Revisión bibliográfica: alimentación vegetariana en la infancia y adolescencia / Vegetarian diet in childhood and adolescence

RESUMEN Introducción: la popularidad de las dietas vegetarianas y veganas está aumentando en países occidentales y son adoptadas por niños, niñas y adolescentes (NNyA). Las principales asociaciones de nutrición y dietética del mundo avalan este tipo de práctica alimentaria en estos grupos etáreos si son supervisados y acompañados por profesionales idóneos. Objetivo: tomar posicionamiento como Asociación Argentina de Dietistas y Nutricionistas Dietistas acerca de la implementación de dietas vegetarianas en edad pediátrica y adolescencia, considerando recomendaciones basadas en evidencias científicas. Materiales y método: revisión y actualización bibliográfica, no sistemática con búsquedas en Google Scholar, PudMed y Medline entre diciembre 2018 y marzo 2019. Resultados: la valoración nutricional, evaluando ingesta alimentaria utilizando recordatorio de 24 horas y frecuencia de consumo, orientará sobre cuáles son las potenciales deficiencias nutricionales que puede presentar para adecuar la dieta y/o suplementación de nutrientes específicos. La alimentación vegetariana tiene una densidad energética más baja que la no vegetariana, pero se logran alcanzar las recomendaciones. Las necesidades proteicas se satisfacen fácilmente cuando la dieta incluye variedad de alimentos y las calorías son adecuadas. Algunos autores sugieren aumentar un 10 a 15% la recomendación proteica. Además, considerar el aporte de ácidos grasos omega 3 (EPA y DHA) para lograr el equilibrio óptimo entre los ácidos grasos poliinsaturados omega3/omega6. Los requerimientos nutricionales de calcio no varían con respecto a los omnívoros. Es imprescindible suplementar vitamina B12 oral a todos los NNyA vegetarianos, incluso en ovolactovegetarianos o en NNyA que consuman habitualmente alimentos fortificados. La suplementación adecuada es la mejor forma de garantizar unos niveles óptimos de esta vitamina. Se recomienda evaluar el estado de la vitamina D suplementando según edad. Conclusiones: La Asociación Argentina de Dietistas y Nutricionistas Dietistas (AADYND) plantea que la alimentación vegetariana y/o vegana planificada, supervisada y suplementada por un profesional de la nutrición idóneo, son saludables en la niñez y adolescencia. Los profesionales de la alimentación y nutrición pueden desempeñar un papel clave en la educación y acompañamiento de las personas vegetarianas acerca de fuentes específicas de nutrientes, preparación de alimentos, y modificaciones dietéticas necesarias para satisfacer sus necesidades(AU)

ABSTRACT Introduction: the popularity of vegetarian and vegan diets is increasing in western countries and are adopted by children and adolescents (Ch&A). The main nutrition and dietetic associations in the world approve this type of dietary practice in these age groups if they are supervised and accompanied by qualified professionals. Objective: take a position as the Argentine Association of Dietitians and Dietitian Nutritionists about the implementation of vegetarian diets in pediatric and adolescent age, considering recommendations based on scientific evidence. Materials and Method: review and bibliographic update, non-systematic, with searches on Google Scholar, PudMed and Medline between December 2018 and March 2019. Results: The nutritional assessment, evaluating food intake using a 24-hour reminder and frequency of consumption, will provide guidance on what are the potential nutritional deficiencies that may come up, adapt the diet and/or supplementation of specific nutrients. The vegetarian diet has a lower energy density than the non-vegetarian diet but manages to meet the recommendations. Protein needs are easily met when the diet includes a variety of foods and calories are adequate. Some authors suggest increasing the protein recommendation by 10 to 15%. Considering the contribution of omega 3 fatty acids (EPA and DHA) to achieve the optimal balance between omega3/omega6 polyunsaturated fatty acids. The nutritional requirements of calcium do not vary with respect to omnivores. It is essential to supplement oral vitamin B12 to all vegetarian Ch&A, even in ovolactovegetarians or in Ch&A that habitually consume fortified foods. Proper supplementation is the best way to ensure optimal levels of this vitamin. It is recommended to evaluate the status of vitamin D by supplementing according to age. Conclusions: Argentine Association of Dietitians and Dietitian Nutritionists states that vegetarian and/or vegan food, planned, supervised and supplemented by a suitable nutrition professional, are healthy in childhood and adolescence. Food and nutrition professionals can play a key role in educating and mentoring vegetarians about specific sources of nutrients, food preparation, and dietary modifications necessary to meet their needs(AU)

Breakfast: A Crucial Meal for Adolescents' Cognitive Performance According to Their Nutritional Status. The Cogni-Action Project.

This study aimed to determine whether pupils who have breakfast just before a cognitive demand, do not regularly skip breakfast, and consume a high-quality breakfast present higher cognitive performance than those who do not; furthermore, to establish differences according to their nutritional status. In this study, 1181 Chilean adolescents aged 10-14 years participated. A global cognitive score was computed through eight tasks, and the body mass index z-score (BMIz) was calculated using a growth reference for school-aged adolescents. The characteristics of breakfast were self-reported. Analyses of covariance were performed to determine differences in cognitive performance according to BMIz groups adjusted to sex, peak height velocity, physical fitness global score, and their schools. A positive association was found in adolescents' cognitive performance when they had breakfast just before cognitive tasks, did not regularly skip breakfast, presented at least two breakfast quality components, and included dairy products. No significant differences were found between breakfast components, including cereal/bread and fruits/fruit juice. Finally, pupils who were overweight/obese who declared that they skipped breakfast regularly presented a lower cognitive performance than their normal-BMIz peers. These findings suggest that adolescents who have breakfast just prior to a cognitive demand and regularly have a high quality breakfast have better cognitive performance than those who do not. Educative nutritional strategies should be prioritized, especially in "breakfast skippers" adolescents living with overweight/obesity.

Acompanhamento fonoaudiológico nas dificuldades alimentares no câncer infanto-juvenil: uma série de casos / Speech therapy follow-up for eating difficulties with juvenile child cancer: a series of cases / Seguimiento fonoaudiológico en las dificultades de alimentación en el cáncer infantojuvenil: una serie de casos

Objetivo: Este estudo teve como objetivo relatar o acompanhamento fonoaudiológico nas dificuldades alimentares no câncer infanto-juvenil. Métodos: O estudo de série de casos retrospectivo e descritivo-qualitativo teve amostra composta por 3 indivíduos com idade variando entre 8 e 14 anos, em acompanhamento com a equipe do Serviço de Oncologia Pediátrica do Hospital da Criança Santo Antônio - Irmandade Santa Casa de Misericórdia de Porto Alegre, com solicitação de avaliação fonoaudiológica para investigação de deglutição/alimentação. A coleta foi realizada por meio de dados extraídos de prontuário eletrônico da instituição, onde constavam as evoluções dos casos dos pacientes internados e atendidos em ambulatório, de março de 2018 a agosto de 2019. Resultados: Nos 3 casos relatados, os pacientes apresentaram deglutição normal, com indicação de via alternativa para alimentação pelo prejuízo na ingestão oral de alimentos durante e/ou após o tratamento oncológico. As queixas alimentares devido aos efeitos colaterais do tratamento foram inapetência, alteração de paladar, náusea e vômitos. Os casos foram acompanhados durante a internação e em ambulatório de fonoaudiologia. Dois dos pacientes permaneceram com a via alternativa por tempo prolongado e um deles reestabeleceu a alimentação por via oral exclusiva. Conclusão: O fonoaudiólogo inserido na equipe multidisciplinar de cuidados ao paciente com câncer infanto-juvenil é um dos responsáveis pelo acompanhamento das dificuldades alimentares provocadas pela doença e tratamentos, com olhar além da disfagia orofaríngea. A sua atuação deve envolver estratégias que promovam a nutrição adequada, seja por via alternativa ou via oral, visando segurança e conforto, com respeito à autonomia do paciente.

Objective: This study was aimed to report speech therapy follow-up for eating difficulties with childhood cancer. Methods: The retrospective and descriptive-qualitative case series study was sampled composed of patients aged between 8 and 14 years, under follow-up with the Pediatric Oncology Service of the Hospital da Criança Santo Antônio - Irmandade Santa Casa de Misericórdia de Porto Alegre, with a request for speech therapy evaluation for swallowing/feeding research. The collection was performed through data extracted from the institution's electronic medical records, with the evolution of the cases of patients hospitalized and attended in an outpatient clinic, from March 2018 to August 2019. Results: In the 3 reported cases, the patients presented normal swallowing, with indication of feeding tubes by impairment in oral food intake during and/or after cancer treatment. The dietary complaints due to the side effects of treatment were inapetence, taste change, nausea and vomiting. The cases were followed during hospitalization and in the speech therapy outpatient clinic. Two of the patients remained on a feeding tube for a long time and one of them reestablished exclusive oral feeding. Conclusion: The speech therapist inserted in the multidisciplinary team of care for patients with childhood cancer is one of those responsible for follow-up of eating difficulties caused by the disease and treatments, with a look beyond oropharyngeal dysphagia. Its performance should involve strategies that promote adequate nutrition, either alternatively or orally, aiming at safety and comfort, with respect to the patient's autonomy.

Objetivo: Este estudio tenía como objetivo de relatar el seguimiento fonoaudiológico en las dificultades de alimentación en el cáncer infantil. Métodos: El estudio retrospectivo y descriptivo-cualitativo de la serie de casos estaba compuesto por 3 individuos de entre 8 y 14 años, bajo seguimiento con el equipo de Servicio de Oncología Pediátrica del Hospital da Criança Santo Antônio - Irmandade Santa Casa de Misericórdia de Porto Alegre, con solicitud de evaluación fonoaudiológica para la investigación de la deglutición/alimentación. La recopilación se realizó a través de datos extraídos de la historia clínica digitalizada institucional con la evolución de los casos de pacientes hospitalizados y atendidos en un servicio de consulta externa, de marzo de 2018 a agosto de 2019. Resultados: En los 3 casos reportados, los pacientes presentaron deglución normal, con indicación de vía alterna de alimentación por presentar dificultad en la ingesta oral de alimentos durante y/o después del tratamiento oncológico. Las quejas alimenticias asociadas a los efectos secundarios del tratamiento fueron la pérdida del apetito, alteración en el sentido del gusto, náuseas y vómito. Los casos fueron acompañados por el fonoaudiólogo durante la hospitalización y el servicio de consulta externa. Dos de los pacientes permanecieron con via alterna de alimentación durante un tiempo prolongado y uno de ellos restableció la alimentación por vía oral por completo. Conclusión: El fonoaudiólogo como parte del equipo multidisciplinario de atención en pacientes con cáncer infantil, es uno de los responsables del seguimiento de las dificultades de alimentación causadas por la enfermedad y los tratamientos, con una mirada más allá de la disfagia orofaríngea. Su actuación debe incluir estrategias que promuevan una nutrición adecuada, ya sea por vía alterna o vía oral, con el objetivo de garantizar la seguridad y comodidad del paciente y respetando su autonomía.

Impact of Strategies for Preventing Obesity and Risk Factors for Eating Disorders among Adolescents: A Systematic Review.

An effective behavior change program is the first line of prevention for youth obesity. However, effectiveness in prevention of adolescent obesity requires several approaches, with special attention paid to disordered eating behaviors and psychological support, among other environmental factors. The aim of this systematic review is to compare the impact of two types of obesity prevention programs, inclusive of behavior change components, on weight outcomes. "Energy-balance" studies are aimed at reducing calories from high-energy sources and increasing physical activity (PA) levels, while "shared risk factors for obesity and eating disorders" focus on reducing disordered eating behaviors to promote a positive food and eating relationship. A systematic search of ProQuest, PubMed, PsycInfo, SciELO, and Web of Science identified 8825 articles. Thirty-five studies were included in the review, of which 20 regarded "energy-balance" and 15 "shared risk factors for obesity and eating disorders". "Energy-balance" studies were unable to support maintenance weight status, diet, and PA. "Shared risk factors for obesity and eating disorders" programs also did not result in significant differences in weight status over time. However, the majority of "shared risk factors for obesity and eating disorders" studies demonstrated reduced body dissatisfaction, dieting, and weight-control behaviors. Research is needed to examine how a shared risk factor approach can address both obesity and eating disorders.

Dietary Patterns of Adolescents from the Chilean Growth and Obesity Cohort Study Indicate Poor Dietary Quality.

Diet during adolescence can have lasting effects on nutritional status, health, and development. We hypothesized that dietary patterns with low-quality nutrition are associated with overweightness. We collected data for 882 Chilean adolescents from the Growth and Obesity Cohort Study (mean age: 12 years). Dietary intake was assessed through 24-h recalls and weight status data were obtained during clinical visits. Dietary patterns were obtained through exploratory factor analysis. Multiple logistic regression models were used to examine cross-sectional associations between dietary patterns and overweight (BMI z-score ≥ 1SD). Four dietary patterns were identified: "Breakfast/Light dinner", "Natural foods", "Western", and "Snacking". "Breakfast/Light dinner", "Western", and "Snacking" patterns provided higher energy and excess nutrients (sodium, saturated fat, and added sugar). Moreover, adolescents with higher adherence to "Western" or " Snacking" patterns (third tertile) had higher odds of being classified as overweight (OR = 1.67; 95%CI: 1.103-2.522 and OR = 1.86; 95%CI: 1.235-2.792, respectively) than those with lower adherence (first tertile). "Natural foods" pattern was also associated with overweightness (OR = 1.83; 95%CI: 1.219-2.754). These dietary patterns were associated with overconsumption of nutrients of public health concern. Three of the four main dietary patterns were associated with overweightness. These results highlight the need of prioritizing adolescents on obesity prevention strategies.

Systems Nutrology of Adolescents with Divergence between Measured and Perceived Weight Uncovers a Distinctive Profile Defined by Inverse Relationships of Food Consumption.

Changes in food consumption, physical inactivity, and other lifestyle habits are potential causes of the obesity epidemic. Paradoxically, the media promotes idealization of a leaner body appearance. Under these circumstances, self-perception of weight by adolescents may be affected. Here, we performed a cross-sectional study, between June and December 2009, to evaluate the interaction between anthropometric status, perceived body weight, and food consumption profiles in 1496 adolescents from public schools in Salvador, Brazil. Data on socio-epidemiological information, anthropometric status, and dietary patterns were analyzed using multidimensional statistical approaches adapted from systems biology. There were dissimilarities between anthropometric status and perception of body weight related to sex. Four dietary patterns were identified based on the food intake profile in the study participants. The distinct dietary patterns were not influenced by divergence between measured and perceived weight. Moreover, network analysis revealed that overestimation of body weight was characterized by a selectivity in ingestion of food groups that resulted in appearance of inverse correlations of consumption. Thus, misperception of body weight is associated with inverse correlations of consumption of certain food groups. These findings may aid individualized nutritional interventions in adolescents who overestimate body weight.

The Effects of Improved Nutrition in Early Childhood on Adolescent and Early Adulthood Body Size, Composition, Maturity, and Function: Results From the First INCAP Follow-Up Study.

The first follow-up study of the original Institute of Nutrition of Central America and Panama Longitudinal Study was conducted in 1988 to 1989 when participants were between the ages of 11 and 27 years. The longer term effects of the original supplementation in early life of either high protein and energy, Atole, or no protein and low energy, Fresco, were seen in anthropometry, skeletal maturation, physical work capacity, and intellectual development, with maximum benefit seen in those participants who had maximum exposure to the supplementation during prenatal and early postnatal years. No effects were observed in bone mineralization and menarche. The long-term positive effects are consistent with the promotion of improved nutrition during the first 1000 days and established the foundation for further follow-up studies as the participants move into adulthood and further develop their human capital.

Iodine Status of Brazilian School-Age Children: A National Cross-Sectional Survey.

Salt iodization is the main public health policy to prevent and control iodine deficiency disorders. The National Salt Iodization Impact Assessment Survey (PNAISAL) was conducted to measure iodine concentration among Brazilian schoolchildren. A survey including 6-14-year-old schoolchildren from public and private schools from all 26 Brazilian states and the Federal District was carried out in the biennia 2008-2009 and 2013-2014. Municipalities, schools, and students were randomly selected. Students were interviewed at school using a standard questionnaire, which included the collection of demographic, educational, weight, height, and 10 mL non-fasting urine collection information. The analyses were weighted according to the population of students per federative unit. The median urinary iodine concentration (MUIC) for the entire sample by region, federative unit per school, and student characteristics, was described from the cutoff points defined by the World Health Organization (severe disability: <20 µg/L, moderate: 20-49 µg/L, mild: 50-99 µg/L, adequate: 100-199 µg/L, more than adequate: 200-299 µg/L, and excessive: >300 µg/L). In total, 18,864 students (95.9% of the total) from 818 schools in 477 municipalities from all federative units were included in this study. Almost 70% were brown skin color, nine-years-old or older, studied in urban schools, and were enrolled in elementary school. The prevalence of overweight/obesity, as measured by body mass index (BMI) for age, was about twice as high compared to nutritional deficits (17.3% versus 9.6%). The MUIC arrived at 276.7 µg/L (25th percentile = 175.5 µg/L and 75th percentile = 399.71 µg/L). In Brazil as a whole, the prevalence of mild, moderate, and severe deficit was 6.9%, 2.6%, and 0.6%, respectively. About one-fifth of the students (20.7%) had adequate iodine concentration, while 24.9% and 44.2% had more than adequate or excessive concentration, respectively. The prevalence of iodine deficits was significantly higher among younger female students from municipal public schools living in rural areas with the lowest BMI. The median urine iodine concentration showed that Brazilian students have an adequate nutritional intake, with a significant proportion of them evidencing overconsumption of this micronutrient.

Impact of Bean Consumption on Nutritional Outcomes amongst Adolescents.

Brazilian adolescents have undergone a noteworthy nutritional epidemiological transition. There is an increase in the prevalence of overweight and high consumption of ultra-processed foods in parallel with patterns of traditional meals that include beans. This study analyzed associations between bean consumption in the diet of adolescents and nutrition outcomes. Multiple regression analysis showed a significant reduction in body mass index (BMI), body fat percentage (%BF) and LDL-cholesterol (LDL-c) values among those with bean consumption equal to or greater than five times a week. Adolescents who had lunch outside the home and those who did not have the habit of having lunch showed a significantly higher BMI. There was an increase in the %BF among married adolescents and those who did not have lunch. There was a reduction of LDL-c among those with intermediate per capita income and those who consumed processed juice less than 5 times a week, and an increase among those who did not have breakfast. There were significant interactions between sexual maturation, energy consumption, physical activity and energy consumption. Thus, in the context of this study, the presence of beans in the diet, at frequencies equal to or greater than five times a week, can be considered a proxy for healthy eating.

Association between the Degree of Processing of Consumed Foods and Sleep Quality in Adolescents.

The aim of this study was to evaluate the association between food consumption by the degree of processing and sleep quality in adolescents from São Luís, Maranhão, Brazil. A cross-sectional study with 2499 adolescents (aged 18 to 19 years) was developed. Exposure variables included energy contributions of food groups stratified by the NOVA classification: fresh or minimally processed foods (FMPF), processed foods (PF), and ultra-processed foods (UPF), categorized into quartiles. The outcome variable was sleep quality assessed with the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index. Associations between these variables were estimated by Poisson regression, with robust estimation of variance. Most of the adolescents had poor sleep quality (57.1%). There were associations between FMPF in the third (57.1%-66.0% of total calories; prevalence ratio PR = 0.88; 95% CI: 0.80, 0.97) and fourth quartile (66.1%-95.8% of total calories; PR = 0.87; 95% CI: 0.78, 0.96) and lower prevalence of poor sleep quality. The fourth quartile of UPF (44.3%-81.8% of total calories; PR = 1.14; 95% CI: 1.03, 1.27) was associated with a higher prevalence of poor sleep quality. Higher intake of FMPF is a protective factor for poor sleep quality, whereas higher UPF consumption is a risk factor for poor sleep quality.

Reliability and validity of an FFQ for South American children and adolescents from the SAYCARE study.

OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this study was to analyse the reliability and validity of a semi-quantitative FFQ to assess food group consumption in South American children and adolescents. DESIGN: The SAYCARE (South American Youth/Child cARdiovascular and Environmental) study is an observational, multicentre, feasibility study performed in a sample of 3- to 18-year-old children and adolescents attending private and public schools from six South American countries. Participants answered the FFQ twice with a two-week interval and three 24-h dietary recalls. Intraclass and Spearman's correlations, weighted Cohen's kappa (κw), percentage of agreement and energy-adjusted Pearson's correlation coefficients were calculated. SETTING: Seven cities in South America (Buenos Aires, Lima, Medelin, Montevideo, Santiago, Sao Paulo and Teresina). SUBJECTS: A sample of 200 children and 244 adolescents for reliability analyses and 252 children and 244 adolescents for validity analyses were included. RESULTS: Depending on the food group, for children and adolescents, reliability analyses resulted in Spearman's coefficients from 0·47 to 0·73, intraclass correlation coefficients from 0·66 to 0·99, κw coefficients from 0·35 to 0·63, and percentage of agreement between 72·75 and 83·52 %. In the same way, validity analyses resulted in Spearman's coefficients from 0·17 to 0·37, energy-adjusted Pearson's coefficients from 0·17 to 0·61, κw coefficients from 0·09 to 0·24, and percentages of agreement between 45·79 and 67·06 %. CONCLUSION: The SAYCARE FFQ achieved reasonable reliability and slight-moderate validity for almost all food groups intakes. Accordingly, it can be used for the purpose of ranking the intake of individuals within a population.

Processed and ultra-processed foods are associated with high prevalence of inadequate selenium intake and low prevalence of vitamin B1 and zinc inadequacy in adolescents from public schools in an urban area of northeastern Brazil.

Changes in eating behavior of adolescents are associated with high consumption of processed and ultra-processed foods. This study evaluated the association between these foods and the prevalence of inadequate micronutrient intake in adolescents. A cross-sectional study was conducted with 444 adolescents from public schools in the city of Natal, northeastern Brazil. The adolescents' habitual food consumption was evaluated using two 24-hour dietary recalls. Foods were categorized according to the degree of processing (processed and ultra-processed) and distributed into energy quartiles, using the NOVA classification system. Inadequacies in micronutrient intake were assessed using the estimated average requirement (EAR) as the cutoff point. Multivariate logistic regression models were used to estimate the relationship between energy percentage from processed and ultra-processed foods and prevalence of inadequate micronutrient intake. The mean (Standard Deviation (SD)) consumption of total energy from processed foods ranged from 5.8% (1.7%) in Q1 to 20.6% (2.9%) in Q4, while the mean consumption of total energy from ultra-processed foods ranged from 21.4% (4.9%) in Q1 to 61.5% (11.7%) in Q4. The rates of inadequate intake of vitamin D, vitamin E, folate, calcium, and selenium were above 80% for both sexes across all age groups. Energy consumption from processed foods was associated with higher prevalence of inadequate selenium intake (p < 0.01) and lower prevalence of inadequate vitamin B1 intake (p = 0.04). Energy consumption from ultra-processed foods was associated with lower prevalence of inadequate zinc and vitamin B1 intake (p < 0.01 and p = 0.03, respectively). An increase in the proportion of energy obtained from processed and ultra-processed foods may reflect higher prevalence of inadequate selenium intake and lower prevalence of vitamin B1 and zinc inadequacy.

Impacto de la Dieta Vegetariana en la Salud Mental de Adolescentes / Impact of the Vegetarian Diet on the Mental Health of Adolescents

El vegetarianismo en adolescentes está aumentando, sin embargo, la evidencia sobre las consecuencias físicas y psíquicas de este patrón dietario es aún escasa. El objetivo de esta revisión es sistematizar la información científica disponible acerca del vegetarianismo adolescente, para guiar a los jóvenes en la búsqueda de un patrón de dieta saludable. Se realiza una revisión en Pubmed. Se encuentran 9 trabajos en relación a consecuencias físicas y déficit nutricionales, y 6 sobre asociaciones con salud mental. Los resultados se sintetizan según la siguiente clasificación: (1) Consecuencias en la salud física y nutricional; (2) Consecuencias en la salud mental y relación con trastornos de la conducta alimentaria. Sobre el primero, se observa que adolescentes vegetarianos tendrían mayor ingesta de frutas y verduras, y menor riesgo de sobrepeso y obesidad. Una dieta vegetariana restrictiva conlleva déficits nutricionales, que son prevenibles. En cuanto a la salud mental, se evidencia mayor riesgo de conductas de control de peso poco saludables, y, además, tener un trastorno de conducta alimentaria aumenta la probabilidad de haber sido o ser vegetariano. A modo de conclusión, ante un adolescente vegetariano es fundamental explorar las motivaciones a tener este patrón dietético, de modo de pesquisar e intervenir en posibles trastornos alimentarios subyacentes. En cambio, a un adolescente con convicción, se le debe proporcionar orientación para convertirse en un vegetariano saludable. Palabras claves: Adolescentes; dietas vegetarianas; impacto nutricional y de salud y consecuencias en salud mental.

Becoming a vegetarian is an increasing trend among adolescents; however, evidence on the physical and mental health consequences of assuming this dietary pattern is still scarce. This review seeks to review the available scientific knowledge about adolescent vegetarianism in order to guide young people in their search for a healthier diet. A Pubmed review was performed, obtaining 9 studies with relation to physical consequences and nutritional deficits, and 6 on associations with mental health. The results are summarized according to the following classification: (1) Consequences in physical and nutritional health; (2) Consequences in mental health and links to eating disorders. The first findings point to vegetarian teenagers having a higher intake of fruits and vegetables, and a lower risk of overweight and obesity. Nonetheless, a restrictive vegetarian diet leads to nutritional deficits, which are preventable. In terms of mental health issues, we observed a greater risk of unhealthy weight control behaviour; moreover, having an eating disorder increases the likelihood of being (or having been) vegetarian. We suggest that for physicians evaluating a vegetarian adolescent, it is fundamental to explore the motivations behind this dietary pattern in order to diagnose and intervene in possible underlying eating disorders. However, a vegetarian teenager with strong personal beliefs should be provided with guidance and support to develop a healthier diet. Keywords: adolescents, vegetarian diet, physical and nutritional impact, mental health consequences

Multidimensional Analysis of Food Consumption Reveals a Unique Dietary Profile Associated with Overweight and Obesity in Adolescents.

There is a significant increase in overweight and obesity in adolescents worldwide. Here, we performed a cross-sectional study to examine the potential association between food consumption profiles and overweight in a large number of adolescents from Brazil. Sampling by clusters and conglomerates was carried out in students of public schools in Salvador, Brazil, between June and December 2009 and 1496 adolescents were evaluated. Data on socio-epidemiological data, anthropometric status and food consumption were captured. Multivariate analyses, such as hierarchical clustering and correlation networks, were used to perform a detailed description of food consumption profiles. There were differences in age and anthropometric status related to sex. Four clusters of food groups were identified based on the intake profile in the study population. No disparities in food intake were observed in individuals stratified by sex or anthropometric status. Furthermore, network analysis revealed that overweight or obesity were hallmarked by a selectivity in the ingestion of food groups that resulted in the appearance of inverse correlations of consumption, which was not present in eutrophic adolescents. Thus, overweight and obesity are associated with preferential choices of ingestion of specific food groups, which result in the appearance of inverse correlations of consumption. Such knowledge may serve as basis for future targeted nutritional interventions in adolescents.

Determinants of lifestyle associated with metabolic syndrome in Brazilian adolescents.

INTRODUCTION: Background: metabolic syndrome (MetS) has been diagnosed in adolescents. However, it remains uncertain which determinants of lifestyle are independently associated with its occurrence. Objective: to verify the association between lifestyle determinants (physical activity, sedentary behavior and food consumption) and MetS, by controlling demographic indicators and anthropometric nutritional status in a sample of adolescents from the southern region of Brazil. Subjects and methods: a school-based cross-sectional study involving 1,035 adolescents (565 girls and 470 boys) aged 12 to 20 years. Anthropometric measurements were performed and a questionnaire was applied with structured questions. MetS was identified according to criteria proposed by the International Diabetes Federation. The data were treated using bivariate analysis and hierarchical multiple regression. Results: the overall prevalence of MetS was equivalent to 4.5% (95% CI: 3.8 to 5.4). Multivariate analysis showed a significant association between MetS and age (OR = 1.34 [95% CI, 1.09 to 1.80]) and economic class (OR = 1.35 [95% CI: 1.08 to 1.86]). Among the determinants of lifestyle, high recreational screen time (OR = 1.32 [95% CI: 1.07 to 1.94]) and low fruit/vegetable intake (OR = 1.23 [95% CI: 1.01 to 1.87]) were independently associated with MetS. Likewise, obesity (OR = 1.62 [95% CI: 1.28 to 2.47]) was significantly associated with the outcome. Conclusion: in view of the significant association with MetS, intervention strategies should be designed to reduce recreational screen time and encourage fruit/vegetable consumption, especially among older adolescents, with a high economic class and obesity status.

INTRODUCCIÓN: Introducción: el síndrome metabólico (SMet) se ha diagnosticado en adolescentes, sin embargo, sigue siendo incierto qué determinantes del estilo de vida se pueden asociar de forma independiente con su ocurrencia. Objetivo: verificar la asociación entre determinantes del estilo de vida (actividad física, comportamiento sedentario y consumo de alimentos) y SMet mediante el control de indicadores demográficos y el estado nutricional antropométrico en una muestra de adolescentes de la región sur de Brasil. Sujetos y métodos: estudio transversal con 1.035 adolescentes (565 chicas y 470 chicos) de 12 a 20 años. Se midieron valores antropométricos y se aplicó un cuestionario con preguntas estructuradas. El SMet se identificó de acuerdo con los criterios propuestos por la International Diabetes Federation. Los datos fueron tratados mediante análisis bivariado y regresión múltiple jerarquizada. Resultados: la prevalencia general de SMet fue del 4,5% [IC 95%: 3,8-5,4]. El análisis multivariado mostró una asociación significativa entre SMet y edad (OR = 1,34 [IC 95%: 1,09-1,80]) y clase económica (OR = 1,35 [IC 95%: 1,08-1,86]). Entre los determinantes del estilo de vida, el alto tiempo de pantalla en actividad recreativa (OR = 1,32 [IC 95%: 1,07-1,94]) y la baja ingesta de frutas/vegetales (OR = 1,23 [IC 95%: 1,01-1,87]) se asociaron de forma independiente con el SMet. Del mismo modo, la obesidad (OR = 1,62 [IC 95%: 1,28-2,47]) se asoció significativamente con el SMet. Conclusión: en vista de la asociación significativa con el SMet, las estrategias de intervención deben diseñarse para reducir el tiempo de pantalla recreativo y fomentar el consumo de frutas y verduras, especialmente entre los adolescentes mayores, de clase económica más alta y obesos.

Top food sources of percentage of energy, nutrients to limit and total gram amount consumed among US adolescents: National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey 2011-2014.

OBJECTIVE: To identify most commonly consumed foods by adolescents contributing to percentage of total energy, added sugars, SFA, Na and total gram intake per day. DESIGN: Data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) 2011-2014. SETTING: NHANES is a cross-sectional study nationally representative of the US population.ParticipantsOne 24 h dietary recall was used to assess dietary intake of 3156 adolescents aged 10-19 years. What We Eat in America food category classification system was used for all foods consumed. Food sources of energy, added sugars, SFA, Na and total gram amount consumed were sample-weighted and ranked based on percentage contribution to intake of total amount. RESULTS: Three-highest ranked food subgroup sources of total energy consumed were: sugar-sweetened beverages (SSB; 7·8 %); sweet bakery products (6·9 %); mixed dishes - pizza (6·6 %). Highest ranked food sources of total gram amount consumed were: plain water (33·1 %); SSB (15·8 %); milk (7·2 %). Three highest ranked food sources of total Na were: mixed dishes - pizza (8·7 %); mixed dishes - Mexican (6·7 %); cured meats/poultry (6·6 %). Three highest ranked food sources of SFA were: mixed dishes - pizza (9·1 %); sweet bakery products (8·3 %); mixed dishes - Mexican (7·9 %). Three highest ranked food sources of added sugars were: SSB (42·1 %); sweet bakery products (12·1 %); coffee and tea (7·6 %). CONCLUSIONS: Identifying current food sources of percentage energy, nutrients to limit and total gram amount consumed among US adolescents is critical for designing strategies to help them meet nutrient recommendations within energy needs.

Prevalence and factors associated with fat-soluble vitamin deficiency in adolescents.

BACKGROUND: fat-soluble vitamin deficiency may be a health problem not recognized in children and adolescents. OBJECTIVE: to estimate the prevalence and factors associated with the deficiency of vitamins A, D and E among adolescent students from Northeastern Brazil. METHODS: transversal study with adolescents aged 12 to 19 of both genders. A questionnaire to collect socioeconomic and lifestyle data and food intake was applied to adolescents. Then, an anthropometric evaluation and a blood sampling were performed to analyze serum concentrations of retinol, ß-carotene, α-tocopherol and 25-hydroxy vitamin D (25[OH]D). RESULTS: the intake of vitamins A (50.3%), E (94.0%) and D (99.8%), as well as α-tocopherol (88.1%), ß-carotene (74.1%), 25(OH)D (50.9%) and retinol (46.6%) serum levels were mostly deficient/insufficient. An increased risk of α-tocopherol deficiency was observed in girls (PR = 1.11) and an increased risk of 25(OH)D deficiency was observed in boys (PR = 1.41). An increased likelihood of ß-carotene (PR = 1.14) and 25(OH) D (PR = 1.38) insufficiency was observed in overweight individuals. CONCLUSIONS: the adolescents had a deficit in the intake and in serum levels of fat-soluble vitamins. The greatest risk of inadequacy was associated with gender and weight excess. However, the behavior of fat-soluble vitamins in adolescents needs further research.

Mejora del conocimiento y conducta alimentaria de los adolescentes con una intervención educativa basada en orientación alimentaria / Improvement of knowledge and feeding behavior of adolescents with an educational intervention based on food orientation

Métodos: estudio cuasiexperimental, con 32 adolescentes entre 15 y 17 años. Se aplicó un cuestionario estructurado pretest y postest de un programa educativo de orientación alimentaria con base en la NOM-043-SSA2-2012. Los datos se analizaron con estadística descriptiva y t de Student no paramétrica para observar la diferencia (p ≤ 0.05). Resultados: el 56.2% de los adolescentes de ambos sexos se encuentran en Normopeso. El sobrepeso fue mayor en hombres (44.5%) que en mujeres (35.7%). Hubo incremento en el consumo de agua pura (20%) y disminución del consumo de refresco o agua de sabor (8%). También aumentó el consumo de frutas y verduras (18%), cereales y tubérculos (16%), y alimentos de origen animal (9%). La diferencia pretest y postest fue significativa (p ≤ 0.05). Conclusión: la intervención educativa basada en orientación alimentaria tiene un efecto positivo sobre el conocimiento reforzando la conducta alimentaria de los adolescentes.

Introduction: Adolescents are susceptible to unhealthy eating behaviors that trigger health problems such as obesity, malnutrition or eating disorders. Objective: To evaluate the effect of an educational intervention based on food orientation to improve knowledge and eating behavior of high school students. Methods: Quasi-Experimental study, with 32 adolescents between 15 and 17 years old. A structured pre-test and post-test questionnaire was applied to an educational food orientation program based on NOM-043-SSA2-2012. The data were analyzed with descriptive statistics and nonparametric Student t to observe the difference (p ≤ 0.05). Results: 56.2% of adolescents of both sexes are in Normopeso. Overweight was higher in men (44.5%) than in women (35.7%). There was an increase in the consumption of pure water (20%) and a decrease in the consumption of soft drink or water of flavor (8%). The consumption of fruits and vegetables (18%), cereals and tubers (16%) and foods of animal origin (9%) also increased. The pretest and posttest difference was significant (p ≤ 0.05). Conclusions: The educational intervention based on food orientation has a positive effect on knowledge by reinforcing the adolescents' eating behavior.

Increased Adiposity as a Potential Risk Factor for Lower Academic Performance: A Cross-Sectional Study in Chilean Adolescents from Low-to-Middle Socioeconomic Background.

We explored the association between excess body fat and academic performance in high school students from Santiago, Chile. In 632 16-year-olds (51% males) from low-to-middle socioeconomic status (SES), height, weight, and waist circumference were measured. Body-mass index (BMI) and BMI for age and sex were calculated. Weight status was evaluated with 2007 World Health Organization (WHO) references. Abdominal obesity was diagnosed with International Diabetes Federation (IDF) references. Total fat mass (TFM) was measured with dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA). TFM values ≥25% in males and ≥35% in females were considered high adiposity. School grades were obtained from administrative records. Analysis of covariance examined the association of fatness measures with academic performance, accounting for the effect of diet and physical activity, and controlling SES background and educational confounders. We found that: (1) having obesity, abdominal obesity, or high adiposity was associated with lower school performance alone or in combination with unhealthy dietary habits or reduced time allocation for exercise; (2) high adiposity and abdominal obesity were more clearly related with lower school grades compared to obesity; (3) the association of increased fatness with lower school grades was more salient in males compared to females.

Plasma concentrations of the trace elements copper, zinc and selenium in Brazilian children with autism spectrum disorder.

The association between the plasma levels of trace elements, such as copper (Cu), zinc (Zn) and selenium (Se), in people with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), has attracted the interest of many physicians in the very recent years, because the impaired homeostatic regulation of trace elements, including their levels in the bloodstream and their potential neurotoxicity, contribute to the onset and exacerbation of ASD. In this study, we investigated 23 pediatric subjects (≤ 18 yrs old, both sexes) with ASD, all residents in the city of Campo Grande in Brazil, by searching for their micronutrient levels in plasma in relation with metabolic and nutrition biomarkers. Aside for the few evidence reported, generally, the Brazilian cohort of ASD children here examined did not show a marked difference in micro-nutrient intake in relation with their resident geographical area and their dietary habit or metabolic state, although a slight difference in the levels of magnesium and phosphorus was retrieved due to sex difference.