Journal Description
Nutrients
Nutrients
is an international, peer-reviewed, open access journal of human nutrition published semimonthly online by MDPI. The Asia Pacific Nutrigenomics Nutrigenetics Organisation (APNNO), Italian Society for Pediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition (SIGENP), Nutrition Society of New Zealand (NSNZ), Ocular Wellness & Nutrition Society (OWNS) and others are affiliated with Nutrients and their members receive a discount on article processing charges.
- Open Access— free for readers, with article processing charges (APC) paid by authors or their institutions.
- High Visibility: indexed within Scopus, SCIE (Web of Science), PubMed, MEDLINE, PMC, Embase, PubAg, AGRIS, and other databases.
- Journal Rank: JCR - Q1 (Nutrition & Dietetics) / CiteScore - Q1 (Nutrition and Dietetics)
- Rapid Publication: manuscripts are peer-reviewed and a first decision is provided to authors approximately 14.5 days after submission; acceptance to publication is undertaken in 2.4 days (median values for papers published in this journal in the second half of 2023).
- Recognition of Reviewers: reviewers who provide timely, thorough peer-review reports receive vouchers entitling them to a discount on the APC of their next publication in any MDPI journal, in appreciation of the work done.
- Companion journal: Dietetics
Impact Factor:
5.9 (2022);
5-Year Impact Factor:
6.6 (2022)
Latest Articles
Associations of Dietary Diversity Trajectories with Frailty among Chinese Older Adults: A Latent Class Trajectory Analysis Based on a CLHLS Cohort
Nutrients 2024, 16(10), 1445; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu16101445 (registering DOI) - 10 May 2024
Abstract
Background: High dietary diversity has been found to be associated with frailty. However, the trajectory of dietary diversity intake in relation to frailty is unclear. Methods: Using the latent class trajectory modeling approach, we identified distinctive dietary variety trajectory groups among 2017 participants
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Background: High dietary diversity has been found to be associated with frailty. However, the trajectory of dietary diversity intake in relation to frailty is unclear. Methods: Using the latent class trajectory modeling approach, we identified distinctive dietary variety trajectory groups among 2017 participants based on the Chinese Longitudinal Healthy Longevity Survey acquired at four time points within a 10-year period. Frailty status was assessed using a frailty index comprising 37 health deficits. Dietary diversity was quantified using the dietary variety score (DVS), based on food category consumption frequency. Logistic regression analyses were employed to explore the association between DVS change trajectories and frailty. Results: This study identified two distinct DVS trajectories: “Moderate-Slow decline-Slow growth”, encompassing 810 (40.16%) individuals, and “Moderate-Slow growth-Accelerated decline”, including 1207 (59.84%) individuals. After adjusting for covariates, the odds ratio for DVS in the “Moderate-Slow decline-Slow growth” group was 1.326 (95% confidence interval: 1.075–1.636) compared to the “Moderate-Slow growth-Accelerated decline” group. The “Moderate-Slow decline-Slow growth” trajectory continued to decrease and was maintained at a low level in the early stages of aging. Conclusion: Sustaining a high dietary diversity trajectory over time, particularly in the early stages of aging, could potentially decrease the risk of frailty among older Chinese adults.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Dietary Strategies for Prevention of Geriatric Diseases and Exploring the Mechanism of Aging)
Open AccessArticle
Comparison of Cost Analysis in Patients with Tetrahydrobiopterin-Responsive and Non-Responsive Phenylketonuria in Turkey
by
Merve Karaca Sahin, Ayse Cigdem Aktuglu Zeybek, Tanyel Zubarioglu, Mehmet Serif Cansever and Ertugrul Kıykım
Nutrients 2024, 16(10), 1444; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu16101444 (registering DOI) - 10 May 2024
Abstract
Phenylketonuria is an inherited metabolic disorder that leads to neurobehavioral dysfunction. The main treatment is a low-phenylalanine diet and/or the cofactor tetrahydrobiopterin. Regular outpatient follow-up care and measurement of the phenylalanine levels in the blood are required. We aimed to analyze the economic
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Phenylketonuria is an inherited metabolic disorder that leads to neurobehavioral dysfunction. The main treatment is a low-phenylalanine diet and/or the cofactor tetrahydrobiopterin. Regular outpatient follow-up care and measurement of the phenylalanine levels in the blood are required. We aimed to analyze the economic burden of phenylketonuria on families and the state. The patients with phenylketonuria were divided into three groups according to their treatment: a low-phenylalanine diet group (n = 50), a tetrahydrobiopterin group (n = 44), and a group taking tetrahydrobiopterin together with the diet (n = 25). A comparative cost analysis was carried out. The annual economic burden to the state was calculated to average EUR 18,801 ± 15,345 and was lowest in the diet group, then in the tetrahydrobiopterin group, and highest in the tetrahydrobiopterin + diet group (p < 0.001). Out-of-pocket costs amounted to EUR 1531 ± 1173 per year, and indirect losses averaged EUR 2125 ± 1930 per year for all families. The economic loss was significantly lower in the families taking tetrahydrobiopterin than in the other groups (p = 0.001). The combined use of medical nutrition and BH4 treatments has been shown to increase the economic burden on the state. Reimbursing low-protein products and increasing the number of patients eligible for financial allowances may reduce the economic burden on families.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Nutrition and Metabolism)
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Open AccessArticle
Lycopene Promotes Osteogenesis and Reduces Adipogenesis through Regulating FoxO1/PPARγ Signaling in Ovariectomized Rats and Bone Marrow Mesenchymal Stem Cells
by
Bingke Xia, Xuan Dai, Hanfen Shi, Jiyuan Yin, Tianshu Xu, Tianyuan Liu, Gaiyue Yue, Haochen Guo, Ruiqiong Liang, Yage Liu, Junfeng Gao, Xinxiang Wang, Xiaofei Chen, Jinfa Tang, Lili Wang, Ruyuan Zhu and Dongwei Zhang
Nutrients 2024, 16(10), 1443; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu16101443 (registering DOI) - 10 May 2024
Abstract
Recent interest in preventing the development of osteoporosis has focused on the regulation of redox homeostasis. However, the action of lycopene (LYC), a strong natural antioxidant compound, on osteoporotic bone loss remains largely unknown. Here, we show that oral administration of LYC to
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Recent interest in preventing the development of osteoporosis has focused on the regulation of redox homeostasis. However, the action of lycopene (LYC), a strong natural antioxidant compound, on osteoporotic bone loss remains largely unknown. Here, we show that oral administration of LYC to OVX rats for 12 weeks reduced body weight gain, improved lipid metabolism, and preserved bone quality. In addition, LYC treatment inhibited ROS overgeneration in serum and bone marrow in OVX rats, and in BMSCs upon H2O2 stimulation, leading to inhibiting adipogenesis and promoting osteogenesis during bone remodeling. At the molecular level, LYC improved bone quality via an increase in the expressions of FoxO1 and Runx2 and a decrease in the expressions of PPARγ and C/EBPα in OVX rats and BMSCs. Collectively, these findings suggest that LYC attenuates osteoporotic bone loss through promoting osteogenesis and inhibiting adipogenesis via regulation of the FoxO1/PPARγ pathway driven by oxidative stress, presenting a novel strategy for osteoporosis management.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nutritional Supplements for Bone Health)
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Open AccessReview
Exploring Vitamin B12 Supplementation in the Vegan Population: A Scoping Review of the Evidence
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Sávio Fernandes, Leandro Oliveira, Alda Pereira, Maria do Céu Costa, António Raposo, Ariana Saraiva and Bruno Magalhães
Nutrients 2024, 16(10), 1442; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu16101442 (registering DOI) - 10 May 2024
Abstract
With a significant portion of the population adopting veganism and conflicting views among nutrition professionals regarding the necessity of vitamin B12 supplementation, this review aims to explore existing studies evaluating interventions through food supplementation. It focuses on the impact of vitamin B12 deficiency
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With a significant portion of the population adopting veganism and conflicting views among nutrition professionals regarding the necessity of vitamin B12 supplementation, this review aims to explore existing studies evaluating interventions through food supplementation. It focuses on the impact of vitamin B12 deficiency across different demographics. The present study seeks to understand how research has addressed the relationship between the rise in veganism and vitamin B12 deficiency over the past decade. A scoping review was conducted following the PRISMA flow diagram. Studies from 2010 to 2023 were identified using Boolean operators and key terms in electronic databases such as PubMed/ MEDLINE, Web of Science, and EBSCO (Library, Information Science & Technology Abstracts, and Academic Search Complete). Out of 217 articles identified, 70 studies were included. The topical analysis categorized the studies into three groups: those associating vitamin B12 deficiency with diseases (n = 14), those analyzing the dietary habits of vegetarian individuals (vegan or not) without a specific focus on vitamin B12 (n = 49), and those addressing food guides and nutrition institution positions (n = 7). The authors concluded that vitamin B12 deficiency is prevalent among vegans due to limited consumption of animal products. For vegetarians, supplementation is an efficient means of treating and preventing deficiency; a daily dose of 50 to 100 micrograms is advised. There are still significant gaps in the research, nevertheless, such as the absence of randomized controlled trials evaluating various forms or dosages of vitamin B12 among vegetarians and the requirement for more information and awareness of the vitamin’s significance in vegan diets.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nutrition and Food Security for All: A Step towards the Future)
Open AccessArticle
Novel Functional Food Properties of Forest Onion (Eleutherine bulbosa Merr.) Phytochemicals for Treating Metabolic Syndrome: New Insights from a Combined Computational and In Vitro Approach
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Happy Kurnia Permatasari, Nuril Farid Abshori, Rony Abdi Syahputra, Urip Harahap, Nurlinah Amalia, Dian Aruni Kumalawati, Nelly Mayulu, Nurpudji Astuti Taslim, Trina Ekawati Tallei, Raymond Rubianto Tjandrawinata, Elvan Wiyarta, Adriyan Pramono, Bonglee Kim, Apollinaire Tsopmo, Lluis Serra-Majem and Fahrul Nurkolis
Nutrients 2024, 16(10), 1441; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu16101441 (registering DOI) - 10 May 2024
Abstract
Metabolic syndrome is a global health problem. The use of functional foods as dietary components has been increasing. One food of interest is forest onion extract (FOE). This study aimed to investigate the effect of FOE on lipid and glucose metabolism in silico
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Metabolic syndrome is a global health problem. The use of functional foods as dietary components has been increasing. One food of interest is forest onion extract (FOE). This study aimed to investigate the effect of FOE on lipid and glucose metabolism in silico and in vitro using the 3T3-L1 mouse cell line. This was a comprehensive study that used a multi-modal computational network pharmacology analysis and molecular docking in silico and 3T3-L1 mouse cells in vitro. The phytochemical components of FOE were analyzed using untargeted ultra-performance liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry (UPLC-MS). Next, an in silico analysis was performed to determine FOE’s bioactive compounds, and a toxicity analysis, protein target identification, network pharmacology, and molecular docking were carried out. FOE’s effect on pancreatic lipase, α-glucosidase, and α-amylase inhibition was determined. Finally, we determined its effect on lipid accumulation and MAPK8, PPARG, HMGCR, CPT-1, and GLP1 expression in the preadipocyte 3T3-L1 mouse cell line. We showed that the potential metabolites targeted glucose and lipid metabolism in silico and that FOE inhibited pancreatic lipase levels, α-glucosidase, and α-amylase in vitro. Furthermore, FOE significantly (p < 0.05) inhibits targeted protein expressions of MAPK8, PPARG, HMGCR, CPT-1, and GLP-1 in vitro in 3T3-L1 mouse cells in a dose-dependent manner. FOE contains several metabolites that reduce pancreatic lipase levels, α-glucosidase, α-amylase, and targeted proteins associated with lipid and glucose metabolism in vitro.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Natural Products and Health: 2nd Edition)
Open AccessArticle
Nutrition Messaging by Healthcare Students: A Mixed-Methods Study Exploring Social Media Usage and Digital Competence
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Hüsna Kaya Kaçar, Ömer Furkan Kaçar and Fiona McCullough
Nutrients 2024, 16(10), 1440; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu16101440 (registering DOI) - 10 May 2024
Abstract
Aim: The COVID-19 pandemic leads to a significant digital transformation in higher education and healthcare practices. This study aimed to investigate the level of digital competence, views and experiences, social media usage, and perceived barriers to digital communication among healthcare students. Method: Employing
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Aim: The COVID-19 pandemic leads to a significant digital transformation in higher education and healthcare practices. This study aimed to investigate the level of digital competence, views and experiences, social media usage, and perceived barriers to digital communication among healthcare students. Method: Employing a mixed-methods approach, quantitative data were gathered through an online survey, while qualitative insights were gleaned from semi-structured questionnaire responses obtained during focus group discussions. A total of 143 nursing and midwifery students from Turkey, along with 54 dietetics students from various European countries, participated in the study. Results: A significant proportion of nursing (43.5%) and midwifery (55.2%) students advocated for integrating digital technology training into university curricula. Instagram has emerged as the predominant platform for sharing healthcare/nutrition information among students. However, concerns have been raised regarding the prevalence of “before/after” posts on social media promoting weight loss, which were identified as low-quality content by participants. Conclusions: These findings underscore the importance of integrating digital technologies and social media into healthcare, nutrition education, and practice. Additionally, there is a pressing need to establish professional and ethical standards for digital nutritional communication. By addressing these challenges, educators can better equip healthcare students to navigate the complexities of modern healthcare practices and enhance patient-care outcomes.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Digital Transformations in Nutrition)
Open AccessArticle
Do Young Consumers Care about Antioxidant Benefits and Resveratrol and Caffeic Acid Consumption?
by
Cristina Ștefania Gălbău, Mihaela Badea and Laura Elena Gaman
Nutrients 2024, 16(10), 1439; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu16101439 (registering DOI) - 10 May 2024
Abstract
Resveratrol and caffeic acid are some of the most consumed antioxidants during the day, so their importance as sources and their benefits need to be evaluated and updated. This survey aimed not only to analyze whether young Romanian consumers are informed about the
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Resveratrol and caffeic acid are some of the most consumed antioxidants during the day, so their importance as sources and their benefits need to be evaluated and updated. This survey aimed not only to analyze whether young Romanian consumers are informed about the benefits of antioxidants in general, and resveratrol and caffeic acid in particular, but also to observe the degree of nutritional education of these participants. Young consumers know the concept of antioxidants relatively well; they managed to give examples of antioxidants and indicate their effects. The majority of those chosen drink wine and coffee, but many are unaware of their health advantages and antioxidant properties. Students are less familiar with the antioxidant chemicals resveratrol and caffeic acid. It is advised to have a thorough understanding of these significant antioxidants and their nutritional content as they are present in our regular diets, and further studies on different kinds of antioxidants are required to increase the awareness of people concerning their importance in daily life.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Topic Bioactive Compounds with Application Potentials in Nutraceuticals and Nutricosmetics: Focus on Mechanism of Action and Application Science)
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Open AccessArticle
Non-Linear Association of Exercise with Animal Protein Consumption among U.S. Adults
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Justin D. Bina and Glynn T. Tonsor
Nutrients 2024, 16(10), 1438; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu16101438 - 10 May 2024
Abstract
Supply chain disruptions, human and animal health concerns, and environmental impacts of livestock production have spurred renewed attention to animal protein consumption in the U.S. Prior research has sought to better understand animal protein consumption by assessing demographic and socioeconomic determinants. However, physical
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Supply chain disruptions, human and animal health concerns, and environmental impacts of livestock production have spurred renewed attention to animal protein consumption in the U.S. Prior research has sought to better understand animal protein consumption by assessing demographic and socioeconomic determinants. However, physical exercise represents a behavioral determinant of consumption that is societally important and, thus far, has not been considered in empirical assessments. Our objective was to quantify the association of exercise with the consumption of total protein, beef, pork, poultry, seafood, eggs, and dairy among U.S. adults. We analyzed 24 h dietary recall and physical activity data from adults in the 2007–2018 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES). The association of exercise with protein consumption (total and disaggregated animal protein) was assessed using ordinary least squares and multivariate Tobit regression. Non-linear associations of exercise with total protein consumption were found, with the magnitude of association highest at 121–180 min per day of exercise. Non-linear associations were also found with animal protein consumption, which differed in sign and magnitude across protein sources. The magnitudes of association, paired with a sizable share of the study sample engaged in exercise, suggest a substantial influence of exercise on protein consumption habits in the U.S.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nutritional Habits in a Sports Context)
Open AccessEditorial
Nutritional Strategy for Cancer—From Prevention to Aftercare
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Jakub Klekowski and Mariusz Chabowski
Nutrients 2024, 16(10), 1437; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu16101437 - 10 May 2024
Abstract
In recent decades, there has been a noteworthy increase in the efficacy of oncological treatments for a variety of neoplasms, which has improved the overall results and survival rates in cancer therapy [...]
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nutritional Strategy for Cancer—from Prevention to Aftercare)
Open AccessArticle
The Role of Fresh Beef Intake and Mediterranean Diet Adherence during Pregnancy in Maternal and Infant Health Outcomes
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Danielle Nicole Christifano, Kathleen M. Gustafson, Susan E. Carlson, Nicole B. Mathis, Alexandra Brown, Obianuju Onuoha and Matthew K. Taylor
Nutrients 2024, 16(10), 1436; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu16101436 - 9 May 2024
Abstract
Beef is an excellent source of nutrients important for maternal health and fetal development. It is also true that the Mediterranean diet is beneficial for the health of both the mother and offspring; however, the relative value of fresh beef intake within Mediterranean
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Beef is an excellent source of nutrients important for maternal health and fetal development. It is also true that the Mediterranean diet is beneficial for the health of both the mother and offspring; however, the relative value of fresh beef intake within Mediterranean diet patterns during pregnancy is unknown. The objective of this project was two-fold: (1) assess the relationship between beef intake and nutrient intake in a pregnant population; (2) assess the relationship between maternal beef consumption among varying degrees of Mediterranean diet adherence with maternal risk of anemia and infant health outcomes. This is a secondary analysis of an existing cohort of pregnant women (n = 1076) who participated in one of two completed clinical trials examining the effect of a docosahexaenoic acid supplementation on birth and offspring outcomes. Women were enrolled between 12 and 20 weeks of gestation and were followed throughout their pregnancies to collect maternal and infant characteristics, food frequency questionnaires [providing beef intake and Mediterranean diet (MedD) adherence], and supplement intake. Women with the highest fresh beef intake had the highest intake of many micronutrients that are commonly deficient among pregnant women. Fresh beef intake alone was not related to any maternal or infant outcomes. There was a reduced risk of anemia among women with medium to high MedD quality and higher fresh beef intake. Women in the medium MedD group had 31% lower odds of anemia, and women in the high MedD group had 38% lower odds of anemia with every one-ounce increase in fresh beef intake, suggesting that diet quality indices may be misrepresenting the role of fresh beef within a healthy diet. These findings show that beef intake increases micronutrient intake and may be protective against maternal anemia when consumed within a healthy Mediterranean diet pattern.
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(This article belongs to the Section Nutritional Epidemiology)
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Open AccessReview
Pulse Consumption and Health Outcomes: A Scoping Review
by
Naisi Zhao, Keyi Jiao, Yu-Hsiang Chiu and Taylor C. Wallace
Nutrients 2024, 16(10), 1435; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu16101435 - 9 May 2024
Abstract
Pulses—comprising the dry, edible seeds of leguminous plants—have long been lauded for their culinary flexibility and substantial nutritional advantages. This scoping review aimed to map the evidence on how pulses contribute to overall human health. Four electronic databases were searched for clinical and
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Pulses—comprising the dry, edible seeds of leguminous plants—have long been lauded for their culinary flexibility and substantial nutritional advantages. This scoping review aimed to map the evidence on how pulses contribute to overall human health. Four electronic databases were searched for clinical and observational studies in English. We identified 30 articles (3 cross-sectional studies, 1 federated meta-analysis, 8 prospective cohort studies, 1 before-and-after study, and 17 randomized controlled trials) that met our inclusion criteria. Predominant among the pulses studied were lentils, chickpeas, common bean varieties (e.g., pinto, black, navy, red, kidney), black-eyed peas, cowpeas, and split peas. Consumption modalities varied; most studies examined mixed pulses, while five isolated individual types. In intervention studies, pulses were incorporated into diets by allotting a fixed pulse serving on top of a regular diet or by substituting red meat with pulses, offering a comparative analysis of dietary effects. The health outcomes evaluated were multifaceted, ranging from lipid profiles to blood pressure, cardiovascular disease risk and mortality, type 2 diabetes and glycemic control, metabolic syndrome indicators, inflammatory markers, oxidative stress biomarkers, and hormonal profiles. The most frequently assessed study outcomes included changes in low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, high-density lipoprotein cholesterol, systolic blood pressure, diastolic blood pressure, fasting blood sugar, hemoglobin A1c, waist circumference, and C-reactive protein or high-sensitivity C-reactive protein. This review should serve as a call to action for the scientific community to build upon the existing evidence, enriching our understanding of the nutritional and health-promoting attributes of pulses.
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(This article belongs to the Section Nutrition and Public Health)
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Open AccessArticle
Effects of Functional Strength Training Combined with Aerobic Training on Body Composition, Physical Fitness, and Movement Quality in Obese Adolescents
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Zhihai Wang, Huihui Ma, Weiwei Zhang, Yufeng Zhang, Layale Youssef, Marcelo A. S. Carneiro, Chao Chen, Dan Wang and Dexin Wang
Nutrients 2024, 16(10), 1434; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu16101434 - 9 May 2024
Abstract
This study aimed to compare the effects of 12 weeks of functional strength training combined with aerobic training (TG) and traditional resistance training combined with aerobic training (CG) on the body composition, physical fitness, and movement quality of obese adolescents. Forty participants were
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This study aimed to compare the effects of 12 weeks of functional strength training combined with aerobic training (TG) and traditional resistance training combined with aerobic training (CG) on the body composition, physical fitness, and movement quality of obese adolescents. Forty participants were randomly assigned to either the TG group (n = 20) or the CG group (n = 20). Each group underwent training five times per week, lasting 120 min each time, over a total period of 12 weeks. All participants followed a strict dietary program. Anthropometric parameters, body composition, physical fitness, and movement quality were evaluated at baseline and after intervention. A two-way repeated measures ANOVA observed a significant interaction between time and group for body mass (p = 0.043), body fat percentage (p = 0.045), body mass index (p = 0.025), neck circumference (p = 0.01), chest circumference (p = 0.027), left-hand grip strength (p = 0.043), right-hand grip strength (p = 0.048), standing broad jump (p = 0.044), and total Functional Movement Screen score (p = 0.003), and the improvement was greater for TG in comparison to CG. TG was found to be more effective than CG in enhancing body composition, physical fitness, and movement quality in obese adolescents.
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(This article belongs to the Section Sports Nutrition)
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Open AccessArticle
Na and K Intake from Lunches Served in a Japanese Company Cafeteria and the Estimated Improvement in the Dietary Na/K Ratio Using Low-Na/K Seasonings and Dairy to Prevent Hypertension
by
Nagako Okuda, Aya Higashiyama, Kozo Tanno, Yuki Yonekura, Makoto Miura, Hiroshi Kuno, Toru Nakajima, Tomomi Nagahata, Hirokazu Taniguchi, Koki Kosami, Kyoko Kojima and Akira Okayama
Nutrients 2024, 16(10), 1433; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu16101433 - 9 May 2024
Abstract
The excessive intake of sodium (Na) and insufficient intake of potassium (K) are major concerns in the prevention of hypertension. Using low-Na/K seasonings (reducing 25% of the NaCl and adding K salt) may improve the dietary Na/K ratio and help prevent hypertension. To
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The excessive intake of sodium (Na) and insufficient intake of potassium (K) are major concerns in the prevention of hypertension. Using low-Na/K seasonings (reducing 25% of the NaCl and adding K salt) may improve the dietary Na/K ratio and help prevent hypertension. To devise an intervention study using low-Na/K seasonings at a company cafeteria, we calculated the Na and K contents of the meals served at the cafeteria and estimated changes in the intakes when suitable low-Na/K seasonings were used. We also considered using milk as a good source of K. We used an ingredient list of a company cafeteria and calculated Na and K contents in each dish. The average amounts of NaCl and K per use were 5.04 g and 718 mg, respectively. Seasonings contributed 70.9% of the NaCl. With the use of low-Na/K seasonings, an estimated reduction in NaCl of 0.8 g/day and an estimated increase in K of 308 mg/day was achieved. With an additional serving (200 mL) of milk, NaCl was reduced by 0.57 g/day and K was increased by 610 mg/day, with an overall decrease in the dietary Na/K ratio from 3.20 to 2.40. The use of low-Na/K seasonings and dairy may improve the dietary Na/K ratio among cafeteria users and help prevent hypertension.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Nutrition and Public Health)
Open AccessArticle
Development of the Food Acceptance Questionnaire for Thai Partial and Complete Edentulism
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Ketsupha Suwanarpa, Yoko Hasegawa, Jarin Paphangkorakit, Waranuch Pitiphat, Kazuhiro Hori and Takahiro Ono
Nutrients 2024, 16(10), 1432; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu16101432 - 9 May 2024
Abstract
This study aimed to develop the Food Acceptance Questionnaire (FAQ) to assess the masticatory ability of Thai older adults (≥60 years). Fifty participants were interviewed using open-ended questions about food they regularly consumed and avoided due to difficulty chewing. From a list of
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This study aimed to develop the Food Acceptance Questionnaire (FAQ) to assess the masticatory ability of Thai older adults (≥60 years). Fifty participants were interviewed using open-ended questions about food they regularly consumed and avoided due to difficulty chewing. From a list of 140 items, 100 were recruited for a trial version of the FAQ. A total of 154 participants responded to the 5-point Likert scale on their chewing perception of each food item (1, impossible to chew; 5, most easily eaten). The average response of each food item was used as the chewing index (CI). The 100 food items were ranked and divided into five grades based on their CIs. Masticatory performance (MP) was objectively assessed by a visual scoring method using gummy jelly (UHA Mikakuto). Two foods from each grade that demonstrated the highest correlation with MP were selected to form the final 10-item FAQ. The FAQ score was calculated by summarizing the responses of 10 items. MP correlated strongly with the FAQ score (r = 0.57, p < 0.001), indicating its predictive validity. Furthermore, the FAQ indicates strong internal consistency (Cronbach’s alpha coefficient = 0.90), indicating high reliability. In conclusion, this newly developed 10-item FAQ is valid and reliable for assessing the masticatory ability of Thai older adults.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Understanding the Link between Oral Health, Nutrition, and Health Outcomes in Older Adults)
Open AccessArticle
A Study of Vitamin D Status and Its Influencing Factors among Pregnant Women in Szeged, Hungary: A Secondary Outcome of a Case–Control Study
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Evelin Polanek, Anita Sisák, Regina Molnár, Zsuzsanna Máté, Edina Horváth, Gábor Németh, Hajnalka Orvos, Edit Paulik and Andrea Szabó
Nutrients 2024, 16(10), 1431; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu16101431 - 9 May 2024
Abstract
Adequate vitamin D (VD) intake during pregnancy is needed for fetal development and maternal health maintenance. However, while there is no doubt regarding its importance, there is not a unified recommendation regarding adequate intake. The main aim of our study was to measure
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Adequate vitamin D (VD) intake during pregnancy is needed for fetal development and maternal health maintenance. However, while there is no doubt regarding its importance, there is not a unified recommendation regarding adequate intake. The main aim of our study was to measure the VD serum level of studied women, together with its potential influencing factors: demographic (i.e., age, level of education, relationship status and type of residence), conception and pregnancy related factors. Results are based on secondary data analyses of a retrospective case–control study of 100 preterm and 200 term pregnancies, where case and control groups were analyzed together. Data collection was based on a self-administered questionnaire, health documentation, and maternal serum VD laboratory tests. VD intake was evaluated by diet and dietary supplement consumption. According to our results, 68.1% of women took some kind of prenatal vitamin, and only 25.9% of them knew about its VD content. Only 12.1% of included women reached the optimal, 75 nmol/L serum VD level. Higher maternal serum levels were associated with early pregnancy care visits (p = 0.001), assisted reproductive therapy (p = 0.028) and advice from gynecologists (p = 0.049). A correlation was found between VD intake and serum levels (p < 0.001). Despite the compulsory pregnancy counselling in Hungary, health consciousness, VD intake and serum levels remain below the recommendations. The role of healthcare professionals is crucial during pregnancy regarding micronutrients intake and the appropriate supplementation dose.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Nutrition in Women)
Open AccessArticle
Evaluation of Gastroprotective Activity of the Methanolic Extract of Justicia pectoralis Jacq. (Acanthaceae)
by
Ismael Aureliano Rosa Júnior, Dionys de Souza Almeida, Hamilton Barbosa Napolitano, Josana de Castro Peixoto, Lucimar Pinheiro Rosseto, Emerith Mayra Hungria Pinto, Lucas Danilo Dias, James Oluwagbamigbe Fajemiroye, Elson Alves Costa, Rodolfo P. Vieira and José Luis Rodrigues Martins
Nutrients 2024, 16(10), 1430; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu16101430 - 9 May 2024
Abstract
Introduction: Justicia pectoralis Jacq. is traditionally applied in folk medicine in Brazil and in several Latin American countries. The leaves are used in tea form, especially in the treatment of respiratory disorders, acting as an expectorant. It also has activity in gastrointestinal disorders,
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Introduction: Justicia pectoralis Jacq. is traditionally applied in folk medicine in Brazil and in several Latin American countries. The leaves are used in tea form, especially in the treatment of respiratory disorders, acting as an expectorant. It also has activity in gastrointestinal disorders, and it is anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, sedative, and estrogenic, among others. Aims: To investigate the gastroprotective activity of the methanol extract of the leaves of Justicia pectoralis Jacq. (MEJP) in different experimental models of gastric ulcers. Materials and methods: The adult leaves of Justicia pectoralis Jacq. were collected and cultivated in beds, with an approximate spacing of 40 × 40 cm, organic fertilization, irrigation with potable water and without shelter from light. The MEJP was prepared from the dried and pulverized leaves and concentrated under reduced pressure in a rotary evaporator. For the experimental model of gastric ulcer, Swiss male albino mice were used. The inputs used in the experiment were MEJP at three different concentrations (250, 500 and 1000 mg/kg p.o.), cimetidine (50 mg/kg p.o.), indomethacin (50 mg/kg s.c.) and vehicle (10 mL/kg p.o.). Results: MEJP (250, 500 and 1000 mg/kg p.o.) demonstrated gastroprotective activity, with levels of protection of 45.65%, 44.80% and 40.22%, respectively, compared to the control (vehicle). Compared with cimetidine (48.29%), MEJP showed similar gastroprotective activity. Conclusions: This study demonstrated the gastroprotective activity of MEJP and contributes to validate the traditional use the species for gastric disorders and provides a pharmacological basis for its clinical potential.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Dietary Nutrition on Gastrointestinal Health)
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Open AccessReview
Plate Food Waste in Food Services: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
by
Nathalia Sernizon Guimarães, Marcela Gomes Reis, Luciano de Alvarenga Fontes, Renata Puppin Zandonadi, Raquel Braz Assunção Botelho, Hmidan A. Alturki, Ariana Saraiva and António Raposo
Nutrients 2024, 16(10), 1429; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu16101429 - 9 May 2024
Abstract
Food waste is considered to be a social, environmental, administrative, and economic problem. Given the large-scale production and distribution of food, food waste in food services has been widely discussed by experts, professors, and scientists in the field. This systematic review aimed to
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Food waste is considered to be a social, environmental, administrative, and economic problem. Given the large-scale production and distribution of food, food waste in food services has been widely discussed by experts, professors, and scientists in the field. This systematic review aimed to understand which food service has the highest percentage of plate food waste. A systematic review and meta-analysis were conducted until January 2024 in ten electronic databases: MEDLINE, Embase, IBECS, BINACIS, BDENF, CUMED, BDNPAR, ARGMSAL, Cochrane Library, Sustainable Development Goals, and the gray literature. The protocol was previously registered with PROSPERO under the code CRD42024501971. Studies that have assessed plate food waste in food services were included. There were no restrictions on language, publication location, or date. The risk of bias analysis was carried out using the JBI instrument. A proportion meta-analysis was carried out using R software (version 4.2.1). This systematic review with meta-analysis showed that the type of distribution and the food service are the factors that have the greatest impact on the percentage and per capita of plate food waste. In the face of increased waste, interventions should be targeted by type and distribution system, diners, and meals in order to lessen the impact of these factors.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Healthy Nutrition as the Key Reference in Special Diets, Quality of Life, and Sustainability)
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The Influence of a Polyphenol-Rich Red Berry Fruit Juice on Recovery Process and Leg Strength Capacity after Six Days of Intensive Endurance Exercise in Recreational Endurance Athletes
by
Sarah Valder, Elisabeth Habersatter, Tihomir Kostov, Sina Quenzer, Lukas Herzig, Jakob von Bernuth, Lynn Matits, Volker Herdegen, Patrick Diel and Eduard Isenmann
Nutrients 2024, 16(10), 1428; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu16101428 - 9 May 2024
Abstract
Background: Various nutritional strategies are increasingly used in sports to reduce oxidative stress and promote recovery. Chokeberry is rich in polyphenols and can reduce oxidative stress. Consequently, chokeberry juices and mixed juices with chokeberry content are increasingly used in sports. However, the data
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Background: Various nutritional strategies are increasingly used in sports to reduce oxidative stress and promote recovery. Chokeberry is rich in polyphenols and can reduce oxidative stress. Consequently, chokeberry juices and mixed juices with chokeberry content are increasingly used in sports. However, the data are very limited. Therefore, this study investigates the effects of the short-term supplementation of a red fruit juice drink with chokeberry content or a placebo on muscle damage, oxidative status, and leg strength during a six-day intense endurance protocol. Methods: Eighteen recreational endurance athletes participated in a cross-over high intensity interval training (HIIT) design, receiving either juice or a placebo. Baseline and post-exercise assessments included blood samples, anthropometric data, and leg strength measurements. Results: A significant increase was measured in muscle damage following the endurance protocol in all participants (∆ CK juice: 117.12 ± 191.75 U/L, ∆ CK placebo: 164.35 ± 267.00 U/L; p = 0.001, η2 = 0.17). No group effects were detected in exercise-induced muscle damage (p = 0.371, η2 = 0.010) and oxidative status (p = 0.632, η2 = 0.000). The reduction in strength was stronger in the placebo group, but group effects are missing statistical significance (∆ e1RM juice: 1.34 ± 9.26 kg, ∆ e1RM placebo: −3.33 ± 11.49 kg; p = 0.988, η2 = 0.000). Conclusion: Although a reduction in strength can be interpreted for the placebo treatment, no statistically significant influence of chokeberry could be determined. It appears that potential effects may only occur with prolonged application and a higher content of polyphenols, but further research is needed to confirm this.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Editorial Board Members' Collection Series: Polyphenols and Sports Nutrition)
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Current Oncology Nutrition Care Practice in Southeast Asia: A Scoping Review
by
Choirun Nissa, Lauren Hanna and Judy Bauer
Nutrients 2024, 16(10), 1427; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu16101427 - 9 May 2024
Abstract
Although evidence-based nutrition care is recommended for patients with cancer, current nutrition care practices provided by nutritionists and dietitians in Southeast Asian countries are not clearly reported. The aim of this scoping review was to describe nutritionists’ and dietitians’ current oncology nutrition care
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Although evidence-based nutrition care is recommended for patients with cancer, current nutrition care practices provided by nutritionists and dietitians in Southeast Asian countries are not clearly reported. The aim of this scoping review was to describe nutritionists’ and dietitians’ current oncology nutrition care practice within Southeast Asia by identifying access to dietetic services, tools or strategies used in providing care, and barriers and enablers to implementing nutrition care practices. Five databases (Ovid MEDLINE, Global Health, Embase, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, and Proquest) were searched through structured search strategies, in addition to strategic searching of grey literature. A total of 4261 sources of evidence were retrieved. After full-text screening, 18 studies from Southeast Asian countries met the inclusion criteria and were included in this review. The provision and reporting of nutrition care practices provided by nutritionists and dietitians were limited. Access to dietetic services, including nutritional screening tools and reason to be referred, were varied within studies. Barriers and enablers to nutrition care provision were unique and related to each country’s specific resources and guidelines. In summary, there was varied reporting of nutrition care practices provided to patients with cancer in Southeast Asia and a lack of clarity on the actual standardized processes. Future research is warranted to further explore the barriers and enablers to providing nutrition care by local nutritionists and dietitians in Southeast Asia.
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(This article belongs to the Section Clinical Nutrition)
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Open AccessSystematic Review
Assessing the Healthfulness of University Food Environments: A Systematic Review of Methods and Tools
by
Alicia Anne Dahl, Stacy M. Fandetti, Lilian O. Ademu, Ryan Harris and Elizabeth F. Racine
Nutrients 2024, 16(10), 1426; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu16101426 - 9 May 2024
Abstract
The availability, promotion, and price of healthy foods within the university food environment may impact students’ dietary choices. This systematic review summarizes the tools and methods used to assess the healthfulness of university food environments where many students spend a significant portion of
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The availability, promotion, and price of healthy foods within the university food environment may impact students’ dietary choices. This systematic review summarizes the tools and methods used to assess the healthfulness of university food environments where many students spend a significant portion of their emerging adulthood. Thirty-six global studies published between 2012 and 2022 were sourced from PubMed (NNLM), Cochrane Library (Wiley), Web of Science (Clarivate), APA PsycInfo (EBSCO), CINHAL Complete (EBSCO), ProQuest Nursing, and Allied Health, following PRISMA 2020 guidelines. Of the included studies, 58% were institutional-level audits, 17% examined individual-level perceptions, and 25% combined both. Most institutional-level audits focused on one aspect of the food environment (e.g., eateries, vending machines). For studies examining multiple spaces within the campus environment (38%), comprehensive assessments were limited, and most studies had to employ a combination of assessment tools. Surveys were most often used to gather individual perceptions about the food environment. The Nutrition Environment Measures Survey (NEMS) was the most commonly used tool across all studies. This review highlights the need for a standardized tool, method, or a “healthy” benchmark for specific use at universities to improve methodological rigor and comparability of findings across institutions.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Community-Based Strategies for Obesity Prevention: A Nutritional Perspective)
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