Gender differences in taste and foods habits

Sex- and Gender-Related Differences in Obesity: From Pathophysiological Mechanisms to Clinical Implications

Obesity, primarily characterized by excessive fat accumulation, is a multifactorial chronic disease with an increasing global prevalence. Despite the well-documented epidemiology and significant advances in understanding its pathophysiology and clinical implications, the impact of sex is typically overlooked in obesity research. Worldwide, women have a higher likelihood to become obese compared to men. Although women are offered weight loss interventions more often and at earlier stages than men, they are more vulnerable to psychopathology. Men, on the other hand, are less likely to pursue weight loss intervention and are more susceptible to the metabolic implications of obesity. In this narrative review, we comprehensively explored sex- and gender-specific differences in the development of obesity, focusing on a variety of biological variables, such as body composition, fat distribution and energy partitioning, the impact of sex steroid hormones and gut microbiota diversity, chromosomal and genetic variables, and behavioural and sociocultural variables influencing obesity development in men and women. Sex differences in obesity-related comorbidities and varying effectiveness of different weight loss interventions are also extensively discussed.

The impact of nutrition on psycho-affective status in an older Cretan population: a cross-sectional study

BACKGROUND

Cognitive and mood status influence both personal and social daily activities, with great impact on life quality, particularly among the elderly population.

AIM

This cross-sectional study aimed to investigate the psycho-affective status concerning eating habits within an elderly population of the Chania area in Crete, Greece.

METHODS

Cognitive status was assessed in 101 elderly subjects through the Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE), and mood was evaluated using the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS). Nutritional status was assessed using a validated food frequency questionnaire.

RESULTS

Multivariable statistical analysis, after adjustment for age, marital status, education, and comorbidity, highlighted among males a positive association of the MMSE score with vegetable consumption (RR 1.18; 95%CI 1.03‒1.34) and a negative association with potato consumption (RR 0.83; 95%CI 0.72‒0.95). Conversely, among females, no statistically significant association was observed for any food. Further, among males, a protective effect on affective status was identified for chicken meat (RR 0.45; 95%CI 0.27‒0.77), fish (RR 0.41; 95%CI 0.21‒0.82), fruit (RR 0.70; 95%CI 0.52‒0.94), cereals (RR 0.67; 95%CI 0.53‒0.87), and cheese (RR 0.78; 95%CI 0.63‒0.97) consumption. Among females, the adjusted model showed a significant detrimental effect of vegetable consumption (RR 1.33; 95%CI 1.02‒1.73).

CONCLUSION

A predominantly vegetable-based diet-with the notable exception of fruits and legumes-was associated with better cognitive status in males, albeit not in females. A higher intake of fruit, as well as fish, chicken meat, and cheese among males was associated with a better affective status, indicating that adequate protein supply may play a role in maintaining emotional balance.

The relationship between gender differences in dietary habits, neuroinflammation, and Alzheimer's disease

Neurocognitive decline is one of the foremost dire issues in medicine today. The mechanisms by which dementia pathogenesis ensues are complicated and multifactorial, particularly in the case of Alzheimer's disease (AD). One irrefutable, yet unexplained factor is the gender disparity in AD, in which women are disproportionately affected by AD, both in the rate and severity of the disease. Examining the multifaceted contributing causes along with unique gender dynamics in modifiable risk factors, such as diet, may lend some insight into why this disparity exists and potential paths forward. The aim of this brief narrative review is to summarize the current literature of gender differences in dietary habits and how they may relate to neuroinflammatory states that contribute to AD pathogenesis. As such, the interplay between diet, hormones, and inflammation will be discussed, along with potential interventions to inform care practices.

Comparative analysis of diets in Sioux Falls: Influence of sociodemographic characteristics, alignment to US national diet and healthy diet

Continuous examination of diets and factors that influence dietary patterns is vital to improve diet quality. The objectives of this study are to evaluate the average diet of adults in the Sioux Falls Metropolitan Statistical Area (SFMSA), USA, examining sociodemographic differences in dietary intake and compare the average diet in the SFMSA (SF Diet) to the U.S. national average and USDA healthy dietary guidelines. A cross-sectional population-based study was conducted and 127 individuals were surveyed from August 2020 to August 2021. Dietary intake was assessed using the self-reported single 24-h dietary recall method and sociodemographic questions. Main effects and first order interactions of participant sociodemographic characteristics were considered. Main findings show that men had higher intake of meat, poultry, and eggs (p < 0.05) and alcohol, particularly older men (p < 0.05), than women. Higher alcohol intake was found for participants with lower levels of income and education (p < 0.01). The intake of fish and seafood was higher for older adults with a high level of income (p < 0.01). Differences were found between the SF diet and the national average but both followed a similar trend (e.g., low in fruits and vegetables and high in solid fats) and did not meet dietary guidelines, particularly for nutrient-dense foods. The intake of total vegetables (p < 0.001) and dark green vegetables (p < 0.001) was higher in the SF Diet and the national average was higher in total grains (p < 0.05), refined grains (p < 0.01), oils and fats (p < 0.001), solid fats (p < 0.001), and added sugar (p < 0.001). By not meeting the dietary guidelines, the findings of this study raise public health concerns.

Assessing gender differences in food preferences and physical activity: a population-based survey

Introduction

Food preferences are influenced by various factors, such as culture, age, and gender. The relationship between food tastes, meal preferences, and eating habits has been studied extensively in recent years; however, research on gender differences in these fields still needs to be addressed. The aim of this study was to investigate gender differences in food preferences and eating habits through self-administered questionnaires in a large Italian population sample.

Methods

The online survey included questions on food tastes, meal preferences, eating habits, and sport involvement.

Results

The results of the study underline significant gender-specific dietary tendencies among the 2198 participants (1314 females and 884 males, average age 41.1 ± 12.7 yrs). The majority of subjects were in the annual income range between €20,000 and €40,000. Our analysis reveals significant gender differences in dietary preferences and eating habits. Men prefer red and processed meat, with significantly higher consumption rates than women. Women, on the other hand, show a greater inclination towards vegetables, whole grains, tofu, and high-cocoa-content dark chocolate, aligning with healthier food choices. The study also found differences in eating behaviors, including the frequency of meals, snacking habits, and hunger patterns: women tend to eat more frequently and report higher levels of hunger in the morning, while men tend to skip snacks. Furthermore, differences extend to eating contexts, such as the speed of eating, eating out, and eating alone, with men more likely to eat quickly and dine out. Episodes of uncontrolled eating without hunger also differ, with women reporting these behaviors more frequently than men. In addition, the analysis of sports preferences showed distinct patterns, with a lower percentage of women playing sports and those who do play sports preferring endurance and strength training, while men prefer strength training and endurance sports.

Discussion

These findings elucidate the complex interplay of biological, cultural, and gender-based factors in shaping dietary preferences and eating behaviors. In particular, our study reveals that gender dynamics significantly influence food choice and eating habits: women tend to choose healthier foods and eat regular meals, while men show preferences for specific tastes and meal-related behaviors. This analysis underscores the nuanced differences between male and female dietary patterns, influenced not only by inherent biological factors such as genetics and hormonal responses but also by societal norms and cultural contexts. Taken together, our results highlight the importance of integrating different perspectives, thus providing valuable insights into the development of public health strategies and tailored nutrition interventions aimed at chronic disease prevention.

Effects of Different Nutritional Patterns and Physical Activity on Body Composition: A Gender and Age Group Comparative Study

This cross-sectional study analyses differences in dietary habits, taste preferences, variety of protein sources and body composition (BC) profiles among individuals following omnivorous, flexitarian, lacto-ovo-vegetarian and pescatarian diets. Furthermore, it assesses the correlations between these dietary patterns and various sports, classified by exercise intensity, in relation to BC parameters. The study analysed the eating habits and BC data of 1342 participants aged 18-65 years, classified into four diet groups based on their 7-day food diaries and questionnaire responses. Our analysis revealed gender- and age-related differences in weekly food consumption and protein source variety, with men generally consuming more meat, processed meat and fish than women, especially in younger age groups. Differences in dairy and soy consumption were also noted between age groups, while legume and soy preferences showed no gender disparity across all ages. Among non-sporting individuals, vegetarians exhibited lower fat mass (FM%) compared to other diets, while among athletes, vegetarians and pescatarians in in endurance and strength sports, respectively, displayed lower FM%, with flexitarians and omnivores in endurance sports showing higher FM%. Non-athletic omnivores and vegetarians demonstrated a greater proportion of body protein, while among athletes, those engaged in strength training exhibited a higher body protein content across all dietary groups compared to those in endurance training. Among non-athletic groups, vegetarians exhibited the lowest FM/FFM (fat mass/fat-free mass) ratio, while among athletes, vegetarians in endurance sports and participants in strength training across other diets showed lower FM/FFM ratios. The results emphasise the complex interaction between diet, BC and lifestyle choices, revealing how different combinations of diet and sport are associated with optimised BC.

The interplay of food-related lifestyle and eating behavior in Italian women

Introduction

Women play a crucial role in food shopping and preparation, and their food choices have significant implications for their health and that of their families. This study aims to provide a perspective on women's eating lifestyle, which has undergone significant changes.

Methods

A factor analysis was conducted to assess the degree of involvement in food choices and the types of food items consumed among a sample of 399 Italian women.

Results

Through cluster analysis, four segments were identified: hedonic food consumers, sustainable- and balanced-diet consumers, food experimenters, and no food fondness consumers. The results reveal a correlation between the degree of food involvement and the type of food consumed.

Discussion

Furthermore, the food lifestyle of the sample is partially dependent on age. Individuals aged 25-28 years show more hedonic food consumption behavior, while the older age group (44-64 years) falls into the sustainable and balanced diet consumer cluster (the largest cluster) and the cluster of those who do not express definable food choices (no food fondness).

Boys and girls differ in their rationale behind eating: a systematic review of intrinsic and extrinsic motivations in dietary habits across countries

Background

Boys' and girls' food habits diverge in adolescence (13-18 years). This contributes to unequal risks of adverse health outcomes based on sex and gender in adulthood (e.g., heart diseases in men vs. disorder eating in women). Though multi-factorial, why these dietary differences occur is unclear.

Purpose

To identify the reasons why adolescents' motivation behind dietary habits differs among genders.

Methods

Four databases were searched following PRISMA guidelines. Eligible studies had to use qualitative methodology and report at least one gender unique theme. Reported themes were thematically analyzed, with a sub-analysis by country where the studies were conducted. Quality appraisals were assessed using the Critical Appraisal Skills Programme checklist.

Results

In the 34 eligible articles (n = 1,694 returned) two overarching themes emerged that dictated dietary habits in adolescents: Self-motivators and Uncontrollable factors. Gender differences arose whereby girls highlighted more external motivators (e.g., eat healthier, change dietary habits around boys and be thin to fit traditional norms) over their dietary habits. In contrast, boys focused on more internal motivators (e.g., gain autonomy, eat for enjoyment and pursue gains in physical performance). This suggests that motivation underlying how boys and girls eat differs. These trends were largely consistent across countries.

Conclusion

Boys' and girls' food habits are not motivated by the same factors. To create more effective dietary interventions targeting health promotion, unique motivations behind food habits need to be understood and incorporated.

Systematic review registration

Identifier: CRD42022298077.

Specific health beliefs mediate sex differences in food choice

Objective

Although sex differences in dietary habits are well documented, the etiology of those differences is still a focus of research. The present study examines the role of specific health beliefs regarding healthy amounts of food for food choice and its relation to sex, more specifically, the assumption that sex differences in food choices are mediated by differentiating health beliefs.

Method

212 German participants (44.3% female) aged 18-70 answered an online self-report questionnaire on their dietary habits and health beliefs, based on the recommendations of the German Nutrition Society.

Results

Most of the anticipated sex differences in food choice and some differences in health beliefs were found. The mediation hypothesis was partly supported, as the relationship between sex and fruit, vegetable, and fish consumption was mediated by the respective health beliefs. However, no mediation effects were found for meat, egg, cereal, and milk product consumption.

Conclusion

The support for the mediation hypothesis aligns with previous findings and indicates that health beliefs might be an important pathway to fostering healthier food choices, especially for men. Nonetheless, sex differences in food choice were only partially mediated by sex differences in specific health beliefs, indicating that future studies might benefit from parallel mediation analyses to reveal the impact of other relevant factors influencing sex differences in food choice.

Right-leaning egalitarians are just as susceptible to social justice-induced product patronage! Evidence from the US and Malaysia

We investigated the impact of egalitarianism on consumers' inclination to support fair-trade products and examined whether this effect was observed among individuals with different political affiliations. In four experiments featuring a fictional chocolate brand presented in either a social-justice (fair trade) or quality-focused (control) manner, we examined the product purchase intentions of both left- and right-leaning consumers in the United States and Malaysia (Studies 1a, N = 200; 1b, N = 269; & 2, N = 410). Results revealed that participants expressed a greater willingness to support the product when it was framed as contributing to a social justice cause, but this effect was limited to left- and right-leaning consumers who strongly endorsed egalitarian principles. Study 3 (N = 354) employed a mediated-moderation approach and confirmed that an elevated sensitivity to injustice was the underlying mechanism driving increased intentions to support the product among egalitarians exposed to social justice framing. These results demonstrate that right-leaning consumers can be influenced by social justice framing when their commitment to equity is strong.

Food-Related Behaviours of Female and Male Tourists before and during the COVID-19 Pandemic

The literature contains scant information on the relationship between tourists’ gender and their attitudes toward food while vacationing. The present study had as its main aim to examine the role of gender in key behaviours concerning tourists’ food choices and eating habits; in addition, our study evaluated the hypothesis that gender interacts with the “pandemic effect” in modifying tourists’ food-related behaviour. By implementing a quantitative, exploratory, and descriptive methodology, an online questionnaire was developed based on existing literature. To this end, data derived from 474 female and 370 male tourists visiting Greece in 2019 (before) or in 2020 (during the COVID-19 pandemic) were analysed and evaluated. The results indicate that, compared to men, women were more motivated to taste local food, especially with respect to obtaining cultural experience and excitement, promoting interpersonal relations, and as a result of health concerns. In addition, they dined at facilities at their place of stay, as well as at Greek restaurants and taverns at a higher rate compared to men. Women also reported being more satisfied than men by their food experiences during their trips, and was found that during the pandemic they spent, on average, more on food than before. The study showed that the pandemic affected both genders; however, the most significant of the differences observed relates to the choice of dining facilities, in all likelihood, as a result of women being more sensitive to the risks of COVID-19. Overall, during the pandemic, women appeared more likely than men to adopt behaviours that are in line with the principles of sustainability, such as a positive attitude and motivation to consume foods produced locally in the country. Differences detected between genders can be used by various stakeholders as a benchmark to further improve the food services offered at tourist destinations.

Gender-Disaggregated Consumer Testing and Descriptive Sensory Analysis of Local and New Yam Varieties

Gender-disaggregated sensory evaluation has become an essential element that could enhance breeding activities by increasing the adoption of new varieties. The effect of age, sex and geographical location on descriptor preferences for boiled and pounded yam were studied using descriptive and consumer testing. Attributes with definitions and measurement scales were used to generate lexicons for boiled and pounded yam. Analytical tools employed for the inferential statistics were the independent t-test, analysis of variance, Kruskal-Wallis test, Mann-Whitney test and relative importance index (RII). Descriptive testing showed that all the D. rotundata varieties were good for boiling and pounding. The D. alata varieties afase soanyinto and afase biri were most liked, while afase pa and ahodenfo were disliked. Age had no significant effect on descriptor preferences. Being a female or male, however, influenced preferences for pounded yam descriptors such as mouldability, lumpiness and colour. The RII for the D. rotundata varieties (0.22-0.28) showed that they are all good varieties for boiling and pounding. The local D. alata varieties were still highly acceptable compared the new CRI varieties due to the aroma. Rural consumers preferred all the descriptors of boiled D. rotundata than urban consumers, whereas urban consumers liked the pounded yam varieties better than the rural consumers. Availability of the new yam varieties on local markets could therefore increase consumption and improve adoption.

Additive pre-diagnostic and diagnostic value of routine blood-based biomarkers in the detection of colorectal cancer in the UK Biobank cohort

Survival rates from colorectal cancer (CRC) are drastically higher if the disease is detected and treated earlier. Current screening guidelines involve stool-based tests and colonoscopies, whose acceptability and uptake remains low. Routinely collected blood-based biomarkers may offer a low-cost alternative or aid for detecting CRC. Here we aimed to evaluate the pre-diagnostic and diagnostic value of a wide-range of multimodal biomarkers in the UK Biobank dataset, including sociodemographic, lifestyle, medical, physical, and blood and urine-based measures in detecting CRC. We performed a Cox proportional hazard and a tree-boosting model alongside feature selection methods to determine optimal combination of biomarkers. In addition to the modifiable lifestyle factors of obesity, alcohol consumption and cardiovascular health, we showed that blood-based biomarkers that capture the immune response, lipid profile, liver and kidney function are associated with CRC risk. Following feature selection, the final Cox and tree-boosting models achieved a C-index of 0.67 and an AUC of 0.76 respectively. We show that blood-based biomarkers collected in routine examinations are sensitive to preclinical and clinical CRC. They may provide an additive value and improve diagnostic accuracy of current screening tools at no additional cost and help reduce burden on the healthcare system.

Promoting Healthy Behaviors in Older Adults to Optimize Health-Promoting Lifestyle: An Intervention Study

Introduction: Exercise intervention is the easiest and most effective way to promote human health. This study combined technology and exercise to improve the health behavior of the older adults through a physical activity intervention and to enhance a health-promoting lifestyle. Materials and methods: A quasi-experimental research method was used to openly recruit 120 healthy male and female older adults over 65 years old (average age of males: 71.6 ± 1.25 years; average age of females: 72.3 ± 1.28 years), all of whom wore smart bracelets. The participants were monitored by special personnel during the same period of walking every Monday to Friday. All participants recorded their daily steps, distance walked, and calorie consumption data for a period of 8 weeks. Results: After 8 weeks of walking, all participants showed a positive medium−high correlation of various factors between healthy behaviors and the health-promoting lifestyle scales. In the post-tests of each factor of two scales, males had the highest correlation between regular physical activity and physical activity, and females had the highest correlation between regular physical activity and social support. The variabilities in the explanatory power of the health behaviors of males and females on the health-promoting lifestyle were R2 = 70.9% (p < 0.01) and R2 = 74.1% (p < 0.01), indicating that the variables of healthy behaviors have a positive effect on health-promoting lifestyles in male and female older adults. Conclusions: Walking interventions positively affect the health behaviors of older adults and encourage health-promoting lifestyles. The value of this study is in its contribution to health promotion and public health recommendations for older adults.

The Positive Eating Scale: Associations with eating behavior, food choice, and body mass index

To further investigate the effects of positive eating on health, the present study focused on associations of the Positive Eating Scale (PES, the Pleasure when Eating and Satisfaction with Eating subscales) with eating behaviors, food intake, and body mass index (BMI) in a large sample of the general Swiss population. Participants (T1: n = 2795, 46.7 % men; T2: n = 1931, 46.5 % men) with a mean age of 60 (SD = 16) years at T1 (2019) and 62 (SD = 15) years at T2 (2021) completed the Swiss Food Panel 2.0 paper-and-pencil questionnaire which included the PES, eating behaviors, food intake, and BMI. The results showed that both restrained and reward eating in response to positive emotions were mostly negatively correlated with the PES subscales for men and women, whereas intuitive eating, diet-related health consciousness, and perceived health status were positively related to the PES subscales. Women tended to choose healthier foods and recorded higher eating satisfaction. BMI was negatively related to the PES subscale Satisfaction with Eating (β = -0.17) and positively related to the subscale Pleasure when Eating (β = 0.08) despite rather small correlations with healthier food choices and better diet quality. No significant effects of the PES subscales on change in BMI were detected over the two-year period. Since the PES subscales showed diverging associations with other eating behavior constructs, a combination into a total score may not be optimal. Overall, positive eating may be associated with more balanced eating habits and better perceived health status.

Women's Empowerment, Food Security, and Nutrition Transition in Africa

Despite mounting recognition of the essential role of women's empowerment in household dietary and nutrition changes, the diversity of culture across African countries presents ambiguity as to whether its impact is experienced homogeneously across the continent. This article presents a systematic review of whether women's empowerment changes household dietary patterns, contributes to nutrition improvement, and consequently affects diet-related health outcomes in Africa. We find that whilst more research needs to be conducted, particularly with improved methodologies that can establish cause-effect relationships, there is consensus among the literature on the link between women's empowerment and some domains of food security and dietary improvement. Meanwhile, studies on women's empowerment and the additional demand pressure on some food categories are quite limited. This exacerbates the challenge of setting production plans that aim to address the continent's question of food.

Energy intake, expenditure and balance, and factors associated with energy balance of young adults (20-39 years): a retrospective cross-sectional community-based cohort study

BACKGROUND

Obesity epidemic presents major challenge to chronic disease prevention. Young adults may be at higher risk due to consumption of energy dense foods/beverages and low physical activity. This study assessed the energy intake, expenditure and balance of 20-39 year-old adults and also evaluated factors associated with energy balance to provide basis for obesity prevention and control.

METHODS

This retrospective cross-sectional cohort study involved 240 respondents selected through multistage random sampling. Data were collected through questionnaire, anthropometry and three 24-h dietary recall. Energy expenditure was assessed as the sum of resting energy expenditure (REE), energy expenditure of activity (EEA) and diet-induced energy expenditure of three days. Frequencies and percentages were employed in analysing general characteristics of the respondents. T-test and analysis of variance were used to assess relationships between and among numerical variables while relationships among categorical variables were evaluated through Chi-square test. Binary and multivariate logistic regression analyses were used to evaluate the factors associated with energy balance.

RESULTS

Majority (53.2%) had normal body mass index and this decreased as age increased (P < 0.001); 23.8% had overweight, 21.7% had general obesity, 38.3% had abdominal obesity and 39.2% had high risk waist hip ratio. Total energy intake (TEI) of the respondents was 2416.0 ± 722.728 kcal/day. Males had lower energy intake (kcal/day) of 2398.8 ± 494.761 than females (2431.1 ± 876.664). Male intake contributed less (85.7%) than female intake (110.5%) to recommended energy intake. TEI (kcal/day) was lowest among 25-29 (2285.3 ± 497.793) but highest (2586.0 ± 467.587) among 35-39 year-olds (P < 0.05). Total energy expenditure (TEE) was 2195.5 ± 384.544 kcal/day; a value of 2274.3 ± 385.792 was found among males while the females had a lower value of 2126.6 ± 371.403. TEE (kcal/day) ranged from 2169.4 ± 411.625 in 20-24 to 2248.8 ± 273.534 in 30-34 year-olds. Those with general obesity had higher energy (kcal/day) intake (2733.7 ± 1171.073), expenditure (2431.7 ± 491.666) and balance (302.0 ± 1300.186) than those without obesity (P < 0.01). Energy intake (2573.0 ± 966.553) and expenditure (2226.4 ± 372.621) were significantly higher among those with abdominal obesity than those with normal waist circumference (P < 0.05). Overall positive energy balance of the adults was 220.5 ± 787.271. The females had higher positive energy balance (304.4 ± 921.041) than males (124.5 ± 588.637). Energy balance was lowest (102.5 ± 629.780) among 25-29 and highest (373.5 ± 494.546) in 35-39 year-olds. Most (68.8%) of the participants had positive energy balance. Age (AOR:2.89, 95% C.I.:1.27-6.56) and occupation (AOR:2.30, 95% C.I.:1.05-5.03) increased the likelihood of positive energy balance by 2.

CONCLUSIONS

The study showed lower energy intake among the respondents than the recommended value; females had a value higher than what was recommended, males had less. Majority had positive energy balance and this was mostly found among those with obesity. Age and occupation were factors associated with positive energy balance. Nutrition education, health education and dietary counselling are recommended strategies to control sustained weight gain.

Psychometric properties and measurement invariance across gender of the Italian version of the tempest self-regulation questionnaire for eating adapted for young adults

The prevalence of overweight and obesity in young adults has increased dramatically in recent decades. The unhealthy eating habits that develop at this time can often lead to negative health consequences in the future. It is therefore important to learn about self-regulation and self-control strategies and help young adults to have healthy eating behaviours. This study aims to present an Italian version of the Tempest Self-Regulation Questionnaire for Eating (TESQ-E) adapted for young adults. The instrument assesses self-regulation and self-control strategies to counteract the desire and temptation to eat unhealthy food and to choose healthy foods. A total of 645 students (271 males and 374 females with an average age of 24.82 and SD = 4.34) took part in the study. The results of the confirmatory factor analysis supported the six first-order factors model concerning specific self-regulation strategies and a higher-order structure of the TESQ-E [χ² (152) = 336.480, p < 0.001; CFI = 0.95; RMSEA = 0.04; SRMR = 0.04]: three correlated second-order factors (addressing the temptation directly, addressing the psychological meaning of temptation, and addressing the goal directly) and one-third-order factor (self-regulatory competence). The results also confirmed the strong measurement invariance of the TESQ-E across gender. To have reliable comparisons across males and females, the latent mean differences tests were performed on the six specific self-regulation strategies. The analysis showed that females appear to prefer strategies that directly address the goal by expressing explicit intentions or plans to eat in a healthy way. Convergence validity was tested through correlations with Eating-Self-Efficacy Brief Scale (ESEBS), Emotional Eating Scale (EES), Scale of Attitudes towards Healthy Eating (SAHE), and Body Mass Index (BMI). In conclusion, the TESQ-E appears to be a psychometrically sound questionnaire that can be effectively used with young adults to measure self-regulation strategies in eating in order to plan personalised interventions for the prevention and control of the metabolic syndrome, and to reduce a wide range of diet-related diseases.

Assessment of Healthcare Professionals’ Wellbeing During a Peak of the COVID-19 Pandemic in a Healthcare System in Ohio

Objective

The purpose of this cross-sectional study was to evaluate multiple indices of wellbeing in healthcare professionals during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Methods

Healthcare professionals were invited to participate across the University Hospitals healthcare system in Ohio, USA. Participants (N = 6397) completed online questionnaires on their wellbeing, including healthy behaviors, safety and security, mental and physical health concerns, and social support. Differences in wellbeing across demographics were also assessed.

Results

Overall, healthcare professionals’ mean subjective wellbeing was 7.98 (1.50) and their future health score was 3.98 (1.13). Room for improvement was noted for diet, sleep, and positive thinking. Males reported significantly higher levels of overall wellbeing and future health scores, including fruit and vegetable intake and physical activity, and alcohol use, whereas females reported higher levels of positive thinking and tobacco use. Of the three largest racial groups, White and Asian employees scored significantly higher on future health, M = 4.00 (1.17) and M = 4.10 (1.13), than Black or African American employees, M = 3.74 (1.10).

Conclusions

This cross-sectional study assessed the wellbeing of healthcare workers during the initial peak of the COVID-19 pandemic prior to vaccine delivery. Future work will implement strategies to improve healthcare workers’ wellbeing in an individualized way based on our findings, as well as evaluate changes in wellbeing and future health scores across time.

Food Involvement, Food Choices, and Bioactive Compounds Consumption Correlation during COVID-19 Pandemic: How Food Engagement Influences Consumers’ Food Habits

The containment measures due to the COVID-19 pandemic affected food-related activities, influencing dietary behavior, food habits, and dietary choices. This study aimed to compare the relationship between food involvement and dietary choices before and during the pandemic, investigating the role played by food in dietary habits. Responses given by 2773 Italian consumers to an online survey were studied through the Food Involvement Scale (FIS) and correlated to eating habits. FIS scores were then used to explain the importance given to food in circumstances related to well-being, health, and protection against COVID-19 and used to study the relationship between FIS and bioactive compound knowledge, use, and efficacy against COVID-19. The consumers more involved in food issues recognized the importance of food in circumstances related to well-being, health, and protection against COVID-19 and improved their diet during the pandemic. Moreover, consumers who gave more importance to food also revealed higher attention to the use of healthy substances, such as bioactive compounds, considering them effective against COVID-19. These results showed that food experiencing and involvement could be important elements to promote healthy dietary habits that are essential to maintain physical and mental health during emergency periods such as the COVID-19 pandemic.

Which Factors Drive Consumer Decisions during Milk Purchase? New Individuals' Profiles Considering Fresh Pasteurized and UHT Treated Milk

The cow’s milk market is going through a critical period characterised by a continuous contraction in consumption as a consequence of the lack of competitiveness on the market of the conventional product (commodity) versus numerous specialties. This paper aimed to define the profiles of milk consumers in terms of individual preferences (assessed using the best-worst scaling methodology) and socio-demographic features. A survey was conducted in several stores of large-scale retail, convenience stores, and open-air markets distributed in north-west Italy to collect data from 1216 respondents. For milk shopper purchasing habits, two consumer groups were defined and compared in terms of preferences: the fresh pasteurized milk consumer (FPc) (56% of the total sample) and the ultra-high temperature treated milk consumer (UHT_c) (35%). A series of two-ways multivariate analysis of variance (MANOVA) were conducted to assess the effect of individuals’ socio-demographic characteristics and the type of milk chosen on the consumer preferences, simultaneously. Significant differences in milk purchasing habits and preferences emerged when comparing the two consumer groups (UHT_c and FP_c). Empirical evidence of the study supported the starting hypothesis, suggesting the significance or relevance of the consumer socio-demographic characteristic, as well as their interaction effect with the type of milk on the level of importance given to the considered milk quality attributes. On the contrary, the gender results were not significant for the milk preferences definition. The assessment of consumer preferences, associated with the individuals’ socio-demographic characteristics could have important implications for outlining more effective marketing strategies based on a more targeted communication (i.e., related to the sustainability dimension of the local product, nutritional value and brand), leading the consumer back to the commodity rediscovery concerning individuals’ features and habits.

Changes in Eating Habits and Physical Activity after COVID-19 Pandemic Lockdowns in Italy

The introduction of lockdowns and other containment measures during the COVID-19 pandemic substantially altered people’s lifestyle and dietary behavior. Several studies evaluated the short-term effects of these measures; yet reports on long-term consequences are scarce. We sought to address this gap in the literature by analyzing dietary and lifestyle data collected at an obesity center in Rome, Italy. The Italian region of Lazio was hit hard by the pandemic. To evaluate the potential health impacts, we compared the pre- and post-lockdown data of 118 individuals. Contrary to the common belief that lockdown had adverse effects solely on people’s dietary habits, we observed a significantly increased consumption of raw vegetables, whole grains, and water in our study sample. Favorable effects, however, were also accompanied by adverse trends, such as a higher prevalence of sleeping difficulties. Our data emphasize that the lockdowns associated with the pandemic also influenced participants’ social behavior, with less individuals reporting eating out or in company. Our study highlights the substantial impact of lockdowns on many dimensions of life. As such, it is of utmost importance in the critical evaluation of such stringent containment measures.

Pulse Probiotic Superfood as Iron Status Improvement Agent in Active Women-A Review

Active women or women of reproductive age (15–49 years old) have a high risk of suffering from anaemia. Anaemia is not solely caused by iron deficiency, however, the approaches to improve iron status in both cases are greatly related. Improving the iron status of active women can be done by dietary intervention with functional food. This review aims to provide insights about the functional food role to increase iron absorption in active women and the potency of pulse probiotic superfood development in dry matrices. Results showed that the beneficial effect of iron status is significantly improved by the synergic work between probiotic and prebiotic. Furthermore, chickpeas and lentils are good sources of prebiotic and the consumption of pulses are related with 21st century people’s intention to eat healthy food. There are wide possibilities to develop functional food products incorporated with probiotics to improve iron status in active woman.

Gender effect on eating habits of Nigerian school children

It is important to investigate children's eating habits based on different eating behaviors such as satiety responsiveness (SR), slowness in eating (SE), food fussiness (FF), food responsiveness (FR), enjoyment of food (EF), desire to drink (DD), emotional under-eating (EUE), and emotional over-eating (EOE). The main objective of this research was to investigate whether gender affects the eating habits of Nigerian school children.A cross-sectional survey was conducted between March and June 2019. A total of 120 parents of school children participated in the study. The Child Eating Behavior Questionnaire (CEBQ) was used to collect data. The CEBQ is composed of 35 items and eight subscales.Based on the analysis of parents' reports, DD was higher in boys than girls, t (118) = 7.086, P < .001; EOE was higher in boys than girls, t (118) = 5.184, P < .001; EF was higher in boys than girls, t (118) = 2.183, P < .001; FF was higher in boys than girls, t (118) = 9.441, P < .001; and SR was higher in boys than girls, t (118) = 7.323, P < .001. However, EUE was lower in boys than girls, t (118) = -4.339, P < .001; FR was lower in boys than girls, t(118) = -3.112, P < .001; SE was lower in boys than girls, t(118) = -3.832, P < .001; thus, gender had a significant influence on eating habits of the school children.Gender significantly affects the eating habits of Nigerian school children. Thus, gender is an important factor to be considered when aiming to improve the eating habits of Nigerian school children.

Oral health practices and oral hygiene status as indicators of suicidal ideation among adolescents in Southwest Nigeria

Background

Oral health is a less-recognized correlate of overall and mental wellbeing. This study aimed to assess the relationship between suicidal behavior (ideation and attempt) and oral health practices and status, and to determine the effect of sex on these associations among Nigerian adolescents.

Methods

Household survey data were collected from 10 to 19-year-old adolescents in southwestern Nigeria. Dependent variables were daily tooth brushing, daily consumption of refined carbohydrates between meals, and oral hygiene status (measured by plaque index). The independent variable was lifetime suicidal ideation/attempt, dichotomized into ‘yes’ and ‘never’. ‘Daily tooth brushing’ and ‘daily consumption of refined carbohydrates between meals’ were included in two separate logistic regression models, and ‘oral hygiene status’ was included in a linear regression model. The models were adjusted for sex, age, and socioeconomic status. The linear regression model was also adjusted for frequency of daily tooth-brushing and of consumption of refined carbohydrates between meals. Interactions between sex and suicidal ideation/suicide attempt in association with dependent variables were assessed. Significance was set at 5%.

Results

We recruited 1,472 participants with mean age (standard deviation) of 14.6 (2.6) years. The mean plaque index was 0.84 (0.56), and 66 (4.5%) adolescents reported ever having suicidal ideation/attempt. Suicidal ideation/attempt was associated with significantly lower likelihood of tooth brushing (OR = 0.48, 95% CI: 0.26, 0.91), higher likelihood of consuming refined carbohydrates between meals (OR = 2.30, 95% CI: 1.29, 4.10), and having poor oral hygiene (B = 0.18, 95% CI: 0.05, 0.32). Among males, suicidal ideation/attempt was associated with less likelihood of eating refined carbohydrates between meals (OR = 0.96, 95% CI: 0.35, 2.61). Conversely, it was associated with a significantly higher likelihood of this outcome (OR = 4.85, 95% CI: 2.23, 10.55) among females.

Conclusion

The study findings suggest that poor tooth brushing habits and poor oral hygiene are indicators for risk of suicidal behavior for adolescents in Nigeria, while high sugar consumption may be an additional risk factor for adolescent females. These findings support the role of dental practitioners as members of healthcare teams responsible for screening, identifying and referring patients at risk for suicidal ideation/attempt.

Exploring the association between mental wellbeing, health-related quality of life, family affluence and food choice in adolescents

Young people choose energy-dense, nutrient-poor diets, yet understanding of potential determinants is limited. Associations between food choices, mental wellbeing, health-related quality of life (HRQoL) and family affluence were explored to identify targets for intervention to promote dietary health and wellbeing in young people. Adolescents were recruited via post-primary schools in the UK and surveyed at two time-points when aged 13-14 years and 15-16 years. The questionnaire enquired about mental wellbeing using the Short Warwick-Edinburgh Mental Wellbeing Scale, HRQoL using the KIDSCREEN-10, socio-economic status using the Family Affluence Scale and food choice by Food Frequency Questionnaire (FFQ). With missing and anomalous cases excluded, the sample comprised 1208 cases. Factor analysis on the FFQ indicated five food choice factors: 'Junk Food'; 'Meat'; 'Healthy Protein'; 'Fruit/Vegetables'; 'Bread/Dairy'. Multivariate regression analysis indicated that frequent consumption of Junk Food was associated with being male and lower mental wellbeing. Frequent Meat intake was associated with being male and with lower HRQoL. Frequent choice of Bread/Dairy foods was more common among males and associated with higher wellbeing and greater affluence. Those who consumed Fruit/Vegetables frequently were more likely to be female, have higher HRQoL, higher mental wellbeing, and greater family affluence. These direct associations endured between time points. The dietary factors were not mutually exclusive. Those who frequently chose Junk Food were less likely to choose Fruit/Vegetables. Frequent choice of Meat was associated with more frequent choice of Junk Food and Healthy Protein. Intervention to improve dietary and psychological health in young people should target males, those in less affluent households, seek to reduce consumption of 'junk' food, and increase fruit and vegetable intake.

Gender Differences in Fat-Rich Meat Choice: Influence of Personality and Attitudes

The innate liking of fats may be due to one or more orosensory, post-ingestive, and metabolic signals; however, individuals differ in their preference for fat in meat. One of the variables that mainly impacts eating behaviors and thus should be carefully analyzed is sex/gender, and while sex (female/male, in a binary approximation) refers only to biological characteristics, gender (woman/man, in a binary approximation) refers to cultural attitudes and behavior. This study aimed at exploring the role of gender, age, taste responsiveness (measured as sensitivity to the bitterness of 6-n-propylthiouracil (PROP)), personality traits, attitudes, and liking of and familiarity with meat on the choice of fat-rich meat products in 1208 women and men aged 18–66. Both a between- and a within-gender approach were adopted. Results showed that gender had a major impact on liking of and familiarity with meat and choice for fat-rich meat compared to age. A lower liking meat in general was found in women, independently of fat content. Women also reported a lower familiarity than men with fatty meat and cold meat and a lower choice of fat-rich meat. Genders differed in the influence of personality and attitudes about fat-rich meat choice. In both genders, the choice of meat higher in fat was associated with liking cold and fatty meat and with age and negatively with liking low-fat meat. Women were in general more interested in health than men, and this may explain the main difference in the choice of fat-rich meat between genders. However, when we look at each gender separately, general health interest was significantly correlated with a lower choice of fat-rich meat only in men. In addition, in men food neophobia was negatively correlated with choice of fat-rich meat. In women, the emotional dimension was found to play an important role, with sensitivity to disgust that was negatively associated with fat-rich meat choice and emotional eating that was positively associated with it. Thanks to the large sample and the gender-sensitive approach adopted, this study showed that different factors affect choice of fat-rich meat by gender, in addition to liking of and familiarity with fat-rich and cold meat and age. This suggests that strategies personalized by gender to reinforce or activate barriers to this type of consumption may be more effective at reducing fat intake, promoting the consumption of meat lower in fat.

Diet high in protein-rich foods with structured sport activity may be useless to lose fat mass and maintain fat-free mass

BACKGROUND

The aim of this study was to demonstrate that a normal protein diet along with minimal sports activity can be enough to lose fat mass and maintain muscle mass.

METHODS

All participants were prescribed a hypocaloric nutritionally balanced Mediterranean-style diet tailored to the individual for 8 weeks. Body composition and energy expenditure were measured. Sedentary patients (G1) were only recommended to perform minimal aerobic training, while sport subjects (G2) were prescribed structured physical activity and higher calorie and protein contents in the diet.

RESULTS

There were no significant differences between the two groups for any of the measured parameters.

CONCLUSIONS

The models of lifestyle changes that are currently circulating were for the most part ineffective. It does not appear to be necessary to increase the protein content of the diet above that recommended by guidelines in order to lose weight. Even prescribing specific physical activity is not necessary to maintain muscle mass.

The different daily distribution of proteins does not influence the variations in body composition in a sample of subjects undergoing a low-calorie Mediterranean-type diet

BACKGROUND

Controversy exists regarding whether the different daily balances of proteins between meals and snacks in a low-calorie diet may influence the effects on body composition (BC) results. Aim of this study is to evaluate BC changes made by a lifestyle intervention in a randomized homogeneous sample of two groups with equal daily caloric reduction but different protein distributions between meals.

METHODS

Forty-seven men and women (mean age: 32±10 years; Body Mass Index: 28.4±2.4 kg/m²) consumed an energy-restricted diet (788 kcal/d below the requirement) for eight weeks in a free-living contest. Subjects consumed 90.1 g protein/d (1.10±0.16 g/kg/day) and were randomized in an EVEN (16.7% at breakfast, 32.8% at lunch, 31.3% at dinner, 19.2% at snacks; N.=23) or UNEVEN (15.4% at breakfast, 36.6% at lunch, 34.9% at dinner, 12.4% at snacks; N.=24) distribution pattern. The nutritional characteristics and caloric deficit of the two diets were similar.

RESULTS

The total sample had an overall improvement in both BMI (-0.9±0.6) and fat mass (FM: -2.3±1.5), while lean body mass was preserved (LBM: 0.0±0.7). There were no significant differences between the two groups in variations in BC.

CONCLUSIONS

In overweight and obese subjects undergoing a Mediterranean-type low-calorie diet, a different distribution of daily protein intake between meals and snacks does not result in significant differences in terms of FM loss and LBM maintenance. This is one of the first studies showing that nutritional dietary plans with different daily protein distribution show no particular differences in fat loss and lean mass maintenance.