Ultra-processed foods consumption and diet quality among preschool children and women of reproductive age from Argentina.

OBJECTIVE: To assess the association between the consumption of ultra-processed foods (UPF) and diet quality among preschool children and women of reproductive age from Argentina. DESIGN: Cross-sectional and nationally representative survey. The food items were classified according to the NOVA system. Consumption of fruits, vegetables, legumes, nuts, seeds and wholegrains was estimated, and the energy and nutrients related to non-communicable disease (NCD) intake. Linear regression was used to assess the associations. SETTING: Argentina. PARTICIPANTS: Children aged 2-5 years (n 7022), female adolescent aged 10-19 years (n 2165) and women aged 20-49 years (n 4414). RESULTS: UPF represented more than a quarter of total energy intake, 27 % in children, 31 % in female adolescents and 26 % in women. Across all age groups, the major contributors to UPF consumption were cookies and pastries (about 6·0-7·0 %), soft drinks (about 2·7-3·7 %), candies (about 1·8-4·6 %), and juices (about 1·3-1·7 %). The consumption of fresh vegetables, fresh fruits and legumes was negatively associated with UPF consumption. A significant positive association was found between the dietary share of UPF and the dietary content of NCD-promoting nutrients such as free sugars and total saturated and trans-fats. In contrast, a significant negative association was found with the content of NCD-protective such as fibre and protein. CONCLUSIONS: UPF were associated with lower consumption of healthy foods and higher intake of nutrients related to NCD in children and women of reproductive age in Argentina. It is necessary to design food policies that simultaneously reduce the consumption of UPF while promoting the intake of fresh and whole foods to improve the dietary quality.

Malnutrition in all its forms and socio-economic indicators in Argentina.

OBJECTIVE: To assess the prevalence of five forms of malnutrition (wasting/underweight, overweight, obesity, stunting/short stature and anaemia) by socio-economic wealth (SEW) and educational level (EL) among children, adolescents and women of reproductive age in Argentina. DESIGN: Analysis from a cross-sectional survey. Anthropometric indicators and prevalence of anaemia were estimated. SEW was classified according to the proportion of contributors in the household, employment status, EL and medical coverage. EL was categorized by years of formal education. SETTING: National Health and Nutrition Survey, 2005. PARTICIPANTS: Children (n 27 015) <5 years, adolescent girls (n 1729) 11-19 years, women (n 4401) 20-49 years. RESULTS: In Argentina, 26 % of households lived with unsatisfied basic needs and 23 % received at least one form of food assistance. Any form of malnutrition affected 23 % of children, 36 % of girls and 56 % of women. Children were especially affected by anaemia, overweight/obesity and stunting (15·2, 9·9, 7·4 %, respectively). Girls were affected by overweight/obesity, anaemia and stunting (22·5, 15·2, 6·2 %). Women were strongly affected by overweight/obesity, anaemia and stunting (43·8, 19·8, 10·5 %). Stunting or short stature was higher in low-SEW settings, doubling in prevalence between low and high levels, increasing four times among women in reproductive age (P < 0·05). Excess weight among children was higher in high-SEW settings, in women the tendency was inverse. Anaemia showed different tendency according to SEW. CONCLUSIONS: In 2005, Argentina had high rates of excess weight and anaemia, moderate prevalence of stunting and low frequency of wasting/underweight. All forms of malnutrition showed a strong relationship with socio-economic and educational inequality.

Probiotic fermented milk consumption modulates the allergic process induced by ovoalbumin in mice.

Orally administered probiotic micro-organisms are able to regulate the exacerbated immune response during the antigenic sensitisation process. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the potential efficacy of probiotic fermented milk (PFM) in preventing or treating allergy in an experimental model, and to investigate its underlying mechanisms. Ovoalbumin (OVA)-sensitised BALB/c mice were fed with PFM before the sensitisation procedure or fed continuously with PFM. At 7 and 15 d post-sensitisation, anti-OVA-specific IgE, IgG, IgG1 and IgG2a concentrations were measured in the serum and broncho-alveolar lavage fluid (BALF). Concentrations of interferon-γ (IFN-γ), IL-4, IL-10 and total secretory IgA (S-IgA) were measured in the supernatants of macerated lungs or in the BALF. The levels of IgA+, CD4+ and CD8+ T lymphocytes and F4/80+ cells were measured in the lungs by immunofluorescence. Inducible CD4+/CD25/Foxp3+ regulatory T (Treg) cells were evaluated in the lungs. PFM shifted the T helper (Th)2 profile response towards a Th1 response that led to the production of IgG instead of IgE, with increasing levels of IL-10 and IFN-γ that play an important role in immunomodulation exerted by PFM administration in sensitised mice. Anti-OVA-specific IgE levels were significantly decreased; however, there was no modification in the levels of anti-OVA-specific IgG and total S-IgA. PFM did not influence Treg cells in treated mice. Consumption of PFM could be a promising strategy in the amelioration of airway allergies, considering that the effect is mediated by the production of IgG through the activation of Th1 instead of the direct activation of Th2 cells to produce IgE.

Total fluid intake of children and adolescents: cross-sectional surveys in 13 countries worldwide.

PURPOSE: To describe total fluid intake (TFI) according to socio-demographic characteristics in children and adolescents worldwide. METHODS: Data of 3611 children (4-9 years) and 8109 adolescents (10-18 years) were retrieved from 13 cross-sectional surveys (47 % males). In three countries, school classes were randomly recruited with stratified cluster sampling design. In the other countries, participants were randomly recruited based on a quota method. TFI (drinking water and beverages of all kinds) was obtained with a fluid-specific record over 7 consecutive days. Adequacy was assessed by comparing TFI to 80 % of adequate intake (AI) for total water intake set by European Food Safety Authority. Data on height, weight and socio-economic level were collected in most countries. RESULTS: The mean (SD) TFI ranged from [1.32 (0.68)] to [1.35 (0.71)] L/day. Non-adherence to AIs for fluids ranged from 10 % (Uruguay) to >90 % (Belgium). Females were more likely to meet the AIs for fluids than males (4-9 years: 28 %, OR 0.72, p = 0.002; 10-18 years: 20 %, OR 0.80, p = 0.001), while adolescents were less likely to meet the AI than children (OR 1.645, p < 0.001 in males and OR 1.625, p < 0.001 in females). CONCLUSIONS: A high proportion of children and adolescents are at risk of an inadequate fluid intake. This risk is especially high in males and adolescents when compared with females or children categories. This highlights water intake among young populations as an issue of global concern.

Effect of a probiotic fermented milk on the thymus in Balb/c mice under non-severe protein-energy malnutrition.

Protein­energy malnutrition (PEM) causes a significant impairment of the immune system, the thymus being one of the most affected organs. It has been demonstrated that the administration of probiotic fermented milk (PFM) recovered the intestinal barrier, histological alterations and mucosal and systemic immune functions in a non-severe malnutrition model using BALB/c mice. The aim of the present study was to evaluate, in the same model of malnutrition, the effect of a PFM added to a re-nutrition diet on the recovery of the thymus, analysing histological and functional alterations caused by malnutrition. Mice were undernourished and divided into three groups according to the dietary supplement received during re-nutrition: milk, PFM or its bacterial-free supernatant (BFS). They were compared with well-nourished and malnourished mice. PFM was the most effective re-nutrition supplement to improve the histology of the thymus, decreasing cellular apoptosis in this organ and recovering the percentage of CD4þ/CD82 single-positive thymocytes. Immature doublepositive thymocytes were increased in the malnourished control (MC). The production of different cytokines in the thymus was increased in mice given PFM, compared with the mice that received other dietary supplements and MC. Mice given the BFS presented an improvement in the thymus similar to those that received milk. We demonstrated the importance of the whole PFM supplementation on the histological and functional recovery of the thymus in a non-severe PEM model.

Description of energy intake by degree of food processing. National Survey on Nutrition and Health of 2018-2019. / Descripción de la ingesta de energía según grado de procesamiento de los alimentos. Encuesta Nacional de Nutrición y Salud 2018-19.

Introduction. Worldwide, children and adolescents lead the consumption of ultra-processed foods. The objective of this study was to describe the energy intake by the degree of food processing by age group in the urban population over 2 years of age in Argentina. Population and methods. Cross-sectional study based on data from the 2nd National Survey on Nutrition and Health of 2018-2019 conducted using a multistage probability sample from urban areas of Argentina. Data were collected from a 24-hour recall and were analized, for each age group, the daily energy intake from 1) unprocessed or minimally processed foods; 2) processed culinary ingredients; 3) processed foods; and 4) ultra-processed foods. A descriptive, statistical analysis was performed. Results. In 15 444 individuals older than 2 years, minimally processed foods accounted for 34.5% of daily energy; ultra-processed foods, 26.0%; processed foods, 23.0%; and culinary ingredients, 16.6%. The percentage of energy from ultra-processed foods is higher in children and adolescents than in adults (p < 0.01), while the trend is the opposite from processed foods and culinary ingredients (p < 0.01). Cookies, pastries, sweetened beverage and confectionery accounted for two-thirds of the energy contributed by ultra-processed foods. Conclusion. Children and adolescents in urban areas in Argentina showed the highest energy intake from ultra-processed. Food policies should consider the characteristics of each age group to promote a healthier diet.

Introducción. A nivel mundial los niños, niñas y adolescentes lideran el consumo de productos ultraprocesados. El objetivo de este trabajo fue caracterizar la ingesta de energía según el grado de procesamiento de los alimentos por grupo etario, en la población urbana mayor de 2 años de la Argentina. Población y métodos. Estudio transversal, con datos de la 2.a Encuesta Nacional de Nutrición y Salud 2018-19, en una muestra probabilística polietápica de localidades urbanas de Argentina. A partir de la información recopilada con el recordatorio de 24 horas, se analizó la ingesta diaria de energía, para cada grupo etario, de 1) alimentos sin procesar o mínimamente procesados; 2) ingredientes culinarios procesados; 3) alimentos procesados, y 4) productos ultraprocesados. Se realizó análisis estadístico descriptivo. Resultados. En 15 444 individuos mayores de 2 años, los alimentos mínimamente procesados representaron el 34,5 % de la energía diaria; los productos ultraprocesados, el 26,0 %; los alimentos procesados, el 23,0 %, y los ingredientes culinarios, el 16,6 %. El porcentaje de energía aportada por ultraprocesados es mayor en niños, niñas y adolescentes que en los adultos (p <0,01), mientras que para alimentos procesados e ingredientes culinarios la tendencia es opuesta (p <0,01). Las galletitas, los amasados de pastelería, las bebidas azucaradas y las golosinas representaron dos tercios de la energía aportada por ultraprocesados. Conclusión. Los niños, niñas y adolescentes de entornos urbanos de la Argentina presentan la mayor ingesta de energía a partir de productos ultraprocesados. Las políticas alimentarias deben contemplar la situación de cada grupo etario para promover una alimentación más saludable.

Brand social media marketing strategies for foods consumed by children and adolescents in Argentina. / Estrategias de marketing en redes sociales de marcas de alimentos consumidos por niños y adolescentes en Argentina.

Introduction. As per the National Survey on Nutrition and Health, in Argentina, 4/10 children and adolescents aged 5-17 years are overweight. Objective. To identify marketing strategies on Facebook ® and Instagram® of brands of foods consumed by children and adolescents and to categorize them according to the Dietary Guidelines for the Argentine Population (GAPA). Methods. The posts made between August and September 2019 were analyzed, identifying those targeted at children and adolescents and categorizing promoted foods according to the GAPA. Results. Out of 200 brands identified, 111 had a Facebook® page and made 65 posts and 95 had an Instagram® account and made 64 posts. Product image and interaction with consumers were the more used stategies. Six out of 10 of the foods promoted corresponded to the optional group according to the GAPA. Conclusions. It is important to monitor the implications social media have on eating behaviors.

Introducción. En la Argentina, según los datos de la última Encuesta Nacional de Nutrición y Salud, 4 de cada 10 niños, niñas y adolescentes (NNyA) entre 5 y 17 años presentan exceso de peso. Objetivo. Identificar las estrategias de marketing en las páginas de Facebook® e Instagram® de las marcas de los alimentos consumidos por niñas, niños y adolescentes (NNyA), y categorizarlos según las Guías Alimentarias para la Población Argentina (GAPA). Métodos. El análisis se realizó en las publicaciones de agosto y septiembre de 2019, se identificaron aquellas dirigidas a NNyA y se categorizaron los alimentos promocionados según las GAPA. Resultados. De las 200 marcas identificadas, 111 tenían página de Facebook® y 95 de Instagram®. Las marcas que tenían página de Facebook® presentaron 65 publicaciones y las que tenían Instagram®, 64 publicaciones. Las estrategias más utilizadas fueron la imagen del producto y la interacción con los consumidores. La mitad de las páginas estaban dirigidas a NNyA. De los alimentos promocionados, 6 de cada 10 correspondieron al grupo de opcionales según las GAPA. Conclusiones. Se evidencia la importancia de monitorear la implicancia de las redes sociales en las conductas alimentarias.

[Intake of energy and critical nutrients according to the NOVA classification in Argentina, time trend and differences according to income]. / Consumo de energía y nutrientes críticos según clasificación NOVA en la Argentina, tendencia temporal y diferencias según nivel de ingreso.

Growing evidence of the global transition in food systems exists, affecting the availability, accessibility, affordability, and convenience of highly processed foods. This study aimed to evaluate the apparent consumption of energy, saturated fat, added sugars, and sodium according to the degree of food processing in Argentina from 1996 to 2018 and according to income level. This is a descriptive and cross-sectional study with data on food and beverage expenditures and income from the National Household Expenditure Survey for years 1996-1997, 2004-2005, 2012-2013, and 2017-2018, including more than 20,000 households in each period. The apparent daily consumption of energy, saturated fat, added sugars, and sodium per adult for: (1) minimally processed foods; (2) processed culinary ingredients; (3) processed foods; and (4) ultra-processed products, was calculated for each period and according to per capita income quintile in each household. Descriptive statistical analysis was performed. Reductions in the proportion of energy and all nutrients evaluated from minimally processed foods, culinary ingredients and processed foods were observed, as well as an increase in the consumption of ultra-processed products. One also observes a greater share from ultra-processed foods as household income increases but with decreasing differences over time. Therefore, future strategies in Argentina should promote the consumption of minimally processed foods and discourage the availability and accessibility of ultra-processed ones, especially for the most vulnerable groups.

Existe una creciente evidencia de la transición global en los sistemas alimentarios que afectan la disponibilidad, accesibilidad, asequibilidad y conveniencia de los alimentos altamente procesados. El objetivo de este trabajo fue evaluar el consumo aparente de energía, grasas saturadas, azúcares agregados y sodio según el grado de procesamiento de los alimentos en la Argentina entre 1996 y 2018, según el nivel de ingreso. Se trata de un estudio descriptivo y transversal, con datos de gastos de alimentos y bebidas e ingresos de la Encuesta Nacional de Gastos de los Hogares de 1996-1997, 2004-2005, 2012-2013 y 2017-2018, que incluye más de 20.000 hogares en cada período. Se calculó el consumo aparente diario de energía, grasas saturadas, azúcares agregados y sodio por adulto equivalente de: (1) alimentos mínimamente procesados; (2) ingredientes culinarios procesados; (3) alimentos procesados y (4) productos ultraprocesados, para cada periodo y según el quintil de ingresos per cápita del hogar. Fue utilizado análisis estadístico descriptivo. En energía y todos los nutrientes evaluados, se observa la reducción de la proporción proveniente de alimentos mínimamente procesados, ingredientes culinarios y alimentos procesados, y el aumento de productos ultraprocesados. Con una mayor contribución a partir de ultraprocesados, a medida que aumentan los ingresos del hogar, pero con diferencias que disminuyen a lo largo del tiempo. Dados los resultados, las estrategias futuras en Argentina deberían promover el consumo de alimentos mínimamente procesados y desalentar la disponibilidad y accesibilidad de alimentos ultraprocesados, con especial énfasis en los grupos más vulnerados.

Cada vez mais há evidências sobre a mudança global nos sistemas alimentares, que envolvem disponibilidade, acessibilidade, custo e pertinência dos alimentos ultraprocessados. O objetivo deste trabalho foi analisar o consumo aparente de energia, gorduras saturadas, açúcar e sódio conforme o nível de processamento de alimentos e a renda familiar na Argentina no período entre 1996 e 2018. Estudo descritivo e transversal, realizado com dados sobre o consumo de alimentos e bebidas e a renda familiar obtidos da Pesquisa Nacional de Consumo Domiciliar de 1996-1997, 2004-2005, 2012-2013 e 2017-2018, que inclui mais de 20.000 residências em cada período. Foi calculado o consumo diário de energia, gordura saturada, açúcar e sódio por adulto equivalente a partir de: (1) alimentos minimamente processados; (2) ingredientes culinários processados; (3) alimentos processados e (4) alimentos ultraprocessados, para cada período e de acordo com o quintil de renda familiar per capita. Foi aplicada análise estatística descritiva. Em relação à energia e aos nutrientes analisados, foi encontrada uma redução na proporção de alimentos minimamente processados, ingredientes culinários e alimentos processados, e um aumento de alimentos ultraprocessados. O consumo de alimentos ultraprocessados é maior conforme aumenta a renda familiar, mas com diferenças que diminuem ao longo do tempo. Esses resultados evidenciam a necessidade de promover estratégias na Argentina quanto ao consumo de alimentos minimamente processados e desestimular a disponibilidade e o acesso a alimentos ultraprocessados, especialmente para os grupos mais vulneráveis.

Nutritional Quality of School Breakfasts: An Experience Based on Improvements of the School Food Program in Buenos Aires.

BACKGROUND: Since 2016, the School Food Program in the Buenos Aires Province, Argentina, implemented a nutritional regulatory framework (NRF) and varying administration systems (AS). Here, we examined the association between the interventions (only NRF and NRF + AS) and breakfast nutritional and food indicators between 2016 and 2019. METHODS: Data collected from the Survey of the School Food Program, 2016-2019, were analyzed. The dependent variables were the energy, macro-and micronutrients, milk/yogurt, and fruit quantities in school breakfasts. The independent variables were the school's status: (a) control group, (b) Intervention 1 (only NRF), and (c) Intervention 2 (NRF + AS). We preformed crude and adjusted linear regressions with robust variances. RESULTS: We evaluated 4,060 schools (control group: 24%; Intervention 1: 39%; Intervention 2: 37%). Only vitamin A levels increased after Intervention 1, and almost all indicators (80%) showed better values when applying Intervention 2. SCHOOL HEALTH POLICY IMPLICATIONS: Nutritional and food indicator improvements were associated with the implementation of the NRF and AS, emphasizing the significance of design and management of school food public policies, along with the amount of investment/territorial coverage. CONCLUSIONS: Our findings highlight the importance of school food and nutrition policies with a potential impact on improving the nutritional status of children.

Impact of a probiotic fermented milk in the gut ecosystem and in the systemic immunity using a non-severe protein-energy-malnutrition model in mice.

BACKGROUND: Malnutrition affects the immune response, causing a decrease of defence mechanisms and making the host more susceptible to infections. Probiotics can reconstitute the intestinal mucosa and stimulate local and systemic immunity. The aim of this work was evaluate the effects of a probiotic fermented milk as a complement of a re-nutrition diet, on the recovery of the intestinal barrier, and mucosal and systemic immune functions in a murine model of non-severe protein-energy-malnutrition. Its potential protection against Salmonella enterica serovar Typhimurium (S. Typhimurium) infection was also analyzed. METHODS: Mice were undernourished and divided into 3 groups according to the dietary supplement received during re-nutrition (milk, probiotic fermented milk or its bacterial free supernatant) and compared to well-nourished and malnourished mice. They were sacrificed previous to the re-nutrition and 5 days post re-nutrition. The phagocytic activity of macrophages from spleen and peritoneum and the changes in the intestinal histology and microbiota were evaluated. Different immune cell populations and cytokine productions were analyzed in the small intestine tissues. The effect of the re-nutrition supplements on the systemic immunity using OVA antigen and against an infection with S. Typhimurium was also studied. RESULTS: Probiotic fermented milk was the most effective re-nutrition diet that improved the intestinal microbiota. Its administration also increased the number of IgA+ cells, macrophages and dendritic cells. The production of different cytokine (IFN-γ, TNF-α, IL-12) by these cells and the phagocytic activity in peritoneum and spleen was also increased. This re-nutrition diet also stimulated the systemic immune response against OVA antigen which was diminished after the malnutrition period and also improved the host response against S. Typhimurium, decreasing the spread of pathogenic bacteria to the liver and the spleen. The importance of the metabolites released during milk fermentation was also demonstrated through the analysis of the bacterial free supernatant obtained from the probiotic fermented milk, but the whole product showed the best effects in the parameters evaluated in this study. CONCLUSIONS: The administration of probiotic fermented milk as a dietary supplement during the re-nutrition process in a murine immunodeficiency model by malnutrition could be a good adjuvant diet to improve the gut and systemic immune response for the protection against Salmonella infection.

Brand website marketing strategies for foods and beverages consumed by children and adolescents in Argentina. / Estrategias de marketing en sitios web de marcas de alimentos y bebidas consumidos por niños, niñas y adolescentes en la Argentina.

The Internet has allowed the expansion of food and beverage advertising in different media. The objective of this study was to identify the marketing strategies used in brand websites of foods and beverages consumed by children and adolescents, and classify them based on the Food Guidelines for the Argentinean Population. The foods and beverages most commonly consumed by the child and adolescent population as per the Survey on Nutritional Food Intake of the Autonomous City of Buenos Aires were selected. Brand websites were identified; marketing strategies were analyzed and marketed foods and beverages were classified based on the Guidelines. A total of 80 websites were found; the most common strategies were brand identity, benefits and claims, and links to websites and/or social media. Also, 30 % of sites were aimed at children and adolescents, and 75 % of marketed foods and beverages corresponded to the group of sweets and fats, including those of low nutritional value.

Internet permitió expandir la promoción de alimentos/bebidas a diferentes medios. El objetivo del estudio fue identificar las estrategias de marketing en sitios web de marcas de alimentos y bebidas consumidos por niños/as y adolescentes, y clasificarlos según las recomendaciones de las Guías Alimentarias para la Población Argentina. Se seleccionaron los alimentos/bebidas más consumidos por la población infantojuvenil según la Encuesta Alimentaria Nutricional de la Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires. Se identificaron las páginas web de las marcas; se analizaron las estrategias de marketing y se clasificaron los alimentos/bebidas promocionados según las Guías. Se encontraron 80 páginas web, donde las estrategias más frecuentes fueron identificación de la marca, beneficios y declaraciones, y vínculos a páginas web y/o redes sociales. El 30 % de los sitios estaban dirigidos a niños/as/adolescentes, donde el 75 % de los alimentos/bebidas promocionados correspondieron al grupo de dulces y grasas, que incluye aquellos de bajo valor nutricional.

Iron and folic acid: natural, enriched, fortified, and supplements. Analysis of food sources in the Autonomous City of Buenos Aires. / Hierro y ácido fólico: natural, enriquecido, fortificado y suplementos. Análisis de las fuentes alimentarias en la Ciudad de Buenos Aires.

INTRODUCTION: Fortification and supplementation are two strategies for micronutrient deficiency prevention. The objective of this study was to describe the source of iron and folic acid intake throughout the life cycle in the population of the Autonomous City of Buenos Aires. POULATION AND METHODS: Analysis of the information collected in the First Survey on Nutritional Food Intake of the Autonomous City of Buenos Aires (2011), which had a probability cluster sampling design. Consumption was assessed by means of a 24-hour recall. Iron and folic acid intake was estimated and categorized into natural content, enriched wheat flour, milk from the Maternal and Child Plan, fortified foods, and supplements. RESULTS: Out of the 5369 studied individuals, practically all got iron and folic acid from natural contents (58 % and 29 % of intake, respectively). More than 90 % consumed enriched wheat flour, which provided 28 % of iron and 54 % of folic acid. Fortified food consumption and intake varied greatly. Milk intake from the Maternal and Child Plan was small, even in specific groups. Intake from supplements was low, except in children < 2 years old (30 % consumed iron supplements, which accounted for 38 % of iron). CONCLUSION: In addition to natural intake from foods, enriched wheat flour accounted for a major source of folic acid and iron in this population; intake from fortified foods and supplements varied by age group.

Introducción. La fortificación y suplementación son estrategias para la prevención de carencias de micronutrientes. El objetivo fue describir la procedencia de la ingesta del hierro y ácido fólico a lo largo del ciclo vital de la población de la Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires. Población y métodos. Análisis de la información de la Primera Encuesta Alimentaria y Nutricional de la Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires 2011, que tomó una muestra probabilística por conglomerados. El consumo se recabó con recordatorio de 24 horas. Se calculó el aporte de hierro y ácido fólico, y se categorizó en contenido natural, harina de trigo enriquecida, leche del Plan Materno Infantil, alimentos fortificados y suplementos. Resultados. De los 5369 individuos evaluados, prácticamente, la totalidad obtenía hierro y ácido fólico de contenido natural (el 58 % y el 29 % del consumo, respectivamente). Más del 90 % consumía harina de trigo enriquecida, que aportaba el 28 % del hierro y el 54 % del ácido fólico. Los alimentos fortificados mostraron consumo y aporte muy variable. La leche del Plan Materno Infantil mostró muy baja participación, inclusive en grupos específicos. El aporte de suplementos fue bajo, excepto en < 2 años (el 30 % consumía suplementos de hierro, que aportaban el 38 % de este). Conclusión. Además del aporte natural de los alimentos, la harina de trigo enriquecida representó una importante contribución en el consumo de ácido fólico y hierro de esta población; los alimentos fortificados y los suplementos tuvieron una participación diferente según el grupo etario.

Mechanisms involved in the immunostimulation by probiotic fermented milk.

The intestinal ecosystem contains a normal microbiota, non-immune cells and immune cells associated with the intestinal mucosa. The mechanisms involved in the modulation of the gut immune system by probiotics are not yet completely understood. The present work studies the effect of a fermented milk containing probiotic bacterium Lactobacillus (Lb.) casei DN114001 on different parameters of the gut immune system involved with the nonspecific, innate and adaptive response. BALB/c mice received the probiotic bacterium Lb. casei DN114001 or the probiotic fermented milk (PFM). The interaction of the probiotic bacteria with the intestine was studied by electron and fluorescence microscopy. The immunological parameters were studied in the intestinal tissue and in the supernatant of intestinal cells (IC). Results showed that the probiotic bacterium interact with the IC. The whole bacterium or its fragments make contact with the gut associated immune cells. The PFM stimulated the IC with IL-6 release, as well as cells related to the nonspecific barrier and with the immune cells associated with the gut. This last activity was observed through the increase in the population of different immune cells: T lymphocytes and IgA+ B lymphocytes, and by the expression of cell markers related to both innate and adaptive response (macrophages). PFM was also able to activate the enzyme calcineurine responsible for the activation of the transcriptional factor NFAT. PFM induced mucosal immune stimulation reinforcing the non-specific barrier and modulating the innate immune response in the gut, maintaining the intestinal homeostasis.

[Urban and rural: differences in the diet of Argentine households according to income level and area of residence]. / Urbano y rural: diferencias en la alimentación de los hogares argentinos según nivel de ingreso y área de residencia.

The environment and the socioeconomic level are determinants of eating behavior because they affect availability, accessibility and food preferences. In order to describe the apparent consumption of food and the availability of energy and nutrients in urban and rural households in Argentina according to their income level, the 2004-2005 National Household Expenditure Survey was analyzed. The average apparent consumption of food and beverages was calculated in grams or milliliters of net weight per adult equivalent per day, for urban and rural households, and by household income per capita quintiles. Rural households made up 7% of the sample, and had a higher proportion of low-income families than urban households. There is different pattern of apparent consumption of food and beverages among rural and urban households in Argentina, and there are also differences between households according to the level of income in both environments. Knowing the content and magnitude of these contrasts is of great use in looking for strategies to improve the population's diet.

El entorno y el nivel socioeconómico son determinantes del comportamiento alimentario porque inciden en la disponibilidad, la accesibilidad y las preferencias alimentarias. Con el objetivo de describir el consumo aparente de alimentos y la disponibilidad de energía y nutrientes de hogares urbanos y rurales de la Argentina, según su nivel de ingresos, se analizó la Encuesta Nacional de Gastos de los Hogares 2004-2005. Se calculó el consumo aparente promedio de alimentos y bebidas en gramos o mililitros de peso neto por adulto equivalente por día, de hogares urbanos y rurales, y según quintil de ingresos per cápita del hogar. El 7% fueron hogares rurales, y presentaron mayor proporción de familias con bajos ingresos respecto a los urbanos. Existe un patrón de consumo aparente de alimentos y bebidas distinto entre hogares rurales y urbanos de Argentina, y además existen diferencias entre los hogares según el nivel de ingresos en ambos entornos. Conocer los contrastes y su magnitud es de gran utilidad para buscar estrategias tendientes a mejorar la alimentación de la población.

Effect of the administration of a fermented milk containing Lactobacillus casei DN-114001 on intestinal microbiota and gut associated immune cells of nursing mice and after weaning until immune maturity.

BACKGROUND: Microbial colonization of the intestine after birth is an important step for the development of the gut immune system. The acquisition of passive immunity through breast-feeding may influence the pattern of bacterial colonization in the newborn. The aim of this work was to evaluate the effect of the administration of a probiotic fermented milk (PFM) containing yogurt starter cultures and the probiotic bacteria strain Lactobacillus casei DN-114001 to mothers during nursing or their offspring, on the intestinal bacterial population and on parameters of the gut immune system. RESULTS: Fifteen mice of each group were sacrificed at ages 12, 21, 28 and 45 days. Large intestines were taken for determination of intestinal microbiota, and small intestines for the study of secretory-IgA (S-IgA) in fluid and the study of IgA+ cells, macrophages, dendritic cells and goblet cells on tissue samples. The consumption of the PFM either by the mother during nursing or by the offspring after weaning modified the development of bifidobacteria population in the large intestine of the mice. These modifications were accompanied with a decrease of enterobacteria population. The administration of this PFM to the mothers improved their own immune system and this also affected their offspring. Offspring from mice that received PFM increased S-IgA in intestinal fluids, which mainly originated from their mother's immune system. A decrease in the number of macrophages, dendritic cells and IgA+ cells during the suckling period in offspring fed with PFM was observed; this could be related with the improvement of the immunity of the mothers, which passively protect their babies. At day 45, the mice reach maturity of their own immune system and the effects of the PFM was the stimulation of their mucosal immunity. CONCLUSION: The present work shows the beneficial effect of the administration of a PFM not only to the mothers during the suckling period but also to their offspring after weaning and until adulthood. This effect positively improved the intestinal microbiota that are related with a modulation of the gut immune response, which was demonstrated with the stimulation of the IgA + cells, macrophages and dendritic cells.

Effect of the ingestion of a symbiotic yogurt on the bowel habits of women with functional constipation.

BACKGROUND/AIMS: functional constipation is a prevalent problem within the western population. There is evidence supporting the fact that the inclusion of pre and probiotics in the diet can favorably modify the intestinal function. The present study evaluates the effect of the consumption of Activia, a yogurt containing 10(8) UFC/g of Bifidobacterium animalis (DN-173 010) and fructoligosaccharide, in women between the ages of 18 and 55 with and without functional constipation (Rome II criteria). METHODS: after a stabilization and a basal period, women were randomized to receive 2 units/day of Activia or a lacteous dessert without probiotics (control) for a period of 14 days. Afterwards the groups were intercrossed for another 14 days. RESULTS: of the 399 women who started the study, 378 were eligible for study participation. In the group of women with functional constipation (n=266), the consumption of the symbiotic was associated with a higher bowel evacuation rate (6.1+/-2.7 depositions/week with Activia vs. 5.0+/-2.6 dep./week in the control group; P<0.01), an improvement in the quality of the stools according to the Bristol scale (3.6+/-1.0 vs. 3.4+/-1.0; P<0.01), a reduced perception of straining effort (1.9+/-0.8 vs. 2.2+/-0.9; P<0.01) and a reduced perception of pain associated with defecation (0.1+/-0.2 vs. 0.2+/-0.3; P<0.01). In the group of women without constipation (n=112) there were statistically significant variations in equal sense but of smaller magnitude, with the exception of pain which, having a very low value in the basal period, did not experience changes. CONCLUSION: the consumption of a symbiotic yogurt by women with functional constipation showed a significant improvement in the parameters related with bowel evacuation. The use of this symbiotic food can result in a useful and safe tool for managing constipation.

Descripción de la ingesta de energía según grado de procesamiento de los alimentos. Encuesta Nacional de Nutrición y Salud 2018-19 / Description of energy intake by degree of food processing. National Survey on Nutrition and Health of 2018­2019

Introducción. A nivel mundial los niños, niñas y adolescentes lideran el consumo de productos ultraprocesados. El objetivo de este trabajo fue caracterizar la ingesta de energía según el grado de procesamiento de los alimentos por grupo etario, en la población urbana mayor de 2 años de la Argentina. Población y métodos. Estudio transversal, con datos de la 2da Encuesta Nacional de Nutrición y Salud 2018-19, en una muestra probabilística polietápica de localidades urbanas de Argentina. A partir de la información recopilada con el recordatorio de 24 horas, se analizó la ingesta diaria de energía, para cada grupo etario, de 1) alimentos sin procesar o mínimamente procesados; 2) ingredientes culinarios procesados; 3) alimentos procesados, y 4) productos ultraprocesados. Se realizó análisis estadístico descriptivo. Resultados. En 15 444 individuos mayores de 2 años, los alimentos mínimamente procesados representaron el 34,5 % de la energía diaria; los productos ultraprocesados, el 26,0 %; los alimentos procesados, el 23,0 %, y los ingredientes culinarios, el 16,6 %. El porcentaje de energía aportada por ultraprocesados es mayor en niños, niñas y adolescentes que en los adultos (p <0,01), mientras que para alimentos procesados e ingredientes culinarios la tendencia es opuesta (p <0,01). Las galletitas, los amasados de pastelería, las bebidas azucaradas y las golosinas representaron dos tercios de la energía aportada por ultraprocesados. Conclusión. Los niños, niñas y adolescentes de entornos urbanos de la Argentina presentan la mayor ingesta de energía a partir de productos ultraprocesados. Las políticas alimentarias deben contemplar la situación de cada grupo etario para promover una alimentación más saludable.

Introduction. Worldwide, children and adolescents lead the consumption of ultra-processed foods. The objective of this study was to describe the energy intake by the degree of food processing by age group in the urban population over 2 years of age in Argentina. Population and methods. Cross-sectional study based on data from the 2nd National Survey on Nutrition and Health of 2018­2019 conducted using a multistage probability sample from urban areas of Argentina. Data were collected from a 24-hour recall and were analized, for each age group, the daily energy intake from 1) unprocessed or minimally processed foods; 2) processed culinary ingredients; 3) processed foods; and 4) ultra-processed foods. A descriptive, statistical analysis was performed. Results. In 15 444 individuals older than 2 years, minimally processed foods accounted for 34.5% of daily energy; ultra-processed foods, 26.0%; processed foods, 23.0%; and culinary ingredients, 16.6%. The percentage of energy from ultra-processed foods is higher in children and adolescents than in adults (p < 0.01), while the trend is the opposite from processed foods and culinary ingredients (p < 0.01). Cookies, pastries, sweetened beverage and confectionery accounted for two-thirds of the energy contributed by ultra-processed foods. Conclusion. Children and adolescents in urban areas in Argentina showed the highest energy intake from ultra-processed. Food policies should consider the characteristics of each age group to promote a healthier diet.

Estrategias de marketing en redes sociales de marcas de alimentos consumidos por niños y adolescentes en Argentina / Brand social media marketing strategies for foods consumed by children and adolescents in Argentina

Introducción. En la Argentina, según los datos de la última Encuesta Nacional de Nutrición y Salud, 4 de cada 10 niños, niñas y adolescentes (NNyA) entre 5 y 17 años presentan exceso de peso. Objetivo. Identificar las estrategias de marketing en las páginas de Facebook® e Instagram® de las marcas de los alimentos consumidos por niñas, niños y adolescentes (NNyA), y categorizarlos según las Guías Alimentarias para la Población Argentina (GAPA). Métodos. El análisis se realizó en las publicaciones de agosto y septiembre de 2019, se identificaron aquellas dirigidas a NNyA y se categorizaron los alimentos promocionados según las GAPA. Resultados. De las 200 marcas identificadas, 111 tenían página de Facebook® y 95 de Instagram®. Las marcas que tenían página de Facebook® presentaron 65 publicaciones y las que tenían Instagram®, 64 publicaciones. Las estrategias más utilizadas fueron la imagen del producto y la interacción con los consumidores. La mitad de las páginas estaban dirigidas a NNyA. De los alimentos promocionados, 6 de cada 10 correspondieron al grupo de opcionales según las GAPA. Conclusiones. Se evidencia la importancia de monitorear la implicancia de las redes sociales en las conductas alimentarias.

Introduction. As per the National Survey on Nutrition and Health, in Argentina, 4/10 children and adolescents aged 5­17 years are overweight. Objective. To identify marketing strategies on Facebook® and Instagram® of brands of foods consumed by children and adolescents and to categorize them according to the Dietary Guidelines for the Argentine Population (GAPA). Methods. The posts made between August and September 2019 were analyzed, identifying those targeted at children and adolescents and categorizing promoted foods according to the GAPA. Results. Out of 200 brands identified, 111 had a Facebook® page and made 65 posts and 95 had an Instagram® account and made 64 posts. Product image and interaction with consumers were the more used stategies. Six out of 10 of the foods promoted corresponded to the optional group according to the GAPA. Conclusions. It is important to monitor the implications social media have on eating behaviors.

Non-nutritive sweeteners: children and adolescent consumption and food sources. / Edulcorantes no nutritivos: consumo de los niños y adolescentes, y alimentos que los aportan.

The availability of food and beverages with non-nutritive sweeteners (NNSs) has increased in recent years. OBJECTIVES: To estimate NNSs consumption among children and adolescents in the Autonomous City of Buenos Aires, the prevalence of a daily intake higher than acceptable, and the main food and beverages contributing to it. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Descriptive study about the information collected in the First Food and Nutritional/Nutrition Survey of Buenos Aires City, which was conducted in 2011 and included 2664 children and adolescents aged 2-18 years. Consumption was assessed by means of a 24- hour recall. NNSs content in food and beverages was obtained from nutrition facts labels. The total dietary intake for each NNSs and the adequacy to the acceptable daily intake (ADI) established by the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO)/World Health Organization (WHO). RESULTS: Forty four percent of preschoolers, 53% of school children, and 51% of adolescents have had food with NNSs. No child was exposed to a consumption of aspartame, acesulfameK, and sucralose higher than the ADI. Saccharin consumption was higher than the ADI in 0.3% of preschoolers while cyclamate consumption was higher than the ADI in 0.9% of school children and 0.1% of adolescents, due to the consumption of concentrated juice, to be diluted with water. Beverages provided 67% of cyclamate, 91% of acesulfameK, and 96% of aspartame. Table-top sweeteners provided 30% of cyclamate and 32% of saccharin. CONCLUSION: Consumption of food and beverages with NNSs is usual among children and adolescents, mainly from beverages. Less than 1% of children are exposed to a consumption of cyclamate and saccharin higher than the ADI.

La disponibilidad de alimentos y bebidas con edulcorantes no nutritivos (ENN) aumentó en años recientes. Objetivos: Estimar el consumo de ENN en niños y adolescentes de la Ciudad de Buenos Aires, la prevalencia de ingesta superior a la admisible y los principales alimentos y bebidas aportadores. Material y Métodos: Estudio descriptivo de información recolectada en la Primera Encuesta Alimentaria y Nutricional de la ciudad de Buenos Aires realizada en 2011 que incluyó 2664 niños y adolescentes de 2 a 18 años. El consumo se evaluó mediante recordatorio de 24 horas. El contenido de ENN en alimentos y bebidas se obtuvo del rotulado nutricional. Se calculó la ingesta total de cada ENN y la adecuación a la ingesta diaria admisible (IDA) establecida por FAO/OMS. Resultados: El 44% de los preescolares, 53% de escolares y 51% de los adolescentes consumieron alimentos con ENN. Ningún niño presentó un consumo superior a la IDA de aspartamo, acesulfame-K y sucralosa. El 0,3% de los preescolares superó la IDA de sacarina, el 1% de preescolares, 0,9% de escolares y el 0,1% de los adolescentes superaron la IDA de ciclamato, debido al consumo de jugos concentrados para diluir. Las bebidas aportaron el 67% del ciclamato, el 91% del acesulfame-K y el 96% del aspartamo. Los edulcorantes de mesa aportaron el 30% del ciclamato y el 32% de la sacarina. Conclusión: El consumo de alimentos con ENN es usual en la población infanto juvenil, principalmente a partir de bebidas. Menos del 1% de los niños supera la IDA de ciclamato y sacarina.

Consumo de energía y nutrientes críticos según clasificación NOVA en la Argentina, tendencia temporal y diferencias según nivel de ingreso / Intake of energy and critical nutrients according to the NOVA classification in Argentina, time trend and differences according to income / Consumo de energia e nutrientes críticos segundo a classificação NOVA na Argentina: tendência temporal e diferenças por renda familiar

Existe una creciente evidencia de la transición global en los sistemas alimentarios que afectan la disponibilidad, accesibilidad, asequibilidad y conveniencia de los alimentos altamente procesados. El objetivo de este trabajo fue evaluar el consumo aparente de energía, grasas saturadas, azúcares agregados y sodio según el grado de procesamiento de los alimentos en la Argentina entre 1996 y 2018, según el nivel de ingreso. Se trata de un estudio descriptivo y transversal, con datos de gastos de alimentos y bebidas e ingresos de la Encuesta Nacional de Gastos de los Hogares de 1996-1997, 2004-2005, 2012-2013 y 2017-2018, que incluye más de 20.000 hogares en cada período. Se calculó el consumo aparente diario de energía, grasas saturadas, azúcares agregados y sodio por adulto equivalente de: (1) alimentos mínimamente procesados; (2) ingredientes culinarios procesados; (3) alimentos procesados y (4) productos ultraprocesados, para cada periodo y según el quintil de ingresos per cápita del hogar. Fue utilizado análisis estadístico descriptivo. En energía y todos los nutrientes evaluados, se observa la reducción de la proporción proveniente de alimentos mínimamente procesados, ingredientes culinarios y alimentos procesados, y el aumento de productos ultraprocesados. Con una mayor contribución a partir de ultraprocesados, a medida que aumentan los ingresos del hogar, pero con diferencias que disminuyen a lo largo del tiempo. Dados los resultados, las estrategias futuras en Argentina deberían promover el consumo de alimentos mínimamente procesados y desalentar la disponibilidad y accesibilidad de alimentos ultraprocesados, con especial énfasis en los grupos más vulnerados.

Growing evidence of the global transition in food systems exists, affecting the availability, accessibility, affordability, and convenience of highly processed foods. This study aimed to evaluate the apparent consumption of energy, saturated fat, added sugars, and sodium according to the degree of food processing in Argentina from 1996 to 2018 and according to income level. This is a descriptive and cross-sectional study with data on food and beverage expenditures and income from the National Household Expenditure Survey for years 1996-1997, 2004-2005, 2012-2013, and 2017-2018, including more than 20,000 households in each period. The apparent daily consumption of energy, saturated fat, added sugars, and sodium per adult for: (1) minimally processed foods; (2) processed culinary ingredients; (3) processed foods; and (4) ultra-processed products, was calculated for each period and according to per capita income quintile in each household. Descriptive statistical analysis was performed. Reductions in the proportion of energy and all nutrients evaluated from minimally processed foods, culinary ingredients and processed foods were observed, as well as an increase in the consumption of ultra-processed products. One also observes a greater share from ultra-processed foods as household income increases but with decreasing differences over time. Therefore, future strategies in Argentina should promote the consumption of minimally processed foods and discourage the availability and accessibility of ultra-processed ones, especially for the most vulnerable groups.

Cada vez mais há evidências sobre a mudança global nos sistemas alimentares, que envolvem disponibilidade, acessibilidade, custo e pertinência dos alimentos ultraprocessados. O objetivo deste trabalho foi analisar o consumo aparente de energia, gorduras saturadas, açúcar e sódio conforme o nível de processamento de alimentos e a renda familiar na Argentina no período entre 1996 e 2018. Estudo descritivo e transversal, realizado com dados sobre o consumo de alimentos e bebidas e a renda familiar obtidos da Pesquisa Nacional de Consumo Domiciliar de 1996-1997, 2004-2005, 2012-2013 e 2017-2018, que inclui mais de 20.000 residências em cada período. Foi calculado o consumo diário de energia, gordura saturada, açúcar e sódio por adulto equivalente a partir de: (1) alimentos minimamente processados; (2) ingredientes culinários processados; (3) alimentos processados e (4) alimentos ultraprocessados, para cada período e de acordo com o quintil de renda familiar per capita. Foi aplicada análise estatística descritiva. Em relação à energia e aos nutrientes analisados, foi encontrada uma redução na proporção de alimentos minimamente processados, ingredientes culinários e alimentos processados, e um aumento de alimentos ultraprocessados. O consumo de alimentos ultraprocessados é maior conforme aumenta a renda familiar, mas com diferenças que diminuem ao longo do tempo. Esses resultados evidenciam a necessidade de promover estratégias na Argentina quanto ao consumo de alimentos minimamente processados e desestimular a disponibilidade e o acesso a alimentos ultraprocessados, especialmente para os grupos mais vulneráveis.