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Spence EH, Niles MT, Bertmann F, Belarmino EH. Experiences participating in federal nutrition assistance programs during the early months of the COVID-19 pandemic: an investigation in Vermont. Nutr J 2024; 23:74. [PMID: 39004722 PMCID: PMC11247766 DOI: 10.1186/s12937-024-00963-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2022] [Accepted: 05/28/2024] [Indexed: 07/16/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Federal nutrition assistance programs serve as safety nets for many American households, and participation has been linked to increased food security and, in some instances, improved diet quality and mental health outcomes. The COVID-19 pandemic brought new and increased economic, social, and psychological challenges, necessitating inquiry into how nutrition assistance programs are functioning and associated with public health outcomes. METHODS Using data from a representative statewide survey administered in Vermont (n = 600) between July and September 2020, we examined participant experiences with major federal nutrition assistance programs: the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC), and school meal programs. We explored quantitative and qualitative responses regarding perceptions of program utility, and used nearest neighbors matching analyses in combination with bivariate statistical tests to assess associations between program participation and food insecurity, perceived stress, and fruit and vegetable intake as indicators of dietary quality. RESULTS One in four respondents (27.3%) used at least one federal nutrition assistance program. As compared to non-participants, we found higher rates of food insecurity among program participants (57.5% vs. 18.1%; p < 0.001), an association that persisted even when we compared similar households using matching techniques (p ≤ 0.001). From matched analyses, we found that, compared to low-income non-participants, low-income program participants were less likely to meet fruit intake recommendations (p = 0.048) and that low-income SNAP and WIC participants were less likely to meet vegetable intake recommendations (p = 0.035). We also found lower rates of perceived stress among low-income school meal participant households compared to low-income non-participants (p = 0.039). Despite these mixed outcomes, participants broadly valued federal nutrition assistance programs, characterizing them as helpful or easy to use. CONCLUSIONS We found that federal nutrition assistance programs as a group were not sufficient to address food insecurity and stress or increase fruit and vegetable intake in the state of Vermont during the early months of the COVID-19 pandemic. Nonetheless, participants perceived benefits from participation in these programs. Optimizing the utility of nutrition assistance programs depends on critical examination of their functioning under conditions of great stress.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emma H Spence
- Food Systems Program, University of Vermont, 109 Carrigan Drive, Burlington, VT, 05405, USA
| | - Meredith T Niles
- Food Systems Program, University of Vermont, 109 Carrigan Drive, Burlington, VT, 05405, USA
- Department of Nutrition and Food Sciences, University of Vermont, 109 Carrigan Drive, Burlington, VT, 05405, USA
- Gund Institute for Environment, University of Vermont, 210 Colchester Ave, Burlington, VT, 05405, USA
| | - Farryl Bertmann
- Food Systems Program, University of Vermont, 109 Carrigan Drive, Burlington, VT, 05405, USA
- Department of Nutrition and Food Sciences, University of Vermont, 109 Carrigan Drive, Burlington, VT, 05405, USA
| | - Emily H Belarmino
- Food Systems Program, University of Vermont, 109 Carrigan Drive, Burlington, VT, 05405, USA.
- Department of Nutrition and Food Sciences, University of Vermont, 109 Carrigan Drive, Burlington, VT, 05405, USA.
- Gund Institute for Environment, University of Vermont, 210 Colchester Ave, Burlington, VT, 05405, USA.
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Saleh MR, Abdelgaied MY, Galal N, Tarek M, Fouda A, Abdelkawy K. Unveiling the lockdown effects: exploring behavior, dietary habits and weight changes in rural Egypt during COVID-19 lockdown: a cross-sectional retrospective study. JOURNAL OF HEALTH, POPULATION, AND NUTRITION 2024; 43:85. [PMID: 38879511 PMCID: PMC11179345 DOI: 10.1186/s41043-024-00558-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2024] [Accepted: 04/27/2024] [Indexed: 06/19/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The COVID-19 lockdown significantly impacted dietary habits and body weights globally, particularly in Egypt, where 57.03% of the population resides in rural areas, despite lack of information. The study examines the impact of COVID-19 lockdown on the weight changes of the rural Egyptian population through behavioral, physical, and dietary changes. METHODS A cross-sectional online survey using Microsoft Forms was distributed in Delta regions in Egypt. The questionnaire used a modified version of the validated 14- items PREDIMED MedDiet Adherence Screener (MEDAS). The first part of the questionnaire addressed sociodemographic variables whereas the second one included questions related to dietary, behavioral and weight changes of participants. These changes were statistically tested for significance in relation to BMI, gender, home living, current job and family history of obesity. RESULTS A total of 306 participated in the study (70% females, 13% obese, 95% living with family, 56% university students, and 36% with family history of obesity). Obese showed a significant increase in sweet intake whereas underweight and normal weight people displayed a significant decrease in eating desire. Both females and males showed significant increase in consumption of fruits and vegetables with significant decrease in soft drink. However, women showed a significant decrease in sport activity relative to men. Participants living with family showed an increase in sweet intake while those living alone explored an increase in meal frequency. Employers revealed a significant decrease in sport activities and people with family history of obesity reported more sleeping times than those without family history of obesity. CONCLUSION During Covid-19 quarantine, Egyptians' eating habits improved, but daily routines were disrupted. Raising awareness about obesity and providing guidance on maintaining activity, energy, and mood is crucial for future quarantine situations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mahmoud Reda Saleh
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Kafrelsheikh University, Kafr- Elsheikh, 33511, Egypt.
| | - Mohamed Y Abdelgaied
- Faculty of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, T6G 2E1, Canada
| | - Naira Galal
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Kafrelsheikh University, Kafr- Elsheikh, 33511, Egypt
| | - Mai Tarek
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Kafrelsheikh University, Kafr- Elsheikh, 33511, Egypt
| | - Aya Fouda
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Kafrelsheikh University, Kafr- Elsheikh, 33511, Egypt
| | - Khaled Abdelkawy
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Kafrelsheikh University, Kafr- Elsheikh, 33511, Egypt
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Yuan X, Matsumoto M, Okada E, Murakami K, Sasaki S, Takimoto H. Relationship between Household Shared Meal Frequency and Dietary Intake among Men and Women Aged ≥20 Years: Cross-Sectional Analyses Based on 2018 and 2019 National Health and Nutrition Surveys in Japan. Nutrients 2024; 16:1764. [PMID: 38892697 PMCID: PMC11175063 DOI: 10.3390/nu16111764] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2024] [Revised: 05/20/2024] [Accepted: 05/31/2024] [Indexed: 06/21/2024] Open
Abstract
This study aimed to examine the relationship between the frequency of household shared meals and the intake of 17 food groups and 21 nutrients. Participants were 3310 men and 3386 women ≥20 years old living in a household of ≥2 members from 2018 and 2019 National Health and Nutrition Surveys in Japan. A one-day household dietary record was used to classify an individual's shared meal frequency and dietary intake. A shared meal is defined as an eating occasion (i.e., breakfast, lunch, and dinner) where ≥1 food item-other than sugars, fats and oils, beverages, and condiments-was recorded with an assigned approximated shared proportion. The shared meal frequency for each individual was classified into one of four categories: 0, 1, 2, and 3 times/day. Dietary intake was compared across the shared meal categories adjusted for age, occupation, household size, meal skipping, snacking, residential areas, and within-household correlations. Both men and women who had more frequent shared meals showed higher intakes of potatoes, vegetables, mushrooms, and condiments but less confectioneries and beverages. A higher shared meal frequency was also related to a higher intake of many (12/21) nutrients (e.g., protein, dietary fiber, and potassium). However, in women, there was a positive association between shared meal frequency and sodium intake. A higher frequency of household shared meals may be related to a more favorable dietary intake; except for concerns about sodium intake in women.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoyi Yuan
- Department of Nutritional Epidemiology and Shokuiku, National Institutes of Biomedical Innovation, Health, and Nutrition, 3-17 Senrioka Shinmachi, Settsu-shi 566-0002, Osaka, Japan
| | - Mai Matsumoto
- Department of Nutritional Epidemiology and Shokuiku, National Institutes of Biomedical Innovation, Health, and Nutrition, 3-17 Senrioka Shinmachi, Settsu-shi 566-0002, Osaka, Japan
| | - Emiko Okada
- Department of Nutritional Epidemiology and Shokuiku, National Institutes of Biomedical Innovation, Health, and Nutrition, 3-17 Senrioka Shinmachi, Settsu-shi 566-0002, Osaka, Japan
| | - Kentaro Murakami
- Department of Social and Preventive Epidemiology, School of Public Health, University of Tokyo, Bunkyo-ku 113-0033, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Satoshi Sasaki
- Department of Social and Preventive Epidemiology, School of Public Health, University of Tokyo, Bunkyo-ku 113-0033, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Hidemi Takimoto
- Department of Nutritional Epidemiology and Shokuiku, National Institutes of Biomedical Innovation, Health, and Nutrition, 3-17 Senrioka Shinmachi, Settsu-shi 566-0002, Osaka, Japan
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Bernardi E, Visioli F. Fostering wellbeing and healthy lifestyles through conviviality and commensality: Underappreciated benefits of the Mediterranean Diet. Nutr Res 2024; 126:46-57. [PMID: 38613923 DOI: 10.1016/j.nutres.2024.03.007] [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: 01/24/2024] [Revised: 03/16/2024] [Accepted: 03/18/2024] [Indexed: 04/15/2024]
Abstract
Among the often-neglected features of healthy diets, such as the Mediterranean diet, is the preparation and sharing of food, which is (or was) done in a social environment governed by social rules rather than by time constraints. The act of eating is a daily human practice that is not limited to meeting nutritional and energy needs but also involves a constructed social dimension of sharing meals that is part of the process of human civilization and food cultures around the world. In this narrative review, we outline the importance of conviviality in steering part of the health effects of healthful diets, with special reference to the Mediterranean diet. Based on the available evidence, we suggest that public health initiatives (such as nudging to promote conviviality) to improve people's eating and living styles, reduce loneliness, and promote the sharing of meals could improve health. Interventions aimed at directly increasing/improving people's social relationships, networking, and conviviality can-directly and indirectly-improve both psychological well-being and general health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elisabetta Bernardi
- Department of Biosciences, Biotechnologies and Environment, University of Bari "Aldo Moro" - Bari, Italy
| | - Francesco Visioli
- Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Padova, Italy; IMDEA-Food, Madrid, Spain.
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López-Gil JF, Gutiérrez-Espinoza H, Manzano-Sánchez D. Higher Numbers of Family Meals and Social Eating Behavior Are Associated with Greater Self-Esteem among Adolescents: The EHDLA. Nutrients 2024; 16:1216. [PMID: 38674906 PMCID: PMC11053621 DOI: 10.3390/nu16081216] [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: 02/26/2024] [Revised: 03/24/2024] [Accepted: 04/07/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND the aim of this study was to assess the associations of family meals and social eating behavior with self-esteem levels among Spanish adolescents. METHODS This was a secondary cross-sectional study including 706 participants (aged 12 to 17 years; 56.1% girls) from the Eating Habits and Daily Life Activities (EHDLA) study. The evaluation of the frequency of family meals involved participants providing information in physical education classes on how frequently they, along with other members of their household, had shared meals in the previous week. Social eating behavior was assessed by three different statements: "I usually have dinner with others", "Having at least one meal a day with others (family or friends) is important to me", and "I enjoy sitting down with family or friends for a meal". To assess overall self-esteem, the Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale was used. RESULTS In the adjusted models, a positive association was observed between the frequency of family meals and the self-esteem score (unstandardized beta coefficient [B] = 0.06, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.003 to 0.12, p-adjusted = 0.040). Furthermore, the same positive association was also identified between social eating behavior and the self-esteem score (B = 0.23; 95% CI 0.07 to 0.40, p-adjusted = 0.005). CONCLUSIONS Although self-esteem is complex and can be influenced by numerous factors, both family meals and social eating behavior may exert a relevant role in adolescents. Encouraging consistent participation in family meals and promoting positive eating practices could be valuable approaches in public health actions targeting the enhancement of self-esteem levels in adolescents.
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Affiliation(s)
- José Francisco López-Gil
- Department of Communication and Education, Universidad Loyola Andalucía, 41704 Seville, Spain;
- One Health Research Group, Universidad de Las Américas, Quito 170124, Ecuador
| | | | - David Manzano-Sánchez
- Department of Didactics of Musical, Plastic and Corporal Expression, Faculty of Education and Psychology, University of Extremadura, 06006 Badajoz, Spain
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López-Gil JF, Victoria-Montesinos D, Gutiérrez-Espinoza H, Jiménez-López E. Family Meals and Social Eating Behavior and Their Association with Disordered Eating among Spanish Adolescents: The EHDLA Study. Nutrients 2024; 16:951. [PMID: 38612985 PMCID: PMC11013300 DOI: 10.3390/nu16070951] [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: 02/10/2024] [Revised: 03/18/2024] [Accepted: 03/20/2024] [Indexed: 04/14/2024] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE The aim of this study was to examine the association of family meals and social eating behavior with disordered eating behavior in Spanish adolescents. METHODS This was a cross-sectional study that included 706 adolescents (43.9% boys) from the Eating Habits and Daily Life Activities (EHDLA) study (aged 12 to 17) from Valle de Ricote, Region of Murcia, Spain. The frequency of family meals was assessed by asking participants to report how often their family, or most household members, had shared meals in the past week. Social eating behavior was evaluated using three statements: "I enjoy sitting down with family or friends for a meal", "Having at least one meal a day with others (family or friends) is important to me", and "I usually have dinner with others". To evaluate disordered eating, two psychologists administered the Sick, Control, One, Fat and Food (SCOFF) questionnaire. RESULTS After adjusting for several covariates, for each additional family meal, the likelihood of having disordered eating behavior was lower (odds ratio (OR) = 0.96; 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.93 to 0.9997, p = 0.049). On the other hand, a lower likelihood of having disordered eating behavior was observed for each additional point in the social eating behavior scale (OR = 0.85; 95% CI 0.77 to 0.93, p = 0.001). The likelihood of having disordered eating behavior was 0.7% lower for each additional family meal (95% CI 0.01% to 1.4%, p = 0.046). Furthermore, for each additional point in the social eating behavior scale, a lower probability of having disordered eating behavior was observed (3.2%; 95% CI 1.4% to 5.0%, p < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS While disordered eating behavior is complex and can be shaped by various factors, both family meals and social eating behavior emerge as significant factors inversely associated with this condition among adolescents. Promoting regular engagement in family meals and fostering positive social eating experiences could serve as effective strategies in public health initiatives aimed at mitigating the incidence of disordered eating behavior among the young population.
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Affiliation(s)
- José Francisco López-Gil
- Department of Communication and Education, Universidad Loyola Andalucía, 41704 Seville, Spain;
- One Health Research Group, Universidad de Las Américas, Quito 170124, Ecuador
| | | | | | - Estela Jiménez-López
- Health and Social Research Center, Universidad de Castilla-La Mancha, 16002 Cuenca, Spain;
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Salud Mental (CIBERSAM), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, 28029 Madrid, Spain
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Muth ND, Bolling C, Hannon T, Sharifi M. The Role of the Pediatrician in the Promotion of Healthy, Active Living. Pediatrics 2024; 153:e2023065480. [PMID: 38404207 PMCID: PMC11042797 DOI: 10.1542/peds.2023-065480] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/19/2023] [Indexed: 02/27/2024] Open
Abstract
Few children and adolescents meet federal nutrition or physical activity recommendations, and many experience poor or inadequate sleep and negative health effects from screen use and social media. These lifestyle factors exacerbate physical and mental health risks for children and adolescents. This clinical report provides guidance to help pediatricians address the nutritional, physical activity, sleep, media and screen use, and social-emotional factors that affect child and adolescent health and wellness. The recommendations in this clinical report aim to promote health and wellness practices for infants, children, and adolescents across several domains of influence, including the individual, interpersonal, institutional, community, and public policy levels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natalie D. Muth
- Children’s Primary Care Medical Group, Carlsbad, Californiaand Department of Community Health Sciences, UCLA Fielding School of Public Health, Los Angeles, California
| | - Christopher Bolling
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, Ohio
| | - Tamara Hannon
- Division of Pediatric Endocrinology and Diabetology, Department of Pediatrics, Indiana University School of Medicine, Bloomington, Indiana
| | - Mona Sharifi
- Departments of Pediatrics and Biostatistics, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut
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Farmer N, Tuason R, Middleton KR, Ude A, Tataw-Ayuketah G, Flynn S, Kazmi N, Baginski A, Mitchell V, Powell-Wiley TM, Wallen GR. Assessing Acceptability: The Role of Understanding Participant, Neighborhood, and Community Contextual Factors in Designing a Community-Tailored Cooking Intervention. Nutrients 2024; 16:463. [PMID: 38337747 PMCID: PMC10857272 DOI: 10.3390/nu16030463] [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: 12/28/2023] [Revised: 01/24/2024] [Accepted: 01/28/2024] [Indexed: 02/12/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cooking is an identified dietary strategy that is positively associated with optimal diet quality. Prior to initiating cooking interventions, evaluating the prospective acceptability of the intervention among community members living within low food access areas and understanding geospatial food shopping locations may aid in designing community-tailored interventions. METHODS A sequential mixed methods study was conducted to determine the prospective acceptability of a planned community-located cooking intervention among African American adults living in a low food access area and with at least one cardiovascular disease risk factor. A semi-structured guide was used to conduct five virtual focus groups. Qualitative data were analyzed using thematic analysis and validated through participant check-in interviews. Survey responses were analyzed based on descriptive data. Geospatial analysis of participant locations that were reported for food shopping was conducted to show food environment utilization. RESULTS Focus groups with study participants (n = 20, all female, mean age 60.3, SD 9.3, mean cooking frequency per week 4.0, food insecure n = 7) were conducted between March and April, 2021. Thematic analysis of the focus group transcripts identified five main themes as follows: (A) Barriers to Cooking (family and caregiving, transportation, COVID-19 pandemic, time availability, household composition); (B) Motivators for Cooking (family, caregiving, health, enjoyment, COVID-19 pandemic); (C) Strategies (food shopping, social support, social media, meal planning); (D) Neighborhood (gentrification, perceived safety, stigmatization, disparities in grocery stores); (E) and Acceptability of the Intervention (reasons to participate, barriers, recruitment, intervention delivery). Participant validation interviews confirmed the themes and subthemes as well as the illustrative quotes. Geospatial analysis showed a majority of locations were outside of the participants' residential areas. CONCLUSIONS Prospective acceptability of a community-tailored cooking intervention found that the planned intervention could be modified to address individual level factors, such as caregiving and health, community contextual factors, such as perceived safety, and the general health needs of the community.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicole Farmer
- Translational Biobehavioral and Health Disparities Branch, The National Institutes of Health, Clinical Center, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA; (R.T.); (K.R.M.); (N.K.); (A.B.); (G.R.W.)
| | - Ralph Tuason
- Translational Biobehavioral and Health Disparities Branch, The National Institutes of Health, Clinical Center, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA; (R.T.); (K.R.M.); (N.K.); (A.B.); (G.R.W.)
| | - Kimberly R. Middleton
- Translational Biobehavioral and Health Disparities Branch, The National Institutes of Health, Clinical Center, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA; (R.T.); (K.R.M.); (N.K.); (A.B.); (G.R.W.)
| | - Assumpta Ude
- Clinical Center Nursing Department, The National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA; (A.U.); (G.T.-A.); (S.F.)
| | - Gladys Tataw-Ayuketah
- Clinical Center Nursing Department, The National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA; (A.U.); (G.T.-A.); (S.F.)
| | - Sharon Flynn
- Clinical Center Nursing Department, The National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA; (A.U.); (G.T.-A.); (S.F.)
| | - Narjis Kazmi
- Translational Biobehavioral and Health Disparities Branch, The National Institutes of Health, Clinical Center, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA; (R.T.); (K.R.M.); (N.K.); (A.B.); (G.R.W.)
| | - Alyssa Baginski
- Translational Biobehavioral and Health Disparities Branch, The National Institutes of Health, Clinical Center, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA; (R.T.); (K.R.M.); (N.K.); (A.B.); (G.R.W.)
| | - Valerie Mitchell
- Social Determinants of Obesity and Cardiovascular Risk Laboratory, Cardiovascular Branch, Division of Intramural Research, National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA; (V.M.); (T.M.P.-W.)
| | - Tiffany M. Powell-Wiley
- Social Determinants of Obesity and Cardiovascular Risk Laboratory, Cardiovascular Branch, Division of Intramural Research, National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA; (V.M.); (T.M.P.-W.)
- Intramural Research Program, National Institute on Minority Health and Health Disparities, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - Gwenyth R. Wallen
- Translational Biobehavioral and Health Disparities Branch, The National Institutes of Health, Clinical Center, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA; (R.T.); (K.R.M.); (N.K.); (A.B.); (G.R.W.)
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Helle C, Hillesund ER, Øverby NC. Maternal mental health is associated with children's frequency of family meals at 12 and 24 months of age. MATERNAL & CHILD NUTRITION 2024; 20:e13552. [PMID: 37596722 PMCID: PMC10750025 DOI: 10.1111/mcn.13552] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2023] [Revised: 07/03/2023] [Accepted: 07/20/2023] [Indexed: 08/20/2023]
Abstract
Diet during the child's first years is important for growth and development. In toddlerhood, higher diet quality is reported among children eating meals together with family. Although previous literature has documented several associations between maternal mental health and early child feeding practices, less is known about the relationship between maternal mental health and child frequency of shared family meals. This study explores associations between maternal symptoms of anxiety and depression, measured by The Hopkins Symptoms Checklist (SCL-8), and toddler participation in family meals. We used cross-sectional data from the Norwegian study Early Food for Future Health, in which participants responded to questionnaires at child age 12 (n = 455) and 24 months (n = 295). Logistic regression was used to explore associations between maternal mental health and child having regular (≥5 per week) or irregular (<5 per week) family meals (breakfast and dinner), adjusting for relevant child and maternal confounding variables. Children of mothers with higher scores of anxiety and depression had higher odds of Irregular family meals at both timepoints; (OR: 2.067, p = 0.015) and (OR: 2.444, p = 0.023). This is one of few studies exploring associations between maternal mental health and child frequency of shared family meals in early childhood, a period where the foundation for life-long health is shaped. Given the high prevalence of mental ailments and disorders, these findings are important and may inform future public health interventions. Further exploration of this relation is needed, including longitudinal research to test predictive associations and qualitative studies to increase insight and understanding.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christine Helle
- Department of Nutrition and Public Health, Faculty of Health and Sport SciencesUniversity of AgderKristiansandNorway
| | - Elisabet R. Hillesund
- Department of Nutrition and Public Health, Faculty of Health and Sport SciencesUniversity of AgderKristiansandNorway
| | - Nina Cecilie Øverby
- Department of Nutrition and Public Health, Faculty of Health and Sport SciencesUniversity of AgderKristiansandNorway
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Berge JM, Hazzard VM, Trofholz A, Noser AE, Hochgraf A, Neumark-Sztainer D. Longitudinal associations between family meal quality and quantity: Does one matter more for child, parent, and family health and well-being or are they synergistic? Appetite 2023; 191:107080. [PMID: 37832722 PMCID: PMC11006826 DOI: 10.1016/j.appet.2023.107080] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2023] [Revised: 09/15/2023] [Accepted: 10/08/2023] [Indexed: 10/15/2023]
Abstract
It is unknown how family meal quantity (i.e., frequency) and quality (i.e., meal healthfulness and interpersonal quality) are associated with child, parent, and family health and well-being over time. This study aimed to examine longitudinal associations between family meal quantity and quality and child, parent, and family health and well-being and whether there was a synergistic effect between family meal quantity and quality. Children ages 5-9 and their parents from six racial/ethnic groups participated in this longitudinal cohort study. Regression models adjusted for socio-demographic characteristics examined family meal quantity, interpersonal quality, and nutritional quality at baseline and interactions between quantity and quality, in relation to changes in child, parent, and family health outcomes from baseline to 18-month follow-up. Higher family meal quantity predicted reduced obesity prevalence, improved diet quality and less food fussiness, food responsiveness, and conduct problems among children at follow-up. Higher family meal quality predicted improved diet quality, lower emotional problems, less food responsiveness, and fewer peer relationship problems among children, improved diet quality and reduced psychological distress for parents, and less family chaos at follow-up. One interaction between family meal quantity and quality was found for child peer relationship problems. Overall, family meal quantity and quality were independently important for child health and well-being and for some parent and family health outcomes. Clinicians working with families may want to emphasize the importance of both family meal quantity and quality, as these longitudinal findings suggest potential benefits for the entire family.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jerica M Berge
- Department of Family Medicine and Community Health, University of Minnesota Medical School, Minneapolis, MN, USA.
| | - Vivienne M Hazzard
- Department of Family Medicine and Community Health, University of Minnesota Medical School, Minneapolis, MN, USA; Division of Epidemiology and Community Health, School of Public Health, University of Minnesota Twin Cities, Minneapolis, MN, USA
| | - Amanda Trofholz
- Department of Family Medicine and Community Health, University of Minnesota Medical School, Minneapolis, MN, USA
| | - Amy E Noser
- Department of Family Medicine and Community Health, University of Minnesota Medical School, Minneapolis, MN, USA
| | - Anna Hochgraf
- Department of Family Medicine and Community Health, University of Minnesota Medical School, Minneapolis, MN, USA; Division of Epidemiology and Community Health, School of Public Health, University of Minnesota Twin Cities, Minneapolis, MN, USA
| | - Dianne Neumark-Sztainer
- Division of Epidemiology and Community Health, School of Public Health, University of Minnesota Twin Cities, Minneapolis, MN, USA
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Baltaci A, Laska MN, Horning M, Hearst M, Lee J, Fulkerson JA. Parent meal self-efficacy and practices in households with healthy home food environments in the face of economic hardship. Appetite 2023; 190:107029. [PMID: 37683896 PMCID: PMC10543555 DOI: 10.1016/j.appet.2023.107029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2023] [Revised: 08/16/2023] [Accepted: 09/04/2023] [Indexed: 09/10/2023]
Abstract
Some families who experience economic hardship demonstrate remarkable strength and resourcefulness to sustain a healthy home food environment. This ability to navigate economic barriers could be associated with parent meal practices that promote children's healthful dietary intake. Therefore, this study aimed to examine 1) whether parent meal self-efficacy and practices were associated with economic assistance status and home fruit and vegetable (FV) availability and 2) how parent meal self-efficacy and practices differed by home FV availability and economic assistance status. Analyses utilized baseline data from 274 parent/child dyads from two childhood obesity prevention trials: HOME Plus (urban) and NU-HOME (rural). Parents in households with high FV availability (regardless of economic assistance) had significantly higher self-efficacy in preparing healthy foods, family dinner routines, frequency of child's plate being half filled with FV, frequency of family dinner and breakfast, and lower frequency of purchasing dinner from fast food restaurants. Economic assistance was not associated with parent meal self-efficacy and practices. Four family groups were created and defined by economic assistance (yes/no) and home FV availability (high/low). About 31% of families that received economic assistance and had high home FV availability were food insecure. Families (n = 39) receiving economic assistance and having high home FV availability had greater frequency of family dinners compared to those in households with economic assistance and low home FV availability (n = 47) (p = 0.001); no other parent meal self-efficacy or practices differed between groups. Our findings suggest some families can maintain healthy home food environments despite economic hardship and frequent family dinners may be an important strength for these families. More research is needed to investigate asset-based models to understand the family strengths that enable them to thrive during difficult times.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aysegul Baltaci
- School of Public Health, Division of Epidemiology and Community Health, 420 Delaware St SE, Minneapolis, MN, 55455, USA.
| | - Melissa N Laska
- School of Public Health, Division of Epidemiology and Community Health, 420 Delaware St SE, Minneapolis, MN, 55455, USA.
| | - Melissa Horning
- School of Nursing, 308 SE Harvard St, Minneapolis, MN, 55455, USA.
| | - Mary Hearst
- School of Nursing, 308 SE Harvard St, Minneapolis, MN, 55455, USA.
| | - Jiwoo Lee
- School of Nursing, 308 SE Harvard St, Minneapolis, MN, 55455, USA.
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12
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Huang L, Zhao K, Zhu H, Li X, Yang Y, Hou C, Zhu S, Xu Q. Family characteristics in adolescents with overweight or obesity: a network analysis. Front Pediatr 2023; 11:1282117. [PMID: 38034834 PMCID: PMC10686212 DOI: 10.3389/fped.2023.1282117] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2023] [Accepted: 10/09/2023] [Indexed: 12/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Rates of overweight and obesity continue to grow in adolescents. Overweight and obesity in adolescence are associated with numerous immediate and long-term adverse health conditions. Throughout adolescence, parents and the family have an important and central influence on adolescents' health and lifestyle. The home environment may be a major factor in shaping children's weight. However, our current understanding of the interplay between family-related variables in adolescents with overweight or obesity is limited and fragmented. This study aimed to assess the relationship between family-related variables in adolescents who are overweight or obese using network analysis and inform future health promotion for family-based intervention. Methods Participants (n = 488) were recruited from middle schools in Nanjing from October 2022 to March 2023. Participants, together with their parents, completed a questionnaire at school about the family food environment, family size, family APGAR index, family physical activity facilities, parental mental health, rearing behavior, parental weight status, drinking history, marital satisfaction, and sociodemographic characteristics. Results The network split into three distinct communities of items. Network analysis showed that parental mental health and paternal rearing styles-rejection were the most central nodes in the network. In contrast, maternal weight status was the most peripheral and least connected nodes. Conclusion Family-related variables constituted a connected network in adolescents with overweight or obesity. The pattern of network node connections supports that interventions could prioritize targeting changing parental mental health and paternal rearing styles in adolescents with overweight or obesity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lidong Huang
- School of Nursing, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Kang Zhao
- School of Nursing, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Hanfei Zhu
- School of Nursing, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Xiaonan Li
- Child Healthcare Department, Children’s Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Yiqing Yang
- School of Nursing, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Caiyun Hou
- School of Nursing, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Shuqin Zhu
- School of Nursing, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Qin Xu
- School of Nursing, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
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13
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Phulkerd S, Gray RS, Chamratrithirong A, Pattaravanich U, Thapsuwan S. Financial satisfaction, food security, and shared meals are foundations of happiness among older persons in Thailand. BMC Geriatr 2023; 23:690. [PMID: 37875829 PMCID: PMC10599056 DOI: 10.1186/s12877-023-04411-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2023] [Accepted: 10/16/2023] [Indexed: 10/26/2023] Open
Abstract
The objective of this study was to investigate the association between happiness and food-related behaviours and other potential factors among older persons in Thailand. This was a cross-sectional study with multistage random sampling. In total, 1,197 older (age 60 + years) persons participated in this study. Face-to-face interviews were conducted to obtain information about socio-demographic characteristics, health status, household chores, home gardening, financial situation, family meals, and food security. Descriptive and multivariate regression analyses were performed for data analysis. The analysis found that age, health status, household chores, and home gardening were found to be significantly associated with happiness. Statistically-significant associations of financial situation, family meals, and food insecurity with happiness were also observed. People who were not dissatisfied with their financial situation were happier than people who were unhappy with their financial situation. Older people who ate every meal with a family member(s) were happiest. People who had severe food insecurity were less happy than those with food security. The findings suggest the need for investment priorities on food and nutrition with a long-term policy to ensure financial self-sufficiency and food security among older persons and their family.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sirinya Phulkerd
- Institute for Population and Social Research, Mahidol University, Nakhon Pathom, Thailand.
| | | | | | - Umaporn Pattaravanich
- Institute for Population and Social Research, Mahidol University, Nakhon Pathom, Thailand
| | - Sasinee Thapsuwan
- Institute for Population and Social Research, Mahidol University, Nakhon Pathom, Thailand
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14
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West CE, Hazzard VM, Loth KA, Larson N, Hooper L, Neumark-Sztainer D. The interplay between food insecurity and family factors in relation to disordered eating in adolescence. Appetite 2023; 189:106994. [PMID: 37544329 PMCID: PMC10617248 DOI: 10.1016/j.appet.2023.106994] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2023] [Revised: 07/21/2023] [Accepted: 08/03/2023] [Indexed: 08/08/2023]
Abstract
This study examined the association between food insecurity and both binge eating and unhealthy weight-control behaviors (UWCBs) and assessed whether such associations differ by factors within the family environment. Data were collected from a diverse sample of adolescents (Mage = 14.5 years; 54.1% female) and their parents/guardians (N = 2137 dyads) participating in EAT 2010 (Eating and Activity over Time). Food-insecure adolescents were more likely to report binge eating (prevalence ratio [PR] = 1.94; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.41-2.69) and UWCBs (PR = 1.34; 95% CI: 1.21-1.49) than food-secure adolescents. Family meal importance (p = .03) and family communication (p < .001) significantly moderated the association between food insecurity and UWCBs, such that the association was weaker at lower levels of these factors. Significant interactions with parental weight talk/concern (p < .001) and weight teasing (p = .04) indicated a weaker association between food insecurity and UWCBs in the presence of these factors. Findings indicate that the association between food insecurity and UWCBs among youth is less salient in the absence of family protective factors and in the presence of family risk factors for UWCBs, indicating the importance of targeting food insecurity itself, regardless of the presence of family risk or protective factors for UWCBs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caroline E West
- Department of Psychological Sciences, Kent State University, Kent, OH, USA.
| | - Vivienne M Hazzard
- Division of Epidemiology and Community Health, School of Public Health, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA
| | - Katie A Loth
- Department of Family Medicine and Community Health, University of Minnesota Medical School, Minneapolis, MN, USA
| | - Nicole Larson
- Division of Epidemiology and Community Health, School of Public Health, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA
| | - Laura Hooper
- Division of Epidemiology and Community Health, School of Public Health, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA
| | - Dianne Neumark-Sztainer
- Division of Epidemiology and Community Health, School of Public Health, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA
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15
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Peng L, Hu R, Feng Y, Shi W, Zhao L, Jiang L. The relationship between family diet consumption, family environment, parent anxiety and nutrition status children during the COVID-19 pandemic: a longitudinal study. Front Public Health 2023; 11:1228626. [PMID: 37637798 PMCID: PMC10447892 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2023.1228626] [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: 05/30/2023] [Accepted: 07/28/2023] [Indexed: 08/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Background The COVID-19 pandemic has exacerbated the trends of childhood overweight, obesity, and malnutrition, as well as increased psychological stress and family conflicts among family members. It is important to explore the relationship between changes in the family environment during the COVID-19 on child nutrition. Objective This study aims to analyze the nutritional status of Chinese children during the COVID-19 pandemic and its relationship with family diet, family environment, and parental anxiety, in order to provide evidence for further interventions in children's nutritional status. Method This study included 7,645 primary and secondary school students and their parents from five schools in Chengdu, China. Chi-square tests were used to analyze the categorical variables of children's malnutrition, overweight, obesity, and parental anxiety. T-tests were used to assess changes in the continuous variable of family environment between two rounds of follow-up surveys. Multiple logistic regression analysis was employed to examine the impact of changes in family diet during the COVID-19 pandemic on children's nutritional status. Generalized estimating equations were used to analyze the effects of family environment and parental anxiety on childhood obesity. Result The prevalence of malnutrition and obesity decreased from 11.64% and 11.60% in wave 1 to 4.96% and 10.50% in wave 2, and the rate of overweight increased from 13.11% in wave 1 to 13.73% in wave 2. Children whose families reduced consumption of staple foods during the COVID-19 were more likely to be frail, and families increased consumption of sugary drinks, take-out or meal delivery services, living in towns, family environmental barriers, and parental anxiety were risk factors for overweight obesity. Mother's education level in middle and high school and low age were protective factors for overweight obesity. Conclusion The physical environment of the family, the emotions of family members, and children's perceptions of the family's soft environment can influence children's eating behaviors, children's nutritional intake, and malnutrition and obesity in children under public health emergencies, and family-based dietary interventions may be effective. Parents can increase consumption of healthy foods and improve the family environment, which improve their growth.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lili Peng
- Department of Health Policy and Management, West China School of Public Health and West China Fourth Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Rui Hu
- Department of Health Policy and Management, West China School of Public Health and West China Fourth Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Yiwei Feng
- Department of Natural Science, Duke Kunshan University, Kunshan, China
| | - Wei Shi
- Institute for Disaster Management and Reconstruction (IDMR), Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Li Zhao
- Department of Health Policy and Management, West China School of Public Health and West China Fourth Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Lihua Jiang
- Institute for Hospital Management, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
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16
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Larson N, Tavernier RE, Berge JM, Barr-Anderson DJ, Neumark-Sztainer D. Implications of the COVID-19 Pandemic for the Well-Being of Emerging Adult Populations: A Synthesis of Findings From the COVID-19 Eating and Activity Over Time (C-EAT) Study. EMERGING ADULTHOOD (PRINT) 2023; 11:779-796. [PMID: 37832141 PMCID: PMC10064195 DOI: 10.1177/21676968231166034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/15/2023]
Abstract
Research addressing the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on psychosocial well-being and health behavior is accumulating; however, implications for emerging adult populations are underexplored. This manuscript synthesizes findings from a mixed-methods study of well-being, eating and activity behaviors, and food insecurity among a diverse, longitudinal cohort of emerging adults. The review includes findings from 11 original studies that involved collecting online surveys from 720 emerging adults and in-depth, virtual interviews with 33 respondents who were food insecure. Findings indicated the pandemic had widespread impacts on well-being. Population groups at greatest risk for poor outcomes included women; those who identified as Black, Indigenous, or a Person of Color; persons in households of low socioeconomic status; parents of young children; and persons who previously experienced mental health challenges or weight stigma. Further research will be needed to evaluate efforts to improve the well-being of emerging adults in the aftermath of the pandemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicole Larson
- Division of Epidemiology and Community
Health, School of Public Health, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA
| | - Rebecca Emery Tavernier
- Department of Family Medicine and
Biobehavioral Health, University of Minnesota Medical
School, Duluth, MN, USA
| | - Jerica M. Berge
- Department of Family Medicine and Community
Health, University of Minnesota Medical School,
University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA
| | | | - Dianne Neumark-Sztainer
- Division of Epidemiology and Community
Health, School of Public Health, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA
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17
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Berge JM, Trofholz AC, Aqeel M, Norderud K, Tate A, Fertig AR, Loth K, Mendenhall T, Neumark-Sztainer D. A three-arm randomized controlled trial using ecological momentary intervention, community health workers, and video feedback at family meals to improve child cardiovascular health: the Family Matters study design. BMC Public Health 2023; 23:708. [PMID: 37072737 PMCID: PMC10112996 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-023-15504-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2023] [Accepted: 03/22/2023] [Indexed: 04/20/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Numerous observational studies show associations between family meal frequency and markers of child cardiovascular health including healthful diet quality and lower weight status. Some studies also show the "quality" of family meals, including dietary quality of the food served and the interpersonal atmosphere during meals, is associated with markers of child cardiovascular health. Additionally, prior intervention research indicates that immediate feedback on health behaviors (e.g., ecological momentary intervention (EMI), video feedback) increases the likelihood of behavior change. However, limited studies have tested the combination of these components in a rigorous clinical trial. The main aim of this paper is to describe the Family Matters study design, data collection protocols, measures, intervention components, process evaluation, and analysis plan. METHODS/DESIGN The Family Matters intervention utilizes state-of-the-art intervention methods including EMI, video feedback, and home visiting by Community Health Workers (CHWs) to examine whether increasing the quantity (i.e., frequency) and quality of family meals (i.e., diet quality, interpersonal atmosphere) improves child cardiovascular health. Family Matters is an individual randomized controlled trial that tests combinations of the above factors across three study Arms: (1) EMI; (2) EMI + Virtual Home Visiting with CHW + Video Feedback; and (3) EMI + Hybrid Home Visiting with CHW + Video Feedback. The intervention will be carried out across 6 months with children ages 5-10 (n = 525) with increased risk for cardiovascular disease (i.e., BMI ≥ 75%ile) from low income and racially/ethnically diverse households and their families. Data collection will occur at baseline, post-intervention, and 6 months post-intervention. Primary outcomes include child weight, diet quality, and neck circumference. DISCUSSION This study will be the first to our knowledge to use multiple innovative methods simultaneously including ecological momentary intervention, video feedback, and home visiting with CHWs within the novel intervention context of family meals to evaluate which combination of intervention components are most effective in improving child cardiovascular health. The Family Matters intervention has high potential public health impact as it aims to change clinical practice by creating a new model of care for child cardiovascular health in primary care. TRIAL REGISTRATION This trial is registered in clinicaltrials.gov (Trial ID: NCT02669797). Date recorded 5/02/22.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jerica M Berge
- Department of Family Medicine and Community Health, University of Minnesota Medical School, 717 Delaware Street SE, Room 425, Minneapolis, MN, 55455, USA.
| | - Amanda C Trofholz
- Department of Family Medicine and Community Health, University of Minnesota Medical School, 717 Delaware Street SE, Room 425, Minneapolis, MN, 55455, USA
| | - Marah Aqeel
- Department of Family Medicine and Community Health, University of Minnesota Medical School, 717 Delaware Street SE, Room 425, Minneapolis, MN, 55455, USA
| | - Kristin Norderud
- Department of Family Medicine and Community Health, University of Minnesota Medical School, 717 Delaware Street SE, Room 425, Minneapolis, MN, 55455, USA
| | - Allan Tate
- College of Public Health, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, USA
| | - Angela R Fertig
- University of Minnesota, Humphrey School of Public Affairs, Minneapolis, MN, USA
| | - Katie Loth
- Department of Family Medicine and Community Health, University of Minnesota Medical School, 717 Delaware Street SE, Room 425, Minneapolis, MN, 55455, USA
| | - Tai Mendenhall
- Department of Family Social Science, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA
| | - Dianne Neumark-Sztainer
- School of Public Health, Division of Epidemiology and Community Health, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA
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18
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Victoria-Montesinos D, Jiménez-López E, Mesas AE, López-Bueno R, Garrido-Miguel M, Gutiérrez-Espinoza H, Smith L, López-Gil JF. Are family meals and social eating behaviour associated with depression, anxiety, and stress in adolescents? The EHDLA study. Clin Nutr 2023; 42:505-510. [PMID: 36857959 DOI: 10.1016/j.clnu.2023.01.020] [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: 10/21/2022] [Revised: 01/30/2023] [Accepted: 01/31/2023] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This study examined the association between family meals and social eating behaviour with depression, anxiety and stress symptoms among Spanish adolescents. METHODS This was a cross-sectional study with data obtained from a representative sample of adolescents aged 12-17 years from Valle de Ricote, Murcia, Spain. Emotional symptomatology was evaluated with the Depression, Anxiety and Stress Scale. The frequency of family meals and social eating behaviour were self-reported. RESULTS Each additional point in social eating behaviour decreased the probability of having a higher number of depressive (OR = 0.83; 95% CI, 0.75-0.92), anxiety (OR = 0.88; 95% CI, 0.80-0.97) and stress (OR = 0.90; 95% CI, 0.82-0.99) symptoms. CONCLUSIONS Higher social eating behaviour was associated with lower probabilities of higher number of depressive, anxiety and stress symptoms.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Estela Jiménez-López
- Health and Social Research Center, Universidad de Castilla-La Mancha, Cuenca, Spain
| | - Arthur Eumann Mesas
- Health and Social Research Center, Universidad de Castilla-La Mancha, Cuenca, Spain; Postgraduate Program in Public Health, Universidade Estadual de Londrina, Londrina, Brazil
| | - Rubén López-Bueno
- Department of Physical Medicine and Nursing, University of Zaragoza, Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Miriam Garrido-Miguel
- Health and Social Research Center, Universidad de Castilla-La Mancha, Cuenca, Spain; Faculty of Nursing, Universidad de Castilla-La Mancha, Albacete, Spain
| | | | - Lee Smith
- Centre for Health, Performance and Wellbeing, Anglia Ruskin University, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - José Francisco López-Gil
- Health and Social Research Center, Universidad de Castilla-La Mancha, Cuenca, Spain; One Health Research Group, Universidad de Las Américas, Quito, Ecuador; Department of Environmental Health, Harvard University T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA.
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19
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Luo T, Cummins SE, Zhu SH. Gender differences in family meal frequency and their association with substance use and mental health among middle and high school students. Front Public Health 2023; 11:1123396. [PMID: 37124780 PMCID: PMC10140512 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2023.1123396] [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: 12/14/2022] [Accepted: 03/20/2023] [Indexed: 05/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Family meals are associated with adolescent health outcomes. Studies have reported that girls are less likely than boys to have dinner with their families. Purpose This study examined gender differences in family meal frequency and the relationship between meal frequency and other health measures, using a large and representative sample of California middle and high school students. Methods This study analyzed data from the 2019-2020 California Student Tobacco Survey (159,904 students in grades 8, 10, and 12). Dinner with the family 5-7 times per week was defined as high frequency. Students reported substance use (of tobacco, marijuana, and alcohol) and rated their mental health and happiness in their home life. All analyses were weighted to reflect the California student population. Results Fewer than half (44.7%) of students reported a high frequency of family meals, with boys more likely than girls and those who identified their gender in another way the least likely to do so (48.3%, 42.2%, 34.0%, respectively). Gender differences persisted across demographics and the quality of family relationships, and were evident as early as eighth grade. Less frequent family meals were associated with poorer mental health (OR = 1.34, 95% CI: 1.29-1.40) and substance use (OR = 1.27, 95% CI: 1.21-1.32), controlling for the effects of demographics and family dynamics. Conclusion Gender differences in family meal frequency emerge early in adolescence and persist across demographics and family relationships. Given that family meals play a protective role in an adolescent's life, these gender differences are concerning.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ting Luo
- Moores Cancer Center, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA, United States
| | - Sharon E. Cummins
- Moores Cancer Center, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA, United States
| | - Shu-Hong Zhu
- Moores Cancer Center, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA, United States
- Herbert Wertheim School of Public Health, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA, United States
- *Correspondence: Shu-Hong Zhu,
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20
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Popescu F, Sommer EC, Mahoney MR, Adams LE, Barkin SL. Effect of a Virtual Home-Based Behavioral Intervention on Family Health and Resilience During the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Randomized Clinical Trial. JAMA Netw Open 2022; 5:e2247691. [PMID: 36538328 PMCID: PMC9856707 DOI: 10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2022.47691] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
IMPORTANCE Virtual home-based interventions may bolster protective factors, such as family health and resilience, during stressors such as the COVID-19 pandemic; however, their effectiveness is unknown. OBJECTIVE To examine the effectiveness of a virtual health coaching intervention on family health and resilience during the pandemic. DESIGN, SETTING, AND PARTICIPANTS In this parallel-group, single-site randomized clinical trial, 123 parents and their 2- to 8-year-old children were enrolled at a pediatric clinic or community partner site in Tennessee from March 10 to August 11, 2021. Follow-up surveys were completed between June 29 and November 11, 2021. INTERVENTIONS All participants received 11 weekly cooking videos and associated home-delivered groceries. The intervention group also received 12 weekly, 30-minute virtual health coach sessions. MAIN OUTCOMES AND MEASURES The primary outcome was the validated 6-item (range, 6-30) Family Healthy Lifestyle Subscale (FHLS) scores. The secondary outcome was the validated 6-item (range, 0-6) Family Resilience and Connection Index (FRCI) scores. Outcomes were determined a priori and evaluated at baseline and 12-week follow-up. A priori independent t tests and multivariable tobit regression models assessed intervention effects, and post hoc, secondary interaction models assessed whether effects differed over baseline outcomes. RESULTS Among the 123 enrolled families, 110 (89%) were included in the primary analyses (parent mean [SD] age, 35.1 [8.2] years; 104 [95%] female; 55 [50%] non-Hispanic Black; child mean [SD] age, 5.2 [1.7] years; 62 [56%] male). Intervention-control group mean differences were nonsignificant for follow-up FHLS scores (0.7; 95% CI, -0.6 to 2.0; P = .17) and FRCI scores (0.1; 95% CI, -0.5 to 0.6; P = .74). Tobit regression model intervention effects were nonsignificant for FHLS scores (0.9; 95% CI, -0.3 to 2.2; P = .15) and FRCI scores (0.4; 95% CI, -0.2 to 1.1; P = .17). Post hoc, secondary models found no significant interaction for FHLS scores (1.3 increase per 5-point decrease; 95% CI, -0.2 to 2.7; P = .09), with significant intervention associations for baseline scores of 6 to 23. The interaction was significant for FRCI scores (0.4 increase per 1-point decrease; 95% CI, 0.01 to 0.8; P = .047), with significant intervention associations for baseline scores of 0 to 3. CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE In this randomized clinical trial of families with young children, weekly virtual health coaching did not detectably improve family health and resilience. Post hoc, secondary results provided preliminary evidence of potential effectiveness among families with low baseline scores. TRIAL REGISTRATION ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT05328193.
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Affiliation(s)
- Filoteia Popescu
- The University of Tennessee Health Science Center College of Medicine, Memphis
| | - Evan C. Sommer
- Department of Academic General Pediatrics, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee
| | | | - Laura E. Adams
- Department of Academic General Pediatrics, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee
| | - Shari L. Barkin
- Department of Pediatrics, Children’s Hospital of Richmond at Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond
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21
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The diverging patterns of life satisfaction between families: A latent profile analysis in dual-earner parents with adolescents. CURRENT PSYCHOLOGY 2022. [DOI: 10.1007/s12144-020-01316-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
AbstractThis study identifies family profiles based on the level of life satisfaction (LS) in mothers, fathers and adolescents, and variables related to their family, food, and work life. The sample was composed of 303 families of dual-earner parents (mothers’ mean age = 40.9 years, SD = 7.4, fathers’ mean age = 43.2 years, SD = 7.2) and one of their children aged between 10 and 17 years (mean age 13.3, SD = 2.4, 51.5% female). A Latent Profile Analysis (LPA) was used to identify five family profiles. Profiles differed in LS, satisfaction with family life (SWFaL), satisfaction with food-related life (SWFoL), family functioning, both parents’ work-life balance and their perception of the financial situation of the household. Balanced and imbalanced families in terms of LS differed in the three family members’ LS and SWFaL, mothers’ and children’ SWFoL and family functioning, and both parents’ perception of financial situation. These results contribute to understanding the heterogeneity of life satisfaction dynamics between and within dual-earner families.
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Silva Freitas RM, Brandão TBC, Cardoso da Silveira JA, Souza Oliveira J, Longo-Silva G, de Menezes RCE. Commensality and eating patterns in adolescents: An analysis from structural equation modeling. Appetite 2022; 178:106183. [DOI: 10.1016/j.appet.2022.106183] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2022] [Revised: 07/19/2022] [Accepted: 07/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/02/2022]
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Romano KA, Heron KE, Everhart RS. Family meals, positive versus negative emotion suppression, and emotional eating: examining adolescent-parent dyadic associations. Eat Weight Disord 2022; 27:1491-1504. [PMID: 34468974 DOI: 10.1007/s40519-021-01292-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2021] [Accepted: 08/23/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE The present study aimed to extend existing research by examining adolescent-parent dyadic associations among adaptive and maladaptive family meal characteristics, positive and negative emotion suppression, and emotional eating. METHOD Participants included a community-based sample of adolescents and parents (N = 1646 dyads) who participated in the National Cancer Institute's Family Life, Activity, Sun, Health, and Eating Study. Dyad members both completed measures assessing family meal characteristics (family meal importance beliefs, family mealtime television watching), emotion suppression, and emotional eating via online surveys. Actor-partner interdependence models were used to examine dyadic associations among the assessed family meal characteristics, positive and negative emotion suppression, and emotional eating. RESULTS Multiple within-person (e.g., adolescent-adolescent, parent-parent), cross-dyad member (e.g., adolescent-parent, parent-adolescent), and divergent adolescent versus parent dyadic effects were identified that differed based on the extent to which participants suppressed positive versus negative affect. For example, whereas adolescents' stronger beliefs in the importance of frequent family meals were associated with lower levels of their own suppression of positive emotions and, in turn, lower levels of both their own and their parents' emotional eating, these mediational associations were only identified at the within-person (not cross-dyad member) level among parents. CONCLUSIONS Collectively, these findings attest to the complexity of associations among the assessed risk and protective family meal characteristics, the suppression of differentially valenced emotions, and emotional eating that manifest at the adolescent-parent dyadic level. Findings also support the continued use of a family-based perspective to further the understanding of factors that are associated with emotional eating. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE Level V, cross-sectional descriptive study.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kelly A Romano
- The Virginia Consortium Program in Clinical Psychology, 555 Park Avenue, Norfolk, VA, 23504, USA. .,Old Dominion University, 250 Mills Godwin Building, Norfolk, VA, 23529, USA.
| | - Kristin E Heron
- The Virginia Consortium Program in Clinical Psychology, 555 Park Avenue, Norfolk, VA, 23504, USA.,Old Dominion University, 250 Mills Godwin Building, Norfolk, VA, 23529, USA
| | - Robin S Everhart
- Virginia Commonwealth University, 808 West Franklin Street, Richmond, VA, 23284, USA
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Feinberg M, Hotez E, Roy K, Ledford CJ, Lewin AB, Perez-Brena N, Childress S, Berge JM. Family Health Development: A Theoretical Framework. Pediatrics 2022; 149:e2021053509I. [PMID: 35503316 PMCID: PMC9847418 DOI: 10.1542/peds.2021-053509i] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/27/2021] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
In recognition of the family as central to health, the concept of family, rather than individual, health has been an important area of research and, increasingly, clinical practice. There is a need to leverage existing theories of family health to align with our evolving understanding of Life Course Health Development, including the opportunities and constraints of the family context for promoting lifelong individual and population health. The purpose of this article is to propose an integrative model of family health development within a Life Course Health Development lens to facilitate conceptualization, research, and clinical practice. This model provides an organizing heuristic model for understanding the dynamic interactions between family structures, processes, cognitions, and behaviors across development. Potential applications of this model are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mark Feinberg
- Prevention Research Center, Pennsylvania State University, University Park, Pennsylvania
| | - Emily Hotez
- Department of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California
| | - Kevin Roy
- School of Public Health, University of Maryland, College Park, Maryland
| | - Christy J.W. Ledford
- Department of Family Medicine, Medical College of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, Georgia
| | - Amy B. Lewin
- School of Public Health, University of Maryland, College Park, Maryland
| | - Norma Perez-Brena
- Department of Human Development and Family Sciences, Texas State University, San Marcos, Texas
| | | | - Jerica M. Berge
- Department of Family Medicine and Community Health, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota
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25
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Patel C, Walasek L, Karasouli E, Meyer C. Content and Validity of Claims Made about Food Parenting Practices in United Kingdom Online News Articles. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:ijerph19095053. [PMID: 35564446 PMCID: PMC9105157 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19095053] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2022] [Revised: 04/11/2022] [Accepted: 04/11/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
The objective of this study was to qualitatively summarise the content of online news articles pertaining to food parenting practices and determine whether this content is substantiated by the scientific literature. News article data were identified and collected from United Kingdom online news published during 2010–2017 period using the News on the Web corpus. A coding framework was used to categorise the content of news articles to identify information related to food parenting practices. Then, claims made about food parenting practices were extracted from relevant news articles. Each claim was evaluated to determine the extent to which any claims were supported by the available scientific research evidence. The study identified ten claims across thirty-two relevant online news articles. Claims made across the news articles reported on the following food parenting practices: food restrictions, food-based threats and bribes, pressure to eat, use of food to control negative emotions, food availability, food preparation, and meal and snack routines. Eight out of the ten claims identified did not refer to scientific research evidence. News articles frequently lacked detail and information to explain to readers why and how the use of certain food parenting practices could have a lasting impact on children’s health outcomes. Considering the influence that news media has on parents, the reporting of food parenting practices in news articles should aim to provide a balanced view of the published scientific evidence and recognise the difficulties and barriers that prevent the use of helpful and healthy food parenting practices. The study results in this paper could be used to aid and structure of the dissemination of food parenting practice research findings in the media, inform public health education to influence perceptions of unhelpful food parenting practices, and promote parental use of responsive food parenting practices.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chloe Patel
- Warwick Manufacturting Group, Behaviour and Wellbeing Science, University of Warwick, Coventry CV4 7AL, UK;
- Correspondence:
| | - Lukasz Walasek
- Department of Psychology, University of Warwick, Coventry CV4 7AL, UK;
| | - Eleni Karasouli
- Warwick Clinical Trials Unit, Warwick Medical School, University of Warwick, Coventry CV4 7AL, UK;
| | - Caroline Meyer
- Warwick Manufacturting Group, Behaviour and Wellbeing Science, University of Warwick, Coventry CV4 7AL, UK;
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Lorenzo PM, Izquierdo AG, Rodriguez-Carnero G, Fernández-Pombo A, Iglesias A, Carreira MC, Tejera C, Bellido D, Martinez-Olmos MA, Leis R, Casanueva FF, Crujeiras AB. Epigenetic Effects of Healthy Foods and Lifestyle Habits from the Southern European Atlantic Diet Pattern: A Narrative Review. Adv Nutr 2022; 13:1725-1747. [PMID: 35421213 PMCID: PMC9526853 DOI: 10.1093/advances/nmac038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2021] [Revised: 02/21/2022] [Indexed: 01/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Recent scientific evidence has shown the importance of diet and lifestyle habits for the proper functioning of the human body. A balanced and healthy diet, physical activity, and psychological well-being have a direct beneficial effect on health and can have a crucial role in the development and prognosis of certain diseases. The Southern European Atlantic diet, also named the Atlantic diet, is a unique dietary pattern that occurs in regions that present higher life expectancy, suggesting that this specific dietary pattern is associated with positive health effects. In fact, it is enriched with nutrients of high biological value, which, together with its cooking methods, physical activity promotion, reduction in carbon footprint, and promoting of family meals, promote these positive effects on health. The latest scientific advances in the field of nutri-epigenetics have revealed that epigenetic markers associated with food or nutrients and environmental factors modulate gene expression and, therefore, are involved with both health and disease. Thus, in this review, we evaluated the main aspects that define the Southern European Atlantic diet and the potential epigenetic changes associated with them based on recent studies regarding the main components of these dietary patterns. In conclusion, based on the information existing in the literature, we postulate that the Southern European Atlantic diet could promote healthy aging by means of epigenetic mechanisms. This review highlights the necessity of performing longitudinal studies to demonstrate this proposal.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paula M Lorenzo
- Epigenomics in Endocrinology and Nutrition Group, Epigenomics Unit, Instituto de Investigacion Sanitaria de Santiago de Compostela (IDIS), Complejo Hospitalario Universitario de Santiago de Compostela (CHUS/SERGAS), Santiago de Compostela, Spain,CIBER Fisiopatologia de la Obesidad y Nutricion (CIBERobn), Madrid, Spain
| | - Andrea G Izquierdo
- Epigenomics in Endocrinology and Nutrition Group, Epigenomics Unit, Instituto de Investigacion Sanitaria de Santiago de Compostela (IDIS), Complejo Hospitalario Universitario de Santiago de Compostela (CHUS/SERGAS), Santiago de Compostela, Spain,CIBER Fisiopatologia de la Obesidad y Nutricion (CIBERobn), Madrid, Spain
| | - Gemma Rodriguez-Carnero
- Epigenomics in Endocrinology and Nutrition Group, Epigenomics Unit, Instituto de Investigacion Sanitaria de Santiago de Compostela (IDIS), Complejo Hospitalario Universitario de Santiago de Compostela (CHUS/SERGAS), Santiago de Compostela, Spain,Endocrinology and Nutrition Division, Complejo Hospitalario Universitario de Santiago de Compostela (CHUS/SERGAS), Santiago de Compostela, Spain
| | - Antía Fernández-Pombo
- Endocrinology and Nutrition Division, Complejo Hospitalario Universitario de Santiago de Compostela (CHUS/SERGAS), Santiago de Compostela, Spain
| | - Alba Iglesias
- Epigenomics in Endocrinology and Nutrition Group, Epigenomics Unit, Instituto de Investigacion Sanitaria de Santiago de Compostela (IDIS), Complejo Hospitalario Universitario de Santiago de Compostela (CHUS/SERGAS), Santiago de Compostela, Spain
| | - Marcos C Carreira
- CIBER Fisiopatologia de la Obesidad y Nutricion (CIBERobn), Madrid, Spain,Molecular and Cellular Endocrinology Group. Instituto de Investigacion Sanitaria de Santiago de Compostela (IDIS), Complejo Hospitalario Universitario de Santiago de Compostela (CHUS) and Santiago de Compostela University (USC), Santiago de Compostela, Spain
| | - Cristina Tejera
- Epigenomics in Endocrinology and Nutrition Group, Epigenomics Unit, Instituto de Investigacion Sanitaria de Santiago de Compostela (IDIS), Complejo Hospitalario Universitario de Santiago de Compostela (CHUS/SERGAS), Santiago de Compostela, Spain,Endocrinology and Nutrition Unit, Complejo Hospitalario Universitario de Ferrol (CHUF/SERGAS), Ferrol, Spain
| | - Diego Bellido
- Epigenomics in Endocrinology and Nutrition Group, Epigenomics Unit, Instituto de Investigacion Sanitaria de Santiago de Compostela (IDIS), Complejo Hospitalario Universitario de Santiago de Compostela (CHUS/SERGAS), Santiago de Compostela, Spain,Endocrinology and Nutrition Unit, Complejo Hospitalario Universitario de Ferrol (CHUF/SERGAS), Ferrol, Spain
| | - Miguel A Martinez-Olmos
- Epigenomics in Endocrinology and Nutrition Group, Epigenomics Unit, Instituto de Investigacion Sanitaria de Santiago de Compostela (IDIS), Complejo Hospitalario Universitario de Santiago de Compostela (CHUS/SERGAS), Santiago de Compostela, Spain,CIBER Fisiopatologia de la Obesidad y Nutricion (CIBERobn), Madrid, Spain,Endocrinology and Nutrition Division, Complejo Hospitalario Universitario de Santiago de Compostela (CHUS/SERGAS), Santiago de Compostela, Spain
| | - Rosaura Leis
- CIBER Fisiopatologia de la Obesidad y Nutricion (CIBERobn), Madrid, Spain,Department of Pediatrics, Complejo Hospitalario Universitario de Santiago de Compostela (CHUS); Instituto de Investigacion Sanitaria de Santiago de Compostela (IDIS) and Santiago de Compostela University (USC), Santiago de Compostela, Spain,Fundacion Dieta Atlántica, Santiago de Compostela, Spain
| | - Felipe F Casanueva
- CIBER Fisiopatologia de la Obesidad y Nutricion (CIBERobn), Madrid, Spain,Molecular and Cellular Endocrinology Group. Instituto de Investigacion Sanitaria de Santiago de Compostela (IDIS), Complejo Hospitalario Universitario de Santiago de Compostela (CHUS) and Santiago de Compostela University (USC), Santiago de Compostela, Spain,Fundacion Dieta Atlántica, Santiago de Compostela, Spain
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Work-to-family enrichment and atmosphere of family meals influence satisfaction with food-related life: An actor-partner interdependence approach in dual-earner parents with adolescent children. Food Qual Prefer 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.foodqual.2021.104471] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
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28
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de Ridder D, Gillebaart M. How food overconsumption has hijacked our notions about eating as a pleasurable activity. Curr Opin Psychol 2022; 46:101324. [PMID: 35339981 DOI: 10.1016/j.copsyc.2022.101324] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/27/2021] [Revised: 02/18/2022] [Accepted: 02/21/2022] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
The negative effects of overconsumption of food have been extensively studied, with a focus on overweight and negative food attitudes. In this overview, we argue that this negative perspective has spilled over to food consumption in general, which is in contrast with eating as a pleasurable activity that contributes to people's well-being. We review four areas of research that have recently emerged: (de)moralization of food consumption, moderate eating for pleasure, intuitive and mindful eating, and the social benefits of eating. Throughout these four themes, it becomes clear that there needs to be a clear distinction between overconsumption of food, bearing negative consequences, and normal levels of food consumption. The latter is positively associated with enjoyment, contentment, and our social and psychological well-being.
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29
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Family Environment and Portuguese Adolescents: Impact on Quality of Life and Well-Being. CHILDREN (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2022; 9:children9020200. [PMID: 35204920 PMCID: PMC8870642 DOI: 10.3390/children9020200] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2021] [Revised: 01/19/2022] [Accepted: 01/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Background: A healthy and supportive family environment leads to more positive results regarding adolescents’ development. The main objective of this study was to explore and analyze the relationship between adolescents’ quality of life (QoL) and their family environment/relationship. Method: The sample was collected as part of the Health Behavior in School-aged Children 2018 study, which included 8215 adolescents, 52.7% female, with a mean age of 14.36 years (SD = 2.28). Results: Girls are more involved in family activities (such as family meals), report being treated with fairness by their parents and feel less parental pressure to get good grades. Boys have a higher perception regarding their family affluence, better family relationships and support and better QoL. Having an above-average QoL is significantly related to high family affluence, better communication with both parents, greater involvement in family activities, greater perception of help from parents regarding decision-making, greater perception of being treated with fairness by parents and less pressure from parents to get good grades, as well as a better family relationship/support. Conclusion: It is important to determine the impact that parental divorce/separation or a weak parent–child relationship can have on adolescents. It is also necessary to consider the family relationship and structure when devising strategies and public policies related to the promotion of adolescents’ health and well-being.
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30
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Zebracki K. Mental health of parents and children during COVID-19: finding the silver lining. Dev Med Child Neurol 2022; 64:140. [PMID: 35005778 DOI: 10.1111/dmcn.15111] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2021] [Accepted: 10/20/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
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Schnettler B, Miranda-Zapata E, Orellana L, Poblete H, Lobos G, Lapo M, Adasme-Berríos C. Family-to-work enrichment associations between family meal atmosphere and job satisfaction in dual-earner parents. CURRENT PSYCHOLOGY 2022; 42:1-19. [PMID: 35075341 PMCID: PMC8769786 DOI: 10.1007/s12144-021-02580-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/28/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Research on factors related to job satisfaction in parents has mainly focused on work-related variables, paying less attention to family events that may provide parents with resources to invest in the work domain. To contribute to this body of knowledge, this study examined the associations between family meal atmosphere and job satisfaction in dual-earner parents with adolescent children, and tested the mediating role of family-to-work enrichment (FtoWE) between family meal atmosphere and job satisfaction. Questionnaires were administered to 473 different-gender dual-earner parents in Temuco, Chile. Participants answered the Project-EAT Atmosphere of family meals scale, three items that measure FWE from the Work-Home Interaction Survey, and the Overall Job Satisfaction Scale. Analyses were conducted using the Actor-Partner Interdependence Model and structural equation modelling. A positive association was found from family meal atmosphere to job satisfaction, directly and via FtoWE in fathers, and only via FtoWE in mothers. No associations were found for these variables between parents, as, one parent's perception of a pleasant family meal atmosphere is positively associated with their own FtoWE and job satisfaction, but not with those of the other parent. These findings suggest policymakers and organizations to account for workers' experiences in the family domain to improve satisfaction in the work domain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Berta Schnettler
- Facultad de Ciencias Agropecuarias y Forestales, Universidad de La Frontera, PO Box 54-D, Temuco, Chile
- Scientific and Technological Bioresource Nucleus (BIOREN-UFRO), Universidad de La Frontera, Temuco, Chile
- Universidad de La Frontera. Centro de Excelencia en Psicología Económica y del Consumo. Núcleo de Ciencias Sociales, Temuco, Chile
- Facultad de Economía y Negocios, Universidad de Talca, Talca, Chile
| | - Edgardo Miranda-Zapata
- Universidad de La Frontera. Centro de Excelencia en Psicología Económica y del Consumo. Núcleo de Ciencias Sociales, Temuco, Chile
| | - Ligia Orellana
- Universidad de La Frontera. Centro de Excelencia en Psicología Económica y del Consumo. Núcleo de Ciencias Sociales, Temuco, Chile
| | - Héctor Poblete
- Universidad de La Frontera. Centro de Excelencia en Psicología Económica y del Consumo. Núcleo de Ciencias Sociales, Temuco, Chile
| | - Germán Lobos
- Facultad de Economía y Negocios, Universidad de Talca, Talca, Chile
| | - María Lapo
- Universidad Católica de Santiago de Guayaquil, Guayaquil, Ecuador
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Caregiver Nutritional Health Outcomes of the Simple Suppers Study: Results from a 10 Week, Two-Group Quasi-Experimental Family Meals Intervention. Nutrients 2022; 14:nu14020250. [PMID: 35057431 PMCID: PMC8778256 DOI: 10.3390/nu14020250] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2021] [Revised: 12/22/2021] [Accepted: 12/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Individuals from racial minority backgrounds, especially those in low income situations, are at increased risk for obesity. Family meals positively impact child nutritional health; however, there is limited evidence examining the impact on caregivers, particularly racial minority and income-restricted individuals. The objective of this intervention study was to determine the effect of Simple Suppers, a 10 week family meals program, on caregiver diet and nutrition outcomes. Intervention versus waitlist control participants were compared from baseline (T0) to post-intervention (T1). In addition, intervention participants were assessed at a 10 week follow-up time point (T2). This study was a two-group quasi-experimental intervention trial. Lessons (10 total) were delivered on a weekly basis for 90 min. Data were collected from intervention and waitlist control participants at T0 and T1, and intervention participants at T2. After baseline (T0) data collection, families enrolled in the immediate upcoming session of Simple Suppers (intervention group) or waited for 10 weeks (waitlist control group) to begin the program. Participants were caregivers of children ages 4–10 years. This study was conducted in a faith-based community center for underserved families in Columbus, Ohio. Primary outcomes were: diet quality assessed by Healthy Eating Index (HEI) total and component scores, and total energy intake (kcal/day); body mass index (BMI) (kg/m2), waist circumference (cm), systolic and diastolic blood pressure (BP) (mmHG); and self-efficacy for having healthy meals and menu planning (both scalar). The impact of the intervention (T0:T1) was assessed using generalized mixed-effects linear regression models. Maintenance of change in study outcomes among intervention participants (T1:T2) was examined with paired t-tests. 109 caregivers enrolled in this study. The retention rate at T1 was 90% (i.e., 98 participants). 56 of 68 intervention participants completed T2, resulting in a retention rate of 82%. Almost all (99%) were female, 61% were Black, and 50% were between 31 and 40 years old. In total, 40% had low income and 37% had low or very low food security. At T1, intervention vs. waitlist controls had a lower daily energy intake (p = 0.04), but an HEI-2010 component score for fatty acids (adequacy) that was lower indicating a lower dietary intake of fatty acids (p = 0.02), and a component score for empty calories (moderation) that was significantly lower indicating a higher intake of empty calorie foods (p = 0.03). At T1, intervention vs. waitlist controls also had a lower BMI (p < 0.001) and systolic BP (p = 0.04), and higher self-efficacy (p = 0.03). There were no group differences in other outcomes. At T2, intervention participants maintained the changes in daily energy intake, BMI, systolic BP, and self-efficacy that improved during the intervention period. There was no change (improvement) in the component score for fatty acids; however, the component score for empty calories significantly improved (p = 0.02). Engagement in the Simple Suppers program led to improvements in caregivers’ daily caloric intake, weight status, systolic blood pressure, and self-efficacy for family meals. Future research should further explore the dietary and nutritional health benefits of family meals among caregivers at the highest risk for obesity.
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Rothpletz-Puglia P, Fredericks L, Dreker MR, Patusco R, Ziegler J. Position of the Society for Nutrition Education and Behavior: Healthful Food for Children is the Same as Adults. JOURNAL OF NUTRITION EDUCATION AND BEHAVIOR 2022; 54:4-11. [PMID: 35000680 DOI: 10.1016/j.jneb.2021.09.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2021] [Revised: 08/23/2021] [Accepted: 09/20/2021] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Margaret Rush Dreker
- Hackensack Meridian School of Medicine, Interprofessional Health Sciences Library, Nutley, NJ
| | | | - Jane Ziegler
- Department of Clinical and Preventive Nutrition Sciences, School of Health Professions, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, Newark, NJ
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Schnettler B, Miranda-Zapata E, Orellana L, Poblete H, Lobos G, Adasme-Berríos C, Lapo M, Beroiza K. Relationships Between Work-to-Family Conflict and the Food Domain for Dual-Earner Parents With Adolescent Children. Front Psychol 2021; 12:752209. [PMID: 34975644 PMCID: PMC8716810 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2021.752209] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2021] [Accepted: 11/26/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The impact of work-to-family conflict (WtoFC) can extend beyond family and work, and to other domains that contribute to well-being, such as the food domain. This study examined associations between WtoFC, perception of atmosphere of family meals (AFM), and satisfaction with food-related life (SWFoL) in dual-earner parents with adolescent children, and tested the mediating role of AFM between WtoFC and SWFoL. Questionnaires were administered to 473 different-sex dual-earner parents and one of their adolescent children (mean age 12.5 years, 51.4% male) in Temuco, Chile. Parents responded to a measure of work-to-family conflict; the three family members answered the Project-EAT Atmosphere of family meals scale, and the Satisfaction with Food-related Life Scale. Analyses were conducted using the Actor-Partner Interdependence Model and structural equation modeling. Results showed a negative association from WtoFC to SWFoL in both parents, while a more positive perception of atmosphere of family meals was linked to higher SWFoL in the three family members. Moreover, WtoFC was negatively linked to SWFoL in parents, while only mothers' WtoFC had a negative association with their adolescent children's SWFoL. Policymakers and organizations can contribute to workers' and their families' food-related well-being by fostering policies and measures to reduce WtoFC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Berta Schnettler
- Facultad de Ciencias Agropecuarias y Forestales, Universidad de La Frontera, Temuco, Chile
- Núcleco Científico y Tecnológico de Biorecursos (BIOREN), Universidad de La Frontera, Temuco, Chile
- Centro de Excelencia en Psicología Económica y del Consumo, Núcleo de Ciencias Sociales, Universidad de La Frontera, Temuco, Chile
- Facultad de Especialidades Empresariales, Universidad Católica de Santiago de Guayaquil, Guayaquil, Ecuador
| | - Edgardo Miranda-Zapata
- Centro de Excelencia en Psicología Económica y del Consumo, Núcleo de Ciencias Sociales, Universidad de La Frontera, Temuco, Chile
| | - Ligia Orellana
- Centro de Excelencia en Psicología Económica y del Consumo, Núcleo de Ciencias Sociales, Universidad de La Frontera, Temuco, Chile
| | - Héctor Poblete
- Centro de Excelencia en Psicología Económica y del Consumo, Núcleo de Ciencias Sociales, Universidad de La Frontera, Temuco, Chile
| | - Germán Lobos
- Facultad de Economía y Negocios, Universidad de Talca, Talca, Chile
| | | | - María Lapo
- Facultad de Especialidades Empresariales, Universidad Católica de Santiago de Guayaquil, Guayaquil, Ecuador
| | - Katherine Beroiza
- Centro de Excelencia en Psicología Económica y del Consumo, Núcleo de Ciencias Sociales, Universidad de La Frontera, Temuco, Chile
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Sanders LM, Allen JC, Blankenship J, Decker EA, Christ-Erwin M, Hentges EJ, Jones JM, Mohamedshah FY, Ohlhorst SD, Ruff J, Wegner J. Implementing the 2020-2025 Dietary Guidelines for Americans: Recommendations for a path forward. J Food Sci 2021; 86:5087-5099. [PMID: 34877654 DOI: 10.1111/1750-3841.15969] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2021] [Revised: 09/28/2021] [Accepted: 10/15/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
The Dietary Guidelines for Americans (DGA) provide science-based recommendations for healthy dietary patterns to promote health and reduce risk of chronic diseases. Yet, since their inception in 1980 and updates every 5 years, Americans fall short of meeting dietary recommendations and diet-related chronic diseases continue to be a public health concern. In May of 2021, the Institute of Food Technologists and the Department of Food Science at the University of Massachusetts, Amherst, convened a diverse group of thought leaders in health, nutrition, and food science to identify opportunities and approaches to improve consumer adoption of the DGA recommendations. The invited leaders collaborated in roundtable discussions to develop recommendations and strategies to promote adoption of the DGA recommendations after hearing sessions on the latest consumer trends, advances in food science and technology, and effective communications approaches. Participants agreed that changes in consumer behaviors and heightened interest in health due to the novel coronavirus pandemic have created an opportune time to engage consumers about healthy eating. Communications must be simple, tailored to the consumer, and delivered by influencer(s)/spokesperson(s) who are credible sources and share personal values. Innovations in food science and technology have enabled improvements in the safety, health, acceptability, affordability, and availability of foods but opportunities to provide more options to enhance consumption of desired food groups, such as fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, remain. Moving Americans toward healthier dietary patterns aligned with DGA recommendations will require collaborations within the food sector and beyond to achieve broad scale amplification and investment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lisa M Sanders
- Cornerstone Nutrition, LLC, Battle Creek, Chicago, Michigan, USA
| | - Jonathan C Allen
- Department of Food, Bioprocessing and Nutrition Sciences, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, Annapolis, North Carolina, USA
| | | | - Eric A Decker
- Department of Food Science, University of Massachusetts, Amherst, Massachusetts, USA
| | | | - Eric J Hentges
- Formerly with International Life Sciences Institute, North America, Virginia, USA
| | - Julie M Jones
- Department of Nutrition & Exercise Science, St. Catherine University, St. Paul, Minnesota, USA
| | | | | | - John Ruff
- Institute of Food Technologists, Chicago, Illinois, USA
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Sanders LM, Allen JC, Blankenship J, Decker EA, Christ-Erwin M, Hentges EJ, Jones JM, Mohamedshah FY, Ohlhorst SD, Ruff J, Wegner J. Implementing the 2020-2025 Dietary Guidelines for Americans: Recommendations for a Path Forward. Curr Dev Nutr 2021; 5:nzab136. [PMID: 34901694 PMCID: PMC8662785 DOI: 10.1093/cdn/nzab136] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2021] [Revised: 09/29/2021] [Accepted: 11/02/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
The Dietary Guidelines for Americans (DGA) provide science-based recommendations for healthy dietary patterns to promote health and reduce risk of chronic diseases. Yet, since their inception in 1980 and updates every 5 y, Americans fall short of meeting dietary recommendations and diet-related chronic diseases continue to be a public health concern. In May of 2021, the Institute of Food Technologists and the Department of Food Science at the University of Massachusetts, Amherst, convened a diverse group of thought leaders in health, nutrition, and food science to identify opportunities and approaches to improve consumer adoption of the DGA recommendations. The invited leaders collaborated in roundtable discussions to develop recommendations and strategies to promote adoption of the DGA recommendations after hearing sessions on the latest consumer trends, advances in food science and technology, and effective communications approaches. Participants agreed that changes in consumer behaviors and heightened interest in health due to the novel coronavirus pandemic have created an opportune time to engage consumers about healthy eating. Communications must be simple, tailored to the consumer, and delivered by influencer(s)/spokesperson(s) who are credible sources and share personal values. Innovations in food science and technology have enabled improvements in the safety, health, acceptability, affordability, and availability of foods, but opportunities to provide more options to enhance consumption of desired food groups, such as fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, remain. Moving Americans toward healthier dietary patterns aligned with DGA recommendations will require collaborations within the food sector and beyond to achieve broad-scale amplification and investment.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Jonathan C Allen
- Department of Food, Bioprocessing and Nutrition Sciences, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, USA
| | | | - Eric A Decker
- Department of Food Science, University of Massachusetts, Amherst, MA, USA
| | | | - Eric J Hentges
- Retired, formerly with International Life Sciences Institute, North America, VA, USA
| | - Julie M Jones
- Department of Nutrition and Exercise Science, St. Catherine University, St. Paul, MN, USA
| | | | | | - John Ruff
- Institute of Food Technologists, Chicago, IL, USA
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Schnettler B, Orellana L, Miranda-Zapata E, Saracostti M, Poblete H, Lobos G, Adasme-Berríos C, Lapo M. Diet quality during the COVID-19 pandemic: Effects of workplace support for families and work-to-family enrichment in dual-earner parents with adolescent children. Appetite 2021; 169:105823. [PMID: 34822922 PMCID: PMC8611499 DOI: 10.1016/j.appet.2021.105823] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2021] [Revised: 11/19/2021] [Accepted: 11/20/2021] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Organizational support goes beyond the work domain, supporting workers' family role and thus generating resources that lead to work-to-family enrichment. Workers may invest these resources in improving their, and their family's, diet quality. However, data on the link between work resources, enrichment and diet quality during the COVID-19 pandemic is still emerging. The present study contributes to this literature by exploring the actor and partner effects between perceived workplace support for families, work-to-family enrichment, and diet quality in different-sex dual-earner parents with adolescent children; the potential mediating role of work-to-family enrichment between perceived workplace support for families and diet quality was also explored. A sample of 430 different-sex dual-earner parents and one of their adolescent children (mean age 13.0 years, 53.7% female) were recruited in Rancagua, Chile, during March and June 2020. Mothers and fathers responded to a measure of work-to-family enrichment, and a measure of Perceived Workplace Support for Families. The three family members answered the Adapted Healthy Eating Index. Analyses were conducted using the Actor-Partner Interdependence Model and structural equation modelling. Results showed that fathers' perceived workplace support for families positively and directly affected their own diet quality (actor effect) as well as the mothers' diet quality (partner effect), while indirectly positively affected the adolescents' diet quality via work-to-family enrichment (partner effect). Mothers' perceived workplace support for families enhanced their own work-to-family enrichment, which in turn improved their diet quality (actor effects). These results suggest that resources that both parents acquire through family-friendly workplace policies have positive effects on the three family members' diet quality by different mechanisms. Policymakers and organizations must aim to promote family-friendly workplace policies, particularly during ongoing crisis such as a pandemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Berta Schnettler
- Universidad de La Frontera, Facultad de Ciencias Agropecuarias y Forestales, Temuco, Chile; Universidad de La Frontera, Scientific and Technological Bioresource Nucleus (BIOREN-UFRO), Temuco, Chile; Universidad de La Frontera. Centro de Excelencia en Psicología Económica y del Consumo. Núcleo de Ciencias Sociales, Temuco, Chile; Universidad Católica de Santiago de Guayaquil, Guayaquil, Ecuador.
| | - Ligia Orellana
- Universidad de La Frontera. Centro de Excelencia en Psicología Económica y del Consumo. Núcleo de Ciencias Sociales, Temuco, Chile
| | - Edgardo Miranda-Zapata
- Universidad de La Frontera. Centro de Excelencia en Psicología Económica y del Consumo. Núcleo de Ciencias Sociales, Temuco, Chile
| | - Mahia Saracostti
- Universidad de Valparaíso. Escuela de Trabajo Social, Valparaíso, Chile
| | - Héctor Poblete
- Universidad de La Frontera. Centro de Excelencia en Psicología Económica y del Consumo. Núcleo de Ciencias Sociales, Temuco, Chile
| | - Germán Lobos
- Universidad de Talca, Facultad de Economía y Negocios, Talca, Chile
| | | | - María Lapo
- Universidad Católica de Santiago de Guayaquil, Guayaquil, Ecuador
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Berge JM, Hazzard VM, Larson N, Hahn SL, Emery RL, Neumark-Sztainer D. Are there protective associations between family/shared meal routines during COVID-19 and dietary health and emotional well-being in diverse young adults? Prev Med Rep 2021; 24:101575. [PMID: 34631398 PMCID: PMC8487301 DOI: 10.1016/j.pmedr.2021.101575] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2021] [Revised: 09/17/2021] [Accepted: 09/23/2021] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
This study found that family/shared meal routines increased from pre-COVID to during COVID-19. Engaging in family/shared meals during COVID-19 was associated with well-being in young adults. Engaging in family/shared meals was associated with healthy dietary consumption in young adults.
Background This study examined who is engaging in family/shared meals and associations between family/shared meal frequency and home food availability, dietary consumption, and emotional well-being among young adults during the COVID-19 pandemic. Methods A rapid-response online survey was sent to participants in a ten-year longitudinal study (Eating and Activity over Time: EAT 2010–2018). A total of 585 young adults (mean age = 24.7 ± 2.0 years, 63.3% female) living with at least one family member completed the COVID-EAT (C-EAT) survey during the U.S. outbreak of COVID-19. Items assessed changes in family/shared meal frequency, eating behaviors, and emotional well-being. Regression models adjusting for sociodemographic characteristics examined associations between family/shared meal frequency and home food availability, dietary consumption, and emotional well-being. Results Participants reported an average of 4.6 ± 3.4 family/shared meals per week during COVID-19, a 0.5 meal/week increase from prior to the pandemic (p = .002). Family/shared meal frequency during COVID-19 differed by race/ethnicity, with Asian American participants being most likely to report only 1–2 family/shared meals per week. Family/shared meals during COVID-19 were associated with higher vegetable intake, greater availability of fruits, vegetables, and whole wheat bread in the home, lower levels of depressive symptoms and perceived stress, and greater perceived ability to manage stress in young adults. Conclusions Results suggest that engaging in a regular routine, such as family/shared meals, during COVID-19 may have protective associations with dietary health and emotional well-being for young adults. Results may inform practices/routines to offer protective benefits during public health crises such as the current pandemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jerica M Berge
- University of Minnesota Medical School, Department of Family Medicine and Community Health, Minneapolis, MN, USA
| | - Vivienne M Hazzard
- Sanford Center for Biobehavioral Research, Fargo, ND, USA.,University of Minnesota School of Public Health, Division of Epidemiology and Community Health, Minneapolis, MN, USA.,University of Minnesota Medical School, Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences, Minneapolis, MN, USA
| | - Nicole Larson
- University of Minnesota School of Public Health, Division of Epidemiology and Community Health, Minneapolis, MN, USA
| | - Samantha L Hahn
- University of Minnesota School of Public Health, Division of Epidemiology and Community Health, Minneapolis, MN, USA.,University of Minnesota Medical School, Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences, Minneapolis, MN, USA
| | - Rebecca L Emery
- University of Minnesota Medical School, Duluth Campus, Department of Family Medicine and Biobehavioral Health, Duluth, MN, USA
| | - Dianne Neumark-Sztainer
- University of Minnesota School of Public Health, Division of Epidemiology and Community Health, Minneapolis, MN, USA
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Bates CR, Nicholson LM, Rea EM, Hagy HA, Bohnert AM. Life Interrupted: Family Routines Buffer Stress during the COVID-19 Pandemic. JOURNAL OF CHILD AND FAMILY STUDIES 2021; 30:2641-2651. [PMID: 34404970 PMCID: PMC8360776 DOI: 10.1007/s10826-021-02063-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/25/2021] [Indexed: 05/28/2023]
Abstract
Adoption of certain behavioral and social routines that organize and structure the home environment may help families navigate the challenges presented by the COVID-19 pandemic. The current cross-sectional study aimed to assess family routines prior to and during the COVID-19 pandemic and examine associations with individual and family well-being. Using a national sample, 300 caregivers of children ages 6-18 were surveyed using Amazon Mechanical Turk platform during the first three months of COVID-19 pandemic in the United States. Caregivers reported on family demographics, COVID-19-related stress, engagement in family routines (prior to and during the COVID-19 pandemic), stress mindset, self-efficacy, and family resiliency. Overall, families reported engaging in fewer routines during the COVID-19 pandemic compared to prior to the pandemic. COVID-19-related stress was highest in low-income families, families of healthcare workers, and among caregivers who had experienced the COVID-19 virus. Moreover, COVID-19-related stress was negatively related to self-efficacy, positively related to an enhancing stress mindset, and negatively related to family resilience. Engagement in family routines buffered relations between COVID-19-related stress and family resilience, such that COVID-19-related stress was not associated with lower family resilience among families that engaged in high levels of family routines. Results suggest that family routines were challenging to maintain in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic, but were associated with better individual and family well-being during this period of acute health, economic, and social stress.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carolyn R. Bates
- Division of Developmental and Behavioral Health, Department of Pediatrics, Children’s Mercy Kansas City, Kansas City, MO USA
| | | | - Elizabeth M. Rea
- Department of Psychology, Loyola University Chicago, Chicago, IL USA
| | - Hannah A. Hagy
- Department of Psychology, Loyola University Chicago, Chicago, IL USA
| | - Amy M. Bohnert
- Department of Psychology, Loyola University Chicago, Chicago, IL USA
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Wäsche H, Niermann C, Bezold J, Woll A. Family health climate: a qualitative exploration of everyday family life and health. BMC Public Health 2021; 21:1261. [PMID: 34187447 PMCID: PMC8240432 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-021-11297-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2020] [Accepted: 06/15/2021] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The family is an important social environment for children’s, adolescents’ and adults’ health. However, studies mostly focused on dyadic and unidirectional influences of parents on their children. Studies addressing influences arising from daily family life and including family-level influences are rare and the existing studies solely focus on the relevance for children’s health or health-related behaviors. We use a qualitative approach to explore how daily family life and its inherent health-related cues affect family members’ physical activity and eating behavior. Methods Semi-structured interviews utilizing an interview guide were conducted. Since we aimed to examine family life, we analyzed both parents’ and their children’s views on health-related interaction patterns and family environmental influences on individuals’ health-related behavior. Twenty-two members of seven families were interviewed. Transcripts of the interviews were systematically analyzed following Grounded Theory principles. Results The interviews revealed that various individual as well as environmental factors shape health-related aspects of daily family life. A model was developed that organizes these influencing factors on family life with regard to health-related interactions and the emergence of the Family Health Climate (FHC) – reflecting shared perceptions and cognitions regarding a healthy lifestyle within families – and its consequences. Family interactions and family time, often realized through shared family meals, are key factors for families’ health with regard to nutrition and physical activity. The FHC showed to affect various aspects related to health behavior of individual family members. Conclusions The model sheds light on underlying processes and mechanisms of family life that influences individuals’ health-related behavior. Based on a better understanding of the association between family life and individual health behavior the development of family-based interventions can be informed. Furthermore, the insights can help to guide further research focusing on families as a system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hagen Wäsche
- Institute of Sports and Sports Science, Karlsruhe Institute of Technology, Karlsruhe, Germany
| | | | - Jelena Bezold
- Institute of Sports and Sports Science, Karlsruhe Institute of Technology, Karlsruhe, Germany
| | - Alexander Woll
- Institute of Sports and Sports Science, Karlsruhe Institute of Technology, Karlsruhe, Germany
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de la Torre-Moral A, Fàbregues S, Bach-Faig A, Fornieles-Deu A, Medina FX, Aguilar-Martínez A, Sánchez-Carracedo D. Family Meals, Conviviality, and the Mediterranean Diet among Families with Adolescents. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:ijerph18052499. [PMID: 33802507 PMCID: PMC7967627 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph18052499] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2021] [Revised: 02/25/2021] [Accepted: 02/26/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Two aspects that characterize the Mediterranean diet (MD) are "what" and "how" we eat. Conviviality relates to "how" we eat and to the pleasure of sharing meals with significant people. The most studied concept is "family meals", which includes conviviality, which involves "enjoying" family meals. Given the lack of research on convivial family meals in Mediterranean countries, the purpose of this qualitative study was to analyze the family meal representations and practices of families with 12- to 16-year-old adolescents to assess whether they responded to a pattern of conviviality, and to examine their association with MD adherence. Twelve semi-structured interviews were conducted and food frequency and family meal questionnaires were administered. A food pattern analysis was carried out and digital photos of meals were analyzed to examine eating habits and meal composition, respectively. The findings showed that parents believed family meals are a space for socialization and communication. Items relating to the conviviality of family meals identified in the study were meal frequency, meals at the table, lack of digital distractions, pleasant conversations, and time spent on family meals. Attention should be paid to conviviality in Mediterranean families when designing multi-approach strategies to promote healthy eating among adolescents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea de la Torre-Moral
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Universitat Oberta de Catalunya (Open University of Catalonia, UOC), 08018 Barcelona, Spain;
| | - Sergi Fàbregues
- Department of Psychology and Education, Universitat Oberta de Catalunya (Open University of Catalonia, UOC), 08018 Barcelona, Spain;
| | - Anna Bach-Faig
- FoodLab Research Group (2017SGR 83), Faculty of Health Sciences, Universitat Oberta de Catalunya (Open University of Catalonia, UOC), 08018 Barcelona, Spain; (F.X.M.); (A.A.-M.)
- Food and Nutrition Area, Barcelona Official College of Pharmacists, 08009 Barcelona, Spain
- Correspondence:
| | - Albert Fornieles-Deu
- Eating and Weight-Related Problems Unit, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, 08193 Barcelona, Spain; (A.F.-D.); (D.S.-C.)
- Department of Psychobiology and Methodology of Health Sciences, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, 08193 Barcelona, Spain
| | - F. Xavier Medina
- FoodLab Research Group (2017SGR 83), Faculty of Health Sciences, Universitat Oberta de Catalunya (Open University of Catalonia, UOC), 08018 Barcelona, Spain; (F.X.M.); (A.A.-M.)
| | - Alicia Aguilar-Martínez
- FoodLab Research Group (2017SGR 83), Faculty of Health Sciences, Universitat Oberta de Catalunya (Open University of Catalonia, UOC), 08018 Barcelona, Spain; (F.X.M.); (A.A.-M.)
| | - David Sánchez-Carracedo
- Eating and Weight-Related Problems Unit, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, 08193 Barcelona, Spain; (A.F.-D.); (D.S.-C.)
- Department of Clinical and Health Psychology, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, 08193 Barcelona, Spain
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Oberle MM, Loth KA, Schendel A, Fox CK, Gross AC. Acceptance of a meal kit programme in an outpatient paediatric weight management clinic: A qualitative pilot study. Clin Obes 2020; 10:e12371. [PMID: 32533649 DOI: 10.1111/cob.12371] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2020] [Revised: 04/19/2020] [Accepted: 04/24/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Lack of food preparation knowledge, time to prepare meals and concerns about fruit and vegetable spoilage before consumption are the potential barriers to home cooking. These barriers may be addressed by meal kits (bundles of recipes and ingredients). We described home cooking barriers and evaluated acceptability of meal kits, using semi-structured focus groups with caregivers and adolescent patients of an outpatient paediatric weight management clinic. One meal kit per family, containing non-perishable food, a $20 gift card to a grocery store and recipes designed by clinic dietician for two meals, were given at clinic appointments. Two in-person semi-structured focus groups were conducted within 2 weeks of meal kit receipt. Four adolescent participants (75% female; 12.7 ± 0.9 years) and eight caregivers (88% female) participated in the focus groups. Four barriers to home cooking were identified: (a) healthy food cost, (b) preparation time, (c) food preparation knowledge and (d) picky eaters. Participants felt the meal kits addressed the time and lack of food preparation knowledge barriers to home cooking. A clinical meal kit programme was acceptable to a treatment-seeking adolescent population with obesity and their caregivers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Megan M Oberle
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Minnesota Medical School, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
- Center for Pediatric Obesity Medicine, University of Minnesota Medical School, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
| | - Katie A Loth
- Department of Family Medicine and Community Health, University of Minnesota Medical School, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
| | - Anne Schendel
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Minnesota Medical School, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
| | - Claudia K Fox
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Minnesota Medical School, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
- Center for Pediatric Obesity Medicine, University of Minnesota Medical School, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
| | - Amy C Gross
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Minnesota Medical School, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
- Center for Pediatric Obesity Medicine, University of Minnesota Medical School, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
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Vizcaino M, Buman M, DesRoches T, Wharton C. From TVs to tablets: the relation between device-specific screen time and health-related behaviors and characteristics. BMC Public Health 2020; 20:1295. [PMID: 32847553 PMCID: PMC7447608 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-020-09410-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2019] [Accepted: 08/19/2020] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The purpose of this study was to examine whether extended use of a variety of screen-based devices, in addition to television, was associated with poor dietary habits and other health-related characteristics and behaviors among US adults. The recent phenomenon of binge-watching was also explored. METHODS A survey to assess screen time across multiple devices, dietary habits, sleep duration and quality, perceived stress, self-rated health, physical activity, and body mass index, was administered to a sample of US adults using the Qualtrics platform and distributed via Amazon Mechanical Turk (MTurk). Participants were adults 18 years of age and older, English speakers, current US residents, and owners of a television and at least one other device with a screen. Three different screen time categories (heavy, moderate, and light) were created for total screen time, and separately for screen time by type of screen, based on distribution tertiles. Kruskal-Wallis tests were conducted to examine differences in dietary habits and health-related characteristics between screen time categories. RESULTS Aggregate screen time across all devices totaled 17.5 h per day for heavy users. Heavy users reported the least healthful dietary patterns and the poorest health-related characteristics - including self-rated health - compared to moderate and light users. Moreover, unique dietary habits emerged when examining dietary patterns by type of screen separately, such that heavy users of TV and smartphone displayed the least healthful dietary patterns compared to heavy users of TV-connected devices, laptop, and tablet. Binge-watching was also significantly associated with less healthy dietary patterns, including frequency of fast-food consumption as well as eating family meals in front of a television, and perceived stress. CONCLUSIONS The present study found that poorer dietary choices, as well as other negative health-related impacts, occurred more often as the viewing time of a variety of different screen-based devices increased in a sample of US adults. Future research is needed to better understand what factors among different screen-based devices might affect health behaviors and in turn health-related outcomes. Research is also required to better understand how binge-watching behavior contributes impacts health-related behaviors and characteristics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maricarmen Vizcaino
- Radical Simplicity Lab, College of Health Solutions, Arizona State University, 550 N 3rd Street, Phoenix, AZ, 85004, USA
| | - Matthew Buman
- College of Health Solutions, Arizona State University, Tempe, USA
| | - Tyler DesRoches
- School of Sustainability/ School of Historical, Philosophical and Religious Studies, Arizona State University, Tempe, USA
| | - Christopher Wharton
- Radical Simplicity Lab, College of Health Solutions, Arizona State University, 550 N 3rd Street, Phoenix, AZ, 85004, USA.
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Pratt KJ, Skelton JA, Lewis KH, Taylor CA, Spees C, Brown CL. Family Meal Practices and Weight Talk Between Adult Weight Management and Weight Loss Surgery Patients and Their Children. JOURNAL OF NUTRITION EDUCATION AND BEHAVIOR 2020; 52:579-587. [PMID: 32527416 PMCID: PMC10173866 DOI: 10.1016/j.jneb.2020.04.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2019] [Revised: 04/01/2020] [Accepted: 04/01/2020] [Indexed: 05/14/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To identify predictors associated with specific family meal practices and weight talk among patients participating in weight management programs (WMPs) and weight loss surgery (WLS) and their children. DESIGN Cross-sectional survey. SETTING Two US weight management centers. PARTICIPANTS 259 patients (aged ≥ 18 years) in either WMP (n = 101) or WLS (n = 158) and residing with a child (aged 2-18 years) MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S): Dependent variables: family meal practices (Project EAT) and weight talk (investigator-created). Covariates: family communication (Family Communication Scale), family discouragement for making eating habit change (Social Support for Eating Habits Survey), child age, sex, and perceived weight status, and WMP or WLS participation. ANALYSIS Binomial and ordinal regression models determined the odds of engaging in specific family meal practices and weight talk, including covariates. RESULTS Patients had increased odds of engaging in family dinners if they reported lower family discouragement (P = .003) and had younger children (P < .001), and increased odds of engaging in family breakfast if they had higher family communication (P = .002) and younger children (P = .020). Patients had increased odds of talking about their child's weight if their child was perceived to have an overweight/obese weight status (P < .001). Patients with older children had increased odds of talking about their weight with their child (P = .021). CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS Additional research assessing the family meal practices and weight talk in the families of adults pursuing weight loss could yield important evidence that could lead to improved patient outcomes, and safely promote healthy behaviors and prevention of obesity in children.
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Affiliation(s)
- Keeley J Pratt
- Human Development and Family Science Program, Department of Human Sciences, College of Education and Human Ecology, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH; Department of Surgery, The Wexner Medical Center, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH.
| | - Joseph A Skelton
- Department of Pediatrics, Wake Forest University, Winston Salem, NC; Department of Epidemiology and Prevention, Wake Forest University, Winston Salem, NC
| | - Kristina H Lewis
- Department of Epidemiology and Prevention, Wake Forest University, Winston Salem, NC
| | - Christopher A Taylor
- Medical Dietetics Program, School of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH
| | - Colleen Spees
- Medical Dietetics Program, School of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH
| | - Callie L Brown
- Department of Pediatrics, Wake Forest University, Winston Salem, NC
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Do Parents Perceive That Organized Activities Interfere with Family Meals? Associations between Parent Perceptions and Aspects of the Household Eating Environment. J Acad Nutr Diet 2020; 120:414-423. [PMID: 31926771 DOI: 10.1016/j.jand.2019.11.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2019] [Accepted: 11/07/2019] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Research has related child participation in organized activities to health and academic benefits; however, participation may interfere with family meals. OBJECTIVE Examine whether parents perceive child participation in organized activities to interfere with family meals and how perceptions are related to the household eating environment. DESIGN A cross-sectional analysis was completed using survey data collected in 2015-2016 as part of the Project EAT (Eating and Activity in Teens and Young Adults) cohort study. PARTICIPANTS Survey participants were originally recruited in Minneapolis-St Paul schools in 1998-1999. The analytic subsample of parents (one per household, n=389, 69% female, 31% nonwhite race, mean age=31) had one or more children involved in an organized activity. Approximately 33% of households included a child aged 2 to 5 and no older child; two thirds of households included school-aged children (6 to 18 years). MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Parents reported family meal frequency, family meal scheduling difficulties, frequency of at-home meal preparation, and their own intake of fast food, fruit, and vegetables. STATISTICAL ANALYSES PERFORMED Analyses compared household environment characteristics reported by parents who perceived low interference between organized activities and family meals to characteristics reported by parents who perceived moderate to high interference from at least one form of activity. Regression models included a dichotomous indicator of interference as the independent variable and were adjusted for parental and household characteristics. RESULTS Among parents with children at any age, moderate to high interference was associated with lower family meal frequency, greater difficulty scheduling family meals, and more fast-food intake (all P≤0.01). The perception of moderate to high interference was more common among parents who reported involvement in both sport and nonsport activities (P<0.001) and those with a school-aged child (P<0.001) vs those with only preschool-aged children. CONCLUSIONS Follow-up research, including qualitative studies, is needed to identify the specific aspects of child participation in organized activities (eg, scheduled time of day) that may interfere with family meals.
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Niewiadomski R, Ceccaldi E, Huisman G, Volpe G, Mancini M. Computational Commensality: From Theories to Computational Models for Social Food Preparation and Consumption in HCI. Front Robot AI 2019; 6:119. [PMID: 33501134 PMCID: PMC7805905 DOI: 10.3389/frobt.2019.00119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2019] [Accepted: 10/28/2019] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Food and eating are inherently social activities taking place, for example, around the dining table at home, in restaurants, or in public spaces. Enjoying eating with others, often referred to as “commensality,” positively affects mealtime in terms of, among other factors, food intake, food choice, and food satisfaction. In this paper we discuss the concept of “Computational Commensality,” that is, technology which computationally addresses various social aspects of food and eating. In the past few years, Human-Computer Interaction started to address how interactive technologies can improve mealtimes. However, the main focus has been made so far on improving the individual's experience, rather than considering the inherently social nature of food consumption. In this survey, we first present research from the field of social psychology on the social relevance of Food- and Eating-related Activities (F&EA). Then, we review existing computational models and technologies that can contribute, in the near future, to achieving Computational Commensality. We also discuss the related research challenges and indicate future applications of such new technology that can potentially improve F&EA from the commensality perspective.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Gijs Huisman
- Digital Society School, Amsterdam University of Applied Sciences, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | | | - Maurizio Mancini
- School of Computer Science and Information Technology, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
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Gugushvili A, Jarosz E. Inequality, validity of self-reported height, and its implications for BMI estimates: An analysis of randomly selected primary sampling units' data. Prev Med Rep 2019; 16:100974. [PMID: 31485392 PMCID: PMC6715954 DOI: 10.1016/j.pmedr.2019.100974] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2019] [Revised: 07/14/2019] [Accepted: 08/15/2019] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Any systematic errors in self-reported height, a measure commonly used in health research, may produce biased BMI estimates and reduce the effectiveness of public health interventions. To our knowledge, none of the studies evaluating the validity of self-reported height explore this issue in cross-national settings. This study analyses data on a sub-set of 750 individuals with information on self-reported and measured height from the Life in Transition Survey (LITS) conducted in 34 European and Central Asian countries in 2016. We make use of the unique design of LITS in which all respondents reported their height, but in one randomly selected primary sampling unit in each country the actual height was also measured, using a portable stadiometer. In addition to analysing individual-level characteristics, using a multiply imputed dataset for missing data and multilevel mixed-effects regressions, we test if macro-level factors are associated with respondents under- or over-reporting their height. We find that on the aggregate level self-reported and measured height estimates are not statistically different, but some socio-demographic groups such as women and those who live in rural areas are likely to overestimate their height. Adjusting for this bias would lead to the higher estimates of the proportion of individuals who are overweight and obese. The results from multilevel analysis also show that macro-level factors do not per se explain the likelihood of misreporting height, but rather some of the effects of individual characteristics are moderated by income inequality. Systematic errors in self-reported height may produce biased BMI estimates. On the aggregate level self-reported and measured height are indistinguishable. Women and those who live in rural areas are likely to overestimate their height. This bias can increase the estimated population BMI level by 2.1%. Some of the effects of individual variables are moderated by income inequality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexi Gugushvili
- Department of Social Policy and Intervention, Nuffield College, University of Oxford, Barnett House, 32 Wellington Square, Oxford OX1 2ER, United Kingdom
| | - Ewa Jarosz
- Department of Sociology, Centre for Time Use Research, University of Oxford, Institute of Philosophy and Sociology, Polish Academy of Sciences, 74 Woodstock Road Oxford, OX2 6HP, United Kingdom
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