Prevalence and predictors of vitamin D insufficiency in Brazilian children under 5 years of age: Brazilian National Survey on Child Nutrition (ENANI-2019).

To analyse the association of socio-demographic and health factors with vitamin D insufficiency and 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25(OH)D) concentration in Brazilian children aged 6-59 months. Data from 8145 children from the Brazilian National Survey on Child Nutrition (ENANI-2019) were analysed. The serum concentration of 25(OHD)D was measured using a chemiluminescent immunoassay. The prevalence of vitamin D insufficiency (25(OH)D < 50 nmol/l) and 95 % CI was calculated. Logistic and linear regression models were used to identify the variables associated with vitamin D insufficiency and serum 25(OH)D concentrations, respectively. The mean 25(OH)D concentration was 98·6 ± 36·0 nmol/l, and 4·3 % of the children presented vitamin D insufficiency. Children aged 6-23 months (OR = 2·23; 95 % CI 1·52, 3·26); belonging to Southeast (OR = 5·55; 95 % CI 2·34, 13·17) and South (OR = 4·57; 95 % CI 1·77, 11·84) regions; the second tertile of the National Wealth Score (OR = 2·14; 95 % CI 1·16, 3·91) and winter (OR = 5·82; 95 % CI 2·67, 12·71) and spring (OR = 4·84; 95 % CI 2·17, 10·80) seasons of blood collection were associated with a higher chance of vitamin D insufficiency. Female sex (ß = -5·66, 95 % CI - 7·81, -3·51), urban location (ß = -14·19, 95 % CI -21·0, -7·22) and no vitamin D supplement use (ß = -6·01, 95 % CI -9·64, -2·39) were inversely associated with serum 25(OH)D concentration. The age of children and the Brazilian geographical region of household location were the main predictors of vitamin D insufficiency. In Brazil, vitamin D insufficiency among children aged 6-59 months is low and is not a relevant public health problem.

Analysis of the quality of prenatal data of pregnant women attended at Healthcare Services in the city of São Paulo between 2012 and 2020.

OBJECTIVE: To analyze the quality of data collected during prenatal care recorded in the Integrated Health Care Management System (SIGA) of the Municipal Department of Health of São Paulo from 2012 to 2020. METHODS: Descriptive study using SIGA data and the variables: maternal height (cm), weight (kg) measured throughout pregnancy, gestational age at prenatal consultation, systolic (SBP) and diastolic (DBP) blood pressure (in mmHg), and body mass index (BMI) at the beginning of pregnancy (up to 8 weeks). Quality analysis was carried out by calculating the indicators: percentage of incompleteness and zero values of all variables studied, percentage of implausible values for height, weight, BMI; preference for terminal digit of weight and height, and normality of distributions. RESULTS: The database of pregnant women made available for analysis included 8,046,608 records and 1,174,115 women. The percentage of incompleteness and zero values was low (<1%) in all original variables of the system. There are more records at the end of pregnancy. For the four original variables of interest in the database (weight, height, SBP, DBP), there is a clear preference for the terminal digit. The variables of interest did not present an approximately normal distribution during the evaluated period. CONCLUSION: The quality analysis showed the need for improving the standardization of information collection and recording, the rounding of measurements and the need for encouraging pregnant women to start prenatal care as soon as possible, in such a way that it is important to invest in data quality, through educational resources for professionals who work in health care.

Characterization of micronutrient supplements use by Brazilian children 6-59 months of age: Brazilian National Survey on Child Nutrition (ENANI-2019).

This study aimed to characterize micronutrient supplements use among Brazilian children 6-59 months of age included in the Brazilian National Survey on Child Nutrition (ENANI-2019; n = 12,598). Micronutrient supplements use at the time of the interview and the 6 months prior to it was evaluated using a structured questionnaire. The following indicators were included: micronutrient supplement use; supplements containing a single micronutrient; supplements of the Brazilian National Iron Supplementation Program (PNSF); multivitamin supplements with or without minerals; multivitamin supplements with minerals; multivitamin supplements without minerals. The estimates and their respective 95% confidence intervals (95%CI) were calculated for Brazil and according to macroregion, educational level of the mother or caregiver, and type of health care service used, considering the sampling plan, weights, and calibration. In Brazil, the prevalence of micronutrient supplements use was 54.2% (95%CI: 50.5; 57.8), with the highest prevalence in the North Region (80.2%; 95%CI: 74.9; 85.6) and among children 6-23 months of age (69.5%; 95%CI: 65.7; 73.3). The prevalence of the use of supplements containing exclusively iron and exclusively vitamin A in Brazil was 14.6% (95%CI: 13.1; 16.1) and 23.3% (95%CI: 19.4; 27.1), respectively. The prevalence of the use of multivitamin with or without minerals in Brazilian children 6-59 months of age was 24.3% (95%CI: 21.4; 27.2). These results may help to understand the practice of supplements use among Brazilian children and support the proposal of national public policies for the prevention and control of micronutrient deficiencies.

Analysis of the quality of prenatal data of pregnant women attended at Healthcare Services in the city of São Paulo between 2012 and 2020 / Análise da qualidade dos dados de pré-natal de gestantes atendidas em Unidades Básicas de Saúde do município de São Paulo entre 2012 e 2020

ABSTRACT Objective: To analyze the quality of data collected during prenatal care recorded in the Integrated Health Care Management System (SIGA) of the Municipal Department of Health of São Paulo from 2012 to 2020. Methods: Descriptive study using SIGA data and the variables: maternal height (cm), weight (kg) measured throughout pregnancy, gestational age at prenatal consultation, systolic (SBP) and diastolic (DBP) blood pressure (in mmHg), and body mass index (BMI) at the beginning of pregnancy (up to 8 weeks). Quality analysis was carried out by calculating the indicators: percentage of incompleteness and zero values of all variables studied, percentage of implausible values for height, weight, BMI; preference for terminal digit of weight and height, and normality of distributions. Results: The database of pregnant women made available for analysis included 8,046,608 records and 1,174,115 women. The percentage of incompleteness and zero values was low (<1%) in all original variables of the system. There are more records at the end of pregnancy. For the four original variables of interest in the database (weight, height, SBP, DBP), there is a clear preference for the terminal digit. The variables of interest did not present an approximately normal distribution during the evaluated period. Conclusion: The quality analysis showed the need for improving the standardization of information collection and recording, the rounding of measurements and the need for encouraging pregnant women to start prenatal care as soon as possible, in such a way that it is important to invest in data quality, through educational resources for professionals who work in health care.

RESUMO Objetivo: Analisar a qualidade dos dados coletados no acompanhamento pré-natal registrados no Sistema Integrado de Gestão da Assistência à Saúde (SIGA) da Secretaria Municipal de Saúde de São Paulo de 2012 a 2020. Métodos: Estudo descritivo utilizando dados do SIGA e as variáveis: altura materna (cm), peso (kg) medido ao longo da gestação, idade gestacional na consulta pré-natal, pressão arterial (em mmHg) sistólica (PAS) e diastólica (PAD), e índice de massa corporal (IMC) no início da gestação (até 8 semanas). A análise da qualidade foi realizada por meio do cálculo dos indicadores: percentual de incompletude e valores zero de todas as variáveis estudadas, percentual de valores implausíveis de estatura, peso, IMC; preferência por dígito terminal do peso e estatura, e normalidade das distribuições. Resultados: Base de dados de gestantes disponibilizada para análise incluía 8.046.608 registros e 1.174.115 mulheres. O percentual de incompletude e valores zeros foi baixo (<1%) em todas as variáveis originais do sistema. Existe maior número de registros ao final da gestação. Para as quatro variáveis de interesse originais do banco de dados (peso, altura, PAS, PAD), existe clara preferência por dígito terminal. As variáveis de interesse não apresentaram distribuição aproximadamente normal durante o período avaliado. Conclusão: A análise da qualidade mostrou necessidade de melhoria na padronização da coleta e do registro das informações, no arredondamento das medidas e na necessidade de incentivar as gestantes a iniciar o pré-natal o quanto antes; por isso, é importante investir na qualidade do dado, por meio de recursos educativos para profissionais que atuam na assistência.

Characterization of micronutrient supplements use by Brazilian children 6-59 months of age: Brazilian National Survey on Child Nutrition (ENANI-2019) / Caracterização do uso de suplementos de micronutrientes por crianças brasileiras de 6-59 meses de idade: Estudo Nacional de Alimentação e Nutrição Infantil (ENANI-2019) / Caracterización del uso de suplementos de micronutrientes por niños brasileños de 6-59 meses de edad: Estudio Nacional de Alimentación y Nutrición Infantil (ENANI-2019)

This study aimed to characterize micronutrient supplements use among Brazilian children 6-59 months of age included in the Brazilian National Survey on Child Nutrition (ENANI-2019; n = 12,598). Micronutrient supplements use at the time of the interview and the 6 months prior to it was evaluated using a structured questionnaire. The following indicators were included: micronutrient supplement use; supplements containing a single micronutrient; supplements of the Brazilian National Iron Supplementation Program (PNSF); multivitamin supplements with or without minerals; multivitamin supplements with minerals; multivitamin supplements without minerals. The estimates and their respective 95% confidence intervals (95%CI) were calculated for Brazil and according to macroregion, educational level of the mother or caregiver, and type of health care service used, considering the sampling plan, weights, and calibration. In Brazil, the prevalence of micronutrient supplements use was 54.2% (95%CI: 50.5; 57.8), with the highest prevalence in the North Region (80.2%; 95%CI: 74.9; 85.6) and among children 6-23 months of age (69.5%; 95%CI: 65.7; 73.3). The prevalence of the use of supplements containing exclusively iron and exclusively vitamin A in Brazil was 14.6% (95%CI: 13.1; 16.1) and 23.3% (95%CI: 19.4; 27.1), respectively. The prevalence of the use of multivitamin with or without minerals in Brazilian children 6-59 months of age was 24.3% (95%CI: 21.4; 27.2). These results may help to understand the practice of supplements use among Brazilian children and support the proposal of national public policies for the prevention and control of micronutrient deficiencies.

O objetivo deste estudo foi caracterizar o uso de suplementos de micronutrientes entre crianças brasileiras de 6-59 meses de idade incluídas no Estudo Nacional de Alimentação e Nutrição Infantil (ENANI-2019; n = 12.598). O uso de suplementos de micronutrientes no momento da entrevista e nos seis meses anteriores foi avaliado por meio de um questionário estruturado. Foram incluídos os seguintes indicadores: uso de suplemento de micronutrientes; suplementos contendo um único micronutriente; suplemento do Programa Nacional de Suplementação de Ferro (PNSF); suplementos multivitamínicos com ou sem minerais; suplementos multivitamínicos com minerais; suplementos multivitamínicos sem minerais. As estimativas pontuais e seus respectivos intervalos de 95% de confiança (IC95%) foram calculados para o Brasil e de acordo com a macrorregião, a escolaridade da mãe ou cuidadora e o tipo de serviço de saúde utilizado, considerando o plano, os pesos e a calibração amostral. No Brasil, a prevalência de uso de suplemento de micronutrientes foi de 54,2% (IC95%: 50,5; 57,8), com maior prevalência na Região Norte (80,2%; IC95%: 74,9; 85,6) e entre crianças de 6-23 meses de idade (69,5%; IC95%: 65,7; 73,3). A prevalência do uso de suplementos contendo apenas ferro e apenas vitamina A no Brasil foi de 14,6% (IC95%: 13,1; 16,1) e 23,3% (IC95%: 19,4; 27,1), respectivamente. A prevalência de uso de multivitamínicos com ou sem minerais em crianças brasileiras de 6-59 meses de idade foi de 24,3% (IC95%: 21,4; 27,2). Esses resultados podem auxiliar na compreensão da prática do uso de suplementos entre crianças brasileiras e apoiar a proposta de políticas públicas nacionais de prevenção e controle de deficiências de micronutrientes.

El objetivo de este estudio fue caracterizar el uso de suplementos de micronutrientes entre niños brasileños con edades entre 6-59 meses incluidos en el Estudio Nacional de Alimentación y Nutrición Infantil (ENANI-2019; n = 12.598). El uso de suplementos de micronutrientes en el momento de la entrevista y en los seis meses anteriores se evaluó mediante un cuestionario estructurado. Se incluyeron los siguientes indicadores: uso de suplementos de micronutrientes; suplementos que contienen un solo micronutriente; suplemento del Programa Nacional de Suplementación con Hierro (PNSF); suplementos multivitamínicos con o sin minerales; suplementos multivitamínicos con minerales; suplementos multivitamínicos libres de minerales. Se calcularon las estimaciones puntuales para Brasil y sus respectivos intervalos del 95% de confianza (IC95%) de acuerdo con la macrorregión, el nivel educativo de la madre/cuidador y el tipo de servicio de salud utilizado, considerando el plan, los pesos y la calibración de la muestra. En Brasil, la prevalencia del uso de suplementos de micronutrientes fue del 54,2% (IC95%: 50,5; 57,8), con mayor prevalencia en la Región Norte (80,2%; IC95%: 74,9; 85,6) y entre niños con edades entre 6-23 meses (69,5%; IC95%: 65,7; 73,3). Las prevalencias del uso de suplementos que contienen solo hierro o solo vitamina A en Brasil fueron del 14,6% (IC95%: 13,1; 16,1) y del 23,3% (IC95%: 19,4; 27,1), respectivamente. La prevalencia de uso de multivitamínicos con o sin minerales en niños brasileños de 6-59 meses de edad fue del 24,3% (IC95%: 21,4; 27,2). Estos resultados pueden ayudar a comprender la práctica de uso de suplementos entre los niños brasileños y apoyar la propuesta de políticas públicas para la prevención y control de la carencia de micronutrientes.

Effects of prenatal nutritional supplements on gestational weight gain in low- and middle-income countries: a meta-analysis of individual participant data.

BACKGROUND: Gestational weight gain (GWG) below or above the Institute of Medicine (IOM) recommendations has been associated with adverse perinatal outcomes. Few studies have examined the effect of prenatal nutrient supplementations on GWG in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). OBJECTIVES: We aimed to investigate the effects of multiple micronutrient supplements (MMSs) and small-quantity lipid-based nutrient supplements (LNSs) on GWG in LMICs. METHODS: A 2-stage meta-analysis of individual participant data was conducted to examine the effects of MMSs (45,507 women from 14 trials) and small-quantity LNSs (6237 women from 4 trials) on GWG compared with iron and folic acid supplements only. Percentage adequacy of GWG and total weight gain at delivery were calculated according to the IOM 2009 guidelines. Binary outcomes included severely inadequate (percentage adequacy <70%), inadequate (<90%), and excessive (>125%) GWG. Results from individual trials were pooled using fixed-effects inverse-variance models. Heterogeneity was examined using I2, stratified analysis, and meta-regression. RESULTS: MMSs resulted in a greater percentage adequacy of GWG [weighted mean difference (WMD): 0.86%; 95% CI: 0.28%, 1.44%; P < 0.01] and higher GWG at delivery (WMD: 209 g; 95% CI: 139, 280 g; P < 0.01) than among those in the control arm. Women who received MMSs had a 2.9% reduced risk of severely inadequate GWG (RR: 0.971; 95% CI: 0.956, 0.987; P < 0.01). No association was found between small-quantity LNSs and GWG percentage adequacy (WMD: 1.51%; 95% CI: -0.38%, 3.40%; P = 0.21). Neither MMSs nor small-quantity LNSs were associated with excessive GWG. CONCLUSIONS: Maternal MMSs were associated with greater GWG percentage adequacy and total GWG at delivery than was iron and folic acid only. This finding is consistent with previous results on birth outcomes and will inform policy development and local recommendations of switching routine prenatal iron and folic acid supplements to MMSs.

Exploratory Efficacy of Calcium-Vitamin D Milk Fortification and Periodontal Therapy on Maternal Oral Health and Metabolic and Inflammatory Profile.

In this 2 × 2 factorial, outcome-assessor blinded, feasibility randomised trial we explored the effect of a non-pharmaceutical multi-component intervention on periodontal health and metabolic and inflammatory profiles among pregnant women with periodontitis receiving prenatal care in a Brazilian public health centre. 69 pregnant women (gestational age ≤20 weeks, T0) were randomly allocated into four groups: (1) fortified sachet (vitamin D and calcium) and powdered milk plus periodontal therapy during pregnancy (early PT) (n = 17); (2) placebo sachet and powdered milk plus early PT (n = 15); (3) fortified sachet and powdered milk plus late PT (after delivery) (n = 19); (4) placebo sachet and powdered milk plus late PT (n = 18). Third trimester (T1) and 6-8 weeks postpartum (T2) exploratory outcomes included periodontal health (% sites with bleeding on probing (BOP)), glucose, insulin, C-Reactive Protein, serum calcium and vitamin D. The mean BOP was significantly reduced in the early PT groups, while BOP worsened in the late PT groups. No significant effect of fortification on BOP was observed. Changes in glucose levels and variation on birthweight did not differ among groups This feasibility trial provides preliminary evidence for estimating the minimum clinically important differences for selected maternal outcomes. A large-scale trial to evaluate the interventions' clinical benefits and cost-effectiveness is warranted.

Correction to: Calcium and vitamin D supplementation and/or periodontal therapy in the treatment of periodontitis among Brazilian pregnant women: protocol of a feasibility randomised controlled trial (the IMPROVE trial).

An amendment to this paper has been published and can be accessed via the original article.

Vitamin D and Calcium Milk Fortification in Pregnant Women with Periodontitis: A Feasibility Trial.

This study aims to assess the acceptability, adherence, and retention of a feasibility trial on milk fortification with calcium and vitamin D (Ca+VitD) and periodontal therapy (PT) among low income Brazilian pregnant women with periodontitis (IMPROVE trial). This 2 × 2 factorial feasibility trial used a mixed-methods evaluation. In total, 69 pregnant women were randomly allocated to four groups: 1. fortified sachet with Ca+VitD and milk plus early PT (throughout gestation); 2. placebo and milk plus early PT; 3. fortified sachet with Ca+VitD and milk plus late PT after childbirth; 4. placebo and milk plus late PT. Data were collected via questionnaires, field notes, participant flow logs, treatment diary, and focal group discussions. Quantitative and qualitative data were analysed using appropriate descriptive statistics and content analysis, respectively. Eligibility rate (12%) was below the target of 15%, but participation (76.1%) and recruitment rate (2 women/week) exceeded the targets. Retention rate (78.6%) was slightly below the target (80%). Adherence to the PT was significantly higher in the early treatment groups (98.8%) compared to the late treatment groups (29%). All women accepted the random allocation, and baseline groups were balanced. There was no report of adverse events. This multi-component intervention is acceptable, well-tolerated, and feasible among low-risk pregnant women in Brazil.

Recruitment of low-income pregnant women into a dietary and dental care intervention: lessons from a feasibility trial.

BACKGROUND: There are difficulties in carrying out research in low-income urban communities, but the methodological challenges and suggestions on how to deal with them are often undocumented. The aims of this study are to describe the challenges of recruiting and enrolling low-income pregnant women with periodontitis to a clinical trial on vitamin D/calcium milk fortification and periodontal therapy and also to describe the patient-, study protocol- and setting-related factors related to women's ineligibility and refusal to participate in the study. METHODS: A mixed-method sequential exploratory design was applied. Qualitative and quantitative data on recruitment to a 2 × 2 factorial feasibility clinical trial were used. Eighteen women attending the health centre in a low-income area in Duque de Caxias (Rio de Janeiro, Brazil) took part in focus group discussions, and the data were thematically analysed. Quantitative data were analysed using appropriate descriptive statistics, including absolute and relative frequencies. RESULTS: Of all referrals (767), 548 (78.5%) did not meet the initial eligibility criteria. The main reason for exclusion (58%) was advanced gestational age (> 20 weeks) at first prenatal appointment. In the periodontal examination (dental screen), the main reason for exclusion was the presence of extensive caries (64 out of 127 exclusions). Non-participation of those eligible after the periodontal examination was approximately 24% (22 out 92 eligible women) and predominantly associated with patient-related barriers (e.g. transportation barriers, family obligations, patients being unresponsive to phone calls and disconnected telephones). The study recruited 70 women with periodontitis in 53 weeks and did not reach the benchmark of 120 women in 36 weeks (58.3% of the original target). Recruitment was severely hindered by health centre closures due to general strikes. The recruitment yields were 9.1% (70/767) of all women contacted at first prenatal visit and 76.1% (70/92) of those screened eligible and enrolled in the trial. Women did not report concerns regarding random allocation and considered fortified milk as a healthful and safe food for pregnant women. Some women reported that financial constraints (e.g. transportation costs) could hinder participation in the study. CONCLUSION: Engagement between the research team and health centre staff (e.g. nurses) facilitated referral and recruitment, yet some pregnant women failed to participate in the study largely due to significant patient-related sociodemographic barriers and setting-related factors. Our data illustrate the complexity of overcoming recruitment and enrolment challenges for clinical trials in resource-limited settings. TRIAL REGISTRATION: ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT03148483. Registered on 11 May 2017.

Calcium and vitamin D supplementation and/or periodontal therapy in the treatment of periodontitis among Brazilian pregnant women: protocol of a feasibility randomised controlled trial (the IMPROVE trial).

BACKGROUND: Periodontitis is a common oral inflammation, which is a risk factor for adverse pregnancy outcomes. Intakes of vitamin D and calcium are inversely associated with occurrence and progression of periodontitis. This study aims to assess the feasibility of a multi-component intervention, including provision of milk powder supplemented with calcium and vitamin D and periodontal therapy (PT), for improving maternal periodontal health and metabolic and inflammatory profiles of low-income Brazilian pregnant women with periodontitis. METHODS: The IMPROVE trial is a feasibility randomised controlled trial (RCT) with a 2 × 2 factorial design with a parallel process evaluation. Pregnant women with periodontitis, aged 18-40 years and with < 20 gestational weeks (n = 120) were recruited and randomly allocated into four groups: (1) fortified sachet (vitamin D and calcium) and powdered milk plus PT during pregnancy, (2) placebo sachet and powdered milk plus PT during pregnancy, (3) fortified sachet (vitamin D and calcium) and powdered milk plus PT after delivery and (4) placebo sachet and powdered milk plus PT after delivery. Dentists and participants are blinded to fortification. Acceptability of study design, recruitment strategy, random allocation, data collection procedures, recruitment rate, adherence and attrition rate will be evaluated. Data on serum levels of vitamin D, calcium and inflammatory biomarkers; clinical periodontal measurements; anthropometric measurements; and socio-demographic questionnaires are collected at baseline, third trimester and 6-8 weeks postpartum. Qualitative data are collected using focus group, for analysis of favourable factors and barriers related to study adherence. DISCUSSION: Oral health and mineral/vitamin supplementation are much overlooked in the public prenatal assistance in Brazil and of scarcity of clinical trials addressing these issues in low and middle-income countries,. To fill this gap the present study was designed to assess the feasibility of a RCT on acceptability of a multi-component intervention combining conventional periodontal treatment and consumption of milk fortified with calcium-vitamin D for improving periodontal conditions and maternal metabolic and inflammation status, among Brazilian low-income pregnant women with periodontitis. Thus, we hope that this relatively low-cost and safe multicomponent intervention can help reduce inflammation, improve maternal periodontal health and metabolic profile and consequently prevent negative gestational outcomes. TRIAL REGISTRATION: NCT, NCT03148483. Registered on May 11, 2017.

Maternal dietary patterns during pregnancy and intelligence quotients in the offspring at 8 years of age: Findings from the ALSPAC cohort.

Dietary intake during pregnancy may influence child neurodevelopment and cognitive function. This study aims to investigate the associations between dietary patterns obtained in pregnancy and intelligence quotients (IQ) among offspring at 8 years of age. Pregnant women enrolled in the Avon Longitudinal Study of Parents and Children completed a food frequency questionnaire at 32 weeks' gestation (n = 12,195). Dietary patterns were obtained by cluster analysis. Three clusters best described women's diets during pregnancy: "fruit and vegetables," "meat and potatoes," and "white bread and coffee." The offspring's IQ at 8 years of age was assessed using the Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children. Models, using variables correlated to IQ data, were performed to impute missing values. Linear regression models were employed to investigate associations between the maternal clusters and IQ in childhood. Children of women who were classified in the meat and potatoes cluster and white bread and coffee cluster during pregnancy had lower average verbal (ß = -1.74; p < .001 and ß = -3.05; p < .001), performance (ß = -1.26; p = .011 and ß = -1.75; p < .001), and full-scale IQ (ß = -1.74; p < .001 and ß = -2.79; p < .001) at 8 years of age when compared to children of mothers in the fruit and vegetables cluster in imputed models of IQ and all confounders, after adjustment for a wide range of known confounders including maternal education. The pregnant women who were classified in the fruit and vegetables cluster had offspring with higher average IQ compared with offspring of mothers in the meat and potatoes cluster and white bread and coffee cluster.

Changes in plasma concentrations of 25-hydroxyvitamin D and 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D during pregnancy: a Brazilian cohort.

PURPOSE: To characterize the physiological changes in 25-hydroxyvitamin D [25(OH)D] and 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D [1,25(OH)2D] throughout pregnancy. METHODS: Prospective cohort of 229 apparently healthy pregnant women followed at 5th-13th, 20th-26th, and 30th-36th gestational weeks. 25(OH)D and 1,25(OH)2D concentrations were measured by LC-MS/MS. Statistical analyses included longitudinal linear mixed-effects models adjusted for parity, season, education, self-reported skin color, and pre-pregnancy BMI. Vitamin D status was defined based on 25(OH)D concentrations according to the Endocrine Society Practice Guideline and Institute of Medicine (IOM) for adults. RESULTS: The prevalence of 25(OH)D <75 nmol/L was 70.4, 41.0, and 33.9%; the prevalence of 25(OH)D <50 nmol/L was 16.1, 11.2, and 10.2%; and the prevalence of 25(OH)D <30 nmol/L was 2, 0, and 0.6%, at the first, second, and third trimesters, respectively. Unadjusted analysis showed an increase in 25(OH)D (ß = 0.869; 95% CI 0.723-1.014; P < 0.001) and 1,25(OH)2D (ß = 3.878; 95% CI 3.136-4.620; P < 0.001) throughout pregnancy. Multiple adjusted analyses showed that women who started the study in winter (P < 0.001), spring (P < 0.001), or autumn (P = 0.028) presented a longitudinal increase in 25(OH)D concentrations, while women that started during summer did not. Increase of 1,25(OH)2D concentrations over time in women with insufficient vitamin D (50-75 nmol/L) at baseline was higher compared to women with sufficient vitamin D (≥75 nmol/L) (P = 0.006). CONCLUSIONS: The prevalence of vitamin D inadequacy varied significantly according to the adopted criteria. There was a seasonal variation of 25(OH)D during pregnancy. The women with insufficient vitamin D status present greater longitudinal increases in the concentrations of 1,25(OH)2D in comparison to women with sufficiency.

Omega-3 supplementation from pregnancy to postpartum to prevent depressive symptoms: a randomized placebo-controlled trial.

BACKGROUND: Low n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) has been linked to depression, but the preventive effect of n-3PUFAs supplementation on maternal depression needs further investigation. We aimed to evaluate the efficacy of a daily dose of n-3 PUFAs supplementation (fish oil) on the prevention of postpartum depression (PPD). METHODS: A randomized, placebo-controlled, double blind trial was designed and nested into a cohort study conducted in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. Sixty pregnant women identified as being at risk for PPD were invited and randomly assigned to receive fish oil capsules [1.8 g (1.08 g of Eicosapentaenoic (EPA) and 0.72 g of Docosapentaenoic (DHA) acids)] or placebo (control). The Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS) was scored at 5-13 (T0, baseline), 22-24 (T1), 30-32 weeks of gestation (T2) and 4-6 weeks' postpartum (T3). Supplementation started at week 22-24 of gestation (T1) and lasted for 16 weeks. Serum fatty acids were assayed to evaluate compliance. Prevalence of EPDS ≥11 was the primary outcome, and mean and changes in EPDS score, length of gestation, and birth weight the secondary outcomes. Linear mixed-effect (LME) and random-intercept logistic regression models were performed to test the effect of fish oil supplementation on prevalence of EPDS ≥11 and EPDS scores variation. RESULTS: In intention-to-treat (ITT) analysis, at 30-32 weeks' gestation women in the fish oil presented higher serum concentration of EPA, DHA and lower n-6/n-3 ratio comparing to the control group. There were no differences between intervention and control groups in the prevalence of EPDS ≥11, EPDS scores over time, or in changes in EPDS scores from pregnancy to postpartum in either the ITT or per-protocol analyses. Women in the fish oil group with previous history of depression presented a higher reduction on the EPDS score from the second to the third trimester in the fish oil comparing to the control group in the ITT analyses [-1.0 (-3.0-0.0) vs. -0.0 (-1.0-3.0), P = 0.038). These results were confirmed on the LME model (ß = -3.441; 95%CI: -6.532- -0.350, P = 0.029). CONCLUSION: Daily supplementation of 1.8 g of n-3 PUFAs during 16 weeks did not prevent maternal depressive symptoms in a sample of Brazilian women. TRIAL REGISTRATION: ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT01660165 . Retrospectively registered on 24 May 2012.

Vitamin B-6 Status in Unsupplemented Pregnant Women Is Associated Positively with Serum Docosahexaenoic Acid and Inversely with the n-6-to-n-3 Fatty Acid Ratio.

BACKGROUND: Vitamin B-6-deficient diets decrease plasma docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), and arachidonic acid (AA) concentrations in healthy adults. These fatty acids (FAs) are important for fetal neurodevelopment, but the relation between vitamin B-6 status and circulating polyunsaturated FAs (PUFAs) during pregnancy is unknown. OBJECTIVE: We sought to assess the relation between plasma pyridoxal 5' phosphate (PLP; the active form of vitamin B-6) and serum DHA, EPA, AA, linoleic acid, eicosadienoic, and α-linolenic acid concentrations during pregnancy. METHODS: A prospective cohort study in 186 healthy pregnant Brazilian women (aged 20-40 y) who were not using supplements was conducted in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. Participants were enrolled in the first trimester of pregnancy (5-13 gestational weeks) and were followed up twice between 20-26 and 30-36 wk of gestation. Longitudinal linear mixed-effects regression models were used to evaluate the associations between 1) first-trimester PLP and PUFA concentrations across pregnancy and 2) ΔPLP (i.e., difference between third- and first-trimester plasma PLP concentrations) and PUFA concentrations across pregnancy. Models were adjusted for gestational week, first-trimester body mass index, smoking habit, and dietary intakes of vitamin B-6, fish, total fat, and PUFAs. RESULTS: Plasma PLP concentrations (median, IQR) substantially declined during pregnancy from 35.8 nmol/L (28.6-44.3 nmol/L) in the first trimester to 21.0 nmol/L (15.8-26.3 nmol/L) in the second trimester, and 16.8 nmol/L (12.9-20.3 nmol/L) in the third trimester (both P < 0.0001). Changes in plasma PLP concentrations across trimesters were positively associated with serum DHA concentrations (ß = 0.252, P = 0.012) and inversely associated with serum n-6-to-n-3 (ω-6-to-ω-3) FA ratio (ß = -0.010; P = 0.015), after adjustments for confounders. CONCLUSIONS: Maternal vitamin B-6 status during pregnancy was positively associated with the circulating concentration of DHA and inversely associated with n-6:n-3 FAs in Brazilian women who were not taking vitamin supplements. Further study is required to determine the impact of poor vitamin B-6 status on fetal neurodevelopment.

High dietary ratio of omega-6 to omega-3 polyunsaturated acids during pregnancy and prevalence of post-partum depression.

Observational studies suggest association between low concentrations of omega-3 family fatty acids and greater risk for post-partum depression (PPD). The objective was to investigate the effect of unbalanced dietary intake of omega-6/omega-3 ratio >9:1 in the prevalence for PPD. The study comprises a prospective cohort with four waves of follow-up during pregnancy and one following delivery. PPD was evaluated according to the Edinburgh Post-partum Depression Scale (PPD ≥ 11) in 106 puerperae between 2005 and 2007, in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. Independent variables included socio-demographic, obstetric, pre-pregnancy body mass index (BMI) and dietary intake data, which were obtained by means of a food frequency questionnaire in the first trimester of pregnancy. Statistical analysis involved calculation of PPD prevalence and multivariate Poisson regression with robust variance. PPD prevalence amounted to 26.4% [n = 28; confidence interval (CI) 95%: 18.0-34.8], and higher prevalences of PPD were observed in women who consumed an omega-6/omega-3 ratio >9:1 (60.0%) and in those with pre-pregnancy BMI <18.5 kg/m(2) (66.7%). These variables held as factors associated to PPD in the multivariate model, elevating the chances of occurrence of the outcome in 2.50 (CI 95%: 1.21-5.14) and 4.01 times (CI 95%: 1.96-8.20), respectively. Analyses were adjusted for age, schooling, pre-pregnancy BMI, lipids consumption and time elapsed since delivery. It verified an association between omega-6/omega-3 ratio above 9:1, the levels recommended by the Institute of Medicine, and the prevalence of PPD. These results add to the evidence regarding the importance of omega-6 and omega-3 fatty acids in the regulation of mental health mechanisms.

Consumo de cafeína por grávidas usuárias de uma Unidade Básica de Saúde no município do Rio de Janeiro / Caffeine consumption by pregnant women selected from a Health Care Center in the municipality of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

OBJETIVO: avaliar o consumo de cafeína em gestantes e sua associação com variáveis demográficas, socioeconômicas, reprodutivas e comportamentais e com o estado nutricional materno. MÉTODOS: trata-se de estudo do tipo transversal, realizado entre 2005 e 2007. A presente análise refere-se ao período entre a oitava e a 13ª semana gestacional, sendo realizada com 255 gestantes entre 18 e 40 anos, usuárias de uma Unidade Básica de Saúde no município do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro. A variável "desfecho"foi o consumo de cafeína quantificado por meio de questionário de freqüência alimentar semiquantitativo, previamente validado, o qual continha uma lista de alimentos com 81 itens e oito opções de freqüência de consumo. A ingestão de cafeína foi quantificada a partir do consumo de: chocolate em pó/Nescau®, chocolate em barra ou bombom, refrigerante, café e mate. A análise estatística foi realizada por meio de modelo hierarquizado de regressão linear múltipla. RESULTADOS: a mediana e o consumo médio de cafeína foram, respectivamente, de 97,5 e 121,1 mg (desvio padrão, dp=128,4). Já o consumo elevado da substância (>300 mg/dia) foi observado em 8,3 por cento das gestantes. No modelo multivariado, observou-se que mulheres cuja menarca ocorreu mais cedo (β=-0,15), com maior número de pessoas vivendo na casa (β=0,17) e que não faziam uso de medicamentos (β=-0,24) apresentaram maior tendência ao consumo elevado de cafeína e esta foi estatisticamente significativa (p<0,05). CONCLUSÕES: o consumo de cafeína pela maioria das gestantes foi inferior ao limite de 300 mg/dia preconizado em outros estudos. Observou-se tendência ao consumo elevado de cafeína nas gestantes cuja menarca ocorreu mais cedo, com maior número de pessoas vivendo na casa e que não faziam uso de medicamentos.

PURPOSE: to determine caffeine consumption in pregnant women and to evaluate its association with demographic, socioeconomic, reproductive, lifestyle and maternal nutritional status. METHODS: it is a cross-sectional study performed between 2005 and 2007. The present analysis refers to the period among the 8th and 13th gestational week and included 255 pregnant women from 18 to 40 years, clients of a municipal health center in Rio de Janeiro. The outcome variable was caffeine consumption, quantified by a semi-quantitative food frequency questionnaire, which count with a list containing 81 items and eight options of consumption frequencies; besides it being previously validated in a sample of employees of the State University of Rio de Janeiro. The caffeine intake was quantified starting from the consumption of: powdered chocolate, chocolate bar or chocolate, soft drink, coffee and mate tea. The statistical analysis was performed by means of fitting a multivariate linear regression. RESULTS: the median and the mean caffeine consumption were, respectively, 97.5 and 121.1 mg (standard deviation, sd = 128.4). The high caffeine consumption (> 300 mg/day) was observed in 8.3 percent of pregnant women. It was observed in the multivariate model that women with earlier menarche (β = -0.15), with more household partners (b = 0.17) and who didn’t make use of medicines (β = -0.24) presented larger tendency to high caffeine consumption association that was statistically significant (p <0.05). CONCLUSIONS: the caffeine consumption for most of the pregnant women was inferior to the limit of 300 mg/day as commited in other studies. Tendency was observed toward higher consumption of caffeine in pregnant women with earlier menarche, with more household partners and who didn’t make use of medicines.

[Caffeine consumption by pregnant women selected from a Health Care Center in the municipality of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil]. / Consumo de cafeína por grávidas usuárias de uma Unidade Básica de Saúde no município do Rio de Janeiro.

PURPOSE: to determine caffeine consumption in pregnant women and to evaluate its association with demographic, socioeconomic, reproductive, lifestyle and maternal nutritional status. METHODS: it is a cross-sectional study performed between 2005 and 2007. The present analysis refers to the period among the 8th and 13th gestational week and included 255 pregnant women from 18 to 40 years, clients of a municipal health center in Rio de Janeiro. The outcome variable was caffeine consumption, quantified by a semi-quantitative food frequency questionnaire, which count with a list containing 81 items and eight options of consumption frequencies; besides it being previously validated in a sample of employees of the State University of Rio de Janeiro. The caffeine intake was quantified starting from the consumption of: powdered chocolate, chocolate bar or chocolate, soft drink, coffee and mate tea. The statistical analysis was performed by means of fitting a multivariate linear regression. RESULTS: the median and the mean caffeine consumption were, respectively, 97.5 and 121.1 mg (standard deviation, sd = 128.4). The high caffeine consumption (> 300 mg/day) was observed in 8.3% of pregnant women. It was observed in the multivariate model that women with earlier menarche (beta = -0.15), with more household partners (b = 0.17) and who didn't make use of medicines (beta = -0.24) presented larger tendency to high caffeine consumption association that was statistically significant (p <0.05). CONCLUSIONS: the caffeine consumption for most of the pregnant women was inferior to the limit of 300 mg/day as committed in other studies. Tendency was observed toward higher consumption of caffeine in pregnant women with earlier menarche, with more household partners and who didn't make use of medicines.