Dietary patterns and changes in body mass index and waist circumference in adults

Evaluation of Dietary and Alcohol Drinking Patterns in Patients with Excess Body Weight in a Spanish Cohort: Impact on Cardiometabolic Risk Factors

Unhealthy dietary habits and sedentarism coexist with a rising incidence of excess weight and associated comorbidities. We aimed to analyze the dietary and drinking patterns of patients with excess weight, their main characteristics, plausible gender differences and impact on cardiometabolic risk factors, with a particular focus on the potential contribution of beer consumption. Data from 200 consecutive volunteers (38 ± 12 years; 72% females) living with overweight or class I obesity attending the obesity unit to lose weight were studied. Food frequency questionnaires and 24 h recalls were used. Reduced-rank regression (RRR) analysis was applied to identify dietary patterns (DPs). Anthropometry, total and visceral fat, indirect calorimetry, physical activity level, comorbidities and circulating cardiometabolic risk factors were assessed. Study participants showed high waist circumference, adiposity, insulin resistance, dyslipidemia, pro-inflammatory adipokines and low anti-inflammatory factors like adiponectin and interleukin-4. A low-fiber, high-fat, energy-dense DP was observed. BMI showed a statistically significant (p < 0.05) correlation with energy density (r = 0.80) as well as percentage of energy derived from fat (r = 0.61). Excess weight was associated with a DP low in vegetables, legumes and whole grains at the same time as being high in sweets, sugar-sweetened beverages, fat spreads, and processed meats. RRR analysis identified a DP characterized by high energy density and saturated fat exhibiting negative loadings (>-0.30) for green leafy vegetables, legumes, and fruits at the same time as showing positive factor loadings (>0.30) for processed foods, fat spreads, sugar-sweetened beverages, and sweets. Interestingly, for both women and men, wine represented globally the main source of total alcohol intake (p < 0.05) as compared to beer and distillates. Beer consumption cannot be blamed as the main culprit of excess weight. Capturing the DP provides more clinically relevant and useful information. The focus on consumption of single nutrients does not resemble real-world intake behaviors.

Nutritional patterns as machine learning predictors of liver health in a population of elderly subjects

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Non-alcoholic hepatic steatosis affects 25% of adults worldwide and its prevalence increases with age. There is currently no definitive treatment for NAFLD but international guidelines recommend a lifestyle-based approach, including a healthy diet. The aim of this study was to investigate the interactions between eating habits and the risk of steatosis and/or hepatic fibrosis, using a machine learning approach, in a non-institutionalized elderly population.

METHODS AND RESULTS

We recruited 1929 subjects, mean age 74 years, from the population-based Salus in Apulia Study. Dietary habits and the risk of steatosis and hepatic fibrosis were evaluated with a validated food frequency questionnaire, the Fatty Liver Index (FLI) and the FIB-4 score, respectively. Two dietary patterns associated with the risk of steatosis and hepatic fibrosis have been identified. They are both similar to a "western" diet, defined by a greater consumption of refined foods, with a rich content of sugars and saturated fats, and alcoholic and non-alcoholic calorie drinks.

CONCLUSION

This study further supports the concept of diet as a factor that significantly influences the development of the most widespread liver diseases. However, longitudinal studies are needed to better understand the causal effect of the consumption of particular foods on fat accumulation in the liver.

Association between pre-pregnancy weight status and dietary patterns during pregnancy: results from the Japan Environment and Children's Study

OBJECTIVE

Pre-pregnancy weight status is related to offspring health and may influence dietary patterns during pregnancy. We aimed to evaluate the link between pre-pregnancy weight status and dietary patterns during pregnancy.

DESIGN

Dietary data were collected using a FFQ during middle or late pregnancy. Dietary patterns were identified using principal component analysis. Anthropometric data were extracted from medical charts. Multiple linear regression was used to assess associations between pre-pregnancy weight status (severely or moderately underweight, mildly underweight, normal weight, overweight and obese) and dietary patterns during pregnancy after adjusting for socio-demographic characteristics.

SETTING

Nationwide Japan.

PARTICIPANTS

Pregnant Japanese women enrolled in the Japan Environment and Children's Study, a prospective birth cohort study (n 90 765).

RESULTS

We identified three dietary patterns. Compared with women with pre-pregnancy normal weight, those with pre-pregnancy obesity were less likely to habitually consume 'fruits and vegetables' pattern (coefficient, -0·18; 95 % CI, -0·21, -0·14) and 'confectionery' pattern (coefficient, -0·18; 95 % CI, -0·21, -0·14) and more likely to consume 'white rice and soy products' pattern (coefficient, 0·08; 95 % CI, 0·04, 0·11), and those with severely or moderately pre-pregnancy underweight were more likely to consume 'confectionery' pattern (coefficient, 0·06; 95 % CI, 0·03, 0·09) during pregnancy, after adjusting for confounders.

CONCLUSION

We found that moderately and severely pre-pregnancy underweight women and those with obesity had unhealthy dietary patterns compared to those with pre-pregnancy normal weight. Our findings suggest that prenatal dietary advice is important and should be based on the pre-pregnancy weight status.

Prospective Associations between Dietary Patterns and Abdominal Obesity in Middle-Aged and Older Korean Adults

This study aimed to identify major dietary patterns associated with abdominal obesity in middle-aged and older Korean adults. Data from the Korean Genome and Epidemiology Study were used. A total of 48,037 Korean adults aged ≥40 years without abdominal obesity at baseline were followed-up. Dietary assessment was conducted using a validated 106-item food-frequency questionnaire, and dietary patterns were identified using factor analysis. Abdominal obesity was defined as a waist circumference of ≥90 cm for men and ≥85 cm for women, according to the Korean Society for the Study of Obesity. Multivariable Cox proportional-hazards models were used to calculate the hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for the future risk of abdominal obesity for each dietary pattern after adjusting for potential covariates. After an average follow-up of 4.89 years, we reported 5878 cases (1932 men and 3946 women) of abdominal obesity. Based on factor analysis, three major dietary patterns were identified in both men and women: the "healthy", "coffee and sweets", and "multi-grain" patterns. In the fully adjusted model, the "healthy" pattern was inversely associated with the incidence of abdominal obesity (HR for fourth vs. first quartile: 0.86; 95% CI: 0.75-0.98; p for trend = 0.0358 for men; HR for fourth vs. first quartile: 0.90; 95% CI: 0.83-0.99; p for trend = 0.0188 for women), whereas the "coffee and sweets" pattern was positively associated with it (HR for fourth vs. first quartile: 1.23; 95% CI: 1.08-1.40; p for trend = 0.0495 for men; HR for fourth vs. first quartile: 1.14; 95% CI: 1.04-1.25; p for trend = 0.0096 for women). In contrast, the "multi-grain" pattern in men and women showed no significant association with the incidence of abdominal obesity. Diets rich in colorful vegetables, seaweeds, mushrooms, tubers, fruits, soy products, and fish and low in coffee, sweets, and oils/fats might be favorable for reducing the future risk of abdominal obesity, particularly in middle-aged and older Korean adults.

How is healthy eating index-2015 related to risk factors for cardiovascular disease in patients with type 2 diabetes

Background

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is the primary cause of mortality and disability among diabetes. The aim of this study is to evaluate how healthy eating index-2015 related to risk factors for cardiovascular disease in patients with type 2 diabetes.

Methods

This cross-sectional study was conducted on 490 patients with type 2 diabetes in Tehran, Iran. The healthy eating index-2015 (HEI-2015) used as a diet quality indicator. Dietary intake was assessed by a valid and reliable semi-quantitative food frequency questionnaire (FFQ). Four indicators of CVD risk factor [Castelli risk index-1 and 2 (CRI-II), atherogenic index of plasma (AIP), cholesterol index (CI), and lipid accumulation of plasma (LAP)] were calculated. The anthropometric indices [a body shape index (ABSI), abdominal volume index (AVI), and body roundness index (BRI)] were computed.

Results

After adjusting for potential confounders, it is evident that participants in the highest tertile of HEI had a lower odds ratio of BRI (OR: 0.52; 95% CI: 0.29-0.95; p-trend = 0.03) and AIP (OR:0.56; 95% CI: 0.34-0.94; p-trend = 0.02). Also, HEI and CRI had a marginally significant negative relation (OR: 0.61; 95% CI: 0.38-1; p-trend = 0.05) in crude model, after adjusting the signification disappeared.

Conclusion

In conclusion, our finding shows that more adherence to HEI reduces about 50% of the odds of AIP, BRI among diabetic patients. Further, large-scale cohort studies in Iran need to confirm these findings, including diabetic patients of various racial, ethnic backgrounds, body composition and different components of HEI.

Dietary pattern adherence in association with changes in body composition and adiposity measurements in the UK Biobank study

BACKGROUND

Unhealthy dietary patterns (DP) have been frequently linked to avoidable ill-health, mediated in part through higher body mass index. However it is unclear how these patterns relate to specific components of body composition or fat distribution, and whether this may explain reported gender differences in the relationship between diet and health.

METHODS

Data from 101,046 UK Biobank participants with baseline bioimpedance analysis and anthropometric measures and dietary information on two or more occasions were used, of which 21,387 participants had repeated measures at follow up. Multivariable linear regressions estimated the associations between DP adherence (categorised in quintiles Q1-Q5) and body composition measures adjusted for a range of demographic and lifestyle confounders.

RESULTS

After 8.1 years of follow-up, individuals with high adherence (Q5) to the DP showed significantly positive changes in fat mass (mean, 95 % CI): 1.26 (1.12-1.39) kg in men, 1.11 (0.88-1.35) kg in women vs low adherence (Q1) - 0.09 (- 0.28 to 0.10) kg in men and - 0.26 (- 0.42 to - 0.11) kg in women; as well as in waist circumference (Q5): 0.93 (0.63-1.22) cm in men and 1.94 (1.63, 2.25) cm in women vs Q1 - 1.06 (- 1.34 to - 0.78) cm in men and 0.27 (- 0.02 to 0.57) cm in women.

CONCLUSION

Adherence to an unhealthy DP is positively associated with increased adiposity, especially in the abdominal region, which may help explain the observed associations with adverse health outcomes.

Longitudinal associations between physical activity and five risk factors of metabolic syndrome in middle-aged adults in Germany

BACKGROUND

We examined the longitudinal association between (change in) physical activity (PA) with new onset of five risk factors of metabolic syndrome among 657 middle-aged adults (mean age 44.1 (standard deviation (SD) 8.6) years) who were free of the respective outcome at baseline, in a longitudinal cohort study spanning over 29 years.

METHODS

Levels of habitual PA and sports-related PA were assessed by a self-reported questionnaire. Incident elevated waist circumference (WC), elevated triglycerides (TG), reduced high-density lipoprotein cholesterols (HDL), elevated blood pressure (BP), and elevated blood-glucose (BG) were assessed by physicians and by self-reported questionnaires. We calculated Cox proportional hazard ratio regressions and 95% confidence intervals.

RESULTS

Over time, participants developed (cases of incident risk factor; mean (SD) follow-up time) elevated WC (234 cases; 12.3 (8.2) years), elevated TG (292 cases; 11.1 (7.8) years), reduced HDL (139 cases; 12.4 (8.1) years), elevated BP (185 cases; 11.4 (7.5) years), or elevated BG (47 cases; 14.2 (8.5) years). For PA variables at baseline, risk reductions ranging between 37 and 42% for reduced HDL levels were detected. Furthermore, higher levels of PA (≥ 16.6 METh per week) were associated with a 49% elevated risk for incident elevated BP. Participants who increased PA levels over time, had risk reductions ranging between 38 and 57% for elevated WC, elevated TG and reduced HDL. Participants with stable high amounts of PA from baseline to follow-up had risk reductions ranging between 45 and 87% for incident reduced HDL and elevated BG.

CONCLUSIONS

PA at baseline, starting PA engagement, maintaining and increasing PA level over time are associated with favorable metabolic health outcomes.

Association between Diet and Adiposity in Adults: Influence of Sedentary Behavior Patterns

This study analyzed the influence of sedentary behavior (SB) on the association between dietary patterns and adiposity in community-dwelling adults. Eight hundred and forty-three adults (age: 56.5 ± 18.3 years) participated in this cross-sectional epidemiological study. Dietary patterns were evaluated using self-report questions regarding the weekly frequency of consumption of certain foods. Adiposity was determined using anthropometric measurements of weight, waist circumference, and height. SB was evaluated according to the time spent on screen devices. The usual physical activity level and socioeconomic status were considered confounding factors. Associations were determined using multivariate linear models with simultaneous adjustments for confounding variables. A statistical analysis indicated that fruit consumption was negatively related to the body mass index, regardless of the adjustment for SB domains. Red meat consumption was positively related to the body mass index, and fried food consumption was positively related to the waist-to-height ratio, regardless of the adjustment for SB domains. The consumption of fried food was positively associated with global and central adiposity after the adjustments for confounding factors and time spent on screen devices. We concluded that dietary habits are related to adiposity in adults. However, SB domains seem to influence the relationship between body adiposity and dietary habits, mainly regarding the consumption of fried foods.

Level of Fruit and Vegetable Intake and Its Relationship with Risk for Malnutrition in China’s Adult Labor Force: China Nutrition and Health Surveillance, 2015–2017

The purpose of this study was to analyze the fruit and vegetable intake status and examine both potential risk and protective action factors in the Chinese labor force population, while investigating the association between fruit and vegetable intake and malnutrition in this population. Data were derived from a population-based cross-sectional survey, the China Nutrition and Health Surveillance, 2015–2017. Sociodemographic information, physical measurements, and dietary intake data were collected. A total of 45,459 survey respondents aged 18–64 years old were included in the analysis. Fruit and vegetable consumption data were assessed by a food frequency questionnaire (FFQ), and the average daily intake was calculated. In 2015, the daily intake of fresh fruits, fresh vegetables, and combined fruits and vegetables among the Chinese labor force was 64.3 g, 210.0 g, and 330.0 g (median), respectively. Compared with the Dietary Guidelines for Chinese Residents (2022), 79.9% and 53.0% were at risk of inadequate fruit and vegetable intake, while 55.2% were at risk of inadequate intake of combined fruits and vegetables compared with the WHO recommendation. Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that female gender, higher educational level, and higher income were protective factors for adequate fruit intake, while increasing age and living in the southern region were protective factors for adequate vegetable intake. The results confirmed that increasing vegetable intake helped urban labor force maintain normal BMI and control overweight. Increased fruit consumption may reduce the risk of underweight, but no clear negative association with overweight and obesity was observed. In conclusion, the consumption of fresh fruits and vegetables by the Chinese labor force was inadequate, especially for fruits. Interventions are needed to promote the daily intake of fruits and vegetables in this population. In addition, further in-depth studies in this area are recommended in populations with different health status.

Does obesity related eating behaviors only affect chronic diseases? A nationwide study of university students in China

The primary aims of this study are to examine associations between obesity-related eating behaviors (OEB) and chronic and infectious diseases, and mental disorders. A representative nationwide survey was used to collect information among 11,659 medical students from 31 universities in China. Multiple variable logistic regression analysis was conducted to examine the associations between OEB and the diseases. The multiple variable logistic regression model found that OEB was significantly associated with chronic disease (OR (Odds Ratio): 1.74 < 95 % C.I (Confidence Interval): 1.45, 2.65 > ), infectious disease (OR: 3.37 < 95 % C.I: 1.04, 1.81 > ), and mental disorder (OR: 1.87(<95 % C.I: 1.55, 2.25 > ). These findings underscore the importance of addressing OEB in programs and policies to promote health and prevent disease among university students.

Dietary patterns and young adult body mass change: A 9-year longitudinal study

PURPOSE

While excessive weight gain is highest during young adulthood, the extent to which specific dietary patterns are associated with changes in measures of body mass in this course of life remains unknown. We aimed to examine the associations of dietary patterns at 21 years with changes in body weight and body mass index (BMI) between 21 and 30 years.

METHODS

We used data on young adults from a long-running birth cohort in Australia. Western and prudent dietary patterns were identified applying principal component analysis to 33 food groups obtained by a food frequency questionnaire at 21 years. Body weight and height were measured at 21 and 30 years. Multivariable regression models, using generalized estimating equations, were adjusted for concurrent changes in sociodemographic and lifestyle variables in evaluating the effect of identified dietary patterns on changes in weight and BMI over time.

RESULTS

In the fully adjusted model, young adults in the highest tertile of the Western pattern had a mean weight gain of 9.9 (95% CI 8.5, 11.3) kg compared to those in the lowest that had a mean weight gain of 7.1 (95% CI 5.6, 8.5) kg, P-for linear trend = 0.0015. The corresponding values for mean gains in BMI were 3.1 (95% CI 2.7, 3.6) kg/m² for young adults in the highest tertile compared to 2.4 (95% CI 1.9, 2.9) kg/m² for those in lowest, P-for linear trend = 0.0164. There was no evidence of a significant association between the prudent pattern and mean changes in each outcome over time in this study.

CONCLUSIONS

The findings of the current study show that greater adherence to the Western diet at 21 years was positively associated with increases in body weight and BMI from 21 to 30 years of age, whereas the prudent diet had no significant association with these outcomes. The findings provide evidence that the adverse effects of the Western diet on weight gain in young adulthood could partly be prevented through optimising diet in the early course of life.

The relationship between intake of fruits, vegetables and dairy products with overweight and obesity in a large sample in Iran: Findings of STEPS 2016

Background

The present study aimed to investigate the association between fruits and vegetables (FVs) and dairy product intake with body weight based on the data from the nationwide Stepwise approach to surveillance (STEPS) survey in Iran.

Methods

STEPS is a national-based cross-sectional study conducted on 3,0541 people selected by stratified cluster random sampling in Iran from April to November 2016. The outcome of the current study was body mass index (BMI) which was classified as normal weight, underweight, overweight, and obese. Also, as exposure variables, dietary intakes of fruits, vegetables and dairy products were extracted from the STEPS questionnaires. Multinomial logistic regression was used to evaluate the association between dairy products, FVs consumption, and BMI category in the crude and adjusted models.

Results

In the adjusted model, we observed 41% [odd ratio (OR) = 0.59; 95% confidence intervals (CI): 0.50, 0.68, P < 0.001], 27% (OR = 0.73; 95% CI: 0.62, 0.84, P < 0.001), and 26% (OR = 0.74; 95% CI: 0.63, 0.87, P < 0.001) lower odds of being overweight, and 46% (OR = 0.54; 95% CI: 0.46, 0.64, P < 0.001), 29% (OR = 0.71; 95% CI: 0.60, 0.84, P < 0.001), and 21% (OR = 0.79; 95% CI: 0.65, 0.95, P = 0.014) decrease in obesity odds among the participants who consumed 1, 2, and more than 2 servings of fruits per day in comparison to less than one serving, respectively. Also, we observed participants who consumed 1, 2, and more than 2 servings in comparison to less than one serving of dairy products per day had 31% (OR = 0.69; 95% CI: 0.58, 0.81, P < 0.001), 23% (OR = 0.77; 95 %CI: 0.65, 0.91, P = 0.002), and 21% (OR = 0.79; 95% CI: 0.67, 0.94, P = 0.011) lower odds of being overweight and 47% (OR = 0.53; 95% CI: 0.44, 0.64, P < 0.001), 36% (OR = 0.64; 95% CI: 0.53, 0.77, P < 0.001), and 32% (OR = 0.68; 95% CI: 0.56, 0.83, P < 0.001) lower odds of obesity, respectively. In addition, compared to participants who consumed less than 2 servings of vegetables per day, participants who consumed 2, 3, and more than 3 servings had 40% (OR = 0.60; 95% CI: 0.47, 0.76, P < 0.001), 29% (OR = 0.71; 95% CI: 0.56, 0.90, P = 0.006), and 26% (OR = 0.74; 95% CI: 0.57, 0.96, P = 0.027) lower odds of being overweight, respectively. Furthermore, we observed 36% lower odds of obesity among participants who ate 2 servings of vegetables per day compared to less than 2 serving (OR = 0.64; 95% CI: 0.49, 0.84, P = 0.002).

Conclusion

Our findings showed that intake of FVs and dairy products is associated with a healthier weight status in adults. Further studies are needed to confirm these findings.

Real-World Intake of Dietary Sugars Is Associated with Reduced Cortisol Reactivity Following an Acute Physiological Stressor

There is increasing academic and clinical interest in understanding the nature of the relation between diet and response to stress exposure as a risk factor for mental illness. Cross-species evidence shows that conditions of chronic and acute stress increase the intake of, and preference for, caloric-dense palatable foods, a phenomenon thought to be explained by the mitigating effects of comfort foods on the activity of the stress-response network. It is largely unknown whether and how real-world dietary intake of saturated fat and sugars impacts stress responsivity in humans. Therefore, here we examined whether real-world dietary intake of saturated fat and sugars predicted salivary cortisol reactivity following an acute physiological stressor. Multilevel modelling of four salivary cortisol measures collected up to 65 min after the stressor on 54 participants (18-49 years old) were analyzed using a quadratic growth curve model. Sugar intake significantly predicted a weaker cortisol response following the Cold Pressor Test (CPT) controlling for BMI and gender, revealing an inhibitory effect of caloric-dense diets on cortisol reactivity to stress. As the consumption of sugar rose individuals had lower post-stressor cortisol levels, a smaller rate of increase in cortisol 20 and 35 min after the CPT, a lower cortisol peak, and an overall weaker quadratic effect. These observations add to a growing body of evidence reporting suppressive effects of high-energy foods on stress-associated glucocorticoids reactivity and are consistent with the comfort food hypothesis, where people are seen as motivated to eat palatable foods to alleviate the detrimental repercussions of stressor exposure.

Investigating the success factors of small and medium-sized enterprises in sustaining business operations during COVID-19

The upheaval caused by the spread of COVID-19 made a devastating effect on businesses, especially small businesses. A huge number of small businesses cannot survive within 3 months of an economic shutdown (Ligouri & Pittz, 2020); however, some survive and maintain their business operation. Therefore, the purpose of this study is to explore the success factors in sustaining the business operation. Specifically, the intention is to investigate what are the important factors leading small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Malaysia to be able to survive and drive their business operation during the COVID-19 pandemic. A qualitative approach was employed, data was collected through interviews, and seven business owners were identified through the purposive sampling method (Tongco, 2007). The findings revealed that most SMEs are disrupted by the pandemic and struggling for funding to survive in the business. In addition, entrepreneurs adapted to the new business model and utilized the digital platform manage to survive. Moreover, continuous financial support from the government, although meant for the short term is beneficial. The findings are vital as they can be used in assisting the government to create more effective and relevant programs to assist homegrown SMEs.

Trends in Food Group Intake According to Body Size among Young Japanese Women: The 2001-2019 National Health and Nutrition Survey

Unlike in many industrialised countries, the high proportion of young women who are underweight in Japan has been a long-term problem. We evaluated trends in food group intake according to body size among young Japanese women using data from the National Health and Nutrition Survey 2001-2019. Overall, 13,771 Japanese women aged 20-39 years were included. A 1-day household-based dietary record was used to estimate food intake. Foods were classified into 34 groups based on the Standard Tables of Food Composition in Japan. The trend of food group intake was analysed using the Joinpoint Regression Program. The proportion of young women who were underweight was consistently around 20%, while obesity among young women increased between 2001 (10%) and 2019 (13%). A decreased trend in fish and shellfish and seaweed intake and an increased trend in meat and soft drink intake were observed among young women. Decreased trends in the intake of fruit and dairy products were observed in young women who were not obese. An increased trend in the intake of confectionaries was observed in young women who were obese. This study suggests that the types of unhealthy eating habits may differ according to body size among young Japanese women.

A cross-sectional study on prevalence of menstrual problems, lifestyle, mental health, and PCOS awareness among rural and urban population of Punjab, India

INTRODUCTION

Menstrual cycle gets affected by various modifiable risk factors. To assess prevalence of various types of menstrual problems, lifestyle and mental health status, identification of variables as predictors for menstrual problems and level of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) awareness among rural and urban population of Punjab, the present study has been carried out.

METHODS

The study was conducted from November 2019 to July 2020 in the Malwa region of Punjab, India, with 2673 participants (15-25 years). Epidemiological information was collected using predesigned questionnaire along with depression, anxiety and stress (DASS-21) score mental health assessment tool. MS-Excel (2019) and IBM SPSS 18.0 (SPSS Inc., Chicago, IL) was used for statistical analysis.

RESULTS

The overall prevalence of different menstrual problems was 60.61%, with dysmenorrhea (50.64%) being most common problem. Body mass index (BMI), menarche age, physical activity, and mental health status are significant (p < 0.05) predictors of menstrual problem both in rural and urban population. Overall, only 3.30% subjects were aware about PCOS.

CONCLUSION

Dysmenorrhea is the most common menstrual problem, both in rural and urban population. BMI, sedentary lifestyle, electronic gadgets usage, and mental health are associated with menstrual problems. Low awareness on PCOS indicates need to create awareness as the condition can be easily managed with early intervention.

Cooking Methods and Their Relationship with Anthropometrics and Cardiovascular Risk Factors among Older Spanish Adults

Food consumption has a prominent role in the occurrence of cardiometabolic diseases, however, little is known about the specific influence of cooking methods. This study examined the association between cooking methods and anthropometrics, cardiovascular risk factors, and cardiac damage biomarkers in older adults. Data were taken from 2476 individuals aged ≥65 from the Seniors-ENRICA 2 cohort in Spain and recruited between 2015 and 2017. Eight cooking methods (raw, boiling, roasting, pan-frying, frying, toasting, sautéing, and stewing) were assessed using a face-to-face validated dietary history. Study associations were summarized as adjusted percentage differences (PDs) in anthropometrics, cardiovascular risk factors, and cardiac damage biomarkers between extreme sex-specific quintiles ((5th − 1st/1st) × 100) of food consumed with each cooking method, estimated using marginal effects from generalized linear models. After adjusting for potential confounders, including diet quality, PDs corresponding to raw food consumption were −13.4% (p-trend: <0.001) for weight, −12.9% (p-trend: <0.001) for body mass index (BMI), −14.8% (p-trend: <0.001) for triglycerides, and −13.6% (p-trend: <0.115) for insulin. PDs for boiled food consumption were −13.3% (p-trend: <0.001) for weight, −10.0% (p-trend: <0.001) for BMI, and −20.5% (p-trend: <0.001) for insulin. PDs for roasted food consumption were −11.1 (p-trend: <0.001) for weight and −23.3% (p-trend: <0.001) for insulin. PDs for pan-fried food consumption were −18.7% (p-trend: <0.019) for insulin, −15.3% (p-trend: <0.094) for pro-B-type natriuretic peptide amino-terminal, and −10.9% (p-trend: <0.295) for troponin T. No relevant differences were observed for blood pressure nor for other cooking methods. Raw food consumption along with boiling, roasting, and pan-frying were associated with healthier cardiovascular profiles, mainly due to lower weight and insulin levels. Future experimental research should test the effectiveness of these cooking methods for cardiovascular prevention in older adults.

The Association of Dietary Pattern with the Risk of Prehypertension and Hypertension in Jiangsu Province: A Longitudinal Study from 2007 to 2014

Hypertension is the most common chronic disease and the primary risk factor for cardiovascular diseases. Prehypertension is closely related to a variety of cardiovascular disease risk factors during the development of hypertension. The objective of this study was to explore the relationship between dietary patterns and hypertension in Jiangsu Province. Specifically, we included the participants from 2007 and then followed up in 2014 in the Jiangsu Province of China and collected information from food frequency questionnaires, anthropometric measurements, and disease self-reports. A total of 1762 women and men were included in the final analysis. We extracted four dietary patterns using factor analysis, calculated the pattern-specific factor scores, and divided the scores into quartiles, which increased from Q1 to Q4. Compared with participants in Q1, an increased risk of high diastolic blood pressure was found in Q4 of the snack dietary pattern. Additionally, participants in Q2–Q4 of the frugal dietary pattern were found to have a positive association with abnormal blood pressure. However, the results found in the frugal dietary pattern vanished after adjusting more confounders in Q4 of high systolic blood pressure. We found that some food items were associated with hypertension and prehypertension. The overconsumption of salt and alcohol are risk factors for both prehypertension and hypertension. Added sugar and saturated fatty acids are risk factors for hypertension, which may provide suggestions for the residents in China to change dietary habits to prevent prehypertension and hypertension.

PEGASO e-Diary: User Engagement and Dietary Behavior Change of a Mobile Food Record for Adolescents

Background

Obesity amongst children and adolescents is becoming a major health problem globally and mobile food records can play a crucial role in promoting healthy dietary habits.

Objective

To describe the methodology for the implementation of the e-Diary mobile food record, to assess its capability in promoting healthy eating habits, to evaluate the factors associated with its usage and engagement.

Methods

This is a descriptive study that compared the characteristics of participants engaged in the e-Diary, which was part of the PEGASO project in which an app to provide proactive health promotion was given to 365 students at 4 European sites enrolled during October to December 2016: England (UK), Scotland (UK), Lombardy (Italy), and Catalonia (Spain). The e-Diary tracked the users' dietary habits in terms of food groups, dietary indexes, and 6 dietary target behaviors relating to consumption of: fruit; vegetable; breakfast; sugar-sweetened beverages; fast-food; and snacks. The e-Diary provided also personalized suggestions for the next meal and gamification.

Results

The e-Diary was used for 6 months by 357 adolescents (53.8% females). The study showed that females used the e-Diary much more than males (aOR 3.8, 95% CI 1.6-8.8). Participants aged 14 years were more engaged in the e-Diary than older age groups (aOR 5.1, 95% CI 1.4-18.8) as were those with a very good/excellent self-perceived health status compared to their peers with fair/poor health perception (aOR 4.2, 95% CI 1.3-13.3). Compared to the intervention sites, those living in Catalonia (aOR 13.2 95% CI 2.5-68.8) were more engaged. In terms of behavior change, a significant positive correlation between fruit (p < 0.0001) and vegetables (p = 0.0087) intake was observed in association with increased engagement in the e-Diary. Similarly, adolescents who used the app for more than 2 weeks had significantly higher odds of not skipping breakfast over the study period (aOR 2.5, 95% CI 1.0-6.3).

Conclusions

The users highly engaged with the e-Diary were associated with improved dietary behaviors: increased consumption of fruit and vegetables and reduced skipping of breakfast. Although the overall usage of the e-Diary was high during the first weeks, it declined thereafter. Future applications should foster user engagement, particularly targeting adolescents at high risk.

Clinical Trial Registration

https://www.clinicaltrials.gov/, identifier: NCT02930148.

Dietary patterns of persons with chronic conditions within a multi-ethnic population: results from the nationwide Knowledge, Attitudes and Practices survey on diabetes in Singapore

Background

Chronic conditions are a leading cause of death and disability worldwide and respective data on dietary patterns remain scant. The present study aimed to investigate dietary patterns and identify sociodemographic factors associated with Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension (DASH) scores within a multi-ethnic population with various chronic conditions.

Methods

The present study utilised data from the 2019-2020 Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices study on diabetes in Singapore – a nationwide survey conducted to track the knowledge, attitudes, and practices pertaining to diabetes. The study analysed data collected from a sample of 2,895 Singapore residents, with information from the sociodemographic section, DASH diet screener, and the modified version of the World Mental Health Composite International Diagnostic Interview (CIDI) version 3.0 checklist of chronic physical conditions.

Results

Respondents with no chronic condition had a mean DASH score of 18.5 (±4.6), those with one chronic condition had a mean DASH score of 19.2 (±4.8), and those with two or more chronic conditions had a mean DASH score of 19.8 (±5.2). Overall, the older age groups [35– 49 years (B = 1.78, 95% CI: 1.23 – 2.33, p <0.001), 50–64 years (B = 2.86, 95% CI: 22.24 – 3.47, p <0.001) and 65 years and above (B = 3.45, 95% CI: 2.73 – 4.17, p <0.001)], Indians (B = 2.54, 95% CI: 2.09 – 2.98, p <0.001) reported better diet quality, while males (B = -1.50, 95% CI: -1.87 – -1.14, p <0.001) reported poorer diet quality versus females.

Conclusion

Overall, respondents with two or more chronic conditions reported better quality of diet while the sociodemographic factors of age, gender and ethnicity demonstrated a consistent pattern in correlating with diet quality, consistent with the extant literature. Results provide further insights for policymakers to refine ongoing efforts in relation to healthy dietary practices for Singapore.

Prevalence of overweight, obesity and central obesity and factors associated with BMI in indigenous yaqui people: a probabilistic cross-sectional survey

BACKGROUND

The Yaquis are an Indigenous group who inhabit in the state of Sonora in northwestern Mexico. This group has experienced changes in their lifestyle, moving from a traditional lifestyle to a more modern one, resulting in an increase of obesity and its comorbidities. However, few studies have been done in this group. The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of overweight, obesity and central obesity and to identify the factors associated with body mass index (BMI) in a representative sample of Indigenous Yaqui people from Sonora, Mexico.

METHODS

A cross-sectional survey with multistage sampling was conducted among adults (N = 351) with residence in Yaqui traditional villages (Vícam, Pótam, Loma de Guamúchil, Loma de Bácum, Tórim, Ráhum, Huiribis or Belem). Anthropometric measurements were taken to diagnose overweight, obesity and central obesity. Food frequency and physical activity (PA) questionnaires designed for the Yaqui population were applied, as well as sociodemographic and clinical history questionnaires. The factors associated with BMI were assessed using multiple linear regression considering the complex design of the sampling.

RESULTS

The prevalence of overweight, obesity and central obesity in the population were 36.5%, 35.0% and 76.0%, respectively. Having higher values of the modernization index (β = 0.20, p = 0.049) was associated with a higher BMI, while having a higher consumption of a "prudent" dietary pattern (traditional dishes, fruits, vegetables and low-fat dairy) (β = -0.58, p = 0.009) and performing a greater number of hours per week of vigorous PA (β = -0.14, p = 0.017) were associated with a lower BMI.

CONCLUSIONS

The prevalence of the studied abnormalities is high. The evidence presented in this study suggests that interventions are needed and more research is required to determine the appropriate components of such interventions, in order to meet the needs of the Yaqui people.

Human spatial memory is biased towards high-calorie foods: a cross-cultural online experiment

Background

Human memory appears to prioritise locations of high-calorie foods, likely as an adaptation for foraging within fluctuating ancestral food environments. Importantly, this “high-calorie bias” in human spatial memory seems to yield consequences for individual eating behaviour in modern food-abundant settings. However, as studies have mainly been conducted in European (Dutch) populations to date, we investigated whether the existence of the cognitive bias can be reasonably generalised across countries that vary on culturally-relevant domains, such as that of the USA and Japan. Furthermore, we investigated whether sociodemographic factors moderate the expression of the high-calorie spatial memory bias in different populations.

Methods

In a cross-cultural online experiment, we measured the food location memory of diverse participants from the USA (N = 72; 44.4% Male; 54 ± 15.99 years) and Japan (N = 74; 56.8% Male; 50.85 ± 17.32 years), using a validated computer-based spatial memory task with standardised images of high-calorie and low-calorie foods. To directly compare the magnitude of the high-calorie spatial memory bias in a broader cultural scope, we also included data from a previous online experiment that identically tested the food spatial memory of a Dutch sample (N = 405; 56.7% Male; 47.57 ± 17.48 years).

Results

In the US sample, individuals more accurately recalled (i.e. had lower pointing errors for) locations of high-calorie foods versus that of low-calorie alternatives (Mean difference = -99.23 pixels, 95% CI = [-197.19, -1.28]) – regardless of one’s hedonic preferences, familiarity with foods, and encoding times. Likewise, individuals in the Japanese sample displayed an enhanced memory for locations of high-calorie (savoury-tasting) foods (Mean difference = -40.41 pixels, 95% CI = [-76.14, -4.68]), while controlling for the same set of potential confounders. The magnitude of the high-calorie bias in spatial memory was similar across populations (i.e. the USA, Japan, and the Netherlands), as well as across diverse sociodemographic groups within a population.

Conclusions

Our results demonstrate that the high-calorie bias in spatial memory transcends sociocultural boundaries. Since the cognitive bias may negatively impact on our dietary decisions, it would be wise to invest in strategies that intervene on our seemingly universal ability to efficiently locate calorie-rich foods.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12966-022-01252-w.

Mediterranean Diet and Fatty Liver Risk in a Population of Overweight Older Italians: A Propensity Score-Matched Case-Cohort Study

Hepatic steatosis, often known as fatty liver, is the most common hepatic disease in Western countries. The latest guidelines for the treatment of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease emphasize lifestyle measures, such as changing unhealthy eating patterns. Using a propensity score-matching approach, this study investigated the effect of adhering to a Mediterranean diet (MedDiet) on fatty liver risk in an older population (≥65 years) from Southern Italy. We recruited 1.403 subjects (53.6% men, ≥65 years) who completed a food frequency questionnaire (FFQ) and underwent clinical assessment between 2015 and 2018. For the assessment of the liver fat content, we applied the Fatty Liver Index (FLI). To evaluate the treatment effect of the MedDiet, propensity score matching was performed on patients with and without FLI > 60. After propensity score-matching with the MedDiet pattern as treatment, we found a higher consumption of red meat (p = 0.04) and wine (p = 0.04) in subjects with FLI > 60. Based on the FLI, the inverse association shown between adherence to the MedDiet and the risk of hepatic steatosis shows that the MedDiet can help to prevent hepatic steatosis. Consuming less red and processed meat, as well as alcoholic beverages, may be part of these healthy lifestyle recommendations.

Diet Quality and Survival in a Population-Based Bladder Cancer Study

Nutrition may impact bladder cancer survival. We examined the association between diet quality and overall and bladder cancer-specific survival. Bladder cancer cases from a population-based study reported pre-diagnosis diet. Diet quality was assessed using the 2010 Alternate Healthy Eating Index (AHEI-2010). Vital status was ascertained from the National Death Index. Adjusted hazard ratios (HR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) were estimated using proportional hazards and competing risks regression models. Overall AHEI-2010 adherence was not associated with overall or bladder cancer-specific survival among non-muscle invasive bladder cancer (NMIBC) cases (HR, 1.00; 95% CI, 0.98-1.01; HR, 1.00; 95% CI, 0.97-1.02) or muscle invasive bladder cancer (MIBC) cases (HR, 0.99; 95% CI, 0.96-1.03; HR, 1.01, 95% CI 0.97-1.06). AHEI-2010 sugar-sweetened beverages adherence was associated with poorer overall survival (HR, 1.04; 95% CI, 1.01-1.08) and AHEI-2010 sodium adherence was associated with better overall and bladder cancer-specific survival after NMIBC diagnosis (HR, 0.92, 95% CI, 0.85-1.00; HR, 0.82; 95% CI, 0.68-0.98). AHEI-2010 fruit adherence was associated with poorer overall and bladder cancer-specific survival after MIBC diagnosis (HR, 1.17; 95% CI, 1.02-1.33; HR, 1.26; 95% CI, 1.03-1.55). Consumption of sugar-sweetened beverages, sodium, and fruit, not overall AHEI-2010 adherence, may be associated with bladder cancer survival.

Longitudinal trajectories and determinants of human fungiform papillae density

Tongue fungiform papillae contain taste buds crucial for taste and hormone-producing taste receptor cells; therefore, they may be considered as endocrine organs and have important age-associated physiological implications. We examine the cross-sectional and longitudinal trajectories of fungiform papillae density in 1084 participants from the Baltimore Longitudinal Study of Aging using linear regression models and mixed effects models. At baseline, the mean age was 67.86 ± 14.20 years, with a mean follow-up time among those with repeat visits of 4.24 ± 1.70 years. Women (53%) were younger (66.85 ± 13.78 vs. 69.04 ± 14.61 years, p < 0.001) and had a higher fungiform papillae density than men (16.14 ± 9.54 vs. 13.77 ± 8.61 papillae/cm², p < 0.001). Whites (67%) had a lower fungiform papillae density than non-Whites after adjusting for age and sex. Factors cross-sectionally associated with a lower fungiform papillae density included a higher waist-hip ratio (β = −8.525, p = 0.029), current smoking status (β = −5.133, p = 0.014), and alcohol use within the past 12 months (β = −1.571, p = 0.025). Longitudinally, fungiform papillae density decreased linearly with follow-up time (β = −0.646, p < 0.001). The rate of decline was not affected by sex, race, BMI, waist-hip ratio, smoking, or alcohol use. The longitudinal decline of fungiform papillae density over time needs to be explored further in order to identify other possible age-associated physiological determinants.

Associations between empirically derived dietary patterns and cardiovascular risk factors among older adult men

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) remains the leading cause of death globally, and epidemiological studies have suggested a link between diet and cardiometabolic risk. Currently, the prevalence of CVD is rapidly increasing with an aging population and continues to contribute to the growing economic and public health burden. However, there is limited evidence available regarding dietary patterns and cardiometabolic risk factors in older adults. We conducted a cross-sectional study to assess dietary patterns and cardiometabolic risk factors in males ≥60 years. Factor analysis identified a "healthy" diet and an "unhealthy" diet as the two primary dietary patterns. Multivariable logistic regression was used for estimating the associations of identified dietary patterns and cardiometabolic risk factors including anthropometric measures, blood pressure, glycemic biomarkers, lipid profile, and inflammatory biomarkers. A healthy dietary pattern was significantly associated with decreased odds of high serum fasting blood sugar (FBS) (OR: 0.32; 95% CI: 0.15-0.67; P_trend=0.002), but increased odds of high serum low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) (OR: 1.82; 95% CI: 1.02-3.24; P_trend=0.04). In comparison, an unhealthy diet was associated with increased odds of obesity (OR: 2.33; 95% CI: 1.31-4.15; P_trend=0.004) and high LDL-C (OR: 2.00; 95% CI: 1.10-2.61; P_trend=0.02). Thus, in older adults, adherence to an unhealthy dietary pattern has a significant impact on clinically relevant risk factors for cardiometabolic risk.

Dietary patterns among adolescents and associated factors: longitudinal study on sedentary behavior, physical activity, diet and adolescent health

The aim of the present study was to identify dietary patterns and associations with socioeconomic characteristics, lifestyle, nutritional status, lipid profile and inflammatory profile in adolescents. A cross-sectional study was conducted with a probabilistic sample using baseline data (2014) from the Longitudinal Study on Sedentary Behavior, Physical Activity, Eating Habits and Adolescent Health. A total of 1,438 adolescents (10 to 14 years old) from public schools in the city of João Pessoa, Brazil, participated in the study. Data were collected on socioeconomic characteristics, nutritional status, lifestyle and the results of biochemical tests. Dietary data were obtained using the 24-hour recall method and dietary patterns were identified by exploratory factor analysis. Associations of interest were estimated using multiple logistic regression. Three dietary patterns were found: "Traditional", "Snacks" and "Western". These patterns were associated with age, socioeconomic status, parental education and lifestyle. The "Traditional" pattern was associated lower adiposity and a better lipid profile. However, with the increase in age, greater frequencies of the "Snacks" and "Western" patterns were found. The present findings underscore the need for strategies that encourage healthy behaviors.

Impact of dietary and obesity genetic risk scores on weight gain

BACKGROUND

Whether genetic background and/or dietary behaviors influence weight gain in middle-aged subjects is debated.

OBJECTIVE

To assess whether genetic background and/or dietary behaviors are associated with changes in obesity markers (BMI, weight, and waist and hip circumferences) in a Swiss population-based cohort.

METHODS

Cross-sectional and prospective (follow-up of 5.3 y) study. Two obesity genetic risk scores (GRS) based on 31 or 68 single nucleotide polymorphisms were used. Dietary intake was assessed using a semiquantitative FFQ. Three dietary patterns "Meat & fries" (unhealthy), "Fruits & vegetables" (healthy), and "Fatty & sugary" (unhealthy), and 3 dietary scores (2 Mediterranean and the Alternative Healthy Eating Index [AHEI]) were computed.

RESULTS

On cross-sectional analysis (N = 3033, 53.2% females, 58.4 ± 10.6 y), obesity markers were positively associated with unhealthy dietary patterns and GRS, and negatively associated with healthy dietary scores and patterns. On prospective analysis (N = 2542, 54.7% females, age at baseline 58.0 ± 10.4 y), the AHEI and the "Fruits & vegetables" pattern were negatively associated with waist circumference gain: multivariate-adjusted average ± SE 0.96 ± 0.25 compared with 0.11 ± 0.26 cm (P for trend 0.044), and 1.14 ± 0.26 compared with -0.05 ± 0.26 cm (P for trend 0.042) for the first and fourth quartiles of the AHEI and the "Fruits & vegetables" pattern, respectively. Similar inverse associations were obtained for changes in waist >5 cm: multivariate-adjusted OR (95% CI): 0.65 (0.50, 0.85) and 0.67 (0.51, 0.89) for the fourth versus the first quartile of the AHEI and the "Fruits & vegetables" dietary pattern, respectively. No associations were found between GRS and changes in obesity markers, and no significant gene-diet interactions were found.

CONCLUSION

Dietary intake, not GRS, are associated with waist circumference in middle-aged subjects living in Lausanne, Switzerland.

Meal patterns associated with energy intake in people with obesity

It is widely assumed that people with obesity have several common eating patterns, including breakfast skipping, eating during the night and high fast-food consumption. However, differences in individual meal and dietary patterns may be crucial to optimising obesity treatment. Therefore, we investigated the inter-individual variation in eating patterns, hypothesising that individuals with obesity show different dietary and meal patterns, and that these associate with self-reported energy intake (rEI) and/or anthropometric measures. Cross-sectional data from 192 participants (aged 20-55 years) with obesity, including 6 d of weighed food records, were analysed. Meal patterns and dietary patterns were derived using exploratory hierarchical cluster analysis and k-means cluster analysis, respectively. Five clear meal patterns were found based on the time-of-day with the highest mean rEI. The daily rEI was highest among 'midnight-eaters' (10 669 (sd 2301) kJ), and significantly (P < 0·05) higher than 'dinner-eaters' (8619 (sd 2301) kJ), 'lunch-eaters' (8703 (sd 2176) kJ) and 'supper-eaters' (8786 (sd 1925) kJ), but not 'regular-eaters' (9749 (sd 2720) kJ). Despite differences of up to 2050 kJ between meal patterns, there were no significant differences in anthropometric measures or physical activity level (PAL). Four dietary patterns were also found with significant differences in intake of specific food groups, but without significant differences in anthropometry, PAL or rEI. Our data highlight meal timing as a determinant of individual energy intake in people with obesity. The study supports the importance of considering a person's specific meal pattern, with possible implications for more person-focused guidelines and targeted advice.

Demographic, spatial and temporal dietary intake patterns among 526 774 23andMe research participants

OBJECTIVE

To characterise dietary habits, their temporal and spatial patterns and associations with BMI in the 23andMe study population.

DESIGN

We present a large-scale cross-sectional analysis of self-reported dietary intake data derived from the web-based National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey 2009-2010 dietary screener. Survey-weighted estimates for each food item were characterised by age, sex, race/ethnicity, education and BMI. Temporal patterns were plotted over a 2-year time period, and average consumption for select food items was mapped by state. Finally, dietary intake variables were tested for association with BMI.

SETTING

US-based adults 20-85 years of age participating in the 23andMe research programme.

PARTICIPANTS

Participants were 23andMe customers who consented to participate in research (n 526 774) and completed web-based surveys on demographic and dietary habits.

RESULTS

Survey-weighted estimates show very few participants met federal recommendations for fruit: 2·6 %, vegetables: 5·9 % and dairy intake: 2·8 %. Between 2017 and 2019, fruit, vegetables and milk intake frequency declined, while total dairy remained stable and added sugars increased. Seasonal patterns in reporting were most pronounced for ice cream, chocolate, fruits and vegetables. Dietary habits varied across the USA, with higher intake of sugar and energy dense foods characterising areas with higher average BMI. In multivariate-adjusted models, BMI was directly associated with the intake of processed meat, red meat, dairy and inversely associated with consumption of fruit, vegetables and whole grains.

CONCLUSIONS

23andMe research participants have created an opportunity for rapid, large-scale, real-time nutritional data collection, informing demographic, seasonal and spatial patterns with broad geographical coverage across the USA.

Examining the associations between a posteriori dietary patterns and obesity indexes: Systematic review of observational studies

BACKGROUND

Few reports on the association of population-derived dietary patterns with excess body weight, using the approach of a systematic review currently exist.

AIM

The aim of the present systematic review was to identify dietary patterns associated with body mass index (BMI), body weight (BW)/BMI change, weight status and weight loss maintenance status.

METHODS

Using MEDLINE (via PubMed) and EBSCO Host databases, we systematically reviewed studies from 1980 to 2020, which included men and women, aged ≥18 years. Primary outcome was BMI or the longitudinal change of individuals' BW or BMI, or weight status (normal weight/overweight/obesity) or weight loss maintenance status. We included observational studies, with or without a prospective design. Studies which met the inclusion criteria were evaluated based on the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale; only a posteriori dietary patterns were evaluated.

RESULTS

Twenty-six studies were eligible for inclusion in the current analysis. The results indicate a relationship between adherence to a lacto-vegetarian dietary pattern, characterized by high intake of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, unprocessed cereals, dairy and low intake of high-fat foods and sweets, and longitudinal change of individuals' BW or BMI, or the risk of overweight/obesity.

CONCLUSIONS

Promotion of this healthy dietary pattern, as an alternative to focusing on specific nutrients or foods, may be a promising approach to be included in future long-term weight maintenance interventions.

Examining Nutrition and Food Waste Trade-offs Using an Obesity Prevention Context

Obesity and food waste are related issues, both exacerbated by an overabundance of food. Efforts to reduce food waste can have varying unintended, obesity-related consequences, which further underscores the need for a systems approach to food waste reduction. Yet, these 2 issues are rarely examined together. It is the authors' point of view that for nutrition educators and other public health practitioners to develop interventions that simultaneously address food waste and obesity, they need to understand how actions at the consumer-level may impact waste and its related food system consequences earlier in the supply chain.

Advances in dietary pattern analysis in nutritional epidemiology

Background and Purpose

It used to be a common practice in the field of nutritional epidemiology to analyze separate nutrients, foods, or food groups. However, in reality, nutrients and foods are consumed in combination. The introduction of dietary patterns (DP) and their analysis has revolutionized this field, making it possible to take into account the synergistic effects of foods and to account for the complex interaction among nutrients and foods. Three approaches of DP analysis exist: (1) the hypothesis-based approach (based on prior knowledge regarding the current understanding of dietary components and their health relation), (2) the exploratory approach (solely relying on dietary intake data), and (3) the hybrid approach (a combination of both approaches). During the recent past, complementary approaches for DP analysis have emerged both conceptually and methodologically.

Method

We have summarized the recent developments that include incorporating the Treelet transformation method as a complementary exploratory approach in a narrative review.

Results

Uses, peculiarities, strengths, limitations, and scope of recent developments in DP analysis are outlined. Next, the narrative review gives an overview of the literature that takes into account potential relevant dietary-related factors, specifically the metabolome and the gut microbiome in DP analysis. Then the review deals with the aspect of data processing that is needed prior to DP analysis, particularly when dietary data arise from assessment methods other than the long-established food frequency questionnaire. Lastly, potential opportunities for upcoming DP analysis are summarized in the outlook.

Conclusion

Biological factors like the metabolome and the microbiome are crucial to understand diet-disease relationships. Therefore, the inclusion of these factors in DP analysis might provide deeper insights.

The Role of Oat Nutrients in the Immune System: A Narrative Review

Optimal nutrition is the foundation for the development and maintenance of a healthy immune system. An optimal supply of nutrients is required for biosynthesis of immune factors and immune cell proliferation. Nutrient deficiency/inadequacy and hidden hunger, which manifests as depleted nutrients reserves, increase the risk of infectious diseases and aggravate disease severity. Therefore, an adequate and balanced diet containing an abundant diversity of foods, nutrients, and non-nutrient chemicals is paramount for an optimal immune defense against infectious diseases, including cold/flu and non-communicable diseases. Some nutrients and foods play a larger role than others in the support of the immune system. Oats are a nutritious whole grain and contain several immunomodulating nutrients. In this narrative review, we discuss the contribution of oat nutrients, including dietary fiber (β-glucans), copper, iron, selenium, and zinc, polyphenolics (ferulic acid and avenanthramides), and proteins (glutamine) in optimizing the innate and adaptive immune system's response to infections directly by modulating the innate and adaptive immunity and indirectly by eliciting changes in the gut microbiota and related metabolites.

Dietary habits of patients with coronary artery disease in a tertiary-care hospital of Bangladesh: a case-controlled study

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES

Globally, coronary artery disease (CAD) remains one of the leading causes of death, both in developed and less economically developed countries (LEDC) including Bangladesh. Diet plays a key role in the pathogenesis processes of atherosclerosis and coronary artery disease (CAD). The purpose of this study was to assess the dietary habit of heart disease cases that had CAD against matched controls.

METHODOLOGY

Complying Helsinki ethical norms, with written consent, this case-control study was performed among 210 subjects: 105 CAD-hospitalized patients (selected from Lab Aid Cardiac and Specialized Hospitals) and 105 healthy subjects from local urban communities having their body mass index (BMI: ranging between ≥18.5 and 27 socio-demographic status, detailed-dietary patterns and blood pressure levels were recorded, anthropometric indices measured, and serum biochemistry (complete lipid profile) tested/analyzed for both the cases and controls. All visually re-checked data were analyzed using appropriate statistical tools (t test/conditional-logistic regressions) on SPS/Windows V.21.0.

RESULT

Almost half (45%) CAD patients had hypertriglyceridemia and higher levels of low-density lipoprotein, significantly higher BMA (p=0.001), waist circumference, and waist to hip ratio in male patients (p=0.005 and p=0.020, respectively) than their peer controls. Serum lipid profiles, sugar concentrations, and blood pressure levels of CAD patients revealed higher levels than clinically defined cut-off values as established risk factors for CAD. Odds ratios (CI 95%) as risk factors for consuming junk food {OR=5.49 (2.25-13.38)}, chicken {OR=4.54 (1.89-10.9) was the most, followed by beef {OR=2.68 (1.19-4.98)}, eggs {OR=2.38 (1.14-10.92)}, fish {OR=2.81 (1.31-6.04)}, and vegetables {0R=.968 (0.510-1.839)}. However, fat-free milk, ghee/butter oil, curd/yogurt, and fruits had lower ORs revealing no or less risks for CAD.

CONCLUSION

Food habits of CAD patients (with higher BMI level and biochemical indicators of the blood) statistically revealed that consuming junk food, meat, and eggs being riskier, fruits, fat-free milk, yogurt, and vegetable remains have protective effects on CAD.

Perspective: Big Data and Machine Learning Could Help Advance Nutritional Epidemiology

The field of nutritional epidemiology faces challenges posed by measurement error, diet as a complex exposure, and residual confounding. The objective of this perspective article is to highlight how developments in big data and machine learning can help address these challenges. New methods of collecting 24-h dietary recalls and recording diet could enable larger samples and more repeated measures to increase statistical power and measurement precision. In addition, use of machine learning to automatically classify pictures of food could become a useful complimentary method to help improve precision and validity of dietary measurements. Diet is complex due to thousands of different foods that are consumed in varying proportions, fluctuating quantities over time, and differing combinations. Current dietary pattern methods may not integrate sufficient dietary variation, and most traditional modeling approaches have limited incorporation of interactions and nonlinearity. Machine learning could help better model diet as a complex exposure with nonadditive and nonlinear associations. Last, novel big data sources could help avoid unmeasured confounding by offering more covariates, including both omics and features derived from unstructured data with machine learning methods. These opportunities notwithstanding, application of big data and machine learning must be approached cautiously to ensure quality of dietary measurements, avoid overfitting, and confirm accurate interpretations. Greater use of machine learning and big data would also require substantial investments in training, collaborations, and computing infrastructure. Overall, we propose that judicious application of big data and machine learning in nutrition science could offer new means of dietary measurement, more tools to model the complexity of diet and its relations with diseases, and additional potential ways of addressing confounding.

Carotid artery intima-media thickness in adults receiving long-term home parenteral nutrition

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Nutrition regimen in parenteral nutrition (PN) patients allows for a control of diet components. This may affect the process of lipid deposition in the vascular wall and change the risk of atherosclerosis. This study aims to examine the effect of long-term PN in adults on carotid intima-media thickness.

METHODS AND RESULTS

Thirty long-term PN patients (15 men and 15 women, mean age 64.7 ± 8.5 years) and thirty healthy volunteers (HV) (15 men and 15 women, mean age 64.9 ± 8.77 years) entered the study. Total amino acid and lipid formulation intake as well as duration of PN were calculated for PN patients. The common carotid artery intima-media thickness (CCA IMT) was examined in both groups. A lower CCA IMT (right/left mean: PN - 776 ± 121 vs HV - 848 ± 121 μm, p < 0.05; right/left maximum CCA IMT: PN - 935 ± 139 vs HV - 1024 ± 135 μm, p < 0.05) in PN patients was observed. A lower serum level of total (PN - 131.43 ± 43.12 vs HV - 209.2 ± 48.01 mg/dl, p < 0.05) and HDL (PN- 44.16 ± 12.45 vs HV - 72.57 ± 25.04 mg/dl, p < 0.05) cholesterol was reported in the PN patients. A correlation between patients' age and CCA IMT was observed in the control group, but not in the PN patients (right/left mean CCA IMT - PN: r = 0.48, p-0.007 vs HV: p-0.073; right/left maximum CCA IMT - PN: r = 0.48, p-0.008, vs HV: p-0.073).

CONCLUSIONS

Long term PN in adults is associated with lower CCA IMT. Long-term PN patients are a unique group in which carotid intima-media thickness does not correlate with the age.

Prospective association between dietary patterns and BMI Z-score in Brazilian adolescents

OBJECTIVE

To identify dietary patterns and prospectively evaluate their influence on the BMI Z-score of adolescents.

DESIGN

A longitudinal study, using data from the Longitudinal Study on Sedentary Behavior, Physical Activity, Eating Habits and Adolescent Health - LONCAAFS.

SETTING

To obtain data on food consumption, a 24-h recall survey was conducted; a second 24-h recall was applied to 30 % of the sample in all waves. Dietary patterns were identified by exploratory factor analysis using principal components. BMI Z-score was determined according to the recommendation of the WHO, based on the BMI for age and sex. Socio-economic data, sedentary behaviour and physical activity level were obtained. Associations between BMI Z-score and dietary patterns and between BMI Z-score and variables of interest were determined using generalised estimating equations.

PARTICIPANTS

Totally, 1431 adolescents were assessed in 2014, 1178 in 2015, 959 in 2016 and 773 in 2017, belonging to the public schools of João Pessoa, Northeast Brazil.

RESULTS

Three dietary patterns were identified throughout the study: 'traditional', 'snacks' and 'Western'. The 'Western' dietary pattern was positively associated with BMI Z-score (β = 0·025; 95 % CI 0·002, 0·048), regardless of sex and physical activity level, prospectively.

CONCLUSION

A dietary pattern composed of foods with high energy density, high fat and sugars, and low fibre influences the BMI Z-score of adolescents over time.

Acculturation is Associated with Dietary Patterns in South Asians in America

Acculturation may influence diet pattern, a risk factor for cardiometabolic disease. We assessed whether strength of traditional cultural beliefs and practices, a robust measure of acculturation, affects diet pattern among South Asians in America. With data from the Mediators of Atherosclerosis in South Asians Living in America (MASALA) cohort, we used ordinal logistic regression to assess the association between strength of traditional cultural beliefs, 6 cultural practices and diet pattern. Of 892 participants, 47% were women. Weaker traditional cultural beliefs [OR(95%CI) 1.07(1.04,1.10)] and cultural practices (p < 0.05) were associated with consuming more of the Animal Protein dietary pattern and less [0.95(0.93,0.97)] of the Fried snacks, Sweets, High-fat dairy (FSHD) pattern (P < 0.05). South Asians in America with stronger traditional cultural beliefs and practices were more likely to consume the FSHD pattern. Prevention programs may consider dietary pattern modification as part of comprehensive risk reduction in South Asians.

Increase in Body Weight Following Residential Displacement: 5-year Follow-up After the 2011 Great East Japan Earthquake and Tsunami

BACKGROUND

Previous studies have linked residential displacement as a result of the 2011 East Japan Earthquake to increases in body weight. However, no study has examined longer-term trajectories of body weight among displaced survivors. We compared body weight change between survivors relocated to temporary housing (TH) group versus other types of accommodation for up to 5 years after the Great East Japan Earthquake.

METHODS

Longitudinal follow-up was conducted from 2011 to 2015 in a cohort of 9,909 residents of 42,831. We compared trends in body weight in the TH group (n = 3,169) and the non-TH group (n = 6,740) using a mixed linear regression model stratified by sex (mean age, 61.0 years old; male, 38.9%).

RESULTS

In age-adjusted analysis, the body weight in the 2011 survey was not significantly different between two groups for either sex. In men, the TH group significantly increased body weight compared to the non-TH group since 2012. In women, body weight sharply increased in the TH group while body weight did not change in the non-TH group during survey time points. The interaction of living conditions and survey years was statistically significant in both sexes (men; F-value, 6.958; P < 0.001: women; F-value, 19.127; P < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

Survivors relocated to temporary housing had an increased risk of weight gain. The weight gain in this group is a potential risk factor for metabolic syndrome in the post-disaster period.

Nutritional profiling of frail and obese, community dwelling older subjects: Results from a national survey

INTRODUCTION

Less attention has been given to the detection and nutritional status and needs of obese frail/sarcopenic older subjects. The aim of this study was to characterize the nutritional composition in older (≥65 years), frail-prone, obese subjects (defined by either waist circumference [WC] or body mass index [BMI]).

METHODS

A cross-sectional study with analysis of the national survey "Mabat Zahav". Random sample of 1751 community dwelling Israeli older adults (≥65 years). Eleven nutritional factors formerly linked to frailty were a-priori selected based on the current literature. Data was extracted from a 24-hour dietary recall. Adherence for each nutritional factor was defined using the Dietary Reference Intakes (DRI), and aggregated into a sum score of the overall adherence (ranging from "0" to "11", where "fair" adherence was defined as ≥6; inadequate adherence otherwise). Frailty likelihood was estimated using a validated non-direct model, and associations of nutritional factors with frailty-likelihood in obese vs non-obese individuals were examined. Additionally, a decision tree procedure based on machine learning was applied in order to capture nutritional factors related to frailty, stratified by gender, as well as by WC and/or BMI.

RESULTS

Overall, the prevalence rates of frailty and pre-frailty were 7.1 and 57.6%, respectively. A "fair nutritional adherence" was less common among frail-prone compared to robust subjects (23.1% vs. 32.1%; p < 0.0001). The intake of most frailty-related nutritional factors did not co-segregate according to the presence of abdominal or BMI-defined obesity. Still, compared to robust normal/overweight subjects, frail-prone obese (by BMI) individuals had a higher rate of inadequate nutritional adherence (odds-ratio 1.842; p < 0.05). Of all 11 nutritional factors, folate in obese women and vitamin A (as retinol) and calcium in non-obese and obese men, respectively, were recognized as the most prominent predictors of frail-prone prevalence by the machine learning process. Although BMI was more closely associated with impaired intake of the 11 selected nutritional components than WC, this association was eliminated when frailty status, low income and education were considered.

CONCLUSIONS

Frail-prone subjects differed from robust subjects in their nutritional intake. Nutritional inadequacies related to frailty-likelihood were mostly seen among obese women and non-obese men. In the prediction of inadequate adherence to the DRI of 11 nutritional components, obesity is a weaker predictor than frailty, lower education and low income in older Israeli adults.

The associations between dietary patterns and cardiovascular risk factors among adults: A cross-sectional study

OBJECTIVE

Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) are the major causes of death, worldwide. Although for decades the associations between individual foods and nutrients and CVDs have been investigated, little attention has been paid to dietary patterns. Therefore, this study was conducted to examine the association between dietary patterns and CVD risk factors among Iranian adults.

METHODS

This cross-sectional study was performed on 236 adults who attended public health centers. Dietary intakes were collected using a valid food frequency questionnaire. Sociodemographic characteristics, anthropometric measures, and biochemical biomarkers were measured using standardized methods. Dietary patterns derived using the factor analysis. Logistic regression assessed the odds of CVD risk factors across tertiles of data-driven dietary patterns.

RESULTS

We identified three dietary patterns. After adjusting for possible confounders, we observed that participants in the third category of the healthy dietary pattern (HDP) had lower odds of low HDL-C (OR = 0.26; 95% CI: 0.10-0.64) compared to those in the first category. Adherence to the mixed pattern was associated with increased odds of high serum TC in men only (OR = 3.69; 95% CI: 1.06-12.81). However, women with higher adherence to the Western dietary pattern (WDP) had higher odds of high serum TG (OR = 5.61; 95% CI: 1.69-18.59), and those with a greater adherence to HDP had lower odds of low HDL-C (OR = 0.25; 95% CI: 0.07-0.98).

CONCLUSION

This study showed that adherence to HDP may protect against a low level of HDL-C, whereas mixed and Western-type diets may contribute to high serum TG levels. Future longitudinal studies are needed to assess the potential causality of the observed associations.

Secular trend in dietary patterns of Iranian adults from 2006 to 2017: Tehran lipid and glucose study

BACKGROUND

Based on data regarding nutrition transition in the Middle East and North Africa, this study aim to investigate the general structure and secular trend of dietary patterns reported from the Tehran Lipid and Glucose Study (TLGS) and adherence to these dietary patterns among Iranian population from 2006 till 2017.

METHODS

We investigated on four examination waves of TLGS, including wave 1 (2006-2008), wave 2 (2009-2011), wave 3 (2012-2014), and wave 4 (2015-2017), using a validated and reliable food frequency questionnaire. Generalized Estimating Equations was used to assess secular trends in anthropometric, biochemical, and dietary variables across the study period. To identify general structure and secular trend of dietary patterns during each waves, principle component analysis (PCA) and K-mean cluster analysis were used, respectively.

RESULTS

After adjusting for potential confounders including age, sex, body mass index, and total energy intake, the carbohydrate and protein intake gradually increased and the total fat intake decreased during study period (P-value< 0.001), although total energy intake remained stable. During the study period, participants consumed noticeably less refined grains, solid fat, dairy products, and simple sugars. Snack and dessert consumption increased and meat intakes showed no significant changes during a decade (all P-values< 0.001). Three dietary patterns extracted using PCA, included: Healthy dietary pattern characterized by higher intakes of vegetable, fruit, dairy products, liquid oil, nuts and seeds, and honey and jam; Western dietary pattern featured by refined grain, solid fat, meat, snack and dessert, potato, and soft drink, and the Mixed dietary pattern, highlighted by tea and coffee, and simple sugar. Based on cluster analysis, 27.8% of participants in wave 4 followed a Western dietary pattern, and 34.1% followed the Mixed dietary pattern. The Healthy dietary pattern was stable among the study population during the last decade.

CONCLUSIONS

The structure and the type of foods that participants preferred to eat changed since 2006, a new secular trend in dietary patterns, including a stability of Healthy dietary pattern, a decline of the Western dietary pattern and an increase in the Mixed dietary pattern was obsereved in our investigation.

Trajectories of Change in the Behavioral and Health Phenotype of Adolescents and Adults with Fragile X Syndrome and Intellectual Disability: Longitudinal Trends Over a Decade

This study examined trajectories of daily living skills, behavior problems, body mass index (BMI), and health conditions spanning nearly a decade in adolescents and adults with fragile X syndrome (N = 134; age range at study end = 19-49 years), examining influences of sex and autism spectrum disorder (ASD) symptoms. Hierarchical linear modeling revealed early increases in daily living skills, with decreases at older ages. Behavior problems became less severe over time, with some increases at older ages. Individuals gained weight and had increasing health problems over time. Fewer ASD symptoms were associated with greater daily living skills and fewer behavior problems at study start. This study offers some of the first prospective quantitative analyses of behavioral and health life course trajectories in FXS.

Documenting the Food Insecurity Experiences and Nutritional Status of Women in India: Study Protocol

BACKGROUND

Despite significant growth and change in India over the past two decades, some public health indicators have failed to keep pace. One such indicator is food insecurity. India is home to the largest number of people experiencing hunger and food insecurity. Food security is described as "a situation that exists when all people, at all times, have physical, social and economic access to sufficient, safe and nutritious food that meets their dietary needs and food preferences for an active and healthy life". While there has been considerable research investigating the role of crop yields, policy interventions, and food production in alleviating food insecurity in India, there is insufficient research investigating the social and cultural influences of food insecurity, including the role of women. The primary aim of this research is to investigate the experience of food insecurity among women in India. The objectives of this research are (1) to determine the role of women in food production and its contribution to household food security; (2) to examine the gender roles within households and the decision-making processes that influence food security, and (3) to investigate household nutritional status and food insecurity experience.

METHODS

Participants will include women who live in a village in Punjab, India. Interviews with 100 households, drawn from a convenience sample will be conducted. Interviews will be conducted in Punjabi with simultaneous English translation, and will include: food related experiences, anthropometric measurements (weight, height, waist, and hip) and dietary assessment (24-h diet recall, two non-consecutive days), dwelling facilities, agriculture related information, including household agriculture activities undertaken, food security status (via the United States Department of Agriculture Household Food Security Scale Measurement), and demographic information.

DISCUSSION

This study aims to investigate a range of determinants of food insecurity among a rural population. It will allow for the identification of some of the components of household food insecurity among women in India and will go part of the way to understanding how and why India continues to experience food and nutritional insecurity despite growth and progress in a range of other indicators.

Effects of Extra Virgin Olive Oil (EVOO) and the Traditional Brazilian Diet on Sarcopenia in Severe Obesity: A Randomized Clinical Trial

BACKGROUND

Nutritional interventions may have positive effects on sarcopenia and body composition.

OBJECTIVE

to evaluate the effectiveness of extra virgin olive oil (EVOO) consumption and a healthy traditional Brazilian diet (DieTBra) on improving sarcopenia indicators and reducing total body fat in severe obesity.

METHODS

A randomized controlled trial registered at ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT02463435) conducted with 111 severely obese participants randomized into three treatment groups-(1) EVOO (52 mL/day), (2) DieTBra, (3) DieTBra + EVOO (52 mL/day)-for 12 weeks. Body composition was assessed by dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry and sarcopenia by walking speed and handgrip strength.

RESULTS

Significant reductions in total body fat (p = 0.041) and body weight (p = 0.003) were observed in the DieTBra group. In the DietBra + olive oil group there was also a significant reduction in body weight (0.001) compared to the olive oil-only group. ANCOVA analyses showed reductions in total body fat in the DieTBra (p = 0.016) and DieTBra + olive oil (p = 0.004) groups. Individuals in the DieTBra group had significant improvements in their walking speed (p = 0.042) and handgrip strength (p = 0.044).

CONCLUSIONS

DieTBra contributes to improvements in handgrip strength, walking speed, and total body fat in severely obese adults. The major study was registered at ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT02463435).

Perspective: Whole and Refined Grains and Health-Evidence Supporting "Make Half Your Grains Whole"

Research-based dietary guidelines suggest that consumers "make half their grains whole." Yet some advocate ingesting only whole-grain foods (WGFs) and avoiding all refined-grain foods (RGFs). Some even recommend avoiding all grain-based foods (GBFs). This article will provide arguments to counter negative deductions about GBFs and RGFs, especially staple ones, and to support dietary guidance recommending a balance of GBFs-achieved through the right mix, type, and quantity of WGFs and RGFs. Studies looking at early mortality, body weight, and glucose tolerance and diabetes will be used as examples to characterize the literature about GBFs. The following issues are highlighted: 1) inconsistent findings between epidemiological and interventional studies and impacts of GBFs on health outcomes, and the underreporting of findings showing RGFs neither raise nor lower health risks; 2) multiple confounding and potential interactions make adequate statistical adjustment difficult; 3) nonuniform WGF definitions among studies make comparison of results challenging, especially because some WGFs may contain 49-74% refined grain (RG); 4) binary categorization of GBFs creates bias because nearly all categories of WGFs are recommended, but nearly half the RGF categories are not; 5) ingestion of >5 (30-g) servings RGFs/d and <1 serving WFGs/d creates dietary imbalance; 6) pattern names (e.g., "white bread") may impugn RGFs, when names such as "unbalanced" or "few fruits and vegetables" may more fairly characterize the dietary imbalance; 7) avoidance of all enriched RGs may not only impair status of folate and other B vitamins and certain minerals such as iron and zinc but also decrease acceptability of WGFs; 8) extrapolation beyond median documented intakes in high-WGF consumers (∼48 g whole grain/d) in most cohorts is speculative; 9) recommended dietary patterns such as the Mediterranean diet demonstrate that the right mix of WGFs and RGFs contributes to positive health outcomes.

Correlation of visceral body fat with waist-hip ratio, waist circumference and body mass index in healthy adults: A cross sectional study

BACKGROUND

Visceral Fat (VF) is the underlying culprit for cardiovascular diseases, type 2 diabetes, breast cancer, etc. VF can be estimated at present only by using expensive instruments as Bio Impedance Analyzer (BIA), DEXA scanner, etc. Measurement of Waist-Hip Ratio (WHR) can be used as a proxy for VF. Hence, the present study was done to assess the role of WHR as appropriate technology for assessment of VF. The aim of this study was to find correlation of Visceral Fat Area (VFA) with (WHR), Waist Circumference (WC) and Body Mass Index (BMI) in young healthy adults.

METHODS

It was a descriptive cross-sectional study conducted on 215 healthy adults over one year in Western Maharashtra. Biospace 720 was used to assess VF. Data was analyzed by using software SPSS version 20.0. In body 720 was used to assess VF of subjects.

RESULTS

Majority 155 (73%) were males and 57 (27%) were females. Nearly half (42% of males, 49% of females) had VFA above cut off value (i.e. 100 cm2) and 42% of males had WHR >0.9 and 56% of females had WHR >0.8. We found a very strong correlation between VFA and WHR (r = 0.936, p < 0.05) among males and females (r = 0.920, p < 0.05) and correlation between WC and BMI with VFA (r = 0.739, r = 0.758) for males, (r = 0.774, r = 0.605) for females was modest.

CONCLUSION

There is a strong correlation between VF and WHR. Measurement of WHR is simple, handy, and inexpensive tool which can be used as a surrogate to measure VF.