AI4FoodDB: a database for personalized e-Health nutrition and lifestyle through wearable devices and artificial intelligence.

The increasing prevalence of diet-related diseases calls for an improvement in nutritional advice. Personalized nutrition aims to solve this problem by adapting dietary and lifestyle guidelines to the unique circumstances of each individual. With the latest advances in technology and data science, researchers can now automatically collect and analyze large amounts of data from a variety of sources, including wearable and smart devices. By combining these diverse data, more comprehensive insights of the human body and its diseases can be achieved. However, there are still major challenges to overcome, including the need for more robust data and standardization of methodologies for better subject monitoring and assessment. Here, we present the AI4Food database (AI4FoodDB), which gathers data from a nutritional weight loss intervention monitoring 100 overweight and obese participants during 1 month. Data acquisition involved manual traditional approaches, novel digital methods and the collection of biological samples, obtaining: (i) biological samples at the beginning and the end of the intervention, (ii) anthropometric measurements every 2 weeks, (iii) lifestyle and nutritional questionnaires at two different time points and (iv) continuous digital measurements for 2 weeks. To the best of our knowledge, AI4FoodDB is the first public database that centralizes food images, wearable sensors, validated questionnaires and biological samples from the same intervention. AI4FoodDB thus has immense potential for fostering the advancement of automatic and novel artificial intelligence techniques in the field of personalized care. Moreover, the collected information will yield valuable insights into the relationships between different variables and health outcomes, allowing researchers to generate and test new hypotheses, identify novel biomarkers and digital endpoints, and explore how different lifestyle, biological and digital factors impact health. The aim of this article is to describe the datasets included in AI4FoodDB and to outline the potential that they hold for precision health research. Database URL https://github.com/AI4Food/AI4FoodDB.

Dietary and Physical Activity Habits as Conditioning Factors of Nutritional Status among Children of GENYAL Study.

Excess weight (EW) in children has become a severe public health problem. The present study aimed to describe the main lifestyle characteristics and their possible association with nutritional status in a group of schoolchildren enrolled in the GENYAL study, where 221 children in the first or second grade of primary education (6-9 years old) were included. Anthropometric (BMI and bioimpedance), dietary intake (twice-repeated 24 h food record), and physical activity (twice-repeated 24 h physical activity questionnaire) data were collected. Logistic and linear regressions, with p-values adjusted for multiple tests by Bonferroni's method and with sex and age as covariates, were applied. The prevalence of EW was 19%, 25.4%, and 32.2%, according to Orbegozo Foundation, IOFT, and WHO criteria, respectively. The results showed a significant association between schoolchildren's nutritional status and energy balance, defined as the ratio of estimated energy intake to estimated energy expenditure (%), (ß = -1.49 (-1.9-1.07), p < 0.01) and KIDMED Mediterranean Diet Quality Index score (ß = -0.19 (95% IC -0.38-0), p = 0.04), and between the availability of TV or other technological devices in their room and the child's BMI (ß = 1.15 (95% IC 0.20-2.10), p = 0.017) and their fat mass (ß = 3.28 (95% IC 0.69-5.87), p = 0.013). The number of dairy servings/day had a protective effect against EW (OR = 0.48 (0.29-0.75), p adjusted = 0.05)). Studying lifestyle factors associated with obesity is essential for developing tools and strategies for obesity prevention in children.

Folliculin-interacting protein FNIP2 impacts on overweight and obesity through a polymorphism in a conserved 3' untranslated region.

BACKGROUND: Overweight and obesity are defined by an anomalous or excessive fat accumulation that may compromise health. To find single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) influencing metabolic phenotypes associated with the obesity state, we analyze multiple anthropometric and clinical parameters in a cohort of 790 healthy volunteers and study potential associations with 48 manually curated SNPs, in metabolic genes functionally associated with the mechanistic target of rapamycin (mTOR) pathway. RESULTS: We identify and validate rs2291007 within a conserved region in the 3'UTR of folliculin-interacting protein FNIP2 that correlates with multiple leanness parameters. The T-to-C variant represents the major allele in Europeans and disrupts an ancestral target sequence of the miRNA miR-181b-5p, thus resulting in increased FNIP2 mRNA levels in cancer cell lines and in peripheral blood from carriers of the C allele. Because the miRNA binding site is conserved across vertebrates, we engineered the T-to-C substitution in the endogenous Fnip2 allele in mice. Primary cells derived from Fnip2 C/C mice show increased mRNA stability, and more importantly, Fnip2 C/C mice replicate the decreased adiposity and increased leanness observed in human volunteers. Finally, expression levels of FNIP2 in both human samples and mice negatively associate with leanness parameters, and moreover, are the most important contributor in a multifactorial model of body mass index prediction. CONCLUSIONS: We propose that rs2291007 influences human leanness through an evolutionarily conserved modulation of FNIP2 mRNA levels.

Lunularin Producers versus Non-producers: Novel Human Metabotypes Associated with the Metabolism of Resveratrol by the Gut Microbiota.

We describe here for the first time the consistent observation of two metabotypes associated with resveratrol metabolism by the human gut microbiota, that is, lunularin (LUNU)-producers and LUNU non-producers. In healthy volunteers (n = 195), resveratrol was reduced to dihydroresveratrol, which only in the LUNU-producer metabotype was sequentially dehydroxylated at the 5-position to yield LUNU and the 3-position to produce 4-hydroxydibenzyl. These metabolites (also 3,4'-dihydroxy-trans-stilbene in some LUNU-producers) were detected in the urine and (or) feces of 74% of volunteers after consuming resveratrol, while 26% lacked these dehydroxylase activities. The LUNU non-producer metabotype was more prevalent in females (P < 0.05) but independent of individuals' BMI and age. A 4-styrylphenol reductase in both metabotypes converted stilbenes to their corresponding dibenzyls, while no 4-dehydroxylation in stilbenes or dibenzyls was observed. 4-Hydroxy-trans-stilbene, pinosylvin, dihydropinosylvin, 3-hydroxydibenzyl, and 3-hydroxy-trans-stilbene were not detected in vivo or in vitro. Further research on LUNU metabotypes, their associated gut microbiota, and their impact on health is worthwhile.

[Childhood obesity as a health priority. Guidelines for improving weight control]. / La obesidad infantil como prioridad sanitaria. Pautas en la mejora del control de peso.

Introduction: Childhood obesity is a growing concern, because the problem affects a high percentage of children and is the source of many diseases in the present and in the future, which can lead to a decrease in life expectancy and quality of life. In order to combat the problem, it is necessary to analyze the factors associated with excess weight in childhood in order to act on them and try to curb the trend observed in recent years. Various socio-demographic aspects, as well as inactivity and sedentary lifestyle in children are factors that are associated with an increased risk of obesity and central adiposity. With great prominence in this issue, we have to highlight that the consumption of food is improvable: decrease the consumption of sugar, fat and sodium, and above all increase the consumption of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, fish, dairy is associated with lower obesity and central obesity in children. There is no single responsible for the problem and the interaction between healthy behaviors increases the chances of success in the fight against childhood obesity, which should be considered when planning nutritional education campaigns. Many aspects of the diet and lifestyle of the child population must be improved, perhaps now more emphasis is being placed on restrictive guidelines. Of course, it is desirable to reduce the consumption of sweets and snacks, but messages aimed at increasing the consumption of vegetables, fruits, whole grains and approximating the diet to the theoretical ideal can be prioritized. Constructive guidelines should stand out from restrictive ones.

Introducción: La obesidad infantil es objeto de preocupación creciente, porque el problema afecta a un elevado porcentaje de niños y es el origen de numerosas enfermedades en el presente y en el futuro, pudiendo condicionar un descenso en la esperanza y calidad de vida. Para combatir el problema es necesario analizar los factores que se asocian con el exceso de peso en la infancia para actuar sobre ellos e intentar frenar la tendencia observada en los últimos años. Diversos aspectos sociodemográficos, así como la inactividad y el sedentarismo de los niños son factores que se asocian con mayor riesgo de padecimiento de obesidad y adiposidad central. Con gran protagonismo en este tema debe destacarse que el consumo de alimentos es mejorable: disminuir el consumo de azúcar, grasa y sodio, y sobre todo aumentar el consumo de frutas, verduras, cereales integrales, pescado, lácteos se asocia con menor padecimiento de obesidad y obesidad central en los niños. Pero no hay un único responsable del problema y la interacción entre conductas saludables aumenta las posibilidades de éxito en la lucha contra la obesidad infantil, lo que debe ser considerado al planificar campañas de educación nutricional. Se deben mejorar numerosos aspectos de la alimentación y estilo de vida de la población infantil, quizá en este momento se hace más hincapié en pautas restrictivas, aunque es muy conveniente reducir el consumo de dulces y snacks, resulta muy deseable y quizá prioritario el aumentar el consumo de verduras, hortalizas, frutas, cereales integrales y aproximar la dieta al ideal teórico. Las pautas constructivas deberían destacar respecto a las restrictivas.

"GENYAL" Study to Childhood Obesity Prevention: Methodology and Preliminary Results.

Objective: This article describes the methodology and summarizes some preliminary results of the GENYAL study aiming to design and validate a predictive model, considering both environmental and genetic factors, that identifies children who would benefit most from actions aimed at reducing the risk of obesity and its complications. Design: The study is a cluster randomized clinical trial with 5-year follow-up. The initial evaluation was carried out in 2017. The schools were randomly split into intervention (nutritional education) and control schools. Anthropometric measurements, social and health as well as dietary and physical activity data of schoolchildren and their families are annually collected. A total of 26 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) were assessed. Machine Learning models are being designed to predict obesity phenotypes after the 5-year follow-up. Settings: Six schools in Madrid. Participants: A total of 221 schoolchildren (6-8 years old). Results: Collected results show that the prevalence of excess weight was 19.0, 25.4, and 32.2% (according to World Health Organization, International Obesity Task Force and Orbegozo Foundation criteria, respectively). Associations between the nutritional state of children with mother BMI [ß = 0.21 (0.13-0.3), p (adjusted) <0.001], geographical location of the school [OR = 2.74 (1.24-6.22), p (adjusted) = 0.06], dairy servings per day [OR = 0.48 (0.29-0.75), p (adjusted) = 0.05] and 8 SNPs [rs1260326, rs780094, rs10913469, rs328, rs7647305, rs3101336, rs2568958, rs925946; p (not adjusted) <0.05] were found. Conclusions: These baseline data support the evidence that environmental and genetic factors play a role in the development of childhood obesity. After 5-year follow-up, the GENYAL study pretends to validate the predictive model as a new strategy to fight against obesity. Clinical Trial Registration: This study has been registered in ClinicalTrials.gov with the identifier NCT03419520, https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT03419520.

La obesidad infantil como prioridad sanitaria. Pautas en la mejora del control de peso / Childhood obesity as a health priority. Guidelines for improving weight control

La obesidad infantil es objeto de preocupación creciente, ya que es un problema que afecta a un elevado porcentaje de niños y es el origen de numerosas enfermedades en el presente y en el futuro, lo que puede condicionar un descenso en la esperanza y en la calidad de vida. Para combatir el problema es necesario analizar los factores que se asocian con el exceso de peso en la infancia para actuar sobre ellos e intentar frenar la tendencia observada en los últimos años. Diversos aspectos sociodemográficos, así como la inactividad y el sedentarismo de los niños, son factores que se asocian con un mayor riesgo de padecer obesidad y adiposidad central.Con gran protagonismo en este tema debe destacarse que el consumo de alimentos es mejorable: disminuir el consumo de azúcar, grasa y sodio, y sobre todo aumentar el de frutas, verduras, cereales integrales, pescado y lácteos, se asocia con menor padecimiento de obesidad y obesidad central en los niños.Pero no hay un único responsable del problema y la interacción entre conductas saludables aumenta las posibilidades de éxito en la lucha contra la obesidad infantil, lo que debe considerarse al planificar campañas de educación nutricional.Deben mejorarse numerosos aspectos de la alimentación y del estilo de vida de la población infantil. Quizá en este momento se hace más hincapié en pautas restrictivas. Aunque es muy conveniente reducir el consumo de dulces y de snacks, resulta muy deseable y quizá prioritario aumentar el consumo de verduras, hortalizas, frutas, cereales integrales y aproximar la dieta al ideal teórico. Las pautas constructivas deberían destacar respecto a las restrictivas. (AU)

Childhood obesity is a growing concern, because the problem affects a high percentage of children and is the source of many diseases in the present and in the future, which can lead to a decrease in life expectancy and quality of life. In order to combat the problem, it is necessary to analyze the factors associated with excess weight in childhood in order to act on them and try to curb the trend observed in recent years.Various socio-demographic aspects, as well as inactivity and sedentary lifestyle in children are factors that are associated with an increased risk of obesity and central adiposity.With great prominence in this issue, we have to highlight that the consumption of food is improvable: decrease the consumption of sugar, fat and sodium, and above all increase the consumption of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, fish, dairy is associated with lower obesity and central obesity in children.There is no single responsible for the problem and the interaction between healthy behaviors increases the chances of success in the fight against childhood obesity, which should be considered when planning nutritional education campaigns. Many aspects of the diet and lifestyle of the child population must be improved, perhaps now more emphasis is being placed on restrictive guidelines. Of course, it is desirable to reduce the consumption of sweets and snacks, but messages aimed at increasing the consumption of vegetables, fruits, whole grains and approximating the diet to the theoretical ideal can be prioritized. Constructive guidelines should stand out from restrictive ones. (AU)

BDNF Gene as a Precision Skill of Obesity Management.

The scarcity of the results obtained for the treatment of obesity leads us to consider new strategies, contemplating all the factors involved in the development of the disease. One of the key molecules for controlling body weight and energy homeostasis is the brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF). This work summarizes the mechanisms in which BDNF gene regulates this multifactorial disease. In addition, we discuss the role of other BDNF polymorphisms as genetic determinants of obesity. In this context, a total of 14 SNPs near or inside BDNF/BDNF-AS related to BMI were identified in various GWASs. Finally, we assess gene-diet interaction as a novel tool to prevent obesity and formulate solid and personalized nutritional management. Our research group has performed the first study on the association of BDNF-AS rs925946 polymorphism and calcium intake as potential modulators of the nutritional status. Although these results should be confirmed in future studies, they open the path for new prevention opportunities.

Ranking of a wide multidomain set of predictor variables of children obesity by machine learning variable importance techniques.

The increased prevalence of childhood obesity is expected to translate in the near future into a concomitant soaring of multiple cardio-metabolic diseases. Obesity has a complex, multifactorial etiology, that includes multiple and multidomain potential risk factors: genetics, dietary and physical activity habits, socio-economic environment, lifestyle, etc. In addition, all these factors are expected to exert their influence through a specific and especially convoluted way during childhood, given the fast growth along this period. Machine Learning methods are the appropriate tools to model this complexity, given their ability to cope with high-dimensional, non-linear data. Here, we have analyzed by Machine Learning a sample of 221 children (6-9 years) from Madrid, Spain. Both Random Forest and Gradient Boosting Machine models have been derived to predict the body mass index from a wide set of 190 multidomain variables (including age, sex, genetic polymorphisms, lifestyle, socio-economic, diet, exercise, and gestation ones). A consensus relative importance of the predictors has been estimated through variable importance measures, implemented robustly through an iterative process that included permutation and multiple imputation. We expect this analysis will help to shed light on the most important variables associated to childhood obesity, in order to choose better treatments for its prevention.

[Menstrual disorders: what we know about dietary-nutritional therapy]. / Desórdenes menstruales: lo que sabemos de la terapia dietética-nutricional.

INTRODUCTION: The reproductive age of a woman comprises a large part of her life. Suffering from menstrual disorders, such as dysmenorrhea, endometriosis and premenstrual syndrome (PMS), can have serious implications in the lives of those suffering them, so it is important to diagnose these problems and treat them in the most appropriate way. In the diagnosis of these problems it is important to carry out a rigorous medical history, in which a complete menstrual history is collected. Analgesic and hormonal pharmacological treatment, dietary therapy, surgery or alternative therapies may be included within the approach of these conditions. Regarding diet, this seems to be an important modulating factor, without having studied with sufficient scientific rigor the real effect it causes in women suffering from menstrual disorders. It is advisable to study each case individually and adapt the dietary-nutritional therapy. In endometriosis, for example, any additional problems such as fertility problems or immune diseases must be considered. In general, it is recommended to follow a healthy eating pattern, in which fresh unprocessed foods predominate, and avoid those rich in refined carbohydrates or fats, salt, alcohol and stimulating beverages. The efficacy of food supplements requires further research, although the positive effect of evening primrose oil on PMS appears to be a proven fact.

INTRODUCCIÓN: La etapa fértil de la mujer comprende gran parte de su vida. El padecimiento de desórdenes menstruales, como dismenorrea, endometriosis y síndrome premenstrual (SPM), puede suponer graves implicaciones en la vida de las que lo sufren, por lo que es importante diagnosticar y tratarlos del modo más adecuado. En la diagnosis es importante realizar una rigurosa historia clínica donde se recoja una anamnesis menstrual completa. Dentro del abordaje de estas afecciones pueden incluirse el tratamiento farmacológico analgésico y hormonal, la dietoterapia, cirugía o prácticas alternativas. Aunque la alimentación parece ser un factor modulador importante, no se ha estudiado con suficiente rigurosidad científica el efecto real que provoca en mujeres con alteraciones menstruales. Se aconseja estudiar cada caso de manera individual y adaptar la pauta dietética-nutricional. En endometriosis, por ejemplo, deberá considerarse de manera adicional si existen problemas de fertilidad o enfermedades de índole inmunitario. En líneas generales, se recomienda seguir un patrón de alimentación saludable, en el que predominen los alimentos frescos no procesados, y evitar los ricos en hidratos de carbono refinados o grasas, sal, alcohol y bebidas estimulantes. La eficacia de los suplementos alimentarios requiere mayor investigación, aunque el efecto positivo del aceite de onagra en el SPM parece ser un hecho probado.

Food Implications in Central Sensitization Syndromes.

Fibromyalgia (FM), chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) and multiple chemical sensitivity (MCS) are some of the central sensitization syndromes (CSSs). The complexity of their diagnosis, the high interindividual heterogeneity and the existence of multi-syndromic patients requires a multifaceted treatment. The scientific literature is contradictory regarding the role of food in CSS, and evidence on the role of nutrition in MCS is particularly scarce. This review consists in gathering information about the current status of dietary recommendations (i.e., special dietary interventions, the role of additives, presence of micronutrient deficiencies, nutritional supplements and elimination of other nutrients and substances) and discussing the scientific evidence in depth to shed light on appropriate nutritional treatment managements for CSS patients. Current indications show that dietary modifications may vastly improve the patients' quality of life at a low cost. We suggest personalized treatment, taking into consideration the severity of the disease symptoms, quality of life, coexistence with other diseases, pharmacological treatment, changing clinical characteristics, nutritional status, energy requirements and food tolerances, among others, as the best ways to tailor specific dietary interventions. These approaches will partially overcome the lack of scientific and clinical research on MSC. Patients should also be advised on the serious consequences of following dietary guidelines without a dietitian's and clinician's supervision.

A Potential Endurance Algorithm Prediction in the Field of Sports Performance.

Sport performance is influenced by several factors, including genetic susceptibility. In the past years, specific single nucleotide polymorphisms have been associated to sport performance; however, these effects should be considered in multivariable prediction systems since they are related to a polygenic inheritance. The aim of this study was to design a genetic endurance prediction score (GES) of endurance performance and analyze its association with anthropometric, nutritional and sport efficiency variables in a cross-sectional study within fifteen male cyclists. A statistically significant positive relationship between GES and the VO2 maximum (P = 0.033), VO2 VT1 (P = 0.049) and VO2 VT2 (P < 0.001) was observed. Moreover, additional remarkable associations between genotype and the anthropometric, nutritional and sport performance variables, were achieved. In addition, an interesting link between the habit of consuming caffeinated beverages and the GES was observed. The outcomes of the present study indicate a potential use of this genetic prediction algorithm in the sports' field, which may facilitate the finding of genetically talented athletes, improve their training and food habits, as well as help in the improvement of physical conditions of amateurs.

The Q223R Polymorphism of the Leptin Receptor Gene as a Predictor of Weight Gain in Childhood Obesity and the Identification of Possible Factors Involved.

(1) Background: Childhood rapid weight gain during development has been postulated as a predictor of obesity. The objective of this study was to investigate the effect of single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) on the annual weight gain and height growth, as well as identifying possible lifestyle factors involved. (2) Methods: As part of the GENYAL study, 221 children (6-8 years old) of Madrid (Spain) were enrolled. A total of 11 SNPs associated with high childhood body mass indexes (BMIs) were assessed. Anthropometric measurements, dietary and physical activity data, were collected in 2017 and 2018. Bonferroni-corrected linear models were used to fit the data. (3) Results: A significant association between the Q223R LEPR and the weight growth was found, showing a different behavior between GA and GG genotypes (p = 0.001). Regarding lifestyle factors, an interaction between Q223R genotypes and total active weekly hours/week to predict the weight growth (kg/year) was observed (p = 0.023). In all the genotypes, a beneficial effect against rapid weight growth was observed, but the effect size of the interaction was much more significant in homozygous (GG) minor homozygous (ß = -0.61 (-0.95, -0.26) versus heterozygous (AG) and wild-type homozygous (AA) genotypes (ß = -0.07 (-0.24, 0.09) and ß = -0.12 (-0.32, 0.08), respectively). (4) Conclusions: These results may contribute to more personalized recommendations to prevent childhood obesity.

Polymorphism of CLOCK Gene rs3749474 as a Modulator of the Circadian Evening Carbohydrate Intake Impact on Nutritional Status in an Adult Sample.

The aim of this study was to evaluate the distribution of energy intake and macronutrients consumption throughout the day, and how its effect on nutritional status can be modulated by the presence of the rs3749474 polymorphism of the CLOCK gene in the Cantoblanco Platform for Nutritional Genomics ("GENYAL Platform"). This cross-sectional study was carried out on 898 volunteers between 18 and 69 years old (65.5% women). Anthropometric measurements, social issues and health, dietary, biochemical, genetic, and physical activity data were collected. Subsequently, 21 statistical interaction models were designed to predict the body mass index (BMI) considering seven dietary variables analyzed by three genetic models (adjusted by age, sex, and physical activity). The average BMI was 26.9 ± 4.65 kg/m2, 62.14% presented an excess weight (BMI > 25 kg/m2). A significant interaction was observed between the presence of the rs3749474 polymorphism and the evening carbohydrate intake (% of the total daily energy intake [%TEI]) (adjusted p = 0.046), when predicting the BMI. Participants carrying TT/CT genotype showed a positive association between the evening carbohydrate intake (%TEI) and BMI (ß = 0.3379, 95% CI = (0.1689,0.5080)) and (ß = 0.1529, 95% CI = (-0.0164,0.3227)), respectively, whereas the wild type allele (CC) showed a negative association (ß = -0.0321, 95% CI = (-0.1505,0.0862)). No significant interaction with the remaining model variables was identified. New dietary strategies may be implemented to schedule the circadian distribution of macronutrients according to the genotype. Clinical Trial number: NCT04067921.

Association of calcium and dairy product consumption with childhood obesity and the presence of a Brain Derived Neurotropic Factor-Antisense (BDNF-AS) polymorphism.

BACKGROUND & AIMS: Calcium and dairy products have multiple health benefits. The objective of this work was to evaluate the association between calcium/dairy intake, blood pressure, the BDNF-AS rs925946 polymorphism and nutritional status in a group of schoolchildren. METHODS: As part of the GENYAL study to childhood obesity prevention, 221 children belonging to different areas of the Community of Madrid were enrolled. Anthropometric and dietary data were collected, and children were genotyped according to the rs925946 polymorphism. Adjusted logistic and linear models were used to describe the data. RESULTS: A significantly lower consumption of calcium in overweight versus normal weight children was observed (811.0 ± 174.1; 859.0 ± 195.9; 954.0 ± 223.1 mg; for obesity, overweight and normal weight, respectively, p = 0.010). Moreover, an inverse association between blood pressures and calcium intake was detected (ß = -0.006 (-0.011, -3e-4)), p = 0.040. The number of dairy servings/day showed a protective effect against overweight (OR = 0.48 (0.29, 0.75), p = 0.001). Finally, common homozygous children (GG) showed an inverse association between the calcium intake and the BMI (ß = -0.003 (-0.006, -0.001), p = 0.004), which was not observed in children carrying the T allele (ß = -1.3e-4 (-0.0022, 0.0024), p = 0.93). CONCLUSION: Calcium and dairy were strongly associated with the nutritional status and blood pressure. The identification of differential effects of calcium/dairy consumption on the nutritional status according to genetics may contribute to the personalization of future nutritional advice. TRIAL REGISTRATION: This study is registered at www.clinicaltrials.govNCT03419520.

Características y condicionantes de la ingesta dietética y actividad física en un grupo de pacientes diagnosticados de sensibilidad química múltiple / Characteristics and determinants of dietary intake and physical activity in a group of patients with multiple chemical sensitivity

Antecedentes y objetivo: La sensibilidad química múltiple (SQM) es un síndrome complejo, adquirido, crónico y multifactorial, con amplia sintomatología. El objetivo del presente estudio fue conocer los hábitos alimentarios, las características dietéticas y la actividad física, así como sus condicionantes en un colectivo afectado de SQM, lo que permitirá un abordaje más preciso para la mejora de su estado nutricional. Pacientes y método: Estudio descriptivo y transversal en pacientes con SQM. Se recogió información mediante cuestionarios adaptados sobre presencia de comorbilidades, hábitos dietéticos (consumo de complementos/suplementos, tipos de dietas) y de compra, así como registro de ingesta dietética, intolerancias alimentarias y actividad física. Resultados: Se incluyó a 52 pacientes (48 mujeres) de 50,9 ± 10,3 años de edad media. Fue habitual el diagnóstico conjunto de SQM con síndrome de fatiga crónica (70,1%), fibromialgia (65,4%) o electrosensibilidad (51,9%). Las comorbilidades más frecuentes fueron colon irritable, reflujo gastroesofágico y depresión/trastorno ansioso-depresivo. El 57,7% seguía regímenes de exclusión. El 52,1% consumía complementos/suplementos habitualmente (6,4 ± 5,2 por persona) y el 16,0% tomaba más de 10 diarios. Fue elevado el porcentaje de voluntarios que no alcanzó las raciones aconsejadas de lácteos (84,3%), frutas (82,3%) y cereales (64,7%), coincidiendo con los alimentos con mayor intolerancia. Con respecto a la actividad física, los sujetos activos solo representaban el 12,5%. Conclusiones: Los datos obtenidos confirman la necesidad de mejora del patrón alimentario y realización de actividad física según características individuales. La educación nutricional y personalización de las pautas podrían evitar dietas incompletas, monótonas y desequilibradas que empeoren la calidad de vida y situación fisiológica

Background and objective: Multiple chemical sensitivity (MCS) is a complex, acquired, chronic syndrome of multifactorial etiology with multiple symptoms. The aim of the study was to assess the nutritional habits, dietary characteristics and physical activity, as well as their determinants, of a population diagnosed with MCS, which may allow for a more precise approach to nutritional improvement. Patients and method: A descriptive, cross-sectional study in patients diagnosed with MCS. Information was collected using adapted questionnaires. Data included presence of comorbidities, nutritional (use of supplements, types of diet) and food purchasing habits. Dietary intake, food intolerances, and physical activity were also recorded. Results: The study included of 52 patients (48 female) aged 50.9±10.3 years. Diagnosis of MCS was commonly associated to chronic fatigue syndrome (70.1%), fibromyalgia (65.4%), or electrosensitivity (51.9%). The most common comorbidities were irritable bowel, gastroesophageal reflux, and depression/anxiety-depressive disorder. Exclusion diets were followed by 57.7%, 52.1% commonly used supplements (6.4±5.2 per person), and 16.0% took more than 10 daily. A high proportion of volunteers did not take the recommended amounts of dairy products (84.3%), fruit (82.3%), and cereals (64.7%), the foods to which intolerance was greatest. As regards physical activity, active subjects only represented 12.5%. Conclusions: The data collected support the need to improve food pattern and to perform physical activity according to individual characteristics. Nutritional education and diet personalization could prevent incomplete, monotonous, and unbalanced diets which impair quality of life and physiological status

Characteristics and determinants of dietary intake and physical activity in a group of patients with multiple chemical sensitivity. / Características y condicionantes de la ingesta dietética y actividad física en un grupo de pacientes diagnosticados de sensibilidad química múltiple.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE: Multiple chemical sensitivity (MCS) is a complex, acquired, chronic syndrome of multifactorial etiology with multiple symptoms. The aim of the study was to assess the nutritional habits, dietary characteristics and physical activity, as well as their determinants, of a population diagnosed with MCS, which may allow for a more precise approach to nutritional improvement. PATIENTS AND METHOD: A descriptive, cross-sectional study in patients diagnosed with MCS. Information was collected using adapted questionnaires. Data included presence of comorbidities, nutritional (use of supplements, types of diet) and food purchasing habits. Dietary intake, food intolerances, and physical activity were also recorded. RESULTS: The study included of 52 patients (48 female) aged 50.9±10.3 years. Diagnosis of MCS was commonly associated to chronic fatigue syndrome (70.1%), fibromyalgia (65.4%), or electrosensitivity (51.9%). The most common comorbidities were irritable bowel, gastroesophageal reflux, and depression/anxiety-depressive disorder. Exclusion diets were followed by 57.7%, 52.1% commonly used supplements (6.4±5.2 per person), and 16.0% took more than 10 daily. A high proportion of volunteers did not take the recommended amounts of dairy products (84.3%), fruit (82.3%), and cereals (64.7%), the foods to which intolerance was greatest. As regards physical activity, active subjects only represented 12.5%. CONCLUSIONS: The data collected support the need to improve food pattern and to perform physical activity according to individual characteristics. Nutritional education and diet personalization could prevent incomplete, monotonous, and unbalanced diets which impair quality of life and physiological status.

Sensibilidad química múltiple: caracterización genotípica, estado nutricional y calidad de vida de 52 pacientes / Multiple chemical sensitivity: Genotypic characterization, nutritional status and quality of life in 52 patients

Antecedentes y objetivos: La sensibilidad química múltiple (SQM) es un síndrome multisistémico y crónico, de etiología desconocida. El objetivo de este estudio fue describir el estado nutricional y la calidad de vida, así como identificar posibles polimorfismos asociados al síndrome o a su patogenia. Pacientes y métodos: Estudio epidemiológico, descriptivo y transversal en pacientes con diagnóstico de SQM. Se recogieron datos antropométricos, composición corporal, fuerza muscular y calidad de vida. La selección de single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNP, ‘polimorfismos de un solo nucleótido’) se centró en genes asociados previamente a la SQM y genes que participan en rutas de estrés oxidativo e inflamación. Resultados: Se incluyeron 52 pacientes (93,2% del sexo femenino), con una edad media de 50,9 (10,3) años. Respecto a su estado nutricional (IMC), un 48% estaba fuera de rangos de normalidad (17% desnutrición y 32% sobrepeso y obesidad). Un 30% presentó masa muscular por debajo de la referencia para la edad, un 84% una fuerza muscular inferior al percentil 10 y un 51,8% un porcentaje de masa grasa elevado. Respecto a la calidad de vida, las puntuaciones medias estuvieron por debajo de las de otras enfermedades en todas las subescalas evaluadas. Se observaron diferencias significativas en las frecuencias encontradas entre casos y controles para los SNP rs1801133 (MTHFR), rs174546 (FADS1) y rs1801282 (PPARγ). Conclusión: Un elevado porcentaje de pacientes presentó un estado nutricional anormal con masa y fuerza muscular disminuidas, lo que reduce la calidad de vida de estos pacientes, ya mermada por la sintomatología. No se identificaron polimorfismos genéticos específicos asociados al síndrome o a su patogenia (AU)

Background and objectives: Multiple chemical sensitivity (MCS) is a chronic, multisystem syndrome of unknown etiology. The aim of the present study was to describe the nutritional status and quality of life of patients suffering from MCS, as well as to identify potential polymorphisms associated with this illness. Patients and methods: A cross-sectional, descriptive study was performed on patients with a diagnosis of MCS. Data on anthropometric and body composition variables, hand muscle strength and quality of life were collected. The selection of single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) was based on genes previously associated with MCS and genes involved in inflammatory and oxidative stress pathways. Results: A total of 52 patients (93.2% female), with a mean age of 50.9 (10.3) years were included in the study. Among them, based on their BMI, 48% had an inadequate nutritional status (17% were underweight and 32% were overweight or obese). Thirty percent of patients had a low muscle mass for their age, 84% had muscle strength below the tenth percentile, and 51.8% had a high fat mass percentage. Regarding quality of life, all median scores were lower than those of other illnesses assessed for every subscale assessed. Statistically significant differences between patient cases and controls were found with respect to rs1801133 (MTHFR), rs174546 (FADS1) and rs1801282 (PPARγ) polymorphisms. Conclusion: A high percentage of patients had a poor nutritional status, low muscle strength and decreased muscle mass. These facts exacerbate the already-lower quality of life of these patients. Specific genetic polymorphisms associated with the syndrome or its pathogenesis were not identified (AU)

Multiple chemical sensitivity: Genotypic characterization, nutritional status and quality of life in 52 patients. / Sensibilidad química múltiple: caracterización genotípica, estado nutricional y calidad de vida de 52 pacientes.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Multiple chemical sensitivity (MCS) is a chronic, multisystem syndrome of unknown etiology. The aim of the present study was to describe the nutritional status and quality of life of patients suffering from MCS, as well as to identify potential polymorphisms associated with this illness. PATIENTS AND METHODS: A cross-sectional, descriptive study was performed on patients with a diagnosis of MCS. Data on anthropometric and body composition variables, hand muscle strength and quality of life were collected. The selection of single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) was based on genes previously associated with MCS and genes involved in inflammatory and oxidative stress pathways. RESULTS: A total of 52 patients (93.2% female), with a mean age of 50.9 (10.3) years were included in the study. Among them, based on their BMI, 48% had an inadequate nutritional status (17% were underweight and 32% were overweight or obese). Thirty percent of patients had a low muscle mass for their age, 84% had muscle strength below the tenth percentile, and 51.8% had a high fat mass percentage. Regarding quality of life, all median scores were lower than those of other illnesses assessed for every subscale assessed. Statistically significant differences between patient cases and controls were found with respect to rs1801133 (MTHFR), rs174546 (FADS1) and rs1801282 (PPARγ) polymorphisms. CONCLUSION: A high percentage of patients had a poor nutritional status, low muscle strength and decreased muscle mass. These facts exacerbate the already-lower quality of life of these patients. Specific genetic polymorphisms associated with the syndrome or its pathogenesis were not identified.