Insights into Chinese Canadian culture: enablers and barriers for fruit and vegetable intake.

Background: Fruits and vegetables (F&V) play a vital role in promoting health and preventing diseases. Numerous studies have demonstrated the association between F&V consumption and reduced risks of cardiovascular disease, cancer, and mortality. Despite the high priority of public health in promoting F&V intake, Chinese immigrants in Canada often fall below national guidelines in their consumption. Understanding the factors influencing F&V intake in this community is crucial for developing effective interventions. Methods: This study used an applied ethnographic research approach to gain insight into the enablers and barriers that influence F&V intake among Chinese-Canadian adults in Richmond, BC. Semi-structured interviews and 'photovoice' group sessions were conducted to gather qualitative data from community participants and health care providers (HCPs). Results: The research identified four key themes: (1) Cultural differences around how vegetables are perceived, consumed and prepared; (2) Motivators and strategies for increasing vegetable and fruit intake; (3) Lack of culturally relevant dietary education and resources; and (4) Importance of value in vegetable/fruit-related decisions. Participants showed a strong preference for the traditional Eastern diet, with cost of food and lack of knowledge about Western vegetables acting as barriers to dietary diversity. The study also highlighted the need for culturally tailored educational resources to effectively promote F&V consumption. Conclusion: By adopting a multi-modal approach, incorporating both interviews and 'photovoice' sessions, this research provided comprehensive insights into the participants' perspectives and experiences related to F&V intake. Understanding these factors can guide the development of culturally appropriate interventions to increase F&V consumption among Chinese-Canadian adults in Richmond, BC, and potentially improve their overall health and well-being. Future studies should consider the heterogeneity within the Chinese immigrant population and target a more balanced representation of age groups to further enhance our understanding of F&V intake patterns in this community.

Changes in weight status among "Ju/'hoansi" San hunter-gatherers between 1968/69 and 1987-The effects of nutritional transition, sex and age.

BACKGROUND: Changes in lifestyle and dietary habits that hunter-gatherer populations have undergone in recent decades have often led to rising obesity rates with disastrous consequences for their health. OBJECTIVES: The associations between dietary habits and weight status were studied in 238 "Ju/'hoansi" San (93 women and 145 men) aged between 18 and 65 years in northern Namibia in 1987. Weight status was estimated based on the World Health Organization body mass index (BMI) categories, and dietary habits were recorded using food recall methods. Anthropometrics and weight status were compared with those of a sex- and age-matched sample of "Ju/'hoansi" San people collected by Nancy Howell in 1968/69. RESULTS: Body weight had increased significantly among "Ju/'hoansi" San people from 1968/69 to 1987. The number of underweight people decreased from 1968/69 to 1987. In 1987, most participants (60.9%) were of normal weight. Overweight was found in 1.3% of the women, but not among men. No participants were obese. Less than 4% of the women and less than 2% of the men consumed exclusively traditional hunter-gatherer food. Westernized food products were significantly (p < 0.001) more common among men and younger people. Dietary patterns were significantly associated with weight status. The less traditional the diet, the higher the BMI (p < 0.001). CONCLUSION: The transition to domestic agricultural and westernized foods was positively associated with increasing BMI. Overweight, however, was still an extremely rare condition in this population in 1987.

Ethnic differences in meat consumption attitudes, norms and behaviors: A survey of White, South Asian and Black ethnic groups in the UK.

A reduction in meat consumption is necessary to mitigate negative impacts of climate change and adverse health outcomes. The UK has an increasingly multi-ethnic population, yet there is little research on meat consumption habits and attitudes among ethnic groups in the UK. We ran a survey (N = 1014) with quota samples for ethnic groups and analyzed attitudes, behaviors and norm perceptions of White, South Asian and Black British respondents. Most respondents believe overconsumption of red and processed meat has negative impacts on health (73.3%) and the environment (64.3%).South Asian respondents were statistically significantly less likely to be meat eaters than White respondents (OR = 0.44, 95% CIs: 0.30-0.65, t = -4.15, p = 0.000), while there was no significant difference between White and Black respondents (OR = 1.06, 95% CIs: 0.63-1.76, t = 0.21, p = 0.834). Both South Asian (OR = 2.76, 95% CIs: 1.89-4.03 t = 5.25, p = 0.000) and Black respondents (OR = 2.09, 95% CIs: 0.1.30-3.35, t = 3.06, p = 0.002) were significantly more likely to express being influenced by friends and family in their food choices than White respondents. South Asian (OR = 3.24,95% CIs: 2.17-4.84, t = 5.74, p = 0.000) and Black (OR = 2.02,95% CIs: 1.21-3.39, t = 2.69, p = 0.007) respondents were also both significantly more likely to report they would want to eat similarly to their friends and family than White respondents. Statistical analyses suggested some gender and socioeconomic differences across and among ethnic groups, which are reported and discussed. The differences in meat consumption behaviors and norm conformity between ethnic groups raises the prospect that interventions that leverage social norms may be more effective in South Asian groups than Black and White groups in the UK.

Perspective: Beyond the Mediterranean Diet-Exploring Latin American, Asian, and African Heritage Diets as Cultural Models of Healthy Eating.

The Mediterranean diet is a well-studied cultural model of healthy eating, yet research on healthy models from other cultures and cuisines has been limited. This perspective article summarizes the components of traditional Latin American, Asian, and African heritage diets, their association with diet quality and markers of health, and implications for nutrition programs and policy. Though these diets differ in specific foods and flavors, we present a common thread that emphasizes healthful plant foods and that is consistent with high dietary quality and low rates of major causes of disability and deaths. In this perspective, we propose that nutrition interventions that incorporate these cultural models of healthy eating show promise, though further research is needed to determine health outcomes and best practices for implementation.

An Evaluation of ¡Haz Espacio Para Papi!, a Culturally Tailored Nutrition and Physical Activity Pilot Program for Mexican-Heritage Fathers.

Fathers are potential leaders of healthy behavior changes in their families. Culturally tailored programs are needed to support behavior changes within families, including Latino families; however, there have been few father-focused nutrition programs for Latino families. This study evaluated the immediate effects of ¡Haz Espacio Para Papi! (Make Room for Daddy!; HEPP), a six-week, father-focused, family-centered program focused on nutrition and physical activity near the Texas-Mexico border. A modified stepped-wedge study design included a treatment group for the HEPP pilot and a wait-listed control group. Pre/post-tests included instant skin carotenoid scores, the self-reported dietary intake of fruits and vegetables (FV), and healthy dietary behavior scores (HDBSs). A 2 × 2 mixed analysis of variance evaluated changes in outcomes across time and between groups for 42 fathers with pre/post-test measures. There were no statistically significant changes in fathers' VM scores and FV intake across time or between groups. Fathers' HDBSs increased across time (p ≤ 0.01, 95% CI [0.23, 1.38]). Age, educational attainment, and the number of children living in the household did not have a significant effect on the program outcomes (p > 0.05). The HEPP program may guide the design of future father-focused nutrition interventions aimed at dietary behavior changes.

Do Appetite Traits Mediate the Link Between Birth Weight and Later Child Weight in Low-Income Hispanic Families?

Background: Birth weight and appetite traits (ATs) are important early life determinants of child weight and obesity. Objectives: The aim of this study is to examine whether (1) birth weight-for-gestational age z-scores (BWGAzs) were associated with ATs at child age 2 years and (2) ATs mediated the link between BWGAzs and weight-for-age z-scores (WFAzs) at child ages 3 and 4 years among Hispanic children. Methods: We conducted a secondary longitudinal analysis of data from the Starting Early Program of low-income, Hispanic mother-child pairs. ATs were assessed using the Child Eating Behavior Questionnaire at age 2 years. Child birth weight was obtained from medical records. Birth weight, sex, and gestational age were used to generate BWGAzs with Fenton growth curves. WFAz was calculated based on the CDC 2000 growth charts. Regression and mediation analyses were used to explore associations between BWGAzs, ATs, and WFAzs. Results: Infants with higher BWGAzs had significantly lower Satiety Responsiveness (B = -0.10) and Food Fussiness (B = -0.13) scores at age 2 years and higher WFAzs at ages 3 (B = 0.44) and 4 (B = 0.34) years. Lower Satiety Responsiveness at age 2 years was associated with higher WFAzs at ages 3 (B = -0.11) and 4 (B = -0.34; all p < 0.01) years. Lower Satiety Responsiveness partially mediated the positive relationship between birth weight and child WFAzs at ages 3 and 4 years. Conclusions: Children with higher birth weight and lower Satiety Responsiveness scores may be at higher risk of developing obesity in childhood. Further research is needed to understand the mechanisms through which birth weight influences child appetite. Clinical Trial Registration: ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT01541761.

The effects of intuitive eating on body appreciation, body mass index, and nutritional behaviors in adults: a sample of Türkiye / Os efeitos da alimentação intuitiva na apreciação do corpo, índice de massa corporal e comportamentos nutricionais em adultos: uma amostra da Türkiye

ABSTRACT Objective Intuitive eating is an adaptive eating style that makes a strong connection with internal physiological manifestations of hunger and satiety. This study was conducted to evaluate the effects of intuitive eating on body appreciation, body mass index, and nutritional behaviors in adults. Methods Sample consisted of 497 individuals. Data were collected online. The questionnaire form included a general information and physical activity evaluation form, anthropometric measurements, Intuitive Eating Scale-2, Body Appreciation Scale-2, and food frequency questionnaire. Results A statistically significant relationship was found between body mass index and eating for physical rather than emotional reasons, reliance on internal hunger and satiety cues, body-food choice congruence subscale scores, and total scale score. There was a correlation between body appreciation and unconditional permission to eat, reliance on internal hunger and satiety cues, body-food choice congruence subscale scores, and total scale score. The number of physically active intuitive eaters was significantly higher than non-intuitive eaters. A significant correlation was found between intuitive eating scores and frequency of consumption of fish, cake, biscuit, chocolate, granulated sugar, honey, jam, molasses, pastries and dairy-based desserts, sunflower oil, margarine, and sugary, carbonated drinks. Conclusion Intuitive eating can be an effective tool in sustaining and controlling weight loss, and with more studies, it may be possible to further spread this practice

RESUMO Objetivo A alimentação intuitiva é um estilo alimentar adaptativo que faz uma forte conexão com as manifestações fisiológicas internas de fome e saciedade. Este estudo foi realizado para avaliar o efeito da alimentação intuitiva na apreciação corporal, índice de massa corporal e comportamentos nutricionais em adultos. Métodos A amostra foi composta por 497 indivíduos. Os dados foram coletados online. O formulário do questionário incluiu um formulário de informações gerais e avaliação de atividade física, medidas antropométricas, Intuitive Eating Scale-2, Body Appreciation Scale-2 e questionário de frequência alimentar. Resultados Uma relação estatisticamente significativa foi encontrada entre o índice de massa corporal e a alimentação com base em razões fisiológicas em vez de razões emocionais, dependência de sinais de saciedade, pontuação da subescala de adequação da escolha do alimento corporal e pontuação total da escala. Houve uma correlação entre a apreciação do corpo e o consentimento incondicional para comer, confiança nos sinais de saciedade, pontuação da subescala de adequação da escolha do alimento corporal e pontuação total da escala. A quantidade de comedores intuitivos fisicamente ativos foi significativamente maior do que a dos comedores não intuitivos. Foi encontrada correlação significativa entre o escore de alimentação intuitiva e a frequência de consumo de peixe, bolo, biscoito, chocolate, açúcar granulado, mel, geleia, melado, doces e sobremesas lácteas, óleo de girassol, margarina e refrigerantes açucarados. Conclusão A alimentação intuitiva pode ser uma ferramenta eficaz na sustentação e controle da perda de peso e, com mais estudos, pode ser possível disseminar mais essa prática.

Dietary patterns among adolescent freshmen attending a public university / Padrões alimentares de adolescentes recém-ingressos em uma universidade pública

ABSTRACT Objective To identify the association between dietary patterns and nutritional status in adolescent freshmen at a public university in Northeastern Brazil. Methods In this cross-sectional study anthropometric variables, body composition and food intake were collected and assessed using the food frequency questionnaire. Dietary patterns were evaluated through factor analysis using the principal component extraction method. Results Two dietary patterns were identified: "Western" pattern, consisting of foods with high energy density and low nutritional value, and the "traditional Brazilian" pattern, with foods from Brazilian cuisine such as rice, beans, corn, roots and tubers, fruits, greens and vegetables. The multiple regression analysis revealed a negative association between the "traditional Brazilian" pattern and both excess weight and body fat in females. Conclusion A healthy dietary pattern with typical local cuisine foods can offer protection to health and should be encouraged.

RESUMO Objetivo Identificar a associação entre padrões alimentares e estado nutricional em adolescentes recém-ingressos em uma universidade pública do Nordeste brasileiro. Métodos Neste estudo transversal foram coletados dados antropométricos, composição corporal e consumo alimentar, verificado pelo questionário de frequência alimentar. Os padrões alimentares foram derivados através da análise fatorial pelo método de extração de componentes principais. Resultados Dois padrões alimentares foram identificados: o padrão "Ocidental", composto por alimentos de elevada densidade energética e de baixo valor nutricional, e o padrão "tradicional brasileiro", contendo alimentos da culinária brasileira como arroz, feijão, milho, raízes e tubérculos, frutas, verduras e legumes. A análise de regressão múltipla mostrou associação negativa entre o excesso de peso e de gordura corporal e o padrão alimentar "tradicional brasileiro" no sexo feminino. Conclusão Um padrão alimentar saudável e com alimentos típicos da culinária local pode conferir proteção à saúde, devendo ser incentivado.

Dietary patterns and cardiometabolic risk factors of a federal public institution staff in the northern region of Brazil / Padrões alimentares e fatores de risco cardiometabólicos em funcionários de uma instituição pública federal na região norte do Brasil

ABSTRACT Objective To identify dietary patterns in an adult population and assess those patterns association with cardiometabolic risk factors. Methods Cross-sectional study conducted with 130 workers of a university in Tocantins, Brazil, aged 20-59 years. Dietary patterns were identified by principal component analysis based on a food frequency questionnaire. Body mass index, waist circumference, blood pressure, fasting glycemia, triacylglycerols, low-density lipoprotein and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol were measured. Multinomial logistic regression was used to assess the association between dietary patterns and cardiometabolic risk factors. Results Three dietary patterns were identified that together explained 78.74% of total variance: healthy, western and fit dietary patterns. In the adjusted model, greater adherence to the healthy pattern was associated with lower fasting glucose values (OR: 0.89; 95%IC: 0.82-0.97; p=0.009) and with higher concentrations of low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (OR: 1.02; 95%IC: 1.00-1.04; p=0.024); the western dietary pattern was associated with higher fasting glucose values (OR: 1.06; 95%IC: 1.00-1.13; p=0.05) and the fit pattern was associated with lower concentrations of low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (OR: 0.98; 95%IC: 0.97-0.99; p=0.048). Conclusion Food was an important risk and protective factor for cardiometabolic changes.

RESUMO Objetivo Identificar padrões alimentares em uma população adulta e avaliar a associação com fatores de risco cardiometabólico. Métodos Estudo transversal realizado com 130 funcionários entre 20 e 59 anos de uma universidade do Tocantins, Brasil. Os padrões alimentares foram identificados por análise de componentes principais com base em um questionário de frequência alimentar. Foram mensurados índice de massa corporal, perímetro da cintura, pressão arterial, glicemia de jejum, triglicerídeos, lipoproteínas de baixa densidade e lipoproteínas de alta densidade. As associações dos padrões com os fatores de risco cardiometabólico foram determinadas por regressão logística multinomial. Resultados Três padrões foram identificados que explicaram 78.74% da variância total: saudável, ocidental e fit. No modelo ajustado, a maior adesão ao padrão saudável foi associada com menores valores de glicemia de jejum (OR: 0.89; 95% IC: 0.82-0.97; p=0.009) e com maiores concentrações de lipoproteína de baixa densidade colesterol (OR: 1.02; 95% IC: 1.00-1.04; p=0.024); o padrão ocidental foi associado com maiores valores de glicemia de jejum (OR: 1.06; 95% IC: 1.00-1.13; p=0.05) e o padrão fit foi associado com menores concentrações de lipoproteína de baixa densidade colesterol (OR: 0.98; 95% IC: 0.97-0.99; p=0.048). Conclusão A alimentação constituiu um importante fator de risco e de proteção para alterações cardiometabólicas.

Modification of Mediterranean Diet Pyramid from an Island's perspective / Alteração da Pirâmide Alimentar Mediterrânea na perspectiva de uma Ilha

ABSTRACT Objective The present study aimed to determine traditional and local food consumption and adherence to the Mediterranean diet in Cyprus. And also, aimed to improve their adherence to the Mediterranean diet and traditional and local food consumption. From this point, this current study aimed to revise the Cyprus Mediterranean Diet Pyramid, based on the Current Mediterranean Diet Pyramid. Methods The sample size was calculated as a minimum of 386 according to a 95.0% confidence interval, and a 5.0% error. This study was conducted online between November 2020-April 2021 in Cyprus. All volunteers were invited to this study on the national public internet platforms. Participant´s adherence to the Mediterranean diet was determined by the Mediterranean Diet Adherence Screener. Traditional and local food consumption frequencies were determined by a Food Frequency Questionnaire. A novel Cyprus Mediterranean Diet Pyramid was developed with traditional and local food items for Cyprus. The modification was also aimed to safeguard planet health, to increase traditional food consumption and adherence to the Mediterranean diet. Results 1,007 adults (78.0% native islanders/Cypriots) participated voluntarily in the current study. The mean Mediterranean Diet Adherence Screener score was 7.55±2.30 points and only 34.4% had high adherence to the Mediterranean diet. According to their responses, there was a need to increase use of olive oil, vegetables, fruits, fish, and red wine consumption and to decrease red meat and dessert consumption. According to responses to the Mediterranean Diet Adherence Screener and their traditional/local food consumption frequencies an up-to-date Cyprus Mediterranean Diet Pyramid was done hence a national food pyramid for Cyprus. Commonly consumed traditional and local foods were added to the pyramid to facilitate increased adaptation of the Mediterranean diet in the general population. Adequately consumed foods were added to make it more region-specific and rarely consumed foods were added to help to increase consumption. Conclusion This modification is believed to be instrumental to increase Mediterranean diet adaptation, traditional/local food consumption and decrease the impact of nutrition on the planet´s health. And also, this modification can shed light on the development of the other traditional food pyramids.

RESUMO Objetivo Este estudo teve como objetivo determinar o consumo alimentar tradicional e local, bem como a adesão à dieta mediterrânea no Chipre. Também teve como objetivo melhorar a adesão à dieta mediterrânea e ao consumo de alimentos tradicionais e locais. A partir desse ponto, este trabalho atual teve como objetivo revisar a Pirâmide da Dieta Mediterrânea do Chipre, que é baseada na Pirâmide da Dieta Mediterrânea Atual. Métodos O tamanho da amostra foi calculado com um mínimo de 386 de acordo com intervalo de confiança de 95,0% e erro de 5,0%. Este estudo foi realizado online entre novembro de 2020 e abril de 2021 em Chipre. Todos os voluntários foram convidados para esta análise nas plataformas públicas nacionais de internet. A adesão dos participantes à dieta mediterrânea foi avaliada pelo Medidor de Adesão à Dieta Mediterrânea. As frequências de consumo alimentar tradicional e local foram determinadas pelo Questionário de Frequência Alimentar. Foi desenvolvida uma nova Pirâmide da Dieta Mediterrânica de e para o Chipre, com alimentos tradicionais e locais. A modificação teve também como objetivo salvaguardar a saúde do planeta, aumentar o consumo de alimentos tradicionais e a adesão à dieta mediterrânea. Resultados No total de 1.007 adultos (78,0% naturais da ilha/cipriotas) participaram voluntariamente no estudo. A pontuação média obtida no Medidor de Adesão à Dieta Mediterrânea foi de 7,55±2,30 pontos, com apenas 34,4% aderindo fortemente à dieta mediterrânea. De acordo com as suas respostas, houve necessidade de aumentar a utilização de azeite, vegetais, frutas, peixe e vinho tinto, bem como de diminuir o consumo de carnes vermelhas e sobremesas. Com base nas suas respostas ao Medidor de Adesão à Dieta Mediterrânea e as suas frequências de consumo alimentar tradicional/local, foi feita uma pirâmide da Dieta Mediterrânea do Chipre atualizada, ou seja, uma pirâmide alimentar nacional para o Chipre. Alimentos locais e regionais comumente consumidos foram adicionados à pirâmide para aumentar a adesão à dieta mediterrânea. Alimentos consumidos de acordo com as recomendações foram adicionados para torná-los específico da região, e alimentos pouco consumidos foram adicionados para ajudar a aumentar o consumo. Conclusão Acredita-se que esta modificação seja determinante para aumentar a adaptação da dieta mediterrânea e o consumo de alimentos tradicionais e locais, além de diminuir o impacto da nutrição na saúde do planeta. Ainda, essa modificação pode lançar luz sobre o desenvolvimento das outras pirâmides alimentares tradicionais.

Association between bone mineral content and dietary patterns among Brazilian adults from Viçosa, Minas Gerais: a population-based study / Associação entre conteúdo mineral ósseo e padrões alimentares em adultos de Viçosa, Minas Gerais: um estudo de base populacional

ABSTRACT Objective The aim of the study was to investigate if there is an association between dietary patterns and bone mineral content among Brazilian adults. Methods This is a cross-sectional, population-based study. Bone health was assessed using dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry. The dietary pattern was obtained using a food frequency questionnaire. An exploratory factor analysis obtained the dietary patterns. Linear regression was used for the multivariate analysis. The research was conducted with adult individuals (20-59 years old) of both sexes residing in the city of Viçosa, MG, Brazil (n=572). Results Two distinct dietary patterns were identified: a "meats and alcoholic drinks" pattern, composed of condiments, alcoholic drinks, dough-based foods, and savory snacks; and a "local traditional" pattern, composed of eggs, beans, trooper's beans, margarine, butter, olive oil, coffee and tea, cereals, and tubers (factor loadings ≥0.20). Having verified the associations considering the confounding factors, we identified that the bone mineral content for males was positively associated with the "local traditional" dietary pattern (β=0.058; 95% CI: 0.003-0.112; p=0.036), and for females an inverse association with the "meats and alcoholic drinks" pattern was found (β=-0.057; 95% CI: -0.110 -0.003; p=0.037). Conclusion We identified a positive association between the local traditional dietary pattern and bone health.

RESUMO Objetivo Investigar se há associação entre padrões alimentares e conteúdo mineral ósseo em adultos brasileiros. Métodos Este é um estudo transversal de base populacional. A saúde óssea de indivíduos adultos (20-59 anos) de ambos os sexos, residentes na cidade de Viçosa, MG, Brasil, (n=572) foi avaliada por meio da absorciometria de raios-X de dupla energia. O padrão alimentar foi obtido através de um questionário de frequência alimentar; a análise fatorial exploratória foi aplicada para obter os padrões alimentares e a regressão linear foi usada para a análise multivariada. Resultados Foram identificados dois padrões alimentares distintos: um padrão "carne e bebidas alcóolicas", composto por condimentos, bebidas alcoólicas, alimentos à base de massa e salgadinhos, e um padrão "local tradicional", composto de ovos, feijões, feijão tropeiro, margarina, manteiga, azeite, café e chá, cereais e tubérculos (cargas fatoriais ≥0,20). Verificadas as associações considerando os fatores de confusão, identificou-se que o conteúdo mineral ósseo para o sexo masculino se associou positivamente ao padrão alimentar "local tradicional" (β=0,058; 95% CI: 0,003-0,112; p=0,036), e para o sexo feminino foi encontrada associação inversa com o padrão "carne e bebidas alcóolicas" (β=-0,057; 95% CI: -0,110 -0,003; p=0,037). Conclusão Uma associação positiva entre o padrão alimentar "local tradicional" e a saúde óssea foi identificada.

Evaluation of the relationship between anxiety and nutritional habits in Turkish patients with multiple sclerosis during the Covid-19 outbreak / Avaliação da relação entre ansiedade e hábitos nutricionais em pacientes turcos com esclerose múltipla durante o surto da Covid-19

ABSTRACT Objective The Coronavirus disease 2019 is a global public health problem that has led to psychological disorders (depression, anxiety, etc.), especially in fragile individuals such as those affected by multiple sclerosis. This study investigated the relationship between anxiety and nutritional habits during the Coronavirus disease 2019 outbreak in multiple sclerosis patients. Methods This cross-sectional study was an online survey of multiple sclerosis patients living in Turkey. The total sample consisted of 294 multiple sclerosis patients. A questionnaire containing general demographic data, the Beck Anxiety Inventory, and nutritional attitudes and habits was applied to multiple sclerosis patients. Results Moderate or severe anxiety scores were found in 42.2% of multiple sclerosis patients. Weight gain was reported in 40.5% of them during the outbreak. A statistically significant difference was found in the distribution of individuals' Beck Anxiety Inventory scores for consumption of nuts/seeds, rice/pasta, cake/cookies, and water. A 1-unit increase in Beck Anxiety Inventory scores led to a 1.04 times increased consumption of bread and rice/pasta and a 1.05 times increased consumption of cake/cookies either before or after controlling for potential confounders. A 1-unit increase in Beck Anxiety Inventory scores led to a 1.06 times decreased consumption of water and a 1.04 times decreased consumption of meat and poultry, fruit (fresh), and rice/pasta, either before or after controlling for potential confounders. Conclusion During the Coronavirus disease 2019 outbreak, anxiety led to changes in multiple sclerosis patients' nutritional habits and food preferences. The continuous surveillance of psychological consequences and nutritional counseling during outbreaks should become routine as part of preparedness efforts worldwide.

RESUMO Objetivo A doença do Coronavírus - 2019, causada pelo Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2), é um problema de saúde pública global e tem levado os indivíduos desenvolverem distúrbios psicológicos (depressão, ansiedade, etc.), especialmente indivíduos frágeis, como aqueles afetados por esclerose múltipla. O objetivo deste trabalho foi investigar a relação entre ansiedade e hábitos nutricionais em pacientes com esclerose múltipla durante o surto de coronavírus. Métodos Este estudo transversal é resultado de uma pesquisa online com pacientes com esclerose múltipla que vivem na Turquia (n=294). Um formulário de questionário contendo dados demográficos gerais, o Inventário de Ansiedade de Beck e atitudes e hábitos nutricionais foi aplicado a pacientes com esclerose múltipla. Resultados Escores de ansiedade moderados ou graves foram encontrados em 42,2% dos pacientes com esclerose múltipla. O ganho de peso foi relatado em 40,5% durante o surto. Foi encontrada diferença estatisticamente significativa na distribuição dos escores do Inventário de Ansiedade de Beck dos indivíduos para o consumo de nozes/sementes, arroz/massa, bolo/biscoitos e água. Um aumento de uma unidade nas pontuações do Inventário de Ansiedade de Beck levou a um aumento de 1,04 vezes no consumo de pão e arroz/massa e 1,05 vezes no consumo de bolo/biscoitos antes ou depois de controlar possíveis fatores de confusão. Um aumento de uma unidade nas pontuações do Inventário de Ansiedade de Beck levou a uma redução de 1,06 vezes no consumo de água e 1,04 vezes no consumo de carnes e aves, frutas (frescas) e arroz/massa antes ou depois de controlar possíveis fatores de confusão. Conclusão Durante o surto de coronavírus, a ansiedade levou a mudanças nos hábitos nutricionais e nas preferências alimentares dos pacientes com esclerose múltipla. A vigilância contínua das consequências psicológicas e o aconselhamento nutricional para surtos devem se tornar rotina como parte dos esforços de preparação em todo o mundo.

'Old Is Gold': How Traditional Indian Dietary Practices Can Support Pediatric Diabetes Management.

Nutrition is crucial for maintaining normal growth, development, and glycemic control in young people with diabetes (PwD). Undue restrictions cause nutrient deficiencies as well as poor adherence to meal plans. Widespread availability of low-cost, ultra-processed, and hyperpalatable food is further damaging. Most families struggle to find ways to provide nutritious, yet attractive, food with a low glycemic index (GI). India is one of the oldest continuous civilizations with a rich and diverse cultural and culinary heritage. Traditional dietary practices, including the centuries-old 'Thali' (meaning plate) concept, emphasize combinations (grains, lentils, vegetables, dairy, spices, prebiotics and probiotics, and fats) of local, seasonal, and predominantly plant-based ingredients. These practices ensure that all of the necessary food groups are provided and fit well with current evidence-based recommendations, including the International Society for Pediatric and Adolescent Diabetes (ISPAD) 2018 Guidelines. Techniques for the preparation, cooking, and preservation of food further impact the GI and nutrient availability. These practices benefit nutrient density, diet diversity, and palatability and thus improve adherence to meal plans and glycemic control. This narrative review describes the ancient wisdom, food composition, and culinary practices from across India which are still valuable today. These may be of benefit worldwide to improve glycemic control as well as quality of life, especially in PwD.

Reduced Rank Regression-Derived Dietary Patterns Related to the Fatty Liver Index and Associations with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus among Ghanaian Populations under Transition: The RODAM Study.

The Fatty Liver Index (FLI) is a proxy for the steatotic component of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). For sub-Saharan African populations, the contribution of dietary factors to the development of NAFLD in the etiology of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) remains to be clarified. We identified sex-specific dietary patterns (DPs) related to the FLI using reduced ranked regression (RRR) and evaluated the associations of these DPs with T2DM. This analysis used data from the RODAM, a multi-center cross-sectional study of Ghanaian populations living in Ghana and Europe. The daily intake frequencies of 30 food groups served as the predictor variables, while the FLI was the response variable. The odds ratios and 95% confidence intervals for T2DM were calculated per one standard deviation increase in the DP score using logistic regression. In males, the DP score explained 9.9% of the variation in their food intake and 16.0% of the variation in the FLI. This DP was characterized by high intakes of poultry, whole-grain cereals, coffee and tea, condiments, and potatoes, and the chance of T2DM was 45% higher per 1 DP score-SD (Model 2). Our results indicate that the intake of modernized foods was associated with proxies of NAFLD, possibly underlying the metabolic pathways to developing T2DM.

Interactions between Polygenic Risk Scores, Dietary Pattern, and Menarche Age with the Obesity Risk in a Large Hospital-Based Cohort.

Obese Asians are more susceptible to metabolic diseases than obese Caucasians of the same body mass index (BMI). We hypothesized that the genetic variants associated with obesity risk interact with the lifestyles of middle-aged and elderly adults, possibly allowing the development of personalized interventions based on genotype. We aimed to examine this hypothesis in a large city hospital-based cohort in Korea. The participants with cancers, thyroid diseases, chronic kidney disease, or brain-related diseases were excluded. The participants were divided into case and control according to their BMI: ≥25 kg/m2 (case; n = 17,545) and <25 kg/m2 (control; n = 36,283). The genetic variants that affected obesity risk were selected using a genome-wide association study, and the genetic variants that interacted with each other were identified by generalized multifactor dimensionality reduction analysis. The selected genetic variants were confirmed in the Ansan/Ansung cohort, and polygenetic risk scores (PRS)-nutrient interactions for obesity risk were determined. A high BMI was associated with a high-fat mass (odds ratio (OR) = 20.71) and a high skeletal muscle-mass index (OR = 3.38). A high BMI was positively related to metabolic syndrome and its components, including lipid profiles, whereas the initial menstruation age was inversely associated with a high BMI (OR = 0.78). The best model with 5-SNPs included SEC16B_rs543874, DNAJC27_rs713586, BDNF_rs6265, MC4R_rs6567160, and GIPR_rs1444988703. The high PRS with the 5-SNP model was positively associated with an obesity risk of 1.629 (1.475-1.798) after adjusting for the covariates. The 5-SNP model interacted with the initial menstruation age, fried foods, and plant-based diet for BMI risk. The participants with a high PRS also had a higher obesity risk when combined with early menarche, low plant-based diet, and a high fried-food intake than in participants with late menarche, high plant-based diet, and low fried-food intake. In conclusion, people with a high PRS and earlier menarche age are recommended to consume fewer fried foods and a more plant-based diet to decrease obesity risk. This result can be applied to personalized nutrition for preventing obesity.

A Healthy Diet Is Not More Expensive than Less Healthy Options: Cost-Analysis of Different Dietary Patterns in Mexican Children and Adolescents.

Unhealthy diets are recognized as a major risk factor for many diseases. The decrease in costs of industrialized products, as well as the possible misinformation about a healthy diet, has led to new behaviors in the dietary patterns of the pediatric population. The costs of dietary patterns have not been estimated in our population, so the objective of this study was to determine the cost associated with dietary patterns in Mexican children and adolescents, hypothesizing that a healthy diet is not necessarily more economically expensive. This study analyzed data from a population-based cross-sectional study of healthy children and adolescents in Mexico City. Data were collected from a food frequency questionnaire and the meal cost of habitual food shopping. Eating patterns were obtained by using principal component analysis. A micro-costing technique was performed to obtain the direct costs of each pattern. When comparing the healthy pattern with the transition and non-healthy patterns, it was observed that there were no statistically significant differences between the dietary patterns (p = 0.8293). The cost of the healthy pattern only takes up 16.6% of the total biweekly income of a salaried Mexican. In this study, no differences were observed between the costs of a healthy and a less healthy diet.

Subjective Social Status Is Associated with Dysregulated Eating Behaviors and Greater Body Mass Index in an Urban Predominantly Black and Low-Income Sample.

BACKGROUND: Higher subjective social status (SSS) or a person's perception of their social standing is related to better health outcomes, but few studies examined SSS in relation to obesity. Emotional eating and food addiction have been linked to obesity. Some studies indicated that manipulating SSS may lead to altered food intake, but the relationship between SSS and dysregulated eating, such as emotional eating and food addiction (FA), has not been examined. The goal of this study was to examine the associations between SSS in the community and the larger society, dysregulated eating (emotional eating and FA), and body mass index (BMI) in a majority racial minority sample. METHODS: The participants (N = 89; 93% Black, 86% women, and 56% with obesity; 72% income lower than USD 2000), recruited from a publicly funded hospital in Atlanta, GA, completed the MacArthur Scale, Dutch Eating Behaviors Questionnaire, Yale Food Addiction Scale, Beck Depression Inventory, PTSD Symptom Checklist, and demographics questionnaire. RESULTS: Twenty-two percent of the sample met the criteria for FA; those with FA had significantly higher BMI than those without (p = 0.018). In the hierarchical linear regression, the SSS community (but not in society) predicted higher severity of emotional eating (ß = 0.26, p = 0.029) and FA (ß = 0.30, p = 0.029), and higher BMI (ß = 0.28, p = 0.046), independent from depression and PTSD symptoms. CONCLUSIONS: The findings indicate that, among Black individuals with predominantly low income in the U.S., perceived role in their community is associated with eating patterns and body mass. Given the small sample size, the results should be interpreted with caution.

Analysis of Eating Habits and Body Composition of Young Adult Poles.

BACKGROUND: Obesity and overweight affect a large proportion of the world's population. Increasingly, this problem can be observed among young adults. The aim of the study was to identify the motivations and barriers to healthy eating habits among young Poles, the relationship between physical activity and healthy eating and the impact of healthy eating on the body composition of the young. METHODS: The method used in the research was a diagnostic survey using direct personal interviews. The research was conducted in the years 2016-2019 on a group of 399 young Poles aged 18-26. Their body composition was analyzed by determining resistance and reactance using the biological impedance method, with a TANITA SC-330ST Body Composition Analyzer. RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: The main reasons for healthy eating among young Poles are the intent to follow a doctor's recommendations, to lose weight and to live a healthy lifestyle and to follow a trend. On the other hand, the largest barriers to proper nutrition are: lack of time to prepare healthy meals and of financial resources, inability to prepare meals and limited knowledge of the principles of healthy eating. The eating behavior varied significantly in relation to the physical activity of the respondents. Active people's eating habits were the best, and those of sedentary people the worst. Healthy eaters also had normal body composition indicators (adipose tissue level, BMI, body type). Young adults should be educated on the principles of healthy eating and have access to healthy food in canteens and vending machines, both at work and at university.

Trajectories of Energy Intake Distribution and Risk of Dyslipidemia: Findings from the China Health and Nutrition Survey (1991-2018).

Few studies have examined the secular trend of energy intake distribution. This study aims to describe trajectories of energy intake distribution and determine their association with dyslipidemia risk. Data of 2843 adult participants from the China Health and Nutrition Survey (CHNS) were analyzed. Trajectory groups of energy intake distribution were identified by multi-trajectory model over 27 years. Multilevel mixed-effects modified Poisson regression with robust estimation of variance was used to calculate risk ratio for incident dyslipidemia in a 9-year follow-up. Four trajectory groups were identified: "Energy evenly distributed group" (Group 1), "Lunch and dinner energy dominant group" (Group 2), "Dinner energy dominant group" (Group 3), "breakfast and dinner energy dominant group" (Group 4). Compared with Group 1, Group 3 was associated with higher risk of dyslipidemia (RR = 1.48, 95% CI = 1.26, 1.75), hypercholesterolemia (RR = 1.96, 95% CI = 1.37, 2.81) and high low-density lipoproteins cholesterols (LDL-C) (RR = 2.41, 95% CI = 1.82, 3.20). A U-shape was observed between cumulative average proportion of dinner energy and dyslipidemia risk (p for non-linear = 0.01), with stronger relationship at 40% and above. Energy intake distribution characterized by higher proportion of dinner energy, especially over 40% was associated with higher dyslipidemia risk in Chinese adults.

Hábitos alimentarios en adolescentes de las comunidades del Valle del Chota. Imbabura-Ecuador, 2019 / Eating habits in adolescents from valle del chota communities. Imbabura-ecuador, 2019

Fundamentos: Los hábitos alimentarios son comportamientos inconscientes repetitivos de una pauta aprendida, transmitida por las generaciones e integrada en un modo de vida, que ante el gusto por un alimento o sabor tiende amostrar determinados patrones alimentarios (qué comer, cantidades y frecuencia). El aprendizaje se inicia antes del nacimiento y se marca por prácticas de alimentación tempranas junto con las desarrolladas a lo largo de la vida. Este estudio describe los hábitos alimentarios de los adolescentes de las comunidades del Valle del Chota en Ecuador. Métodos: Estudio descriptivo transversal, realizado con una muestra no probabilística de 383 adolescentes de entre10 a 19 años de edad, pertenecientes a comunidades del Valle del Chota. Resultados: El 40% consume leche diariamente; el 63%pollo entre una y más de cuatro veces por semana; 33% consumo mensual de pescado; 7,2% verduras y hortalizas entre dos y tres veces al día; 26% consume frutas diariamente;22,7% legumbres de dos a tres veces por semana. También se detectó un consumo diario de pan, cereales, tubérculos, aceites, dulces y snacks. Conclusiones: Los adolescentes presentan alto consumo de azúcar y dulces (hidratos de carbono refinados) al igual que aceites, grasas, pollo, lácteos; mientras que el consumo de verduras y hortalizas es bajo. (AU)

Background: Eating habits are repetitive unconscious behaviors of a learned pattern, transmitted by generations and integrated into a way of life, which tends to show certain eating patterns (what to eat, quantities and frequency) when faced with a taste for a food or flavor. Learning begins before birth and is marked by early feeding practices and those developed during life. This study determines eating habits in adolescents from the communities of Valle del Chota in Ecuador. Methods: Descriptive cross-sectional study, carried outwith a non-probabilistic sample of 383 adolescents ranged between 10 and 19 years old, belonging to communities ofthe Valle del Chota. Results: 40% consume milk daily; 63% chicken between one and more than four times a week; 33% monthly fish consumption; 7.2% vegetables between two and three times a day; 26% consume fruits daily; 22.7% legumes two to three times a week. A daily consumption of bread, cereals, tubers, oils, sweets and snacks was also detected. Conclusions: Adolescents have high consumption of sugar and sweets (refined carbohydrates) as well as oils, fats, chicken, dairy; while the consumption of greens and vegetables is low. (AU)