Search Results (2,054)

The bioaccumulation of heavy metals, such as Cr, Cd, Pb, and As, in vegetables irrigated with contaminated water represents a risk to human health. The objective of this study was to evaluate the Cr concentration in chayote fruits in sites irrigated with contaminated water from Lake Chapala and to assess the potential risk to human health using the estimated daily intake (EDI), objective risk quotient (THQ), and carcinogenic risk quotient (TCR). In parallel, interviews were conducted with local producers to understand their perceptions of the quality of irrigation water and their willingness to adopt more sustainable agricultural practices. In two of the sites and seasons, Cr concentrations exceeded the FAO-WHO limit of 2.3 mg·kg⁻¹ (from 2.49 to 4.82 mg·kg⁻¹). In all, 90% of producers used water from Lake Chapala to irrigate their crops, although most did not perform water quality analyses, despite 32% being aware that the water was contaminated. The results highlight the need to implement strategies to increase awareness of the quality of irrigation water, as well as the need for comprehensive public policies that combine technical assessments and producer perceptions to reduce the risks associated with the use of contaminated irrigation water to promote sustainable agricultural production. Full article

Background: The diet of young people in Spain has changed significantly, with a departure from a balanced dietary pattern and a greater intake of processed foods. Such food generates an acidic environment in the mouth, which promotes the multiplication of bacteria capable of causing inflammation and damage to the gums. Aim: This study aimed to determine the association between the frequency of consuming processed foods and periodontal disease, as well as sex differences, in an adolescent population. Methods: A study was conducted on 233 students aged 15 to examine the frequency of food consumption and its correlation with periodontal disease. Differences were determined via a Student’s t-test to compare the means. A chi-square test was used to compare categorical variables. The 95% confidence interval estimate was used in all cases (p < 0.05). Results: It was observed that girls have a higher mean number of healthy sextants than boys (3.26 $\pm$ 0.20 vs. 2.70 ± 0.21; p = 0.029). A statistically significant difference was noted between healthy and affected subjects in the frequency of consumption of packaged milkshakes (p = 0.003), industrial juices (p = 0.009), industrial pastries (p = 0.018), and fruits in syrup (p = 0.022). When segmented by sex, a statistically significant difference was noted in boys between healthy and affected subjects in the frequency of consumption of packaged milkshakes (p = 0.044), salty snacks (p = 0.032), and cold cuts (p = 0.033); in girls, the difference was detected in industrial juices (0.024). Conclusions: The results of this study suggest that adolescent boys are more affected periodontally than girls. In both sexes, the level of consumption of processed foods affects the presence of periodontal disease. Full article

This study offers a comprehensive analysis of the anthropometric and nutritional status among Serbian adults aged 18–64 years, using the data from the EFSA EU Menu food consumption survey conducted between 2017 and 2022. Based on a nationally representative sample of 1139 participants, this research utilized validated 24 h dietary recalls and anthropometric measurements. The results indicate significant dietary imbalances, characterized by a heavy reliance on energy-dense foods, such as grains, fats, and meat, with an underrepresentation of fruits, vegetables, and dairy. Men exhibited a higher total energy intake, obtaining more energy from meat and fats, while women consumed more fruits and vegetables but often did not meet the recommended protein intake. Approximately 67.8% participants had a insufficient dietary fiber intake, and 15.4% did not meet the protein recommendations, particularly women. Anthropometric measurements showed a high prevalence of overweight and obesity, especially among men. These findings highlight critical deficits in dietary adequacy and, from a clinical practice perspective, underscore the necessity for the formulation of policies, targeted public health strategies aimed at improving dietary habits, and provide evidence for the development of national dietary guidelines and clinical guidelines to support preventive healthcare strategies, especially in the management of diet-related conditions, such as obesity and metabolic disorders. Full article

Background: Culinary medicine (CM) interventions in teaching kitchens have emerged as novel approaches for influencing dietary behaviors, but their efficacy, content, and delivery vary. Objective: The effects of a virtual vegan CM intervention on behavioral determinants, cooking competencies, diet quality, and skin carotenoid status were assessed. Methods: This analysis from a 9-week randomized crossover study evaluated behavioral survey assessments, Whole Plant Food Density (WPFD) as a diet quality indicator utilizing Automated Self-Administered 24 h Dietary Recall data, and skin carotenoid status (SCS) via pressure-mediated reflection spectroscopy at multiple timepoints. Adults at ≥5% atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) risk followed a vegan diet pattern that was high or low in extra virgin olive oil (EVOO) for 4 weeks each with weekly virtual cooking classes, separated by a 1-week washout period. Qualitative feedback was collected for thematic analysis. Results: In 40 participants (75% female; body mass index, 32 ± 7 kg/m²; age, 64 ± 9 years mean ± SD), perceived control over trajectory of heart disease, knowledge of lifestyle behaviors for heart health, and confidence in cooking skills and preparing a variety of plant-based foods improved post intervention (all p ≤ 0.001). WPFD increased by 69–118% from baseline. Greater SCS changes occurred after high-EVOO (+51.4 ± 13.9 mean ± SEM, p < 0.001) compared to low-EVOO (+6.0 ± 16.4, p = 0.718) diets. Conclusions: A virtual vegan CM intervention improved dietary behaviors and quality, which was associated with reductions in CVD risk factors. SCS is influenced by EVOO intake, warranting consideration when used to estimate fruit and vegetable intake. The potential impacts of CM on behaviors and health outcomes warrant continued research efforts in medical and public health settings. Full article

Background/Objectives: Artificial sweeteners (ASs) are food additives used to impart sweetness to various food products. Common sweeteners used individually or in combination include acesulfame-K, aspartame, cyclamate, saccharin, sucralose, and neotame. While traditionally considered harmless, emerging research suggest potential health implications. This study aims to analyze commonly consumed food products in Croatia for ASs presence, quantify four ASs, and estimate daily intake of ASs. Additionally, product labeling was assessed for compliance with Regulation 1169/2011 on food information to consumers. Methods: This study assessed the presence of acesulfame-K, aspartame, cyclamate, and saccharin dihydrate in 121 frequently consumed food products from the Croatian market using a high-performance liquid chromatography method. Based on obtained concentrations, data from a parallel consumption study, and existing literature on acceptable daily intake (ADI), we assessed exposure to ASs. Results: ASs were found in a substantial proportion of analyzed products, with multiple sweeteners often present in a single product. Specifically, ASs were detected in 74% of carbonated drinks, 54% of fruit juices, 86% of energy drinks, 70% of high-protein milk products, and 66% of chewing gums. Hypothetical consumption scenarios demonstrated that children, due to their low body mass, are at the highest risk of exceeding ADI values. Conclusions: The widespread presence of ASs in food products raises concerns about excessive intake, particularly among children who frequently consume soft drinks, instant beverages, and protein drinks. These findings highlight the need for further research into cumulative ASs exposure and its potential health effects, as well as the importance of public health strategies to regulate ASs consumption. Full article

Background/Objectives: Regular consumption of dietary fiber (DF) has been associated with non-communicable disease prevention and health benefits. As a result, having the ability to quickly and correctly estimate DF intake would allow the identification of at-risk groups and the development of public programs aimed at improving their intake. In this study, the authors translate and cross-culturally adapt a validated short food frequency questionnaire for the assessment of DF intake, thus adapting it to the Italian population. Methods: The process followed a six-step standardized protocol, and the pre-final version was tested among 40 volunteers. Six experts in nutrition performed the content validity study: Scale-level Content Validity Indexes based on Average (S-CVI/Ave) and Universal Agreement (S-CVI/UA) were calculated (cut-off = 0.83). Results: Both S-CVI/Ave and S-CVI/UA were 1.00 ± 0.0, higher than the cut-off value. The preliminary qualitative analysis showed an average DF intake of 21.5 ± 7.2 g/day, which is below the suggested national and international dietary targets, and mainly derives from fruits, vegetables, bread, and cereals. Based on their DF intake, subjects were classified as low (40%), moderate (37.5%), and high (22.5%) consumers. Conclusions: The translation and cross-cultural adaptation of a validated short food frequency questionnaire to assess DF intake provided us with a tool suitable for the Italian population. Its application in a real case has enabled the identification of three consumption classes, which can support the design of future studies and interventions. Full article

Background/Objectives: Research suggests that diet influences oxidative stress status in pregnant women and is related to their stress and depressive symptoms. This study aimed to investigate how maternal diet during late pregnancy affects oxidative stress status, maternal stress, depression, and fetal physical development. Methods: This study included 58 mother–child pairs. Dietary intake, depressive symptoms, and clinical information were obtained through questionnaires and clinical records. Maternal and cord blood concentrations of malondialdehyde (MDA), paraoxonase-1, platelet activating factor-acetylhydrolase, and cortisol were measured using spectrophotometric and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays. Results: Maternal serum MDA levels were inversely associated with nut consumption (β = −0.40, p = 0.01) and positively associated with vitamin B2 (β = 2.43, p = 0.04) and manganese intake (β = 0.44, p = 0.02). Fruit consumption was positively associated with Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale score (β = 0.35, p = 0.03). Intakes of beans (β = −3.37, p = 0.04), vitamin B1 (β = −738.92, p = 0.04), vitamin B6 (β = −562.21, p = 0.04), vitamin C (β = −4.75, p = 0.009), iron (β = −106.63, p = 0.03), and copper (β = −863.31, p = 0.01) were inversely associated with maternal serum cortisol level, whereas dairy intake (β = 1.45, p = 0.003) showed a positive association. Cord plasma cortisol levels were inversely associated with the consumption of other vegetables (β = −2.89, p = 0.02). Conclusions: The findings encourage further research towards the refinement of dietary guidelines for pregnant women and recommendations for expecting mothers. Full article

Background: The prevalence of diabetes mellitus (DM) is increasing worldwide, and mental health problems such as depression, anxiety, and diabetes distress are common co-morbidities that negatively impact the quality of life, complications, and treatment outcomes of patients with DM. Objectives: In this study, we assessed the impact of dietary patterns and physical activity on the well-being of patients with DM. Methods: A cross-sectional design and data from the European Health Interview Survey (EHIS) data collected in Hungary in 2019, and determination of the relationship between dietary habits and physical activity-related variables contained in the data and the World Health Organization-Five Well-Being Index (WHO-5 index) by suitable statistical methods. Results: Logistic regression showed higher odds of poor mental well-being in females (OR = 1.61, 95% CI: 1.08–2.42) and lower odds with daily fruit intake (OR = 0.52, 95% CI: 0.31–0.89). Infrequent white meat (OR = 3.34, 95% CI: 1.35–8.22) and dairy intake (OR = 1.60, 95% CI: 1.18–2.64) were associated with poorer well-being. Walking 4–7 days/week reduced the odds by 57% (OR = 0.43, 95% CI: 0.23–0.83). Conclusions: The results demonstrate that regular exercise and the consumption of fruits, dairy products, and white meat have beneficial effects on the mental well-being of patients with DM. Full article

Objectives: This longitudinal study measured changes in adherence to sustainable healthy diets in 698 Chilean children (aged 3–6 years at baseline) over the period that Chile’s Food Labelling and Advertising Law was implemented. Methods: Dietary data were collected annually from 2016 to 2019 applying single multiple-pass 24 h dietary recalls to children’s primary caretakers. The Planetary Health Diet Index for Children and Adolescents (PHDI-C) was used to quantify adherence to sustainable healthy diets where higher scores indicate better adherence. Linear mixed models were fitted to estimate the change in PHDI-C total and individual component scores from 2016 to 2019. Results: Mean total PHDI-C score decreased from 50.1 points in 2016 to 46.3 and 46.1 in 2018 and 2019, respectively (p-value < 0.001), suggesting that children’s overall adherence to sustainable healthy diets was low and decreased over time. Intake of legumes, fruits, dark green vegetables, red and orange vegetables, and vegetable oils decreased, while intake of palm oil, red meats, and animal fats increased, resulting in small but significant declines in eight PHDI-C component scores. Whole cereal intake increased, while the consumption of dairy products and added sugars decreased, resulting in improvements in three PHDI-C component scores. Conclusions: Aside from the decrease in added sugar intake, all dietary changes observed in this study were consistent with trends described among children transitioning from pre-school age to school age. The Law might have contributed to reducing children’s added sugar intake, but further research is required to establish causality. Full article

Background/Objectives: This study examines the relationship between visceral fat (VF), metabolic health, and dietary patterns in patients with obstructive bronchial diseases (OBDs) using bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA). Methods: A total of 75 patients diagnosed with OBD, including chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and/or asthma, were assessed for VF levels via BIA. Dietary habits were evaluated using a structured questionnaire to explore their correlation with VF accumulation. Results: The study cohort comprised predominantly male participants (66.7%), with the majority aged between 61 and 70 years (46.7%). Significant gender differences in VF distribution were observed, with 60% of females maintaining normal VF levels (1–9) compared to only 28% of males, while 38% of males exhibited very high VF levels (15–30; p = 0.003). Body mass index (BMI) showed a strong correlation with VF (p < 0.0001), as overweight and obese individuals predominantly displayed elevated VF levels (≥10). Moreover, metabolic syndrome (MS) was present in 66.7% of participants, with these individuals exhibiting significantly higher VF levels compared to those without MS (p = 0.001). Dietary analysis revealed that frequent consumption of fast food (r = 0.717, p < 0.001), carbonated drinks (r = 0.366, p = 0.001), and refined carbohydrates (r = 0.438, p < 0.001) was significantly associated with increased VF accumulation. Conversely, higher intake of water (r = −0.551, p < 0.001), fruits (r = −0.581, p < 0.001), and vegetables (r = −0.482, p < 0.001) correlated with lower VF levels. Lack of physical activity was also strongly linked to VF accumulation (r = 0.481, p < 0.001), further reinforcing the role of lifestyle factors in metabolic health. Conclusions: The findings underscore the significant impact of dietary habits and physical activity on VF accumulation in OBD patients. BMI and MS emerged as critical predictors of VF, while unhealthy dietary patterns and sedentary lifestyles further exacerbated VF deposition. Elevated VF levels were linked to adverse lipid profiles, reinforcing the need for dietary and lifestyle modifications in managing metabolic health among OBD patients. Although no direct association was identified between VF and forced expiratory volume in one second (FEV1), the results highlight the necessity of integrated nutritional and metabolic interventions in the management of chronic respiratory diseases. Full article

Background: Social isolation is linked to survival and health. However, dietary effects of social activities, and gender differences, over time are unknown. Methods: A prospective study of adults (45+y) reporting daily fruit or vegetable (F/V) intake (at wave 1) from the Canadian Longitudinal Study on Aging (CLSA). Multivariable mixed logistic regression assessed changes in social isolation or breadth of social participation (wave 1 to 2) in relation to adverse changes in F/V (non-daily intake) at wave 3 in women and men. Results: Women who remained socially isolated between waves 1 and 2 had 85% higher odds of non-daily vegetable intake (OR 1.85 [95% CI: 1.32, 2.59]) and over twofold higher odds of non-daily fruit intake (2.23 [1.58, 3.14]), compared to reference (not isolated at waves 1 and 2). Higher odds of non-daily F/V intake were also observed for women who changed from isolated at wave 1 to not isolated at wave 2. Women and men who had less diverse social participation at waves 1 and 2 had 28–64% higher odds of non-daily F/V intake, compared to their counterparts with diverse social participation at both waves. Higher odds of non-daily fruit were also seen for women who had diverse social participation at wave 1 but reduced their diversity at wave 2 (1.35 [1.12, 1.62]). Conclusions: Results showed persistent social isolation impacted changes in F/V among women only, while limited breadth of social participation affected F/V intake in both genders. Further longitudinal research on the complexities of social engagement and eating behavior is warranted. Full article

Western countries host a significant number of international tertiary students from Asia, who often undergo dietary acculturation, impacting their health, well-being, and the sustainability of their diets. This scoping review critically examines dietary transitions among this demographic, focusing on the extent, nature, and drivers of these changes, with a strong emphasis on sustainability implications. We conducted a comprehensive search across five databases from 2014 to 2024, including all review types, primary studies, and theses/dissertations, yielding thirty-eight relevant studies. The results reveal a marked shift from traditional to Western dietary patterns, characterised by increased consumption of processed foods and decreased intake of culturally traditional foods. Despite the challenges of limited access to traditional food stores and unfamiliar food environments, students showed a strong preference for maintaining their traditional dietary habits. Notably, the shift towards higher consumption of meat, dairy, and sugary foods, coupled with lower intake of fruits, vegetables, and fish, underscores the urgent need for policies that support access to culturally appropriate, environmentally sustainable food choices. This review advocates for a reinforced focus on integrating culturally sensitive, sustainable dietary practices into strategies aimed at supporting international students. Full article

Introduction: Childhood obesity has reached critical levels in Chile, particularly among preschoolers from low-income families who face barriers to nutritious food and physical activity. Early interventions are essential to mitigate long-term health risks. This study evaluates the Chile Active Intervention, a community-based program promoting physical activity and healthy eating among preschoolers attending public daycare centers in Antofagasta, Santiago, and Temuco. Objective: To assess the effectiveness of a structured intervention in improving physical activity levels, dietary habits, and obesity-related risk factors in children aged 3 to 5 years old. Methods: A quasi-experimental design was implemented with intervention and control groups, including 1204 children from public daycare centers. The intervention-comprised educator training on healthy eating structured physical activity sessions tailored for young children and family engagement through “Healthy Days” events. Pre- and post-intervention assessments measured anthropometric variables, body composition, physical activity, and dietary intake. Results: The intervention led to positive changes in weight-for-height Z-scores, body fat percentage, and skinfold thickness, particularly among high-risk children. Physical activity assessments showed reduced sedentary time and increased active play. Dietary improvements included higher fruit and vegetable consumption and reduced ultra-processed food intake. Conclusions: This study demonstrates that early, community-based interventions can effectively improve health behaviors in preschoolers. The program’s scalability across Chile is promising, with parental involvement and institutional support being key to sustaining impact. Long-term evaluations are recommended to assess its lasting effects on childhood health outcomes. Full article

Background/Objectives: Children spend the most time in school, which can be a friendly environment that encourages students to eat healthy foods, so school is a good place to learn and practice these behaviors. In Palau, public schools offer free lunches to students. Based on the constructs of Social Cognitive Theory, we conducted a pilot study to evaluate the effects of a school nutrition education program (NE) and the provision of more fruits and vegetables (FV) in school lunches on elementary school students’ nutrition knowledge, as well as their attitudes and behaviors regarding fruit and vegetable consumption. Methods: A public elementary school participated in our trial from February to May 2017. While all students (ages 5–12) at the school were provided with free meals through the National School Meal program, only students in grades 4–8 were invited to participate in a four-month nutrition education program and taste-testing activities, during which more fresh fruits and vegetables were incorporated into the school lunches. Participants filled out questionnaires before and after the trial. Results: Our results showed that students in grades 4–8 (n = 92) had improved scores in all nutrition knowledge items after completing the nutrition education course compared to before the course. Among these, the food category, food servings, and total scores showed statistically significant differences. The scores for attitudes and behaviors regarding FVs intake showed an increasing trend after the completion of the course. Further, the age-based analysis revealed that fifth-grade students showed the greatest improvement in their nutrition knowledge scores, with an increase of 38.5%. However, after adjusting for gender, the significance was no longer observed. Regarding attitude and behavior scores toward fruit and vegetable consumption, fourth-grade students showed the greatest improvement, with increases of 10.9% and 6.3%, respectively. Additionally, we tracked the total amount of FVs consumed by the school annually, noting a consistent rise from 1853 pounds in 2017 to 6580 pounds in 2021, a 3.5-fold increase. Conclusions: This pilot study showed that school nutrition education and providing more fresh fruits and vegetables (FVs) can significantly improve children’s nutrition knowledge, while there was only a slight upward trend in attitudes and behaviors toward FV consumption. However, regularly offering nutrition education courses combined with providing more fruits and vegetables in school lunches could effectively increase children’s consumption of these healthy foods. Full article

This study investigated the effects of dietary iron supplementation on water quality, plant growth, and fish health in an aquaponic system over 90 days. Iron supplementation significantly improved plant growth, with increased plant height, stem diameter, leaf count, and fruit yield in tomatoes (Solanum lycopersicum) and pak choi (Brassica rapa subsp. Chinensis) (p < 0.05). The water pH fluctuated with varying iron content, and higher iron levels promoted better plant growth by improving iron availability (p < 0.05). During the first 60 days, all red blood cell counts and hemoglobin levels increased, but the growth and nutritional composition of mirror carp (Cyprinus carpio var. specularis) showed no significant differences. By day 90, fish in the T3 group (800 mg/kg iron) exhibited significantly reduced growth and feed conversion rates (p < 0.05). Histological analysis of liver tissue indicated iron-induced liver damage; additionally, excessive iron intake suppressed erythropoiesis, leading to lower red blood cell counts and hemoglobin levels (p < 0.05). The results indicate that moderate iron supplementation improves plant growth, but excessive iron can negatively impact fish health, particularly liver function and blood formation. These findings provide valuable insights for optimizing iron levels in aquaponic systems. Full article