Sign in to use this feature.

Years

Between: -

Subjects

remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline

Journals

Article Types

Countries / Regions

remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline

Search Results (216)

Search Parameters:
Keywords = multivitamin

Order results
Result details
Results per page
Select all
Export citation of selected articles as:
15 pages, 299 KB  
Article
Patterns and Determinants of Dietary Supplement Use and Their Public Health Implications Among Adults in Saudi Arabia: A Cross-Sectional Study
by Maha Al Turki, Fatmah Othman, Doaa Aljasser and Abeer Salman Alzaben
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2025, 22(10), 1512; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph22101512 - 1 Oct 2025
Abstract
The consumption of dietary supplements is increasing worldwide, yet national data from Saudi Arabia remain limited. This study examined the prevalence, patterns, and predictors of dietary supplement use, with emphasis on vitamin intake. A cross-sectional survey was conducted among 477 adults meeting inclusion [...] Read more.
The consumption of dietary supplements is increasing worldwide, yet national data from Saudi Arabia remain limited. This study examined the prevalence, patterns, and predictors of dietary supplement use, with emphasis on vitamin intake. A cross-sectional survey was conducted among 477 adults meeting inclusion criteria. Self-reported data included demographics, supplement use in the past 12 months, types and forms consumed, frequency, motivations, and information sources. Descriptive statistics and logistic regression were applied. Overall, 58% reported using at least one supplement in the past year, with vitamins comprising 81% of use. Pills and capsules were preferred, and daily intake was most common (58%). Female gender (AOR = 2.04; 95% CI: 1.26–3.31) and higher education (AOR = 4.04; 95% CI: 1.88–8.64) significantly predicted vitamin use. Common motivations included health promotion (19%), symptom relief (24%), and physical appearance (10%), with gender differences in reasons related to general health and immunity. Nearly three-quarters of participants relied on informal sources for supplement intake. Dietary supplement use is prevalent, particularly among women and the highly educated. Targeted education and regulatory measures are needed to promote safe, informed use, aligning with the national health strategies under Saudi Vision 2030. Full article
29 pages, 5748 KB  
Article
Metatranscriptome Analysis of Sheep Rumen Reveals Methane Production Changes Induced by Moringa oleifera as a Dietary Supplement
by Alicia Alejandra Grijalva-Hinojos, Vicente Arnau, Wladimiro Díaz, Samuel Piquer, Daniel Díaz-Plascencia, Yamicela Castillo-Castillo, Joel Domínguez-Viveros and Perla Lucia Ordoñez-Baquera
Fermentation 2025, 11(10), 568; https://doi.org/10.3390/fermentation11100568 - 1 Oct 2025
Abstract
Global warming has become a significant public health concern, with intensive livestock farming as a major contributor. To mitigate greenhouse gas emissions, strategies such as manipulating the ruminal environment with dietary additives are essential. This study evaluated Moringa oleifera, a globally widespread [...] Read more.
Global warming has become a significant public health concern, with intensive livestock farming as a major contributor. To mitigate greenhouse gas emissions, strategies such as manipulating the ruminal environment with dietary additives are essential. This study evaluated Moringa oleifera, a globally widespread tree with antioxidant, multivitamin, protein-rich, and anti-inflammatory properties, as a feed additive. Rumen fluid was collected from three Pelibuey sheep, homogenized, and subjected to an in vitro fermentation study for 48 h with three alfalfa/moringa ratio treatments: T0 Control (100:0), T1 Low (85:15), and T2 High (70:30). Total RNA was extracted, followed by high-definition sequencing of the metatranscriptome. The sequencing yielded approximately 456 million sequences. A total of 117 phyla were identified and approximately 1300 genera were mapped. Predominant phylum differed by treatment: T0, Firmicutes; T1, Proteobacteria; and T2 with Synergistetes, at least one sample per treatment. Archaea were nearly absent in T1, which explains a statistically significant decrease in methane production. In the Gene Set Enrichment Analysis (GSEA), it was observed that one of the metabolic pathways with a statistically significant difference (p-value < 0.05) was that of methane, specifically in the low moringa treatment (T1) compared to the control (T0). From the functional analysis, differentially expressed enzymes were identified, some of which are involved in the methane metabolic pathway, such as formate dehydrogenase (EC 1.17.1.9) and glycine hydroxymethyltransferase (EC 2.1.2.1), which are intermediates in methane formation. These results suggest that 15% Moringa oleifera supplementation alters ruminal microbiota, reduces archaeal activity, and suppresses methane-related pathways. These findings provide molecular evidence supporting the potential of M. oleifera as a methane mitigation strategy in ruminant nutrition. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Ruminal Fermentation: 2nd Edition)
Show Figures

Figure 1

25 pages, 4937 KB  
Article
Machine Learning-Driven XR Interface Using ERP Decoding
by Abdul Rehman, Mira Lee, Yeni Kim, Min Seong Chae and Sungchul Mun
Electronics 2025, 14(19), 3773; https://doi.org/10.3390/electronics14193773 - 24 Sep 2025
Viewed by 118
Abstract
This study introduces a machine learning–driven extended reality (XR) interaction framework that leverages electroencephalography (EEG) for decoding consumer intentions in immersive decision-making tasks, demonstrated through functional food purchasing within a simulated autonomous vehicle setting. Recognizing inherent limitations in traditional “Preference vs. Non-Preference” EEG [...] Read more.
This study introduces a machine learning–driven extended reality (XR) interaction framework that leverages electroencephalography (EEG) for decoding consumer intentions in immersive decision-making tasks, demonstrated through functional food purchasing within a simulated autonomous vehicle setting. Recognizing inherent limitations in traditional “Preference vs. Non-Preference” EEG paradigms for immersive product evaluation, we propose a novel and robust “Rest vs. Intention” classification approach that significantly enhances cognitive signal contrast and improves interpretability. Eight healthy adults participated in immersive XR product evaluations within a simulated autonomous driving environment using the Microsoft HoloLens 2 headset (Microsoft Corp., Redmond, WA, USA). Participants assessed 3D-rendered multivitamin supplements systematically varied in intrinsic (ingredient, origin) and extrinsic (color, formulation) attributes. Event-related potentials (ERPs) were extracted from 64-channel EEG recordings, specifically targeting five neurocognitive components: N1 (perceptual attention), P2 (stimulus salience), N2 (conflict monitoring), P3 (decision evaluation), and LPP (motivational relevance). Four ensemble classifiers (Extra Trees, LightGBM, Random Forest, XGBoost) were trained to discriminate cognitive states under both paradigms. The ‘Rest vs. Intention’ approach achieved high cross-validated classification accuracy (up to 97.3% in this sample), and area under the curve (AUC > 0.97) SHAP-based interpretability identified dominant contributions from the N1, P2, and N2 components, aligning with neurophysiological processes of attentional allocation and cognitive control. These findings provide preliminary evidence of the viability of ERP-based intention decoding within a simulated autonomous-vehicle setting. Our framework serves as an exploratory proof-of-concept foundation for future development of real-time, BCI-enabled in-transit commerce systems, while underscoring the need for larger-scale validation in authentic AV environments and raising important considerations for ethics and privacy in neuromarketing applications. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Connected and Autonomous Vehicles in Mixed Traffic Systems)
Show Figures

Figure 1

12 pages, 407 KB  
Article
Maternal Dietary Patterns, Food Security and Multivitamin Use as Determinants of Non-Syndromic Orofacial Clefts Risk in Ghana: A Case–Control Study
by Samuel Atta Tonyemevor, Mary Amoako, Lord Jephthah Joojo Gowans, Alexander Kwarteng, Collins Afriyie Appiah, Solomon Obiri-Yeboah, Daniel Kwesi Sabbah and Peter Donkor
Women 2025, 5(3), 34; https://doi.org/10.3390/women5030034 - 19 Sep 2025
Viewed by 477
Abstract
Non-syndromic Orofacial clefts (NSOFCs) are among the most common congenital anomalies globally, yet evidence on maternal dietary and nutritional risk factors in sub-Saharan Africa is limited. A matched case–control study with 103 mothers of children with non-syndromic OFCs and 103 control mothers of [...] Read more.
Non-syndromic Orofacial clefts (NSOFCs) are among the most common congenital anomalies globally, yet evidence on maternal dietary and nutritional risk factors in sub-Saharan Africa is limited. A matched case–control study with 103 mothers of children with non-syndromic OFCs and 103 control mothers of unaffected children was conducted to assess dietary patterns, food security, and supplement use. Dietary intake was assessed using a food frequency questionnaire, and patterns were identified through principal component analysis. Household food security was measured using the USDA 18-item scale, and periconceptional multivitamin and folic acid use were recorded. Logistic regression models examined the associations. Three major dietary patterns emerged: Sweet and Energy-Dense, Staple Plant-Based, and Animal Protein–Vegetable. Higher adherence to Sweet and Energy-Dense (Highest tertile, T3: OR = 22.27; 95% CI: 8.71–56.91, p < 0.001) and Staple Plant-Based (T3: OR = 4.07; 95% CI: 1.70–9.73, p = 0.002) was associated with increased OFC odds, while the Animal Protein–Vegetable pattern suggested a borderline protective association (T3: OR = 0.44; 95% CI: 0.19–1.03, p = 0.048). Severe food insecurity was more common among case-mothers (49.5%) than controls (39.8%). Periconceptional use of multivitamins and folic acid was low (<15%) in both groups. These findings highlight the importance of improving maternal diet quality and addressing food insecurity in resource-limited settings. Full article
17 pages, 898 KB  
Article
Prenatal Vitamin D, Multivitamin, and Folic Acid Supplementation and Brain Structure in Children with ADHD and ASD Traits: The Generation R Study
by Daan van Rooij, Yuchan Mou, Tonya White, Trudy Voortman, Pauline W. Jansen and Jan K. Buitelaar
Nutrients 2025, 17(18), 2979; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu17182979 - 17 Sep 2025
Viewed by 817
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Maternal vitamin supplementation (including folic acid, vitamin D, and multivitamin supplements) during pregnancy may lower the likelihood of neurodevelopmental disorders in offspring. This study examines the associations between maternal vitamin suppletion during pregnancy and morphological patterns in offsprings’ brain structure and traits [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Maternal vitamin supplementation (including folic acid, vitamin D, and multivitamin supplements) during pregnancy may lower the likelihood of neurodevelopmental disorders in offspring. This study examines the associations between maternal vitamin suppletion during pregnancy and morphological patterns in offsprings’ brain structure and traits of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) in a large population-based study of child development. Methods: The study cohort included a total of 3937 children (aged 9–11) participating in the Generation R cohort in Rotterdam, the Netherlands. Maternal vitamin D and folateserum levels, multivitamin supplement use, and overall dietary quality (as assessed by the Food Frequency Questionnaire, FFQ) during pregnancy were used as predictors. T1 structural MRI scans were acquired and segmented using Freesurfer to assess brain morphometry. Cortical and subcortical brain volumes of children were separated into four independent components and used as mediators. ADHD and ASD traits, as measured by parent-completed questionnaires (Child Behavior CheckList and Social Responsiveness Scale, respectively) were used as outcome variables. Results: Results show that (1) maternal vitamin D, multivitamin supplementation, and better diet quality were associated with fewer ADHD or ASD traits in the offspring; (2) vitamin D and diet quality were associated with larger-volume childhood brain components; (3) larger-volume brain components were associated with fewer ADHD and ASD traits; (4) part of the association between dietary factors in pregnancy and offspring ADHD and ASD traits was mediated through the brain volumes of the children. Conclusions: Though all observed effect sizes were small, further population-based research should be performed to further delineate the effects of gestational multivitamin and vitamin D exposure and investigate whether this may be an avenue for preventive interventions. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Micronutrients and Human Health)
Show Figures

Figure 1

9 pages, 1350 KB  
Article
Impact of a Cystic Fibrosis Specific Multivitamin Formulation on Fat-Soluble Vitamin Status and Treatment Satisfaction in Young Children
by Anne Munck, Raphael Enaud, Jeanne Languepin, Natascha Remus, Nathalie Wizla, Frederique Chedevergne, Stephanie Bui, Amelie Arrouy, Marie Mittaine, Megan Quinn, Amy Wahlquist and Isabelle Sermet-Gaudelus
Children 2025, 12(9), 1149; https://doi.org/10.3390/children12091149 - 29 Aug 2025
Viewed by 484
Abstract
Background: Children with cystic fibrosis (CwCF) are at increased risk of fat-soluble vitamin (FSV) deficiency due to fat malabsorption. In France, children were usually supplemented with multiple individual vitamin preparations but have recently converted to DEKAs Plus Liquid (DPL), an absorption-enhanced, CF-specific, multivitamin [...] Read more.
Background: Children with cystic fibrosis (CwCF) are at increased risk of fat-soluble vitamin (FSV) deficiency due to fat malabsorption. In France, children were usually supplemented with multiple individual vitamin preparations but have recently converted to DEKAs Plus Liquid (DPL), an absorption-enhanced, CF-specific, multivitamin formulation that includes vitamins D3, E, K1, A (beta-carotene and retinol), B, C, zinc, and selenium. We evaluated the impact of this change on FSV levels, treatment satisfaction, and compliance. Methods: Young CwCF (n = 39, mean age 2.3 ± 1.1 years) were analyzed retrospectively. Serum FSV levels, prothrombin time, treatment satisfaction, and compliance were assessed at baseline (M0) and after 12 months (M12). Results: Paired data analysis was performed on the 34 who completed 12 months. After 3 months, the initial daily dose was adjusted in nine cases. Median (interquartile range) serum levels of vitamin E (19.3 (17–27) vs. 26.3 (20–31) µmol/L, p = 0.0002) and 25-hydroxyvitamin D (80.2 (68–91) vs. 88.5 (79–108) nmol/L, p = 0.04) increased. Prothrombin time and vitamin A levels showed no significant change (p = 0.7, p = 0.4, respectively). The total number of FSV deficiencies decreased from 10 to 1, vitamin D deficiency was eliminated, and vitamin K1 supplementation increased from 76% to 100% (p = 0.008). The median treatment satisfaction score (VAS1–10) improved from 7 (5–9) to 9 (9–10) (p = 0.0006). Patient compliance remained high (9.5 (8.5–10) vs. 10 (9–10), p = 0.4). Conclusions: Switching from individual vitamins to DPL reduced vitamin deficiencies and improved FSV levels and patient satisfaction. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Pediatric Gastroenterology and Nutrition)
Show Figures

Figure 1

22 pages, 1500 KB  
Article
Ultra-Processed Food and Frailty: Evidence from a Prospective Cohort Study and Implications for Future Research
by Elsa M. Konieczynski, Shivani Sahni, Paul F. Jacques and Elena N. Naumova
Nutrients 2025, 17(16), 2631; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu17162631 - 14 Aug 2025
Viewed by 919
Abstract
Background: Ultra-Processed Foods (UPFs) make up a growing share of older adults’ diets and may contribute to frailty through pro-inflammatory pathways. The objective of this study was to examine the association of UPF intake with frailty development and with annual changes in select [...] Read more.
Background: Ultra-Processed Foods (UPFs) make up a growing share of older adults’ diets and may contribute to frailty through pro-inflammatory pathways. The objective of this study was to examine the association of UPF intake with frailty development and with annual changes in select frailty components. Methods: This prospective cohort study used data from 2547 participants in the Framingham Offspring Cohort. UPF intake was assessed using a food frequency questionnaire and classified according to the NOVA framework, and frailty was defined by the Fried frailty phenotype. We used cumulative and mixed logistic regression models to examine the association between daily servings of UPF and odds of developing frailty, adjusting for baseline age, education, energy intake, multivitamin use, smoking, self-rated health, history of diabetes, cancer, cardiovascular disease, and diet quality. For the frailty component analysis, we used cumulative linear regression models to assess the association between UPF intake and annual changes in grip strength, gait speed, and weight, further adjusting for BMI and physical activity. We also evaluated potential effect modification by sex and baseline age (<60 vs. ≥60 years). Results: The study population was 55.1% female, with a mean age of 60.3 ± 8.9 years. Over an average follow-up of 10.8 years, 233 participants (9.2%) developed frailty. UPF intake was not associated with frailty development in either the cumulative or mixed regression models. UPF intake was not associated with annual weight change but was inversely associated with annual change in gait speed and with annual change in grip strength in men only. Conclusions: Our findings contribute preliminary evidence that, in middle-aged and older adults, increased UPF intake is not associated with frailty but may be related to worsening muscle strength and function. Further research with a more granular approach to UPF classification is required to translate these findings to practical recommendations and to clarify their clinical significance. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Ultra-Processed Foods, Dietary Quality and Human Health)
Show Figures

Figure 1

14 pages, 900 KB  
Case Report
Ocular and Neurological Sequelae in Long COVID: Dry Eye, Asthenopia, Sleep Disorders, Asthenia, and Restless Legs Syndrome—A Case Report with Literature Review
by Mario Troisi, Salvatore Troisi, Livio Vitiello, Diego Strianese, Carlo Bellucci, Michele Rinaldi, Luca D’Andrea and Ciro Costagliola
Life 2025, 15(8), 1289; https://doi.org/10.3390/life15081289 - 14 Aug 2025
Viewed by 971
Abstract
This case report presents a unique constellation of symptoms—including dry eye disease, visual and general asthenia, sleep disturbances, and restless legs syndrome—in a patient with a recent history of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) infection. While these symptoms have individually been associated with either [...] Read more.
This case report presents a unique constellation of symptoms—including dry eye disease, visual and general asthenia, sleep disturbances, and restless legs syndrome—in a patient with a recent history of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) infection. While these symptoms have individually been associated with either COVID-19 or long COVID, their concurrent presentation and the simultaneous, positive response across all manifestations to a combined therapeutic regimen have not been previously described in a single case. The patient demonstrated notable improvement in both ocular and systemic symptoms following a six-week treatment with topical tear substitutes and oral administration of melatonin, and a multivitamin supplement including B-complex vitamins, antioxidants, and neuroprotective agents (Colinplus Delta®, Farmaplus Italia Srl, Via Giovanni Porzio 4, 80143 Napoli, Italy). This response suggests a possible shared pathophysiological mechanism underlying these manifestations, potentially involving post-viral neuroinflammation, immune dysregulation, oxidative stress, or autonomic dysfunction. This case report highlights the need for an increased awareness of the interconnected nature of ocular and neurological symptoms in long COVID and supports further research into non-invasive, multimodal treatment strategies for this emerging clinical spectrum. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Human Health Before, During, and After COVID-19)
Show Figures

Figure 1

21 pages, 3013 KB  
Review
Role of Micronutrient Supplementation in Promoting Cognitive Healthy Aging in Latin America: Evidence-Based Consensus Statement
by Carlos Alberto Nogueira-de-Almeida, Carlos A. Cano Gutiérrez, Luiz R. Ramos, Mónica Katz, Manuel Moreno Gonzalez, Bárbara Angel Badillo, Olga A. Gómez Santa María, Carlos A. Reyes Torres, Santiago O’Neill, Marine Garcia Reyes and Lara Mustapic
Nutrients 2025, 17(15), 2545; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu17152545 - 2 Aug 2025
Viewed by 3848
Abstract
Background: Cognitive decline is a growing public health concern in Latin America, driven by rapid aging, widespread micronutrient inadequacies, and socioeconomic disparities. Despite the recognized importance of nutrition, many older adults struggle to meet daily dietary micronutrients requirements, increasing the risk of mild [...] Read more.
Background: Cognitive decline is a growing public health concern in Latin America, driven by rapid aging, widespread micronutrient inadequacies, and socioeconomic disparities. Despite the recognized importance of nutrition, many older adults struggle to meet daily dietary micronutrients requirements, increasing the risk of mild cognitive impairment (MCI). This study aimed to establish expert consensus on the role of Multivitamin and Mineral supplements (MVMs) in promoting cognitive healthy aging among older adults in Latin America. Methods: A panel of nine experts in geriatrics, neurology, and nutrition applied a modified Delphi methodology to generate consensus statements. The panel reviewed the literature, engaged in expert discussions, and used structured voting to develop consensus statements. Results: Consensus was reached on 14 statements. Experts agreed that cognitive aging in Latin America is influenced by neurobiological, lifestyle, and socioeconomic factors, including widespread micronutrient inadequacies (vitamins B-complex, C, D, E, and minerals such as zinc, magnesium, chromium, copper, iron and selenium), which were identified as critical for global cognitive function and brain structures, yet commonly inadequate in the elderly. While a balanced diet remains essential, MVMs can be recommended as a complementary strategy to bridge nutritional gaps. Supporting evidence, including the COSMOS-Mind trials, demonstrate that MVM use improves memory and global cognition, and reduces cognitive aging by up to 2 years in older adults. Conclusions: MVMs offer a promising, accessible adjunct for cognitive healthy aging in Latin America’s elderly population, particularly where dietary challenges persist. Region-specific guidelines, public health initiatives, and targeted research are warranted to optimize outcomes and reduce health inequities. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Nutrition and Neuro Sciences)
Show Figures

Figure 1

28 pages, 5527 KB  
Article
Oral Metronomic Delivery of Atorvastatin and Docetaxel via Transporter-Targeted Nanoemulsions Enhances Antitumor Efficacy and Immune Modulation in Colon Cancer
by Laxman Subedi, Arjun Dhwoj Bamjan, Susmita Phuyal, Bikram Khadka, Mansingh Chaudhary, Ki-Taek Kim, Ki Hyun Kim, Jung-Hyun Shim, Seung-Sik Cho, Ji Eun Yu and Jin Woo Park
Pharmaceutics 2025, 17(7), 872; https://doi.org/10.3390/pharmaceutics17070872 - 2 Jul 2025
Viewed by 735
Abstract
Background/Objectives: This study aimed to enhance the oral delivery and therapeutic synergy of atorvastatin (AT) and docetaxel (DT) through a metronomic schedule using a transporter-targeted nanoemulsion (NE), with the goal of improving antitumor efficacy and immune modulation. Methods: AT and DT [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: This study aimed to enhance the oral delivery and therapeutic synergy of atorvastatin (AT) and docetaxel (DT) through a metronomic schedule using a transporter-targeted nanoemulsion (NE), with the goal of improving antitumor efficacy and immune modulation. Methods: AT and DT were co-encapsulated in a NE system (AT/DT-NE#E) incorporating deoxycholic acid–DOTAP (D-TAP), biotin-conjugated phospholipid (Biotin-PE), and d-α-tocopherol polyethylene glycol succinate (TPGS) to exploit bile acid and multivitamin transport pathways and inhibit P-glycoprotein efflux. The optimized NE was characterized physicochemically and evaluated for permeability in artificial membranes and Caco-2/HT29-MTX-E12 monolayers. Pharmacokinetics, tumor suppression, and immune cell infiltration were assessed in vivo using rat and CT26.CL25 mouse models. Results: AT/DT-NE#E showed enhanced permeability of AT and DT by 45.7- and 43.1-fold, respectively, across intestinal cell models and improved oral bioavailability by 118% and 376% compared to free drugs. In vivo, oral metronomic AT/DT-NE#E reduced tumor volume by 65.2%, outperforming intravenous AT/DT. Combination with anti-PD1 therapy achieved a 942% increase in tumor suppression over the control, accompanied by marked increases in tumor-infiltrating CD45+, CD4+CD3+, and CD8+CD3+ T cells. Conclusions: Oral metronomic administration of AT/DT via a dual-transporter-targeted NE significantly improves drug absorption, tumor inhibition, and immune response. This strategy presents a safe and effective approach for colon cancer therapy, particularly when combined with immunotherapy. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Physical Pharmacy and Formulation)
Show Figures

Figure 1

15 pages, 510 KB  
Article
Maternal Diet Quality and Multivitamin Intake During Pregnancy Interact in the Association with Offspring Neurodevelopment at 2 Years of Age
by Yamei Yu, Han Liu, Cindy Feng, Jean R. Seguin, Isabelle S. Hardy, Wenguang Sun, Tim Ramsay, Julian Little, Beth Potter, Marie-Noëlle Simard, Gina Muckle, Andrea MacLeod, William D. Fraser and Lise Dubois
Nutrients 2025, 17(12), 2020; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu17122020 - 17 Jun 2025
Viewed by 1111
Abstract
Objective: To comprehensively evaluate the interaction between diet quality and multivitamin intake during pregnancy on offspring neurodevelopment. Methods: This analysis was grounded in mother-child dyads from the 3D Cohort Study in Quebec, Canada. Among the 2366 participants initially enrolled in the 3D study, [...] Read more.
Objective: To comprehensively evaluate the interaction between diet quality and multivitamin intake during pregnancy on offspring neurodevelopment. Methods: This analysis was grounded in mother-child dyads from the 3D Cohort Study in Quebec, Canada. Among the 2366 participants initially enrolled in the 3D study, 1535 women successfully completed the 3-day food record during 20–24 weeks of gestation. A Canadian adaptation of the Healthy Eating Index (HEI-C) 2010 was used to quantify diet quality. The total HEI-C score was dichotomized into low and high diet quality by median split. Cognitive and motor development in childhood were assessed using the Bayley Scales of Infant and Toddler Development, Third Edition (Bayley-III). Language abilities were measured using the toddler short-form version of the MacArthur–Bates Communicative Development Inventories (MCDI) questionnaire, administered in either English or French. After excluding participants with missing covariate data, cognitive, motor, and language development scores at 2 years of age were available for 1066, 1040, and 981 children, respectively. Multiple linear regression models were employed to calculate adjusted effect estimates. The interaction on an additive scale was assessed by incorporating a product term into the linear regression model. Results: Statistically significant interactions were detected between diet quality and multivitamin intake in relation to the cognitive and language development outcomes of the offspring (interaction p-values were 0.018 and 0.023, respectively). The lowest cognitive and language scores were observed in the group of women who neither took multivitamins nor maintained a high-quality diet. Among women not taking multivitamins, a high-quality diet was associated with improved offspring cognitive and language scores (mean difference [95% CI] = 4.2 [0.1, 8.2], p = 0.04; and 11.3 [3.1, 19.5], p = 0.01, respectively). However, among women taking multivitamins, no such associations were identified. Conversely, in participants with a low-quality diet, multivitamin intake was associated with a 3.0-point increase in cognitive composite scores (95% CI: 0.3, 5.8, p = 0.03), but this was not the case for those with a high-quality diet. No statistically significant interactions were observed between maternal diet quality and multivitamin intake for motor development outcomes. Conclusions: Adequate nutritional supply during pregnancy, achieved either through a high-quality diet or multivitamin supplementation, is fundamental for the neurodevelopment of children. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Nutrition in Women)
Show Figures

Figure 1

14 pages, 4541 KB  
Article
A Systems Hypothesis of Lipopolysaccharide-Induced Vitamin Transport Suppression and Metabolic Reprogramming in Autism Spectrum Disorders: An Open Call for Validation and Therapeutic Translation
by Albion Dervishi
Metabolites 2025, 15(6), 399; https://doi.org/10.3390/metabo15060399 - 13 Jun 2025
Viewed by 1349
Abstract
Background: Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is increasingly linked to systemic metabolic dysfunction, potentially influenced by gut–brain axis dysregulation, but the underlying mechanisms remain unclear. Methods: We developed Personalized Metabolic Margin Mapping (PM3), a computational systems biology framework, to analyze RNA-seq data [...] Read more.
Background: Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is increasingly linked to systemic metabolic dysfunction, potentially influenced by gut–brain axis dysregulation, but the underlying mechanisms remain unclear. Methods: We developed Personalized Metabolic Margin Mapping (PM3), a computational systems biology framework, to analyze RNA-seq data from 12 ASD and 12 control postmortem brain samples. The model focused on 158 curated metabolic genes selected for their roles in redox balance, mitochondrial function, neurodevelopment, and gut–brain interactions. Results: Using unsupervised machine learning (Isolation Forest) to detect outlier expression patterns, Euclidean distance, and percent expression difference metrics, PM3 revealed a consistent downregulation of glycolysis (e.g., −5.4% in PFKM) and mitochondrial enzymes (e.g., −12% in SUCLA2). By incorporating cofactor dependency and subcellular localization, PM3 identified a coordinated suppression of multivitamin transporters (e.g., −4.5% in SLC5A6, −3.5% in SLC19A2), potentially limiting cofactor availability and compounding energy deficits in ASD brains. Conclusions: These findings suggest a convergent metabolic dysregulation signature in ASD; wherein the subtle suppression of cofactor-dependent pathways may impair energy metabolism and neurodevelopment. We propose that chronic microbial lipopolysaccharide (LPS) exposure in ASD suppresses vitamin transporter function, initiating mitochondrial dysfunction and transcriptomic reprogramming. Validation in LPS-exposed systems using integrated transcriptomic–metabolomic analysis is warranted. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Endocrinology and Clinical Metabolic Research)
Show Figures

Graphical abstract

29 pages, 1026 KB  
Article
Vitamin D Supplementation During Pregnancy and Maternal and Neonatal Vitamin D Status at ≤32 Weeks Gestation: Romanian Prospective Observational Cohort Study
by Ioana Andrada Radu, Manuela Cucerea, Cristian Gheonea, Radu Chicea, Dumitru Alin Teacoe, Bianca Ioana Mutică, Samuel Bogdan Todor, Gabriela Boța, Dragoș Popescu, Bianca Cosmina Coțovanu and Maria Livia Ognean
Children 2025, 12(6), 682; https://doi.org/10.3390/children12060682 - 26 May 2025
Viewed by 1490
Abstract
Background: Recently, vitamin D deficiency (VDD) has been described as a pandemic, affecting all groups of the population. Pregnant women and preterm infants are particularly vulnerable to vitamin D deficiency. Objectives: We aimed to evaluate the maternal and neonatal vitamin D [...] Read more.
Background: Recently, vitamin D deficiency (VDD) has been described as a pandemic, affecting all groups of the population. Pregnant women and preterm infants are particularly vulnerable to vitamin D deficiency. Objectives: We aimed to evaluate the maternal and neonatal vitamin D status in relation with maternal vitamin D supplementations during pregnancy and to identify demographic, social, and healthcare risk factors for maternal VDD and vitamin D insufficiency in women delivering at ≤32 weeks of gestation. Methods: This prospective observational study was developed in the regional level III maternity unit of the Clinical County Emergency Hospital Sibiu. It included all admitted mothers who delivered at ≤32 weeks of gestation and their infants between 1 March 2022 and 28 February 2025. Infant deaths in the first 24 h of life, major congenital defects, chromosomal abnormalities, the admission of outborn infants without their mothers, or the transfer of the mother more than 48 h after birth were used as exclusion criteria. Maternal and neonatal data were collected from medical records. Data on maternal vitamin D supplementation were collected through interviews. Univariate and multivariate logistic regressions, linear regression, and predictive models were performed for data analysis. Results: A total of 146 mothers (median (IQR) age 30 (24–35) years) and their 164 preterm infants born at ≤32 weeks of gestation (median gestational age of 30 (27–31) weeks and birth weight of 1200 (900–1527) g) were included in this study. Only 43.15% of the mothers used multivitamins containing vitamin D during pregnancy, and 10.96% used specific vitamin D supplements. Vitamin D supplementation was used for a median of 4 (3–5) months at a median dose of 800 (250–1500) IU/day. Severe VDD (25(OH)D < 10 ng/mL), VDD (25(OH)D < 20 ng/mL), VDI (25(OH)D 20–29 ng/mL) were found in 19.86%, 55.48%, and 23.97% of the mothers and 16.46%, 58.53%, and 25.61% of their infants, respectively. A significant correlation was found between the maternal and neonatal status (r = 0.684, r2 = 0.468, p < 0.001, B = 0.62). Both the maternal and neonatal vitamin D status were correlated with the vitamin D duration and dose used for supplementation during pregnancy. The logistic regression analysis showed that birth during a cold season and increased parity are independently associated with severe maternal VDD, while birth during the cold season and a lower educational status were independently associated with maternal VDD. Only an absent vitamin D supplementation (in the form of a multivitamin or specific vitamin D supplements) has been proven as an independent risk factor for VDI. Conclusions: Our findings revealed a worrisome prevalence of severe VDD, VDD, and VDI in mothers delivering very prematurely and in their infants. Additionally, less than half of the mothers in this study used vitamin D supplements during pregnancy despite the national recommendations. The professionals involved in advising pregnant women and policymakers should find solutions to improve the vitamin D status in these vulnerable groups of the population. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Trends in Perinatal and Pediatric Epidemiology)
Show Figures

Figure 1

17 pages, 1524 KB  
Article
Vitamin Status and Risk of Age-Related Diseases Among Adult Residents of the Pearl River Delta Region
by Yongze Zhao, Siqian Zheng, Bohan Wang, Wenhui Xiao, Ping He and Ying Bian
Nutrients 2025, 17(10), 1637; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu17101637 - 10 May 2025
Viewed by 832
Abstract
Background: The Pearl River Delta (PRD) region in Guangdong, China, is urbanized and economically significant. Rapid development has shaped diverse dietary habits. In this densely populated area, there is an urgent need to assess vitamin status and its impact on age-related diseases. [...] Read more.
Background: The Pearl River Delta (PRD) region in Guangdong, China, is urbanized and economically significant. Rapid development has shaped diverse dietary habits. In this densely populated area, there is an urgent need to assess vitamin status and its impact on age-related diseases. Methods: A total of 2646 participants (age: 50.92 ± 9.30 years; male: 64.06%) were recruited from the Pearl River Delta (PRD) region. Participants were included from 1 December 2020 to 30 November 2021. Three restricted cubic spline logistic models, interaction terms, and mediated effects analyses were used to assess the association between vitamin A, B, E, B1, B2, B3, B5, B6, and B9 between five age-related diseases: cerebrovascular disease (CVD), coronary heart disease (CHD), hypertension (HTN), dyslipidemia (DYS), and type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). Results: Blood concentrations of nine vitamins showed a right-skewed distribution. Significant correlations were found between vitamin levels and age-related diseases across nine groups (p < 0.05). A J-shaped relationship was observed between vitamin levels and the risk of age-related diseases, except for the Vitamin A-HTN/T2DM, which showed Maximum Effective Concentration (MEC). Specific thresholds included: Vitamin A: 1080 ng/mL (DYS); Vitamin B1: 77 ng/mL (CVD), 75.5 ng/mL (HTN); Vitamin B5: 900 ng/mL (CVD), 600 ng/mL (HTN), 690 ng/mL (DYS); Vitamin B6: 82 ng/mL (CVD). The protective effect of vitamins against age-related diseases decreased with age, and higher levels of vitamins A and B1 correlated with increased hypertension risk in older adults (Pinteraction < 0.01). Low Body Resilience Index (BRI) and physical activity mediated the protective effects of vitamins A and B5 on HTN and DYS, while no mediating effects were found for smoking and alcohol consumption. Conclusions: The effectiveness of multivitamin supplementation in preventing cardiovascular, cerebrovascular, and metabolic diseases may be limited in healthy aging populations. Health professionals should consider patients’ physiological conditions and blood vitamin levels to avoid overdose. More interventional studies are needed to establish causal relationships. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Vitamins and Human Health: 3rd Edition)
Show Figures

Graphical abstract

17 pages, 913 KB  
Article
The Individual and Combined Effects of Prenatal Micronutrient Supplementations on Neurobehavioral Developmental Disorders in Preschool Children
by Liwen Ding, Esben Strodl, Maolin Zhang and Weiqing Chen
Children 2025, 12(5), 602; https://doi.org/10.3390/children12050602 - 5 May 2025
Viewed by 1180
Abstract
Background: Neurobehavioral developmental disorders significantly affect children’s future well-being and contribute to the global disease burden. While prenatal micronutrient supplementation is crucial for fetal neural development, their individual and combined effects on subsequent neurobehavioral outcomes in childhood remain poorly understood. This study aimed [...] Read more.
Background: Neurobehavioral developmental disorders significantly affect children’s future well-being and contribute to the global disease burden. While prenatal micronutrient supplementation is crucial for fetal neural development, their individual and combined effects on subsequent neurobehavioral outcomes in childhood remain poorly understood. This study aimed to examine the individual and combined effects of prenatal micronutrient supplementation on neurobehavioral developmental disorders in preschool children, and to explore their effects across specific developmental domains. Methods: 15,636 mother-child dyads were recruited from the 2022 children’s survey in Shenzhen, China. Mothers provided information on prenatal supplementation of calcium, folic acid, iron, and multivitamins. Five domains of children’s neurobehavioral functioning were assessed using the Ages and Stages Questionnaire-Third Edition (communication, gross motor, fine motor, problem-solving, and personal-social status). Logistic regression models were used to estimate the effect of micronutrient supplementations on NDDs across crude, adjusted, and full-inclusion models. Combined effects were assessed by multiplicative and additive interactions calculated from crossover analysis. Results: 11.7% of preschool children were identified as at risk for neurobehavioral developmental disorders, with the highest prevalence in the gross motor domain. Prenatal multivitamin supplementation showed a protective effect against neurobehavioral developmental disorders (OR = 0.73, 95% CI = 0.66–0.81). Interaction analysis revealed that the combination of iron and multivitamins further enhanced this protection, with both multiplicative (IOR = 1.26, 95% CI = 1.02–1.57) and additive interactions (RERI = 0.18, 95% CI = 0.02–0.35). The problem-solving domain consistently showed the greatest benefit from the supplementation of these micronutrients individually and in combination. Conclusions: Prenatal multivitamin supplementation reduces the risk of neurobehavioral developmental disorders, especially when combined with iron supplementation. These findings highlight the potential benefits of prenatal co-supplementation strategies to improve neurobehavioral outcomes in offspring. Further studies are recommended to confirm these findings and explore underlying mechanisms. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Cognitive Development in Children)
Show Figures

Figure 1

Back to TopTop