Changes in Lutein Status Markers (Serum and Faecal Concentrations, Macular Pigment) in Response to a Lutein-Rich Fruit or Vegetable (Three Pieces/Day) Dietary Intervention in Normolipemic Subjects.

Lutein is mainly supplied by dietary fruit and vegetables, and they are commonly jointly assessed in observational and interventional studies. Lutein bioavailability and health benefits depend on the food matrix. This study aimed to assess the effect of dietary intervention with lutein-rich fruit or vegetables on lutein status markers, including serum and faecal concentrations (by high pressure liquid chromatography), dietary intake (24 h recalls ×3), and macular pigment optical density (MPOD) and contrast threshold (CT) as visual outcomes. Twenty-nine healthy normolipemic subjects, aged 45-65 y, consumed 1.8 mg lutein/day supplied from fruits (14 subjects, 500 g/day of oranges, kiwi and avocados) or vegetables (15 subjects, 180 g/day of green beans, pumpkin, and sweet corn) for four weeks. Serum lutein concentration increased by 37%. The effect of the food group intervention was statistically significant for serum lutein+zeaxanthin concentration (p = 0.049). Serum α- and ß-carotene were influenced by food type (p = 0.008 and p = 0.005, respectively), but not by time. Serum lutein/HDL-cholesterol level increased by 29% (total sample, p = 0.008). Lutein+zeaxanthin/HDL-cholesterol increased, and the intervention time and food group eaten had an effect (p = 0.024 and p = 0.010, respectively) which was higher in the vegetable group. The MPOD did not show variations, nor did it correlate with CT. According to correlation matrixes, serum lutein was mainly related to lutein+zeaxanthin expressed in relation to lipids, and MPOD with the vegetable group. In faecal samples, only lutein levels increased (p = 0.012). This study shows that a relatively low amount of lutein, supplied by fruit or vegetables, can have different responses in correlated status markers, and that a longer intervention period is needed to increase the MPOD. Therefore, further study with larger sample sizes is needed on the different responses in the lutein status markers and on food types and consumption patterns in the diet, and when lutein in a "pharmacological dose" is not taken to reduce a specific risk.

Predictors of macular pigment and contrast threshold in Spanish healthy normolipemic subjects (45-65 years) with habitual food intake.

INTRODUCTION: The dietary carotenoids lutein (L) and zeaxanthin (Z) are transported in the bloodstream by lipoproteins, sequestered by adipose tissue, and eventually captured in the retina where they constitute macular pigment. There are no L&Z dietary intake recommendations nor desired blood/tissue concentrations for the Spanish general population. Our aim was to assess the correlation of L&Z habitual dietary intake (excluding food supplements), resulting serum concentrations and lipid profile with macular pigment optical density (MPOD) as well as the contrast sensitivity (CT), as visual outcome in normolipemic subjects (n = 101) aged 45-65. METHODS: MPOD was measured by heterochromatic flicker photometry, serum L&Z by HPLC, the dietary intake by a 3-day food records and CT using the CGT-1000-Contrast-Glaretester at six stimulus sizes, with and without glare. RESULTS: Lutein and zeaxanthin concentrations (median) in serum: 0.361 and 0.078 µmol/L, in dietary intake: 1.1 mg L+Z/day. MPOD: 0.34du. L+Z intake correlates with their serum concentrations (rho = 0.333, p = 0.001), which in turn correlates with MPOD (rho = 0.229, p = 0.000) and with fruit and vegetable consumption (rho = 0.202, p = 0.001), but not with lutein+zeaxanthin dietary intake. MPOD correlated with CT, with and without glare (rho ranges: -0.135, 0.160 and -0.121, -0.205, respectively). MPOD predictors: serum L+Z, L+Z/HDL-cholesterol (ß-coeficient: -0.91±0.2, 95%CI: -1.3,-0.5) and HDL-cholesterol (R2 = 15.9%). CT predictors: MPOD, mainly at medium and smaller visual angles (corresponding to spatial frequencies for which sensitivity declines with age) and gender (ß-coefficients ranges: -0.95,-0.39 and -0.13,-0.39, respectively). CONCLUSION: A higher MPOD is associated with a lower ratio of L+Z/HDL-cholesterol and with a lower CT (higher contrast sensitivity). The HDL-cholesterol would also act indirectly on the CT improving the visual function.

Dietary ß-Cryptoxanthin and α-Carotene Have Greater Apparent Bioavailability Than ß-Carotene in Subjects from Countries with Different Dietary Patterns.

ß-carotene, α-carotene and ß-cryptoxanthin are greater contributors to vitamin A intake than retinol in the human diet for most people around the world. Their contribution depends on several factors, including bioavailability and capacity of conversion into retinol. There is an increasing body of research showing that the use of retinol activity equivalents or retinol equivalents could lead to the underestimation of the contribution of ß-cryptoxanthin and of α-carotene. The aim is to assess their apparent bioavailability by comparing concentrations in blood to their dietary intakes and identifying the major food contributors to their dietary intake. Dietary intake (3-day 24-h records) and serum concentrations (by HPLC) were calculated in normolipemic subjects with adequate retinol status (≥1.1 µmol/L) from our studies (n = 633) and apparent bioavailability calculated from 22 other studies (n = 29,700). Apparent bioavailability was calculated as the ratio of concentration in the blood to carotenoid intake. Apparent bioavailabilities for α-carotene and ß-cryptoxanthin were compared to those for ß-carotene. Eating comparable amounts of α-carotene, ß-cryptoxanthin and ß-carotene foods resulted in 55% greater α-carotene (95% CI 35, 90) and 686% higher ß-cryptoxanthin (95% CI 556, 1016) concentrations than ß-carotene in blood. This suggests differences in the apparent bioavailability of α-carotene and ß-cryptoxanthin and even larger differences with ß-cryptoxanthin, greater than that of ß-carotene. Four fruits (tomato, orange, tangerine, red pepper) and two vegetables (carrot, spinach) are the main contributors to their dietary intake (>50%) in Europeans.

Extraction and Analysis by HPLC-DAD of Carotenoids in Human Faeces from Spanish Adults.

Carotenoids are bioactive compounds with widely accepted health benefits. Their quantification in human faeces can be a useful non-invasive approach to assess their bioavailability. Identification and quantification of major dietary carotenoids in human faeces was the aim of the present study. Faeces and dietary intake were obtained from 101 healthy adults (45-65 years). Carotenoid concentrations were determined by HPLC in faeces and by 3-day food records in dietary intake. Carotenoids quantified in faeces (µg/g dry weight, median) were: ß-carotene (39.5), lycopene (20), lutein (17.5), phytoene (11.4), zeaxanthin (6.3), ß-cryptoxanthin (4.5), phytofluene (2.9). α-carotene (5.3) and violaxanthin were found 75.5% and 7.1% of the faeces. The carotenoids found in the highest concentrations corresponded to the ones consumed in the greatest amounts (µg/d): lycopene (13,146), phytoene (2697), ß-carotene (1812), lutein+zeaxanthin (1148). Carotenoid concentration in faeces and in dietary intake showed correlation for the total non-provitamin A carotenoids (r = 0.302; p = 0.003), phytoene (r = 0.339; p = 0.001), phytofluene (r = 0.279; p = 0.005), lycopene (0.223; p = 0.027), lutein+zeaxanthin (r = 0.291; p = 0.04) and ß-cryptoxanthin (r = 0.323; p = 0.001). A high proportion of dietary carotenoids, especially those with provitamin A activity and some of their isomers, reach the large intestine, suggesting a low bioavailability of their intact forms.

Limitaciones de interpretación de la terminología utilizada en el abordaje dietético de las dietas de textura modificada / Misinterpretation of the terminology used in the dietary approach of texture modified diets

Introducción: El tratamiento de la disfagia requiere un abordaje multidisciplinar que incluye el dietético. En éste, la adaptación correcta de la textura de los alimentos sólidos y la viscosidad de los líquidos a la capacidad funcional de deglución del paciente, es clave para la seguridad, la suficiencia nutricional y calidad sensorial de la dieta. Objetivo: Conocer diferentes terminologías para la descripción de textura y viscosidad de alimentos empleados en el diseño de dietas de textura modificada (DTM), y discutir las limitaciones en su interpretación práctica. Metodología: Revisión (2010-2015) en Web of Science con términos de búsqueda (español e inglés): texture modified foods, texture modified diet, dysphagia, swallowing, thickened fluids, dementia, dysphagia in the elderly, diet modification, molecular gastronomy. Resultados: La literatura consultada coincide en las directrices generales para el abordaje dietético de disfagia pero difiere parcialmente en las terminologías y descriptores (y su interpretación) de textura en alimentos sólidos y viscosidad de líquidos, lo que limita la comparabilidad de estudios y favorece la confusión en su utilización práctica. La amplia variabilidad entre instituciones y países también se manifiesta en las guías y menús de DTM propuestos, de diferente calidad nutricional y organoléptica. Conclusiones: Es necesario revisar algunos descriptores de textura y viscosidad para unificar criterios y facilitar su aplicación domiciliaria. Se considera importante también ampliar los estudios en DTM hacia aspectos sensoriales, hedónicos para mejorar su palatabilidad y controlar los factores ambientales que influyen en ésta (AU)

Introduction: The management of dysphagia requires a multidisciplinary approach including diet. The right adaptation of the texture of solid foods and viscosity of liquids to swallow functional capacity of the patient is key to the safety, nutritional adequacy and sensory quality of the diet. Objective: To know different terminologies for describing texture and viscosity of food used in the design of texture modified diets (TMD) and to discuss the limitations in its practical interpretation. Methodology: Review (2010-2015) in Web of Science with search terms (Spanish and English): texture modified foods, texture modified diet, dysphagia, swallowing, thickened fluids, dementia, dysphagia in the elderly, diet modification, molecular gastronomy Results: Scientific literature agrees on the general guidelines for the dietary approach of dysphagia but partially differs in terminologies and descriptors (and their interpretation) of texture in solid foods and viscosity of liquids, which limits the comparability of studies and promotes confusion in practical use. The wide variability between institutions and countries is also reflected in the guidelines and proposed TMD menus with different nutritional and organoleptic quality. Conclusions: To review some descriptors of texture and viscosity to unify criteria and facilitate their application at home is necessary. To extend the DTM studies to sensory and hedonic aspects would be very important to improve their palatability and control environmental factors that influence in it (AU)

Lutein and zeaxanthin supplied by red/orange foods and fruits are more closely associated with macular pigment optical density than those from green vegetables in Spanish subjects.

Lutein and zeaxanthin (L+Z) accumulate in the retina. Although vegetables are major contributors to their intake, a stronger association between fruits and macular pigment optical density (MPOD) has been reported. We hypothesized that L+Z intake from fruits would have a stronger association with L+Z status markers (MPOD, serum concentrations) than intake from vegetables or eggs, and that those associations would also differ according to plant foods color. One hundred eight subjects (57 men; age groups, 20-35 and 45-65 years) were enrolled in a cross-sectional study. L+Z intake from fruits, vegetables, and eggs was determined using three 24-hour diet recalls and a country-specific carotenoid database. Vegetables were the major contributors (75%) to L+Z intake, followed by eggs (10%) and fruits (4%). Vegetables supplied 86% and 84% of the LandZ intake, respectively, and fruits supplied 3% and 16%. Green foods supplied 78% and 52% of LandZ, respectively, followed by red/orange (9% and 38%) and white/yellow (14% and 9%). Factorial analysis showed associations in older subjects. The explained variance of the first 2 principal components was 54% considering L+Z intake from fruits, vegetables, and eggs, and 55% considering L+Z intake from plant foods grouped by color. Macular pigment optical density is related to L+Z intake from fruits (0.264, P=.003) and is independent of that from vegetables and eggs. It is related to L+Z intake from red/orange foods (0.320, P=.000) and the serum concentrations to that from green foods (0.222, P=.11). Although vegetables and green foods of plant origin are the major contributors to L+Z intake, red/orange foods and fruits have the strongest relationship to MPOD in study participants (45-65 years of age).

[Not Available]. / Food consumption and risk of malnutrition in community-dwelling very old Spanish adults (≥ 80 years).

INTRODUCTION: There are few studies assessing overall diet and food patterns of the oldest population. OBJECTIVES: To examine food groups consumption (grams and servings) and their compliance with the dietary guidelines in community-dwelling very old Spanish adults. The relationship with the risk of malnutrition was also studied. METHODS: Within the cross-sectional health study of elderly people of Villanueva de la Cañada (Madrid, Spain), in 98 non-institutionalized elders aged ≥ 80 years (66% women) food consumption was calculated from a 24-hour dietary recall and nutritional risk was assessed by Mini Nutritional Assessment (MNA). Statistical significance was evaluated at 95% confidence level (p < 0.05). RESULTS: Men consumed significantly higher amounts of snacks/pickles and alcoholic beverages. The consumption of cereals/grain products (2 servings/day), vegetables (1.5 servings/day) and meat, fish, eggs (1.4 servings/day), was below desirable levels. As nutritional status got worse, fruit consumption was significantly smaller (p = 0.039). Relatively weak but highly significant correlations were found between MNA and oils/fats, fruits and alcoholic beverages. After adjustment for energy intake, oils and fats and fruits associations disappeared whereas a negative association between milk/dairy products and MNA was found. CONCLUSIONS: Dietary patterns of the elderly population of Villanueva are departing from the traditional Mediterranean diet and though adequate consumption of fruits, milk/dairy products, oils/fats and sugar/confectionery has been achieved, cereals/grain products, vegetables and the meat, fish, eggs group consumption was below the desirable levels. Deterioration of the nutritional status coincided with a reduction in the consumption of all food groups except for ready meals and milk/dairy products whose consumption increased. Further research on the influence of fruit, milk/dairy products, wine and olive oil consumption on nutritional status is required.

Assessment of lutein and zeaxanthin status and dietary markers as predictors of the contrast threshold in 2 age groups of men and women.

Lutein and zeaxanthin (L + Z) status is associated with the macular pigment (MP). The relationship between MP and visual function is controversial. We hypothesized that, within the framework of nutrition, visual function was related to MP and nutritional and/or/dietary factors influencing it. A cross-sectional study was performed in 108 volunteers divided into 2 age groups (20-35 years; 45-65 years), each 27 women and 27 men, to assess the relationship between MP optical density (MPOD) and contrast threshold (CT), considering the influence of L + Z and, fruit and vegetable (F + V) intake. MPOD, L + Z in serum and dietary intake were determined using heterochromatic flicker photometry, high-performance liquid chromatography and 3-day food records, respectively. CT was measured with the CGT-1000 Contrast Glaretester at 6 stimulus sizes, with and without glare. Spearman correlation coefficient and a generalized linear model were used for the statistical study. MPOD and CT were higher and lower, respectively in younger than in elder individuals (P < .000) and were correlated only in the older group. CT were higher under glare conditions, at the intermediate and smaller visual angles, with greater differences in the older (P < .003) than the younger group (P < .014). In the total sample, CT correlated inversely with MPOD (correlation coefficients and P values ranging from -.245 to -.152 and from .000 to .026, respectively) and directly with F + V intake (correlation coefficients and P values ranging from -.265 to -.176 and from .000 to .010, respectively). As predictors of CT in the total sample, MPOD, F + V (every 100 g/d) and sex were identified (ß coefficients ranged from -0.01 to -1.86; from 0.01 to 0.08 and from 0.01 to 0.40, respectively). CT revealed age-specific nutritional predictors: MPOD and serum lutein in the 45- to 65-year group, and F + V intake in the 20- to 35-year group.

Food consumption and risk of malnutrition in community-dwelling very old Spanish adults (≥ 80 years) / Consumo de alimentos y riesgo de malnutrición en personas muy mayores (≥ 80 años) de vida independiente

Introduction: There are few studies assessing overall diet and food patterns of the oldest population. Objectives: To examine food groups consumption (grams and servings) and their compliance with the dietary guidelines in community-dwelling very old Spanish adults. The relationship with the risk of malnutrition was also studied. Methods: Within the cross-sectional health study of elderly people of Villanueva de la Cañada (Madrid, Spain), in 98 non-institutionalized elders aged ≥ 80 years (66% women) food consumption was calculated from a 24-hour dietary recall and nutritional risk was assessed by Mini Nutritional Assessment (MNA). Statistical significance was evaluated at 95% confidence level (p < 0.05). Results: Men consumed significantly higher amounts of snacks/pickles and alcoholic beverages. The consumption of cereals/grain products (2 servings/day), vegetables (1.5 servings/day) and meat, fish, eggs (1.4 servings/day), was below desirable levels. As nutritional status got worse, fruit consumption was significantly smaller (p = 0.039). Relatively weak but highly significant correlations were found between MNA and oils/fats, fruits and alcoholic beverages. After adjustment for energy intake, oils and fats and fruits associations disappeared whereas a negative association between milk/dairy products and MNA was found. Conclusions: Dietary patterns of the elderly population of Villanueva are departing from the traditional Mediterranean diet and though adequate consumption of fruits, milk/dairy products, oils/fats and sugar/confectionery has been achieved, cereals/grain products, vegetables and the meat, fish, eggs group consumption was below the desirable levels. Deterioration of the nutritional status coincided with a reduction in the consumption of all food groups except for ready meals and milk/dairy products whose consumption increased. Further research on the influence of fruit, milk/dairy products, wine and olive oil consumption on nutritional status is required (AU)

Introducción: existen pocos estudios que valoren el consumo de alimentos de la población muy mayor. Objetivos: evaluar el consumo de los grupos de alimentos (gramos y raciones) y su adecuación a las recomendaciones para la población anciana española. Además se estudia su relación con el riesgo nutricional. Métodos: dentro del estudio transversal sociosanitario en mayores de Villanueva de la Cañada (Madrid), en 98 individuos ≥ 80 años (66% mujeres) se evaluó el consumo de alimentos a partir de un recuerdo-24 horas y el riesgo nutricional fue valorado mediante Mini Nutritional Assessment (MNA). La significación estadística se evaluó a nivel de confianza del 95% (p < 0,05). Resultados: los hombres consumieron significativamente mayor cantidad de aperitivos y bebidas alcohólicas. El consumo de cereales y derivados (2 raciones/día), verduras y hortalizas (1,5 raciones/día) y alimentos del grupo carnes, pescados y huevos (1,4 raciones/día) no alcanzó las recomendaciones. Al empeorar el estado nutricional el consumo de frutas fue significativamente menor (p = 0,039). Se han encontrado correlaciones relativamente débiles, pero altamente significativas entre el MNA y el consumo de aceites/grasas, frutas y bebidas alcohólicas. Tras ajustar la ingesta de energía, la asociación con los aceites/grasas y con las frutas desaparece mientras que surge una asociación negativa con el consumo de lácteos. Conclusiones: el patrón alimentario observado se desvía del mediterráneo tradicional. Así, aunque existe un consumo adecuado de lácteos, frutas, aceites/grasas y azúcares/dulces, el consumo de cereales y derivados, verduras y hortalizas y alimentos del grupo carnes, pescados y huevos no alcanzó las recomendaciones. El deterioro del estado nutricional coincide con una disminución en el consumo de todos los grupos de alimentos menos en el caso de los precocinados y los lácteos cuyo consumo aumenta. La infuencia del consumo de fruta, lácteos, vino y aceite de oliva sobre el estado nutricional requiere más investigación (AU)

Assessment of dietary lutein, zeaxanthin and lycopene intakes and sources in the Spanish survey of dietary intake (2009-2010).

We assessed the intake and major dietary sources of lutein, zeaxanthin and lycopene (non-provitamin A carotenoids) in Spain using food consumption data from the Spanish National Dietary Intake Survey (2009-2010). Three-day diaries and one 24-h recall were used to collect dietary data and a software application that includes HPLC data was used. Average intake of those carotenoids was 4290.8 µg/d (67.1% total carotenoid intake), mainly from vegetables (3414.0 µg/d), followed by fruits (393.5 µg/d), oils/fats (204.0 µg/d) and eggs/egg products (170.0 µg/d). Main sources of lutein and zeaxanthin were vegetables (62.9% total diet, 1235.2 µg/person/d). Lycopene intake was 3055.6 µg/d (71.2% of non-provitamin A carotenoids), mainly from tomato and by-products (86.3%) and watermelon. Red- and orange-colored fruits and vegetables were the major contributors of non-provitamin carotenoids (3219.0 µg/person/d). Balanced diets should favor fruits and vegetables over other dietary sources (oils, eggs, processed foods) that contain components to be consumed with moderation.

THAO-CHILD HEALTH PROGRAMME: COMMUNITY BASED INTERVENTION FOR HEALTHY LIFESTYLES PROMOTION TO CHILDREN AND FAMILIES: RESULTS OF A COHORT STUDY.

INTRODUCTION: childhood obesity is one of the main public health concerns. The multifactorial and multilevel causes require complex interventions such the community based interventions (CBI). Thao-Child Health Programme is a CBI implemented in Spain since 2007. GOAL: show the Thao methodology and the latest cross-sectional and longitudinal results. METHODS: longitudinal cohort study (4 years of follow- up) and cross sectional study. RESULTS: the longitudinal study found an increase of 1% in the overweight prevalence after a follow-up of 4 years of Thao-Programme implementation in 10 municipalities with 6 697 children involved. The cross-sectional study carried out with 20 636 children from 22 municipalities found a childhood overweight prevalence of 26.6%. DISCUSSION: currently a brake in the increase of childhood overweight prevalence is considered a success due to the high prevalence worldwide. More studies well methodologically performed are needed to know the efficacy of the CBI's in this field.

Introducción: la obesidad infantil es una de las principales preocupaciones de salud pública. La etiología multifactorial y multinivel requiere de intervenciones complejas como las intervenciones de base comunitaria (CBI). El Programa Thao-Salud Infantil es una CBI implementada en España desde 2007. Objetivo: mostrar la metodología Thao y los últimos resultados transversales y longitudinales. Métodos: estudio de cohortes longitudinal (4 años de seguimiento) y estudio transversal. Resultados: el estudio longitudinal encontró un incremento del 1% en la prevalencia de exceso de peso tras 4 años de implementación del Programa Thao en 10 municipios con 6.697 niños y niñas involucrados. El estudio transversal llevado a cabo con 20.636 niños y niñas de 22 municipios encontró una prevalencia de exceso de peso infantil del 26,6%. Discusión: actualmente un freno en el incremento de la prevalencia de exceso de peso infantil es considerado como un éxito debido a la alta prevalencia a nivel mundial. Son necesarios más estudios metodológicamente bien realizados para conocer la eficacia de las CBI en este campo.

Thao-Child Health Programme: community based intervention for healthy lifestyles promotion to children and families: results of a cohort study / Programa Thao-Salud Infantil: intervención de base comunitaria de promoción de estilos de vida saludables en la población infantil y las familias: resultados de un estudio de cohorte

Introduction: childhood obesity is one of the main public health concerns. The multifactorial and multilevel causes require complex interventions such the community based interventions (CBI). Thao-Child Health Programme is a CBI implemented in Spain since 2007. Goal: show the Thao methodology and the latest cross-sectional and longitudinal results. Methods: longitudinal cohort study (4 years of follow-up) and cross sectional study. Results: the longitudinal study found an increase of 1% in the overweight prevalence after a follow-up of 4 years of Thao-Programme implementation in 10 municipalities with 6 697 children involved. The cross-sectional study carried out with 20 636 children from 22 municipalities found a childhood overweight prevalence of 26.6%. Discussion: currently a brake in the increase of childhood overweight prevalence is considered a success due to the high prevalence worldwide. More studies well methodologically performed are needed to know the efficacy of the CBI’s in this field (AU)

Introducción: la obesidad infantil es una de las principales preocupaciones de salud pública. La etiología multifactorial y multinivel requiere de intervenciones complejas como las intervenciones de base comunitaria (CBI). El Programa Thao-Salud Infantil es una CBI implementada en España desde 2007. Objetivo: mostrar la metodología Thao y los últimos resultados transversales y longitudinales. Métodos: estudio de cohortes longitudinal (4 años de seguimiento) y estudio transversal. Resultados: el estudio longitudinal encontró un incremento del 1% en la prevalencia de exceso de peso tras 4 años de implementación del Programa Thao en 10 municipios con 6.697 niños y niñas involucrados. El estudio transversal llevado a cabo con 20.636 niños y niñas de 22 municipios encontró una prevalencia de exceso de peso infantil del 26,6%. Discusión: actualmente un freno en el incremento de la prevalencia de exceso de peso infantil es considerado como un éxito debido a la alta prevalencia a nivel mundial. Son necesarios más estudios metodológicamente bien realizados para conocer la eficacia de las CBI en este campo (AU)

Assessment of dietary vitamin A intake (retinol, α-carotene, ß-carotene, ß-cryptoxanthin) and its sources in the National Survey of Dietary Intake in Spain (2009-2010).

The aim of this study is to assess the intake of the individual components of vitamin A and major dietary sources in the Spaniards using data on food consumption from Spanish National Dietary Intake Survey (2009-2010). A 24-h dietary recall, 3-day diet diary and a software application that includes HPLC analytical data were used. Average dietary vitamin A intake is 716.4 µg retinol equivalents (RE), which is supplied as retinol (57.9%RE) and as provitamin-A carotenoids (42.1%RE). ß-Carotene represents 71.9% of provitamin-A carotenoids, ß-cryptoxanthin 15.3%, α-carotene 12.8%. Red- and orange-colored fruits and vegetables are major contributors of provitamin-A (1587 µg/day). Spanish diet covers the dietary reference on the intake for vitamin A, provided mainly by foods of animal origin. The main contributors to the intake of provitamin-A carotenoids are carrots, tomatoes, spinach and oranges. Data on the intake of individual components of vitamin A contribute to improving our understanding of the relationship between diet and health.

Markers of lutein and zeaxanthin status in two age groups of men and women: dietary intake, serum concentrations, lipid profile and macular pigment optical density.

BACKGROUND & AIMS: Lutein and zeaxanthin accumulate in retina (macular pigment). Their nutritional status can be assessed using dietary or biochemical markers and both have been associated with macular pigment optical density. We proposed to assess dietary and status markers of lutein and zeaxanthin in a group of healthy Spanish volunteers, considering the potential influence of age, gender and serum lipids to investigate the predictors of the macular pigment optical density. METHODS: Serum lutein and zeaxanthin concentrations, dietary intake and macular pigment optical density were determined in 108 healthy men and women (20-35 and 45-65 years), using high-performance liquid chromatography, 3-day food records and heterochromic flicker photometry, respectively. Mann-Whitney U-test, Spearman correlation coefficient and multivariate regression analysis were used for the statistical study. RESULTS: Serum concentrations and dietary intake of lutein plus zeaxanthin (p < 0.0001 and p = 0.001, respectively) were higher in older vs younger subjects, whereas macular pigment optical density was lower (p = 0.038). The highest correlation coefficients between intake and serum were for fruit and serum lutein (ρ = 0.452, p < 0.0001) and for fruit and lutein + zeaxanthin (ρ = 0.431, p < 0.0001) in the younger group. Macular pigment optical density correlated with serum xanthophylls (ρ = 0.223, p = 0.02) and fruit and vegetable intake (ρ = 0.350, p = 0.0002), showing highest correlations when lutein and zeaxanthin were expressed in relation to serum lipids in older subjects (ρ = 0.262, p = 0.006). Multivariate regression analysis identified age and serum lutein as major predictors of macular pigment optical density (total sample), and a coefficient of determination of 29.7% for the model including lutein + zeaxathin/cholesterol + triglycerides, sex and fruit + vegetables in the older group. CONCLUSIONS: The establishment of normal/reference ranges for serum lutein and zeaxanthin should consider age ranges and be expressed in relation to lipid concentrations, at least in subjects over 45 years, as this could influence macular pigment optical density. The macular pigment optical density showed age-specific correlations with lutein plus zeaxanthin expressed in relation to serum lipid concentrations as well as with the fruit and vegetable intake.

Software application for the calculation of dietary intake of individual carotenoids and of its contribution to vitamin A intake.

INTRODUCTION: The software applications utilized to assess dietary intake usually focus on macro- and micronutrients, but not on other components of the diet with potential beneficial effects on health, which include the carotenoids. The degree to which each carotenoid exerts diverse biological activities differs and, thus, it is in our interest to know their composition in foods on an individual basis. OBJECTIVE: To develop a software application with individualized data on carotenoids that enables the calculation of their dietary intake and consultation of the contents of these compounds in foods. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Software application developed with Java 7, which includes a database of the carotenoids (lutein, zeaxanthin, lycopene, ?-cryptoxanthin, ?-carotene and ?-carotene) in foods (including those that are major contributors to carotenoid intake in Europe), generated by HPLC. The variables include those relative to the foods, subjects and diets that are necessary to provide accurate information on the content of carotenoids in foods and to enable the calculation of their intake. RESULTS: The software application enables the calculation of the dietary intake of individual carotenoids from 128 foods (raw and cooked), and their contribution to vitamin A intake, in the two forms employed at the present time: retinol equivalents (RE) and retinol activity equivalents (RAE). CONCLUSIONS: This software application is a dynamic, specific and accurate tool for the consultation of carotenoid concentrations in foods and the calculation of their intake, aspects that are essential in research studies on diet and health.

Introducción: Las aplicaciones informáticas utilizadas para valorar la ingesta dietética suelen centrarse en macro y micronutrientes, pero no en otros componentes de la dieta con potenciales efectos beneficiosos sobre la salud, entre los que están los carotenoides. El grado en que cada carotenoide ejerce diversas actividades biológicas es diferente y por tanto, interesa utilizar datos de su composición en alimentos de forma individualizada. Objetivo: Elaborar una aplicación informática con datos individualizados de carotenoides que permita el cálculo de su ingesta dietética y la consulta del contenido de estos compuestos en los alimentos. Material y métodos: Aplicación informática desarrollada con Java 7, que incluye una base de datos de carotenoides (luteína, zeaxantina, licopeno, ?-criptoxantina, ?- caroteno y ?-caroteno) en alimentos (incluyendo aquellos que son principales contribuyentes a la ingesta de carotenoides en Europa), generados por HPLC. Se incluyen las variables relativas a los alimentos, sujetos y dietas, que son necesarias para una correcta información del contenido de carotenoides en alimentos y para el cálculo de su ingesta. Resultados: La aplicación informática permite calcular la ingesta dietética individualizada de carotenoides, a partir de 128 alimentos (crudos y cocinados) y su contribución a la ingesta de vitamina A, en las dos formas utilizadas actualmente, equivalentes de retinol y equivalentes de actividad de retinol. Conclusiones: Con esta aplicación informática se facilita la consulta de concentraciones de carotenoides en alimentos y el cálculo de su ingesta de forma ágil, específica y precisa, aspectos imprescindibles en los estudios de investigación sobre dieta y salud.

Software application for the calculation of dietary in take of individual carotenoids and of its contribution to vitamin A intake / Aplicación informática para el cálculo de la ingesta dietética individualizada de carotenoides y de su contribución a la ingesta de vitamina A

Introduction: The software applications utilized to assess dietary intake usually focus on macro- and micronutrients, but not on other components of the diet with potential beneficial effects on health, which include the carotenoids. The degree to which each carotenoid exerts diverse biological activities differs and, thus, it is in our interest to know their composition in foods on an individual basis. Objective: To develop a software application with individualized data on carotenoids that enables the calculation of their dietary intake and consultation of the contents of these compounds in foods. Material and methods: Software application developed with Java 7, which includes a database of the carotenoids (lutein, zeaxanthin, lycopene, β-cryptoxanthin, α-carotene and β-carotene) in foods (including those that are major contributors to carotenoid intake in Europe), generated by HPLC. The variables include those relative to the foods, subjects and diets that are necessary to provide accurate information on the content of carotenoids in foods and to enable the calculation of their intake. Results: The software application enables the calculation of the dietary intake of individual carotenoids from 128 foods (raw and cooked), and their contribution to vitamin A intake, in the two forms employed at the present time: retinol equivalents (RE) and retinol activity equivalents (RAE). Conclusions: This software application is a dynamic, specific and accurate tool for the consultation of carotenoid concentrations in foods and the calculation of their intake, aspects that are essential in research studies on diet and health (AU)

Introducción: Las aplicaciones informáticas utilizadas para valorar la ingesta dietética suelen centrarse en macro y micronutrientes, pero no en otros componentes de la dieta con potenciales efectos beneficiosos sobre la salud, entre los que están los carotenoides. El grado en que cada carotenoide ejerce diversas actividades biológicas es diferente y por tanto, interesa utilizar datos de su composición en alimentos de forma individualizada. Objetivo: Elaborar una aplicación informática con datos individualizados de carotenoides que permita el cálculo de su ingesta dietética y la consulta del contenido de estos compuestos en los alimentos. Material y métodos: Aplicación informática desarrollada con Java 7, que incluye una base de datos de carotenoides (luteína, zeaxantina, licopeno, β-criptoxantina, α-caroteno y β-caroteno) en alimentos (incluyendo aquellos que son principales contribuyentes a la ingesta de carotenoides en Europa), generados por HPLC. Se incluyen las variables relativas a los alimentos, sujetos y dietas, que son necesarias para una correcta información del contenido de carotenoides en alimentos y para el cálculo de su ingesta. Resultados: La aplicación informática permite calcular la ingesta dietética individualizada de carotenoides, a partir de 128 alimentos (crudos y cocinados) y su contribución a la ingesta de vitamina A, en las dos formas utilizadas actualmente, equivalentes de retinol y equivalentes de actividad de retinol. Conclusiones: Con esta aplicación informática se facilita la consulta de concentraciones de carotenoides en alimentos y el cálculo de su ingesta de forma ágil, específica y precisa, aspectos imprescindibles en los estudios de investigación sobre dieta y salud (AU)

Influencia de un programa local de comedores escolares: Evolución de la oferta de verduras y hortalizas en los menús (2004-2008) / Impact of a local school meals program: Changes in Vegetables supplied in the menus (2004-2008)

Introducción: Valorar los menús escolares constituye una herramienta eficaz en la mejora de su perfil nutricional y de su papel formador en hábitos alimentarios correctos. En este contexto se encuadra el seguimiento de los comedores escolares de Villanueva de la Cañada (Madrid), que dirige el ayuntamiento desde 2004. Objetivos: Se estudia la influencia de este programa de seguimiento en función de la evolución (2004- 2008) de la oferta de verduras y hortalizas en los menús escolares. Métodos: A partir de los ciclos de menús impresos de noviembre del periodo 2004-2008 (711 menús), de los centros que imparten Educación Primaria, se codifica cada plato y guarnición según el grupo de alimentos al que pertenece el ingrediente principal y el modo de preparación culinaria. Tomando el año 2004 como referencia, se analizó la evolución de la oferta de verduras y hortalizas, utilizando números índices simples. Se introdujo el índice de repetición (platos ofertados/nº preparaciones distintas), como indicador de la variedad de las recetas. Resultados y discusión: Verduras y hortalizas se sitúan en segundo lugar, detrás de la pasta, como ingrediente principal de primeros platos pero con una evolución 2004-2008 a la baja (-11,9%). Se observa un aumento en la variedad de verduras presentadas. La oferta de estos alimentos como guarnición, también desciende ligeramente (-2,8%). Conclusiones: La oferta de estos alimentos se mantiene por debajo de las recomendaciones (1 ración/menú). Los programas de comedores escolares han de seguir haciendo hincapié en el aumento de la frecuencia y variedad de recetas de verduras y hortalizas en los menús (AU)

Introduction: The evaluation of the school meals is an effective tool in improving their nutritional profile and its formative role in adequate food habits. The monitoring of the served lunch in all the schools of Villanueva de la Cañada (Madrid), leader of the council since 2004 is fitted in this context. Objectives: The influence of this monitoring program based on the evolution since 2004 to 2008 in the supply of vegetables in the school lunch is studied. Methodology: From the Primary Schools menus cycles of November since 2004 to 2008 (711 menus), the components of each recipe are collected. The main ingredient is identified and classified in its food group, codifying as main dish or garnish. Based on 2004 as a reference, the evolution in the supply of vegetables was assessed using simple index numbers. To estimate the variety of the recipes, the index of repetition (dishes offered /number of different preparations) was used. Results and discussion: Vegetables are in the second position, behind pasta, as the main ingredient of main dish but with an evolution down (-11.9%) and also as garnish too, down slightly (-2.8%). There is an increase in the variety of vegetables supplied. Conclusions: The supply of vegetables is kept below the recommendation. The school meals programs must be emphasizing to increase the frequency and variety of recipes with vegetables in the menus (AU)

Estado nutricional de adolescentes españoles e inmigrantes de la Comunidad de Madrid / No disponible

Fundamentos: Los desórdenes del patrón alimentario de losadolescentes y las modificaciones de éste en la poblaciónescolar debido al fenómeno migratorio pueden incidir en elestatus nutricional. El objetivo de este estudio fue valorar elestado nutricional de dos grupos de adolescentes.Métodos: El estudio se realizó entre 2006 y 2007 en unamuestra de 101 escolares de 12 - 17 años. A partir de laingesta dietética, valorada mediante un recuerdo de 24horas, se calculó la ingesta diaria de energía y nutrientes, laadecuación a las ingestas recomendadas y algunos índicesde calidad de la dietas.Resultados: Las dietas se caracterizaron por un consumoinsuficiente de frutas, verduras y hortalizas, leguminosasy lácteos que impidieron alcanzar los requerimientos demagnesio, cinc, ácido fólico, vitamina A y vitamina D; unaingesta energética elevada de lípidos, principalmente deácidos grasos saturados y poliinsaturados, y baja de hidratosde carbono; desayunos insuficientes energéticamente yfrecuentes comidas entre horas.Conclusiones: El consumo similar de alimentos observadoentre españoles e inmigrantes indicaría una adaptaciónde éstos a los hábitos alimentarios españoles aunque semantienen algunos rasgos distintivos de la cultura de origen,responsables de las diferencias encontradas en el perfilcalórico y la calidad de la grasa de las dieta(AU)

Background: Disordered eating patterns of adolescents andchanges of this one in school population because migratoryphenomenon can affect their nutritional status. The objectiveof this study was to assess the nutritional status of twoadolescent groups.Methods: The study was held between 2006 and 2007 on asample of 101 schoolchildren aged 12 to 17 years old. Fromdietary intake, assessed by a 24 hours questionary, energyand nutrients dairy intake, adecuation to the recomendedintakes and some indexes of diet´s quality were calculated.Results: Diets were characterized by an insuficient consumptionof fruits, vegetables, legumes and dairy productsthat impeded to reach requeriments of magnesium, zinc,folic acid, vitamin A and vitamin D; a high caloric intakeof lipids, mainly saturated and polyunsaturated fatty acids,low of carbohidrates; insufficient energetic breakfasts andfrequent snacking.Conclusions: The similar consumption of food wich has beenobserved between Spanish and immigrants could indicatetheir adaptation to Spanish eating habits while some relevantfeatures of the culture of origin responsible of differences inthe lipidic profile and fat quality of diets remain(AU)