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Buzigi E, Pillay K, Siwela M, Mkhwanazi B, Ngidi M, Ssozi J, Mahinda BM, Isingoma EB. Lactating mothers' perceptions and sensory acceptability of a provitamin A carotenoid-iron-rich composite dish prepared from iron-biofortified common bean and orange-fleshed sweet potato in rural western Uganda. Food Sci Nutr 2024; 12:3949-3963. [PMID: 38873437 PMCID: PMC11167192 DOI: 10.1002/fsn3.4053] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2023] [Revised: 02/10/2024] [Accepted: 02/14/2024] [Indexed: 06/15/2024] Open
Abstract
Uganda's lactating mothers are vulnerable to deficiencies of vitamin A and iron because they consume plant-based conventional foods such as white-fleshed sweet potato (WFSP) and non-iron biofortified common bean (NIBCB) that are low in provitamin A (PVA) and iron, respectively. A PVA carotenoid-iron-rich dish was prepared from a combination of orange-fleshed sweet potato (OFSP) and iron-biofortified common bean (IBCB). This study evaluated the perceptions and sensory acceptability of OFSP+IBCB (test food) against WFSP+NIBCB (control food) among lactating mothers in rural Uganda. A total of 94 lactating mothers participated in the study. The sensory attributes (taste, color, aroma, texture, and general acceptability) of test and control foods were rated using a five-point facial hedonic scale (1 = dislike very much, 2 = dislike, 3 = neutral, 4 = like 5 = like very much). An attribute was acceptable if the participant scored from like to like very much. Focus group discussions (FGDs) were conducted to assess participant perceptions about their future consumption of OFSP+IBCB. The chi-square test was used to detect the proportion difference for each sensory attribute between OFSP+IBCB and WFSP+NIBCB, while FGD data were analyzed by thematic analysis. Taste, color, and aroma were acceptable to the mothers and not significantly different between OFSP+IBCB and WFSP+NIBCB (p > .05). Participants had positive perceptions of the taste, aroma, and color of the OFSP+IBCB and negative perceptions about the soft texture of OFSP. The lactating mothers had positive perceptions of consuming OFSP+IBCB provided they were accessible, affordable, and feasible to prepare.
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Affiliation(s)
- Edward Buzigi
- Department of Community Health & Behavioural SciencesSchool of Public Health, College of Health Sciences, Makerere UniversityKampalaUganda
- Department of Dietetics and Human NutritionSchool of Agricultural, Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of KwaZulu‐NatalPietermaritzburgSouth Africa
- Department of Public Health & NutritionFaculty of Health Sciences Victoria UniversityKampalaUganda
| | - Kirthee Pillay
- Department of Dietetics and Human NutritionSchool of Agricultural, Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of KwaZulu‐NatalPietermaritzburgSouth Africa
| | - Muthulisi Siwela
- Department of Dietetics and Human NutritionSchool of Agricultural, Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of KwaZulu‐NatalPietermaritzburgSouth Africa
| | - Blessing Mkhwanazi
- Department of Dietetics and Human NutritionSchool of Agricultural, Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of KwaZulu‐NatalPietermaritzburgSouth Africa
| | - Mjabuliseni Ngidi
- Department of Dietetics and Human NutritionSchool of Agricultural, Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of KwaZulu‐NatalPietermaritzburgSouth Africa
| | - Joshua Ssozi
- Department of Public Health & NutritionFaculty of Health Sciences Victoria UniversityKampalaUganda
| | - Babra Muhindo Mahinda
- Department of Public Health & NutritionFaculty of Health Sciences Victoria UniversityKampalaUganda
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Lakew G, Yirsaw AN, Berhie AY, Belayneh AG, Bogale SK, Getachew E, Andarge GA, Seid K, Bogale EK. Prevalence and associated factors of anemia among postpartum mothers in public health facilities in Ethiopia, 2024: a systematic review and meta-analysis. BMC Pregnancy Childbirth 2024; 24:327. [PMID: 38678183 PMCID: PMC11055361 DOI: 10.1186/s12884-024-06525-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2024] [Accepted: 04/16/2024] [Indexed: 04/29/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Postpartum anemia, characterized by hematocrit or hemoglobin levels below the defined cutoff point (< 11gm/dl or hematocrit < 33%), is a prevalent global issue. It serves as an indirect contributor to maternal mortality and morbidity. Mothers in the postpartum period experience diminished quality of life, impaired cognitive function, emotional instability, and an increased risk of postpartum depression due to anemia. Additionally, infants of affected mothers may face challenges such as insufficient breast milk supply and a lack of proper care. Examining the combined prevalence and factors associated with postpartum anemia is crucial for addressing maternal health risks and complications during the postnatal phase attributed to anemia. OBJECTIVE The study aimed to synthesize the existing literature on the prevalence and associated factors of postpartum anemia in public health facilities of Ethiopia, in 2024. METHODS The study was conducted by searching through the Google Scholar, PubMed, and Cochrane Library search engines. The search utilized keywords and MeSH terms such as anemia, low hemoglobin, postpartum, postnatal women, and Ethiopia. The collected data underwent analysis and comparison with the WHO criteria to determine if it met the threshold for declaring a public health concern. Heterogeneity was evaluated through the Cochran Q test and I2 statistics. Prevalence and odds ratio estimations were performed using a random-effects model with a 95% confidence interval. RESULT Four studies were included in this systematic review and meta-analysis. The overall pooled prevalence of anemia among postpartum women in Ethiopia was 69% (95% CI: 60- 77%).Lack of formal education(OR = 3.5;CI:2.639,4.408),Low Pre-delivery hemoglobin (OR = 4.2;CI: 1.768-6.668), Postpartum women < 4 ANC visit (OR = 2.72; 95% CI:2.14,3.3 ),history of post partum hemorrhage (OR = 2.49; CI: 1.075-3.978),history of Forceps/vacuum delivery(OR = 3.96; CI:2.986-4.947), Poor iron and folic acid adherence (OR = 2.8;95% CI:2.311,3.297), C/S (OR = 4.04; 95% CI: 3.426,4.671),lower dietary diversity (OR = 4.295% CI:1.768,6.668) were significantly associated postpartum anemia. CONCLUSION Postpartum women in Ethiopia continue to face a considerable public health challenge in the form of anemia. Consequently, there is a pressing need for the government to formulate comprehensive, multi-sectorial policies and strategies. These initiatives should be designed to address the substantial regional disparities influenced by interconnected factors, with the aim of reducing the prevalence of anemia among postpartum women in Ethiopia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gebeyehu Lakew
- Health Promotion and Communication Department, School of public health, College of medicine and health sciences, Gondar University, Gondar, Ethiopia.
| | - Amlaku Nigussie Yirsaw
- Health Promotion and Communication Department, School of public health, College of medicine and health sciences, Gondar University, Gondar, Ethiopia
| | - Alemshet Yirga Berhie
- Nursing department, college of medicine and health science, Bahir Dar University, Bahir Dar, Ethiopia
| | - Asnake Gashaw Belayneh
- Department of emergency and critical care nursing, College of Medicine and Health Science, Bahir Dar University, Bahir Dar, Ethiopia
| | - Solomon Ketema Bogale
- Department of Nutrition, Antsokiya Gemza wereda Health Office, North Shoa, North East, Ethiopia
| | - Eyob Getachew
- Health Promotion and Communication Department, School of public health, College of medicine and health sciences, Gondar University, Gondar, Ethiopia
| | - Getnet Alemu Andarge
- Department of Nutrition, Antsokiya Gemza wereda Health Office, North Shoa, North East, Ethiopia
| | - Kedir Seid
- Bati Primary Hospital, Oromia Special Zone, North Shoa, North Central, Ethiopia
| | - Eyob Ketema Bogale
- Health Promotion and Behavioral science department, school of public health, College of medicine and health science, Bahir Dar University , Bahir Dar, Ethiopia
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Stadelmaier J, Roux I, Petropoulou M, Schwingshackl L. Empirical evidence of study design biases in nutrition randomised controlled trials: a meta-epidemiological study. BMC Med 2022; 20:330. [PMID: 36217133 PMCID: PMC9552513 DOI: 10.1186/s12916-022-02540-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2022] [Accepted: 08/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Instruments to critically appraise randomised controlled trials (RCTs) are based on evidence from meta-epidemiological studies. We aim to conduct a meta-epidemiological study on the average bias associated with reported methodological trial characteristics such as random sequence generation, allocation concealment, blinding, incomplete outcome data, selective reporting, and compliance of RCTs in nutrition research. METHODS We searched the Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, for systematic reviews of RCTs, published between 01 January 2010 and 31 December 2019. We combined the estimates of the average bias (e.g. ratio of risk ratios [RRR] or differences in standardised mean differences) in meta-analyses using the random-effects model. Subgroup analyses were conducted to investigate the potential differences among the RCTs with low versus high/unclear risk of bias with respect to the different types of interventions (e.g. micronutrients, fatty acids, dietary approach), outcomes (e.g. mortality, pregnancy outcomes), and type of outcome (objective, subjective). Heterogeneity was assessed through I2 and τ2, and prediction intervals were calculated. RESULTS We included 27 Cochrane nutrition reviews with 77 meta-analyses (n = 927 RCTs). The available evidence suggests that intervention effect estimates may not be exaggerated in RCTs with high/unclear risk of bias (versus low) judgement for sequence generation (RRR 0.97, 95% CI 0.93 to 1.02; I2 = 28%; τ2 = 0.002), allocation concealment (RRR 1.00, 95% CI 0.96 to 1.04; I2 = 27%; τ2 = 0.001), blinding of participants and personnel (RRR 0.95, 95% CI 0.91 to 1.00; I2 = 23%; τ2 = 0), selective reporting (RRR 0.97, 95% CI 0.92 to 1.02; I2 = 24%; τ2 = 0), and compliance (RRR 0.95, 95% CI 0.89 to 1.02; I2 = 0%; τ2 = 0). Intervention effect estimates seemed to be exaggerated in RCTs with a high/unclear risk of bias judgement for blinding of outcome assessment (RRR 0.81, 95% CI 0.70 to 0.94; I2 = 26%; τ2 = 0.03), which was predominately driven by subjective outcomes, and incomplete outcome data (RRR 0.92, 95% CI 0.88 to 0.97; I2 = 22%; τ2 = 0.001). For continuous outcomes, no differences were observed, except for selective reporting. CONCLUSIONS On average, most characteristics of nutrition RCTs may not exaggerate intervention effect estimates, but the average bias appears to be greatest in trials of subjective outcomes. Replication of this study is suggested in this field to keep this conclusion updated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julia Stadelmaier
- Institute for Evidence in Medicine, Medical Centre - University of Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany.
| | - Isabelle Roux
- Institute for Evidence in Medicine, Medical Centre - University of Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Maria Petropoulou
- Institute of Medical Biometry and Statistics, Faculty of Medicine and Medical Centre, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Lukas Schwingshackl
- Institute for Evidence in Medicine, Medical Centre - University of Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
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Yang C, Zhao A, Ren Z, Zhang J, Wang P, Zhang Y. Vitamin A Nutritional Status of Urban Lactating Chinese Women and Its Associated Factors. Nutrients 2022; 14:nu14153184. [PMID: 35956361 PMCID: PMC9370282 DOI: 10.3390/nu14153184] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2022] [Revised: 07/28/2022] [Accepted: 08/02/2022] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
We aimed to investigate dietary vitamin A (DVA) intake, serum vitamin A (SVA) concentrations, and breast milk vitamin A (BMVA) concentrations of urban lactating Chinese women and explore the associated factors. We recruited 326 lactating women from ten cities in China and collected their dietary information, blood samples, and breast milk samples. SVA and BMVA were assessed with high-performance liquid chromatography. Mann–Whitney U tests, Kruskal–Wallis H tests, Chi-square tests, Spearman correlation tests, and multiple regression analyses were conducted. The median (25th, 75th) of DVA, SVA and BMVA were 372.36 (209.12, 619.78) μg RAE/day, 1.99 (1.71, 2.35) μmol/L, and 1.67 (1.13, 2.15) μmol/L, respectively. Only 3.1% of lactating women met the recommended nutrient intake of Vitamin A (VA), and 20.6% had a BMVA level below 1.05 μmol/L. Compared to underweight or normal weight women, overweight or obese lactating women had lower DVA and BMVA but higher SVA (p = 0.022; p = 0.030; p = 0.003). Multiparous women had a higher risk of inadequate BMVA (p = 0.023) than primiparous women. SVA and BMVA were positively associated with DVA, especially for lactating women not using VA supplements (β = 0.174, 95%CI = 0.025, 0.324, p = 0.022; β = 0.501, 95%CI = 0.208, 0.795, p = 0.001). There was no association between SVA and BMVA (β = 0.165, 95%CI = −0.037, 0.366, p = 0.109). In conclusion, VA nutritional status among Chinese urban lactating women needs more attention, especially for those who are obese, overweight, or higher parity. Increased DVA may contribute to increased BMVA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chenlu Yang
- Department of Nutrition and Food Hygiene, School of Public Health, Peking University, Beijing 100191, China; (C.Y.); (Z.R.); (J.Z.)
- Children’s Health Care Center, Beijing Children’s Hospital of Capital Medical University, National Center for Children’s Health, Beijing 100045, China
| | - Ai Zhao
- Vanke School of Public Health, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100091, China;
| | - Zhongxia Ren
- Department of Nutrition and Food Hygiene, School of Public Health, Peking University, Beijing 100191, China; (C.Y.); (Z.R.); (J.Z.)
| | - Jian Zhang
- Department of Nutrition and Food Hygiene, School of Public Health, Peking University, Beijing 100191, China; (C.Y.); (Z.R.); (J.Z.)
| | - Peiyu Wang
- Department of Social Medicine and Health Education, School of Public Health, Peking University, Beijing 100191, China;
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Toxicological Research and Risk Assessment for Food Safety, School of Public Health, Peking University, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Yumei Zhang
- Department of Nutrition and Food Hygiene, School of Public Health, Peking University, Beijing 100191, China; (C.Y.); (Z.R.); (J.Z.)
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Toxicological Research and Risk Assessment for Food Safety, School of Public Health, Peking University, Beijing 100191, China
- Correspondence:
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Breast Milk Micronutrients and Infant Neurodevelopmental Outcomes: A Systematic Review. Nutrients 2021; 13:nu13113848. [PMID: 34836103 PMCID: PMC8624933 DOI: 10.3390/nu13113848] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2021] [Revised: 10/25/2021] [Accepted: 10/25/2021] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Micronutrients are fundamental for healthy brain development and deficiencies during early development can have a severe and lasting impact on cognitive outcomes. Evidence indicates that undernourished lactating individuals may produce breast milk containing lower concentrations of certain vitamins and minerals. Exclusively breastfed infants born to mothers deficient in micronutrients may therefore be at risk of micronutrient deficiencies, with potential implications for neurodevelopment. This systematic review aims to consider current knowledge on the effects of breast milk micronutrients on the developmental outcomes of infants. The databases Medline, Global Health, PsychInfo, Open Grey, and the Web of Science were searched for papers published before February 2021. Studies were included if they measured micronutrients in breast milk and their association with the neurodevelopmental outcomes of exclusively breastfed infants. Also, randomised control trials investigating neurocognitive outcomes following maternal supplementation during lactation were sought. From 5477 initial results, three observational studies were eligible for inclusion. These investigated associations between breast milk levels of vitamin B6, carotenoids, or selenium and infant development. Results presented suggest that pyroxidal, β-carotene, and lycopene are associated with infant neurodevelopmental outcomes. Limited eligible literature and heterogeneity between included papers prevented quantitative synthesis. Insufficient evidence was identified, precluding any conclusions on the relationship between breast milk micronutrients and infant developmental outcomes. Further, the evidence available was limited by a high risk of bias. This highlights the need for further research in this area to understand the long-term influence of micronutrients in breast milk, the role of other breast milk micronutrients in infant neurodevelopmental outcomes, and the impact of possible lactational interventions.
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Yang C, Zhao A, Lan H, Zhang J, Ren Z, Szeto IM, Wang P, Zhang Y. Fruit and vegetable consumption and serum vitamin A in lactating women: A cross-sectional survey in urban China. Food Sci Nutr 2021; 9:5676-5688. [PMID: 34646536 PMCID: PMC8497839 DOI: 10.1002/fsn3.2532] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2021] [Revised: 07/18/2021] [Accepted: 08/03/2021] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
During the lactation period, healthy eating behavior is essential to maternal and child health. However, Chinese lactating women may have some traditional food restrictions. Our aims were to evaluate the fruit and vegetable consumption of Chinese lactating women and to examine the associations between fruit and vegetable consumption and serum vitamin A concentrations. A total of 885 participants were included. Dietary intakes were assessed during the same time frame as blood collection via a one-time 24-h dietary recall (24HDR) and a semiquantitative food frequency questionnaire (SFFQ), respectively. Serum vitamin A concentrations were assessed with high-performance liquid chromatography. Based on 24HDR, 64.7% and 85.5% of lactating women did not consume the appropriate amount of fruits and vegetables, respectively. New mothers who adopt zuo yuezi behavior during the first month were negatively associated with fruit consumption. The median (25th to 75th) dietary vitamin A intake was 349.5 (202.5-591.4) μg RAE/day. Vegetable contributed 24.9% and fruit 4.8% of the dietary vitamin A intake. The median (25th to 75th) serum vitamin A concentration was 1.92 (1.61-2.30) μmol/L. 24HDR assessments of total fruit and vegetable consumption, and fruit consumption were positively associated with higher serum vitamin A concentrations, respectively (β = 0.200, 95%CI = 0.077, 0.323, p = .001; β = 0.241, 95%CI = 0.008, 0.474, p = .044). These positive associations were replicated in the SFFQ assessments (β = 0.102, 95%CI = 0.016, 0.188, p = .020; β = 0.215, 95%CI = 0.088, 0.341, p = .001). Chinese lactating women had inappropriate fruit and vegetable consumption. Fruit and vegetable consumption was associated with serum vitamin A concentrations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chenlu Yang
- Department of Nutrition and Food HygieneSchool of Public HealthPeking UniversityBeijingChina
| | - Ai Zhao
- Vanke School of Public HealthTsinghua UniversityBeijingChina
| | - Hanglian Lan
- Inner Mongolia Dairy Technology Research Institute Co., Ltd.HohhotInner Mongolia Autonomous RegionChina
- Yili Maternal and Infant Nutrition InstituteInner Mongolia Yili Industrial Group Co., Ltd.HohhotInner Mongolia Autonomous RegionChina
| | - Jian Zhang
- Department of Nutrition and Food HygieneSchool of Public HealthPeking UniversityBeijingChina
| | - Zhongxia Ren
- Department of Nutrition and Food HygieneSchool of Public HealthPeking UniversityBeijingChina
| | - Ignatius Man‐Yau Szeto
- Inner Mongolia Dairy Technology Research Institute Co., Ltd.HohhotInner Mongolia Autonomous RegionChina
- Yili Maternal and Infant Nutrition InstituteInner Mongolia Yili Industrial Group Co., Ltd.HohhotInner Mongolia Autonomous RegionChina
| | - Peiyu Wang
- Department of Social Medicine and Health EducationSchool of Public HealthPeking UniversityBeijingChina
| | - Yumei Zhang
- Department of Nutrition and Food HygieneSchool of Public HealthPeking UniversityBeijingChina
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Toxicological Research and Risk Assessment for Food SafetySchool of Public HealthPeking UniversityBeijingChina
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da Silva Lopes K, Yamaji N, Rahman MO, Suto M, Takemoto Y, Garcia-Casal MN, Ota E. Nutrition-specific interventions for preventing and controlling anaemia throughout the life cycle: an overview of systematic reviews. Cochrane Database Syst Rev 2021; 9:CD013092. [PMID: 34564844 PMCID: PMC8464655 DOI: 10.1002/14651858.cd013092.pub2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Anaemia is a prevalent health problem worldwide. Some types are preventable or controllable with iron supplementation (pills or drops), fortification (sprinkles or powders containing iron added to food) or improvements to dietary diversity and quality (e.g. education or counselling). OBJECTIVES To summarise the evidence from systematic reviews regarding the benefits or harms of nutrition-specific interventions for preventing and controlling anaemia in anaemic or non-anaemic, apparently healthy populations throughout the life cycle. METHODS In August 2020, we searched MEDLINE, Embase and 10 other databases for systematic reviews of randomised controlled trials (RCTs) in anaemic or non-anaemic, apparently healthy populations. We followed standard Cochrane methodology, extracting GRADE ratings where provided. The primary outcomes were haemoglobin (Hb) concentration, anaemia, and iron deficiency anaemia (IDA); secondary outcomes were iron deficiency (ID), severe anaemia and adverse effects (e.g. diarrhoea, vomiting). MAIN RESULTS We included 75 systematic reviews, 33 of which provided GRADE assessments; these varied between high and very low. Infants (6 to 23 months; 13 reviews) Iron supplementation increased Hb levels and reduced the risk of anaemia and IDA in two reviews. Iron fortification of milk or cereals, multiple-micronutrient powder (MMNP), home fortification of complementary foods, and supplementary feeding increased Hb levels and reduced the risk of anaemia in six reviews. In one review, lipid-based nutrient supplementation (LNS) reduced the risk of anaemia. In another, caterpillar cereal increased Hb levels and IDA prevalence. Food-based strategies (red meat and fortified cow's milk, beef) showed no evidence of a difference (1 review). Preschool and school-aged children (2 to 10 years; 8 reviews) Daily or intermittent iron supplementation increased Hb levels and reduced the risk of anaemia and ID in two reviews. One review found no evidence of difference in Hb levels, but an increased risk of anaemia and ID for the intermittent regime. All suggested that zinc plus iron supplementation versus zinc alone, multiple-micronutrient (MMN)-fortified beverage versus control, and point-of-use fortification of food with iron-containing micronutrient powder (MNP) versus placebo or no intervention may increase Hb levels and reduce the risk of anaemia and ID. Fortified dairy products and cereal food showed no evidence of a difference on the incidence of anaemia (1 review). Adolescent children (11 to 18 years; 4 reviews) Compared with no supplementation or placebo, five types of iron supplementation may increase Hb levels and reduce the risk of anaemia (3 reviews). One review on prevention found no evidence of a difference in anaemia incidence on iron supplementation with or without folic acid, but Hb levels increased. Another suggested that nutritional supplementation and counselling reduced IDA. One review comparing MMN fortification with no fortification observed no evidence of a difference in Hb levels. Non-pregnant women of reproductive age (19 to 49 years; 5 reviews) Two reviews suggested that iron therapy (oral, intravenous (IV), intramuscular (IM)) increased Hb levels; one showed that iron folic acid supplementation reduced anaemia incidence; and another that daily iron supplementation with or without folic acid or vitamin C increased Hb levels and reduced the risk of anaemia and ID. No review reported interventions related to fortification or dietary diversity and quality. Pregnant women of reproductive age (15 to 49 years; 23 reviews) One review apiece suggested that: daily iron supplementation with or without folic acid increased Hb levels in the third trimester or at delivery and in the postpartum period, and reduced the risk of anaemia, IDA and ID in the third trimester or at delivery; intermittent iron supplementation had no effect on Hb levels and IDA, but increased the risk of anaemia at or near term and ID, and reduced the risk of side effects; vitamin A supplementation alone versus placebo, no intervention or other micronutrient might increase maternal Hb levels and reduce the risk of maternal anaemia; MMN with iron and folic acid versus placebo reduced the risk of anaemia; supplementation with oral bovine lactoferrin versus oral ferrous iron preparations increased Hb levels and reduced gastrointestinal side effects; MNP for point-of-use fortification of food versus iron and folic acid supplementation might decrease Hb levels at 32 weeks' gestation and increase the risk of anaemia; and LNS versus iron or folic acid and MMN increased the risk of anaemia. Mixed population (all ages; 22 reviews) Iron supplementation versus placebo or control increased Hb levels in healthy children, adults, and elderly people (4 reviews). Hb levels appeared to increase and risk of anaemia and ID decrease in two reviews investigating MMN fortification versus placebo or no treatment, iron fortified flour versus control, double fortified salt versus iodine only fortified salt, and rice fortification with iron alone or in combination with other micronutrients versus unfortified rice or no intervention. Each review suggested that fortified versus non-fortified condiments or noodles, fortified (sodium iron ethylenediaminetetraacetate; NaFeEDTA) versus non-fortified soy sauce, and double-fortified salt versus control salt may increase Hb concentration and reduce the risk of anaemia. One review indicated that Hb levels increased for children who were anaemic or had IDA and received iron supplementation, and decreased for those who received dietary interventions. Another assessed the effects of foods prepared in iron pots, and found higher Hb levels in children with low-risk malaria status in two trials, but no difference when comparing food prepared in non-cast iron pots in a high-risk malaria endemicity mixed population. There was no evidence of a difference for adverse effects. Anaemia and malaria prevalence were rarely reported. No review focused on women aged 50 to 65 years plus or men (19 to 65 years plus). AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS Compared to no treatment, daily iron supplementation may increase Hb levels and reduce the risk of anaemia and IDA in infants, preschool and school-aged children and pregnant and non-pregnant women. Iron fortification of foods in infants and use of iron pots with children may have prophylactic benefits for malaria endemicity low-risk populations. In any age group, only a limited number of reviews assessed interventions to improve dietary diversity and quality. Future trials should assess the effects of these types of interventions, and consider the requirements of different populations.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Noyuri Yamaji
- Global Health Nursing, Graduate School of Nursing Science, St. Luke's International University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Md Obaidur Rahman
- Global Health Nursing, Graduate School of Nursing Science, St. Luke's International University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Maiko Suto
- Department of Health Policy, National Center for Child Health and Development, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Yo Takemoto
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, School of Medicine, Juntendo University, Tokyo, Japan
| | | | - Erika Ota
- Global Health Nursing, Graduate School of Nursing Science, St. Luke's International University , Tokyo, Japan
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Rajwar E, Parsekar SS, Venkatesh BT, Sharma Z. Effect of vitamin A, calcium and vitamin D fortification and supplementation on nutritional status of women: an overview of systematic reviews. Syst Rev 2020; 9:248. [PMID: 33109248 PMCID: PMC7592561 DOI: 10.1186/s13643-020-01501-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2020] [Accepted: 10/08/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Micronutrient deficiency affects the health and development of vulnerable population such as children and pregnant women. Measures such as fortification of food and supplementation have been implemented to prevent or control deficiencies related to micronutrients. OBJECTIVE To assess the effect of vitamin A, vitamin D, and calcium fortification and supplementation on nutritional status of women in reproductive age group. To assess the toxicities and adverse events related to intervention. METHODOLOGY Systematic reviews including RCTs on women of reproductive age group provided with vitamin A, vitamin D, and calcium supplementation or fortified food were included, to report all malnutrition-related outcomes due to deficiency of the abovementioned micronutrients. The Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, EPPI Centre, Campbell Collaboration, PubMed, Web of Science, and Scopus were searched electronically for English language publications, until 31 March 2018. Hand searching of the articles was done from the Journal of Food Science and Technology. Two independent reviewers selected the systematic reviews, extracted data, and assessed for the quality. RESULTS A total of 16 systematic reviews were included in narrative synthesis. Supplementation of vitamin A was reported to result in increased maternal serum retinol concentrations and increased breast milk retinol concentration. It reduced the risk of anemia (Hb < 11 g/dL) and reduced maternal clinical infection. Vitamin D supplementation increased 25-hydroxy vitamin D levels. There was insufficient evidence for the effect on bone mineral density and serum calcium levels. Calcium supplementation did not have any significant effect on body weight, weight gain, and body mass index of the participants. CONCLUSION This overview of systematic reviews reiterates the nutritional importance of vitamin A, vitamin D, and calcium supplementation for the reproductive age women. However, there was no empirical evidence available for fortification of food with vitamin A, vitamin D, and calcium and nutritional benefits of the same for reproductive age women, therefore thrusting upon the need of conducting future quality research, i.e., clinical trials and systematic reviews for food fortification. SYSTEMATIC REVIEW REGISTRATION A priori protocol for this overview of systematic reviews was registered in PROSPERO with registration number CRD42018089403 .
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Affiliation(s)
- Eti Rajwar
- Public Health Evidence South Asia, Prasanna School of Public Health, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, India
| | - Shradha S Parsekar
- Public Health Evidence South Asia, Prasanna School of Public Health, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, India
| | - Bhumika Tumkur Venkatesh
- Public Health Evidence South Asia, Prasanna School of Public Health, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, India.
| | - Zinnia Sharma
- Public Health Evidence South Asia, Prasanna School of Public Health, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, India
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9
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Gannon BM, Colt S, Rogers LM, Garcia-Casal MN, Martinez RX, Lopez-Perez L, Ghezzi-Kopel K, Mehta S. Selected laboratory-based biomarkers for assessing vitamin A deficiency in at-risk individuals. Hippokratia 2020. [DOI: 10.1002/14651858.cd013742] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Bryan M Gannon
- Division of Nutritional Sciences; Cornell University; Ithaca New York USA
| | - Susannah Colt
- Division of Nutritional Sciences; Cornell University; Ithaca New York USA
| | - Lisa M Rogers
- Evidence and Programme Guidance, Department of Nutrition for Health and Development; World Health Organization; Geneva Switzerland
| | | | | | | | | | - Saurabh Mehta
- Division of Nutritional Sciences; Cornell University; Ithaca New York USA
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10
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Gannon BM, Jones C, Mehta S. Vitamin A Requirements in Pregnancy and Lactation. Curr Dev Nutr 2020; 4:nzaa142. [PMID: 32999954 PMCID: PMC7513584 DOI: 10.1093/cdn/nzaa142] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2020] [Revised: 07/06/2020] [Accepted: 08/20/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Pregnancy and lactation are critical life stages with unique nutritional requirements, including for vitamin A (VA). Current DRIs for VA were published in 2001. The objective of this review was to identify and categorize evidence related to VA requirements in pregnancy and lactation since these DRIs were formulated. We searched MEDLINE and included articles according to an analytic framework of maternal VA exposure on status and health outcomes in the mother-child dyad. Intermediate and indirect evidence supports that maternal VA intakes can impact the mother's VA status, breastmilk, and health outcomes, as well as the child's VA status and select health outcomes. Food-based approaches can lead to more sustained, sufficient VA status in mothers and children. Research needs include further study linking maternal VA intakes on maternal and child VA status, and further associations with outcomes to determine intake requirements to optimize health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bryan M Gannon
- Division of Nutritional Sciences, and Institute for Nutritional Sciences, Global Health, and Technology (INSiGHT), Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, USA
| | - Camille Jones
- Division of Nutritional Sciences, and Institute for Nutritional Sciences, Global Health, and Technology (INSiGHT), Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, USA
| | - Saurabh Mehta
- Division of Nutritional Sciences, and Institute for Nutritional Sciences, Global Health, and Technology (INSiGHT), Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, USA
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Campion-Smith TJ, Kerac M, McGrath M, Berkley JA. Antimicrobial and micronutrient interventions for the management of infants under 6 months of age identified with severe malnutrition: a literature review. PeerJ 2020; 8:e9175. [PMID: 32974089 PMCID: PMC7487149 DOI: 10.7717/peerj.9175] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2019] [Accepted: 04/21/2020] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Infants under 6 months (U6M) contribute a significant proportion of the burden and mortality of severe malnutrition globally. Evidence of underlying aetiology in this population is sparse, but it is known that the group includes ex-preterm and low birthweight (LBW) infants. They represent a unique population given their dependence on breastmilk or a safe, secure alternative. Nutrition agencies and health providers struggle to make programming decisions on which interventions should be provided to this group based upon the 2013 WHO Guidelines for the 'Management of Severe Acute Malnutrition in Infants and Young Children' since there are no published interventional trial data focussed on this population. Interim guidance for this group might be informed by evidence of safety and efficacy in adjacent population groups. METHODOLOGY A narrative literature review was performed of systematic reviews, meta-analyses and randomised controlled trials of antimicrobial and micronutrient interventions (antibiotics, deworming, vitamin A, vitamin D, iron, zinc, folic acid and oral rehydration solution (ORS) for malnutrition) across the population groups of low birthweight/preterm infants, infants under 6 months, infants and children over 6 months with acute malnutrition or through supplementation to breastfeeding mothers. Outcomes of interest were safety and efficacy, in terms of mortality and morbidity. RESULTS Ninety-four articles were identified for inclusion within this review. None of these studied interventions exclusively in severely malnourished infants U6M. 64% reported on the safety of studied interventions. Significant heterogeneity was identified in definitions of study populations, interventions provided, and outcomes studied. The evidence for efficacy and safety across population groups is reviewed and presented for the interventions listed. CONCLUSIONS The direct evidence base for medical interventions for severely malnourished infants U6M is sparse. Our review identifies a specific need for accurate micronutrient profiling and interventional studies of micronutrients and oral fluid management of diarrhoea amongst infants U6M meeting anthropometric criteria for severe malnutrition. Indirect evidence presented in this review may help shape interim policy and programming decisions as well as the future research agenda for the management of infants U6M identified as malnourished.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Marko Kerac
- Department of Population Health, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, University of London, London, United Kingdom
| | | | - James A. Berkley
- KEMRI-Wellcome Trust Research Programme, Kilifi, Kenya
- The Childhood Acute Illness & Nutrition (CHAIN) Network, Nairobi, Kenya
- Centre for Tropical Medicine and Global Health, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
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12
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Gebremedhin S. Postpartum vitamin A supplementation for HIV-positive women is not associated with mortality and morbidity of their breastfed infants: evidence from multiple national surveys in sub-Saharan Africa. BMC Pediatr 2020; 20:214. [PMID: 32404193 PMCID: PMC7218630 DOI: 10.1186/s12887-020-02131-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2019] [Accepted: 05/06/2020] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Vitamin A supplementation (VAS) in the postpartum period improves the vitamin A concentration of breast milk and vitamin A status is an important predictor of childhood survival. It is also known that Vitamin A Deficiency (VAD) is more prevalent in HIV-infected women. This study investigated the association between vitamin A supplements provided to HIV-positive women in the postpartum period and mortality and morbidity of their breastfed infants in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) where the prevalence of VAD and HIV is high. METHODS This cross-sectional study was conducted based on the secondary data of 838 HIV-positive women (309 vitamin A supplement and 529 non-supplemented) extracted from the datasets of 43 Demographic and Health Surveys (DHS) conducted in 26 SSA countries between 2003 and 2015. The data of HIV-positive women who gave a live birth in the preceding 6 months of the survey and who were breastfeeding their infants at the time of the survey or who breastfed their deceased infants until the time of death, were included in the analysis. The association of postpartum VAS with early infant mortality (death in the first 6 months of birth) and morbidity secondary to fever, diarrhoea and cough with respiratory difficulties in the preceding 2 weeks was assessed by mixed-effects logistic regression model and interpreted using adjusted odds ratio (AOR) with the 95% confidence intervals (CI). RESULTS About one-third (36.9%) of the HIV-positive women received VAS soon after the recent delivery. The early infant mortality rate per 1000 live births in vitamin A supplemented group was 100 (95% CI: 67-133) and the corresponding level for non-supplemented group was 125 (95% CI: 97-154). Yet, in the multivariable model adjusted for seven potential confounders, the association was not significant (AOR = 1.10: 95% CI, 0.57-2.13). Similarly, postpartum VAS was not significantly associated with the occurrence of cough with difficult breathing (AOR = 0.65: 95% CI, 0.39-1.10), diarrhoea (AOR = 0.89: 95% CI, 0.50-1.58) and fever (AOR = 1.19: 95% CI 0.78-1.82) in their breastfed infants. CONCLUSION VAS provided to HIV-positive women in the immediate postpartum period does not have significant association with the mortality and morbidity of their breastfed infants.
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Evans JM, Luby R, Lukaczer D, Rountree R, Stone PM, Guilliams TG, Yanuck S, Messier H, Ramsdell K, Hanaway PJ. The Functional Medicine Approach to COVID-19: Virus-Specific Nutraceutical and Botanical Agents. Integr Med (Encinitas) 2020; 19:34-42. [PMID: 33041706 PMCID: PMC7482149] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
As the novel infection with SARS-CoV-2 emerges, objective assessment of the scientific plausibility of nutraceutical and botanical interventions for prevention and treatment is important. We evaluate twelve such interventions with mechanisms of action that modulate the immune system, impair viral replication, and/or have been demonstrated to reduce severity of illness. These are examples of interventions that, mechanistically, can help protect patients in the presence of the prevalent and infectious SARS-CoV-2 virus. While there are limited studies to validate these agents to specifically prevent COVID-19, they have been chosen based upon their level of evidence for effectiveness and safety profiles, in the context of other viral infections. These agents are to be used in a patient-specific manner in concert with lifestyle interventions known to strengthen immune response (see related article in this issue of IMCJ).
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Affiliation(s)
- J M Evans
- The Center for Functional Medicine, Stamford CT
| | - R Luby
- The Institute for Functional Medicine, Federal Way, WA
| | - D Lukaczer
- The Institute for Functional Medicine, Federal Way, WA
| | | | | | | | - S Yanuck
- The Yanuck Center for Life and Health, Chapel Hill, NC
| | - H Messier
- Medical Intelligence Learning Lab, Inc (MILLI), San Jose, CA
| | - K Ramsdell
- The Institute for Functional Medicine, Federal Way, WA
| | - P J Hanaway
- The Institute for Functional Medicine COVID-19 Task Force, Federal Way, WA
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Chowdhury ME, Shiblee SI, Jones HE. Does mHealth voice messaging work for improving knowledge and practice of maternal and newborn healthcare? BMC Med Inform Decis Mak 2019; 19:179. [PMID: 31488159 PMCID: PMC6727538 DOI: 10.1186/s12911-019-0903-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2019] [Accepted: 08/27/2019] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Aponjon (meaning "near and dear ones"), a mobile phone-based mHealth service, customized voice messages for expectant (6-42 weeks pregnancy) and new mothers (1-52 weeks after delivery) for promotion of recommended healthcare practices. The Aponjon system sent two voice messages per week to subscribers, tailored to the timing during pregnancy or post-partum. The current study is an external evaluation of the effect of Aponjon use on knowledge and behaviors related to maternal and newborn health (MNH) care. METHODS We implemented an observational study of Aponjon users with propensity score matched non-users in Bangladesh. Subscribers with at least 3 months exposure to Aponjon and non-users were interviewed retrospectively on knowledge and practices surrounding MNH. The sample included women with infants ≤6 months (243 users; 369 non-user) for maternal health knowledge and practice indicators and women with infants > 6 to 12 months old (332 users; 454 non-user) for neonatal health knowledge and practice indicators. Data were analyzed using principal component analysis and categorized as 'high' and 'low' at the median of principal component scores. Interactions between duration of use of Aponjon services and self-reported patterns of receiving and listening to messages were examined to assess the effect on knowledge and practices for MNH. RESULTS Women reporting at least 6 months of using Aponjon were approximately 3 times as likely as the non-users to score high on both maternal healthcare knowledge questions and related practices. Similarly women with at least 6 months of Aponjon exposure were 1.5 times as likely as the non-users to score high on knowledge questions on newborn health. Reporting a good-pattern of Aponjon use (i.e. receiving a minimum of 3 messages per month and listening to all of them) had an even stronger association with knowledge and practices related to MNH care. However, a shorter exposure to Aponjon service (i.e. 3-5 months), despite having a good-pattern of use, did not have an effect on the related outcomes. CONCLUSIONS The use of Aponjon services for at least 6 months, with a good-pattern of receiving and listening to the messages, was associated with improved knowledge and practices related to MNH care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mahbub Elahi Chowdhury
- International Centre for Diarrhoeal Disease Research, Bangladesh (icddr,b), 68 Shaheed Tajuddin Ahmed Sarani, Mohakhali, Dhaka, 1212, Bangladesh.
| | - Shafayatul Islam Shiblee
- International Centre for Diarrhoeal Disease Research, Bangladesh (icddr,b), 68 Shaheed Tajuddin Ahmed Sarani, Mohakhali, Dhaka, 1212, Bangladesh
| | - Heidi E Jones
- CUNY Graduate School of Public Health & Health Policy, New York, USA
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Rakshasbhuvankar AA, Patole SK, Simmer K, Pillow J. Vitamin A supplementation for prevention of mortality and morbidity in moderate and late preterm infants. Hippokratia 2019. [DOI: 10.1002/14651858.cd013322] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Abhijeet A Rakshasbhuvankar
- King Edward Memorial Hospital for Women; Department of Neonatal Paediatrics; 374 Bagot Road Subiaco WA Australia 6008
| | - Sanjay K Patole
- King Edward Memorial Hospital; School of Paediatrics and Child Health, School of Women's and Infants' Health, University of Western Australia; 374 Bagot Rd Subiaco Perth Western Australia Australia 6008
| | - Karen Simmer
- King Edward Memorial Hospital for Women and Princess Margaret Hospital for Children; Neonatal Care Unit; Bagot Road Subiaco WA Australia 6008
| | - Jane Pillow
- King Edward Memorial Hospital; School of Women's and Infant's Health, University of Western Australia; 374 Bagot Rd Subiaco Perth Western Australia Australia 6008
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Hombali AS, Solon JA, Venkatesh BT, Nair NS, Peña‐Rosas JP. Fortification of staple foods with vitamin A for vitamin A deficiency. Cochrane Database Syst Rev 2019; 5:CD010068. [PMID: 31074495 PMCID: PMC6509778 DOI: 10.1002/14651858.cd010068.pub2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Vitamin A deficiency is a significant public health problem in many low- and middle-income countries, especially affecting young children, women of reproductive age, and pregnant women. Fortification of staple foods with vitamin A has been used to increase vitamin A consumption among these groups. OBJECTIVES To assess the effects of fortifying staple foods with vitamin A for reducing vitamin A deficiency and improving health-related outcomes in the general population older than two years of age. SEARCH METHODS We searched the following international databases with no language or date restrictions: Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL; 2018, Issue 6) in the Cochrane Library; MEDLINE and MEDLINE In Process OVID; Embase OVID; CINAHL Ebsco; Web of Science (ISI) SCI, SSCI, CPCI-exp and CPCI-SSH; BIOSIS (ISI); POPLINE; Bibliomap; TRoPHI; ASSIA (Proquest); IBECS; SCIELO; Global Index Medicus - AFRO and EMRO; LILACS; PAHO; WHOLIS; WPRO; IMSEAR; IndMED; and Native Health Research Database. We also searched clinicaltrials.gov and the International Clinical Trials Registry Platform to identify ongoing and unpublished studies. The date of the last search was 19 July 2018. SELECTION CRITERIA We included individually or cluster-randomised controlled trials (RCTs) in this review. The intervention included fortification of staple foods (sugar, edible oils, edible fats, maize flour or corn meal, wheat flour, milk and dairy products, and condiments and seasonings) with vitamin A alone or in combination with other vitamins and minerals. We included the general population older than two years of age (including pregnant and lactating women) from any country. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS Two authors independently screened and assessed eligibility of studies for inclusion, extracted data from included studies and assessed their risk of bias. We used standard Cochrane methodology to carry out the review. MAIN RESULTS We included 10 randomised controlled trials involving 4455 participants. All the studies were conducted in low- and upper-middle income countries where vitamin A deficiency was a public health issue. One of the included trials did not contribute data to the outcomes of interest.Three trials compared provision of staple foods fortified with vitamin A versus unfortified staple food, five trials compared provision of staple foods fortified with vitamin A plus other micronutrients versus unfortified staple foods, and two trials compared provision of staple foods fortified with vitamin A plus other micronutrients versus no intervention. No studies compared staple foods fortified with vitamin A alone versus no intervention.The duration of interventions ranged from three to nine months. We assessed six studies at high risk of bias overall. Government organisations, non-governmental organisations, the private sector, and academic institutions funded the included studies; funding source does not appear to have distorted the results.Staple food fortified with vitamin A versus unfortified staple food We are uncertain whether fortifying staple foods with vitamin A alone makes little or no difference for serum retinol concentration (mean difference (MD) 0.03 μmol/L, 95% CI -0.06 to 0.12; 3 studies, 1829 participants; I² = 90%, very low-certainty evidence). It is uncertain whether vitamin A alone reduces the risk of subclinical vitamin A deficiency (risk ratio (RR) 0.45, 95% CI 0.19 to 1.05; 2 studies; 993 participants; I² = 33%, very low-certainty evidence). The certainty of the evidence was mainly affected by risk of bias, imprecision and inconsistency.It is uncertain whether vitamin A fortification reduces clinical vitamin A deficiency, defined as night blindness (RR 0.11, 95% CI 0.01 to 1.98; 1 study, 581 participants, very low-certainty evidence). The certainty of the evidence was mainly affected by imprecision, inconsistency, and risk of bias.Staple foods fortified with vitamin A versus no intervention No studies provided data for this comparison.Staple foods fortified with vitamin A plus other micronutrients versus same unfortified staple foods Fortifying staple foods with vitamin A plus other micronutrients may not increase the serum retinol concentration (MD 0.08 μmol/L, 95% CI -0.06 to 0.22; 4 studies; 1009 participants; I² = 95%, low-certainty evidence). The certainty of the evidence was mainly affected by serious inconsistency and risk of bias.In comparison to unfortified staple foods, fortification with vitamin A plus other micronutrients probably reduces the risk of subclinical vitamin A deficiency (RR 0.27, 95% CI 0.16 to 0.49; 3 studies; 923 participants; I² = 0%; moderate-certainty evidence). The certainty of the evidence was mainly affected by serious risk of bias.Staple foods fortified with vitamin A plus other micronutrients versus no interventionFortification of staple foods with vitamin A plus other micronutrients may increase serum retinol concentration (MD 0.22 μmol/L, 95% CI 0.15 to 0.30; 2 studies; 318 participants; I² = 0%; low-certainty evidence). When compared to no intervention, it is uncertain whether the intervention reduces the risk of subclinical vitamin A deficiency (RR 0.71, 95% CI 0.52 to 0.98; 2 studies; 318 participants; I² = 0%; very low-certainty evidence) . The certainty of the evidence was affected mainly by serious imprecision and risk of bias.No trials reported on the outcomes of all-cause morbidity, all-cause mortality, adverse effects, food intake, congenital anomalies (for pregnant women), or breast milk concentration (for lactating women). AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS Fortifying staple foods with vitamin A alone may make little or no difference to serum retinol concentrations or the risk of subclinical vitamin A deficiency. In comparison with provision of unfortified foods, provision of staple foods fortified with vitamin A plus other micronutrients may not increase serum retinol concentration but probably reduces the risk of subclinical vitamin A deficiency.Compared to no intervention, staple foods fortified with vitamin A plus other micronutrients may increase serum retinol concentration, although it is uncertain whether the intervention reduces the risk of subclinical vitamin A deficiency as the certainty of the evidence has been assessed as very low.It was not possible to estimate the effect of staple food fortification on outcomes such as mortality, morbidity, adverse effects, congenital anomalies, or breast milk vitamin A, as no trials included these outcomes.The type of funding source for the studies did not appear to distort the results from the analysis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aditi S Hombali
- Institute of Mental HealthDepartment of ResearchBlock 7, Buangkok View, Buangkok Green Medical ParkSingaporeSingapore539747
| | | | - Bhumika T Venkatesh
- Prasanna School of Public Health, Manipal Academy of Higher EducationPublic Health Evidence South Asia (PHESA)ManipalUdupiIndia
| | - N Sreekumaran Nair
- Jawaharlal Institute of Postgraduate Medical Education and Research (JIPMER) (Institution of National Importance Under Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Government of India)Department of Medical Biometrics & Informatics (Biostatistics)4th Floor, Administrative BlockDhanvantri NagarPuducherryIndia605006
| | - Juan Pablo Peña‐Rosas
- World Health OrganizationEvidence and Programme Guidance, Department of Nutrition for Health and Development20 Avenue AppiaGenevaGESwitzerland1211
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Campos Ponce M, Polman K, Roos N, Wieringa FT, Berger J, Doak CM. What Approaches are Most Effective at Addressing Micronutrient Deficiency in Children 0-5 Years? A Review of Systematic Reviews. Matern Child Health J 2019; 23:4-17. [PMID: 29868936 PMCID: PMC6373288 DOI: 10.1007/s10995-018-2527-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
Abstract
Introduction Even though micronutrient deficiency is still a major public health problem, it is still unclear which interventions are most effective in improving micronutrient status. This review therefore aims to summarize the evidence published in systematic reviews on intervention strategies that aim at improving micronutrient status in children under the age of five. Methods We searched the literature and included systematic reviews that reported on micronutrient status as a primary outcome for children of 0-5 years old, had a focus on low or middle income countries. Subsequently, papers were reviewed and selected by two authors. Results We included 4235 reviews in this systematic review. We found that (single or multiple) micronutrient deficiencies in pre-school children improved after providing (single or multiple) micronutrients. However home fortification did not always lead to significant increase in serum vitamin A, serum ferritin, hemoglobin or zinc. Commercial fortification did improve iron status. Cord clamping reduced the risk of anemia in infants up to 6 months and, in helminth endemic areas, anthelminthic treatment increased serum ferritin levels, hemoglobin and improved height for age z-scores. Anti-malaria treatment improved ferritin levels. Discussion Based on our results the clearest recommendations are: delayed cord clamping is an effective intervention for reducing anemia in early life. In helminth endemic areas iron status can be improved by anthelminthic treatment. Anti-malaria treatment can improve ferritin. In deficient populations, single iron, vitamin A and multimicronutrient supplementation can improve iron, vitamin A and multimicronutrient status respectively. While the impact of home-fortification on multimicronutrient status remains questionable, commercial iron fortification may improve iron status.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Campos Ponce
- Department of Health Sciences, VU University Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
| | - K Polman
- Department of Health Sciences, VU University Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Institute of Tropical Medicine, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - N Roos
- Department of Human Nutrition, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - F T Wieringa
- French National Research Institute for Sustainable Development (IRD), Montpellier, France
| | - J Berger
- French National Research Institute for Sustainable Development (IRD), Montpellier, France
| | - C M Doak
- Department of Health Sciences, VU University Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
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18
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Low breastmilk vitamin A concentration is prevalent in rural Ethiopia. Eur J Clin Nutr 2018; 73:1110-1116. [DOI: 10.1038/s41430-018-0334-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2018] [Revised: 09/03/2018] [Accepted: 09/21/2018] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
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Prentice S. They Are What You Eat: Can Nutritional Factors during Gestation and Early Infancy Modulate the Neonatal Immune Response? Front Immunol 2017; 8:1641. [PMID: 29234319 PMCID: PMC5712338 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2017.01641] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2017] [Accepted: 11/09/2017] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
The ontogeny of the human immune system is sensitive to nutrition even in the very early embryo, with both deficiency and excess of macro- and micronutrients being potentially detrimental. Neonates are particularly vulnerable to infectious disease due to the immaturity of the immune system and modulation of nutritional immunity may play a role in this sensitivity. This review examines whether nutrition around the time of conception, throughout pregnancy, and in early neonatal life may impact on the developing infant immune system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Prentice
- Clinical Research Department, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
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20
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Imdad A, Ahmed Z, Bhutta ZA. Vitamin A supplementation for the prevention of morbidity and mortality in infants one to six months of age. Cochrane Database Syst Rev 2016; 9:CD007480. [PMID: 27681486 PMCID: PMC6457829 DOI: 10.1002/14651858.cd007480.pub3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Vitamin A deficiency is a significant public health problem in low- and middle-income countries. Vitamin A supplementation provided to infants less than six months of age is one of the strategies to improve the nutrition of infants at high risk of vitamin A deficiency and thus potentially reduce their mortality and morbidity. OBJECTIVES To evaluate the effect of synthetic vitamin A supplementation in infants one to six months of age in low- and middle-income countries, irrespective of maternal antenatal or postnatal vitamin A supplementation status, on mortality, morbidity and adverse effects. SEARCH METHODS We used the standard search strategy of Cochrane Neonatal to search the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL 2016, Issue 2), MEDLINE via PubMed (1966 to 5 March 2016), Embase (1980 to 5 March 2016) and CINAHL (1982 to 5 March 2016). We also searched clinical trials databases, conference proceedings and the reference lists of retrieved articles for randomised controlled trials and quasi-randomised trials. SELECTION CRITERIA Randomised or quasi-randomised, individually or cluster randomised trials involving synthetic vitamin A supplementation compared to placebo or no intervention provided to infants one to six months of age were eligible. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS Two review authors assessed the studies for eligibility and assessed their risk of bias and collected data on outcomes. MAIN RESULTS The review included 12 studies (reported in 22 publications). The included studies assigned 24,846 participants aged one to six months to vitamin A supplementation or control group. There was no effect of vitamin A supplementation for the primary outcome of all-cause mortality based on seven studies that included 21,339 (85%) participants (risk ratio (RR) 1.05, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.89 to 1.25; I2 = 0%; test for heterogeneity: P = 0.79; quality of evidence: moderate). Also, there was no effect of vitamin A supplementation on mortality or morbidity due to diarrhoea and respiratory tract infection. There was an increased risk of bulging fontanelle within 24 to 72 hours of supplementation in the vitamin A group compared to control (RR 3.10, 95% CI 1.89 to 5.09; I2 = 9%, test for heterogeneity: P = 0.36; quality of evidence: high). There was no reported subsequent increased risk of death, convulsions or irritability in infants who developed bulging fontanelle after vitamin A supplementation, and it resolved in most cases within 72 hours. There was no increased risk of other adverse effects such as vomiting, irritability, diarrhoea, fever and convulsions in the vitamin A supplementation group compared to control. Vitamin A supplementation did not have any statistically significant effect on vitamin A deficiency (RR 0.86, 95% CI 0.70 to 1.06; I2 = 27%; test for heterogeneity: P = 0.25; quality of evidence: moderate). AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS There is no convincing evidence that vitamin A supplementation for infants one to six months of age results in a reduction in infant mortality or morbidity in low- and middle-income countries. There is an increased risk of bulging fontanelle with vitamin A supplementation in this age group; however, there were no reported subsequent complications because of this adverse effect.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aamer Imdad
- Vanderbilt University School of MedicineDepartment of Pediatrics, D. Brent Polk Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and NutritionNashvilleTNUSA37212
| | | | - Zulfiqar A Bhutta
- Hospital for Sick ChildrenCenter for Global Child HealthTorontoONCanadaM5G A04
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