protein was 69 g (SD ± 24), ranging from 14 g to 141 g per day. When protein intake was calculated by g/kg BW/day, the mean intake was 1.0 g (SD ± 0.34), ranging from 0.2 to 2 g/kg BW/day. Female residents had lower energy intake (1557 kcal, SD ± 486) than male (1888 kcal, SD ± 450), p < 0.001 and protein intake (F 62 g, SD ± 22)/(M 72 g, SD ± 24), p < 0.001 but not when counting g/kg BW/day.

Discussion:

Nutritional value of the menu in average met the recommendations for older people's nutrition. Although the mean intakes of energy and protein were adequate there was a great variation in intakes and a part of the residents received so little energy and protein that it would evidently lead to malnutrition. Taking account the wide range of residents’ BMI, energy and protein intake education of the personnel in personalized nutrition is needed.