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López-Gil JF, Victoria-Montesinos D, García-Hermoso A. Is higher adherence to the mediterranean diet associated with greater academic performance in children and adolescents? A systematic review and meta-analysis. Clin Nutr 2024; 43:1702-1709. [PMID: 38896917 DOI: 10.1016/j.clnu.2024.05.045] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2024] [Revised: 05/16/2024] [Accepted: 05/28/2024] [Indexed: 06/21/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The aim of the present study was to synthesize the available evidence from the relationship between adherence to the Mediterranean diet (MedDiet) and academic performance in children and adolescents. METHODS A systematic review and meta-analysis was conducted, which adhered to the guidelines outlined in the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) statement. Four electronic databases (PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and the Cochrane Library) were examined from inception to April 8th, 2024. RESULTS Eighteen studies were included in the current systematic review and sixteen in the meta-analysis. The relationship between adherence to the MedDiet and academic performance among children and adolescents was statistically significant (Pearson's correlation coefficient [r] = 0.17, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.14 to 0.21, p < 0.001; inconsistency index [I2] = 56.7%). The influence analysis revealed that removing individual studies one at a time did not result in any changes to the overall results (p < 0.05 in all cases). CONCLUSIONS A higher adherence to the MedDiet could play a relevant role in academic performance among children and adolescents.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Antonio García-Hermoso
- Navarrabiomed, Hospital Universitario de Navarra (HUN), Universidad Pública de Navarra (UPNA), IdiSNA, Pamplona, Navarra, Spain
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2
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Kubant R, Cho CE, Pannia E, Hammoud R, Yang NV, Simonian R, Anderson GH. Methyl donor micronutrients, hypothalamic development and programming for metabolic disease. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2024; 157:105512. [PMID: 38128771 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2023.105512] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2023] [Revised: 11/14/2023] [Accepted: 12/17/2023] [Indexed: 12/23/2023]
Abstract
Nutriture in utero is essential for fetal brain development through the regulation of neural stem cell proliferation, differentiation, and apoptosis, and has a long-lasting impact on risk of disease in offspring. This review examines the role of maternal methyl donor micronutrients in neuronal development and programming of physiological functions of the hypothalamus, with a focus on later-life metabolic outcomes. Although evidence is mainly derived from preclinical studies, recent research shows that methyl donor micronutrients (e.g., folic acid and choline) are critical for neuronal development of energy homeostatic pathways and the programming of characteristics of the metabolic syndrome in mothers and their children. Both folic acid and choline are active in one-carbon metabolism with their impact on epigenetic modification of gene expression. We conclude that an imbalance of folic acid and choline intake during gestation disrupts DNA methylation patterns affecting mechanisms of hypothalamic development, and thus elevates metabolic disease risk. Further investigation, including studies to determine translatability to humans, is required.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruslan Kubant
- Department of Nutritional Sciences, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Clara E Cho
- Department of Human Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON, Canada
| | - Emanuela Pannia
- Department of Nutritional Sciences, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Rola Hammoud
- Department of Nutritional Sciences, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Neil Victor Yang
- Department of Nutritional Sciences, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Rebecca Simonian
- Department of Nutritional Sciences, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - G Harvey Anderson
- Department of Nutritional Sciences, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada; Department of Physiology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada.
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3
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Bjørke-Monsen AL, Ueland PM. Folate - a scoping review for Nordic Nutrition Recommendations 2023. Food Nutr Res 2023; 67:10258. [PMID: 38187793 PMCID: PMC10770645 DOI: 10.29219/fnr.v67.10258] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2022] [Revised: 05/29/2022] [Accepted: 09/27/2023] [Indexed: 01/09/2024] Open
Abstract
Folate is an essential micronutrient for normal development and metabolic function, and folate deficiency is associated with an increased risk of cancer, cardiovascular disease, mental dysfuntion and negative pregnancy outcomes. When estimating folate requirements, one must consider different bioavailability and functionality between synthetic folic acid and dietary folate, together with increased needs of folate in women of fertile age, pregnant and lactating women, preterm and small for gestational age weight infants and individuals who are homozygote for the 5,10-methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR) gene polymorphism. In order to achieve an adequate metabolic status based on the metabolic marker total homocysteine, and not merely the absence of clinical signs of folate deficiency, the recommended intake of folate differs according to age, pregnancy and lactation. According to the World Health Organization, a decision limit for folate deficiency in adults is serum folate level below 10 nmol/L, and in women of fertile age a red blood cell folate level below 906 nmol/L in order to prevent neural tube defects. Qualified systematic reviews along with identified relevant literature have been used for this scoping review prepared for the Nordic Nutrition Recommendations 2023.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anne-Lise Bjørke-Monsen
- Department of Medical Biochemistry and Pharmacology, Haukeland University Hospital, Bergen, Norway
| | - Per Magne Ueland
- Department of Clinical Science, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
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López-Gil JF, Smith L, Gaya AR, Victoria-Montesinos D, Gutiérrez-Espinoza H, Herrera-Gutiérrez E, García-Hermoso A. The moderating role of recreational substance use in the association of Mediterranean diet with academic performance among adolescents. Sci Rep 2023; 13:10816. [PMID: 37402752 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-37529-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2023] [Accepted: 06/22/2023] [Indexed: 07/06/2023] Open
Abstract
No study has examined the potential moderating role of recreational substance use in the relationship between the Mediterranean diet (MedDiet) and academic performance. The aim of this study was to test the potential moderating role of recreational substance use (i.e., alcohol, tobacco, and cannabis) in the association of adherence to the MedDiet with academic performance among adolescents. This cross-sectional study included a sample of 757 adolescents (55.6% girls) aged 12-17 years from the Valle de Ricote (Region of Murcia). The Region of Murcia is an autonomous community of Spain located in the southeast of the Iberian Peninsula, along the coast of the Mediterranean Sea. Adherence to the MedDiet was assessed by the Mediterranean Diet Quality Index for Children and Teenagers (KIDMED). Recreational substance use (i.e., tobacco, alcohol, cannabis) was self-reported by adolescents. Academic performance was assessed by the school records at the end of the academic year. The relationship between adherence to the MedDiet and academic performance was moderated by both tobacco and alcohol use (for grade point average and all school records). In conclusion, higher adherence to the MedDiet was related to greater academic performance in adolescents, but recreational substance use could moderate this association.
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Affiliation(s)
- José Francisco López-Gil
- Navarrabiomed, Hospital Universitario de Navarra, Universidad Pública de Navarra (UPNA), IdiSNA, Pamplona, Navarra, Spain
- Department of Environmental Health, Harvard University T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
- One Health Research Group, Universidad de Las Américas, Quito, Ecuador
| | - Lee Smith
- Centre for Health, Performance and Wellbeing, Anglia Ruskin University, Cambridge, UK
| | - Anelise Reis Gaya
- School of Physical Education, Physiotherapy and Dance, Post-Graduate Program in Human Movement Sciences, Federal University of Rio Grande Do Sul, Porto Alegre, Brazil
| | | | | | - Eva Herrera-Gutiérrez
- Department of Developmental and Educational Psychology, Faculty of Psychology, Espinardo Campus, University of Murcia, Murcia, Spain
| | - Antonio García-Hermoso
- Navarrabiomed, Hospital Universitario de Navarra, Universidad Pública de Navarra (UPNA), IdiSNA, Pamplona, Navarra, Spain
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5
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Lapidot Y, Maya M, Reshef L, Cohen D, Ornoy A, Gophna U, Muhsen K. Relationships of the gut microbiome with cognitive development among healthy school-age children. Front Pediatr 2023; 11:1198792. [PMID: 37274812 PMCID: PMC10235814 DOI: 10.3389/fped.2023.1198792] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2023] [Accepted: 05/05/2023] [Indexed: 06/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Background The gut microbiome might play a role in neurodevelopment, however, evidence remains elusive. We aimed to examine the relationship between the intestinal microbiome and cognitive development of school-age children. Methods This cross-sectional study included healthy Israeli Arab children from different socioeconomic status (SES). The microbiome was characterized in fecal samples by implementing 16S rRNA gene sequencing. Cognitive function was measured using Stanford-Binet test, yielding full-scale Intelligence Quotient (FSIQ) score. Sociodemographics and anthropometric and hemoglobin measurements were obtained. Multivariate models were implemented to assess adjusted associations between the gut microbiome and FSIQ score, while controlling for age, sex, SES, physical growth, and hemoglobin levels. Results Overall, 165 children (41.2% females) aged 6-9 years were enrolled. SES score was strongly related to both FSIQ score and the gut microbiome. Measures of α-diversity were significantly associated with FSIQ score, demonstrating a more diverse, even, and rich microbiome with increased FSIQ score. Significant differences in fecal bacterial composition were found; FSIQ score explained the highest variance in bacterial β-diversity, followed by SES score. Several taxonomic differences were significantly associated with FSIQ score, including Prevotella, Dialister, Sutterella, Ruminococcus callidus, and Bacteroides uniformis. Conclusions We demonstrated significant independent associations between the gut microbiome and cognitive development in school-age children.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yelena Lapidot
- Department of Epidemiology and Preventive Medicine, School of Public Health, the Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Maayan Maya
- Department of Epidemiology and Preventive Medicine, School of Public Health, the Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Leah Reshef
- The Shmunis School of Biomedicine and Cancer Research, Faculty of Life Sciences, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Dani Cohen
- Department of Epidemiology and Preventive Medicine, School of Public Health, the Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Asher Ornoy
- Adelson School of Medicine, Ariel University, Ariel, Israel
- Department of Medical Neurobiology, The Hebrew University Hadassah Medical School, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Uri Gophna
- The Shmunis School of Biomedicine and Cancer Research, Faculty of Life Sciences, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Khitam Muhsen
- Department of Epidemiology and Preventive Medicine, School of Public Health, the Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
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López-Gil JF, Martínez-Vizcaíno V, Amaro-Gahete FJ, Medrano M, Pascual-Morena C, Álvarez-Bueno C, Mesas AE. Nut consumption and academic performance among adolescents: the EHDLA study. Eur J Nutr 2023; 62:289-298. [PMID: 35972530 DOI: 10.1007/s00394-022-02985-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2022] [Accepted: 08/03/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE The aim of this study was to examine the relationship between nut consumption and academic performance in Spanish adolescents and to explore the role of sociodemographic, anthropometric, and lifestyle covariates on this association. METHODS A cross-sectional study was carried out using a food frequency questionnaire for estimating nut consumption in the number of 20-30 g servings per week, and academic performance data were obtained from school records. Analyses of covariance were adjusted for sociodemographic, anthropometric and lifestyle covariates, including total energy intake. RESULTS Among the 846 adolescents included in the analyses (55.3% girls, age range from 12 to 17 years), the mean ± standard deviation consumption of nuts was 2.7 ± 2.8 servings per week, while the mean of all school grades recorded was 6.5 ± 2.0. Furthermore, compared to no consumption, the consumption of ≥ 3 nut servings per week was consistently associated with higher grades in language (p for trend = 0.005), combination of language and math (p for trend = 0.026), grade point average (p for trend = 0.039), and combination of all school records (p for trend = 0.046). These associations were observed regardless of all covariates considered, although sex and socioeconomic level played a significant role in the completely adjusted models. CONCLUSION Nut consumption is associated with higher academic performance in a representative sample of Spanish adolescents. These cross-sectional results should be confirmed in longitudinal and intervention studies.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Vicente Martínez-Vizcaíno
- Health and Social Research Center, Universidad de Castilla-La Mancha, Cuenca, Spain. .,Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad Autónoma de Chile, 3460000, Talca, Chile.
| | - Francisco J Amaro-Gahete
- PROFITH "PROmoting FITness and Health through Physical Activity" Research Group, Department of Physical Education and Sport, Faculty of Sport Sciences, University of Granada, 18071, Granada, Spain.,EFFECTS-262 Research Group, Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Granada, 18016, Granada, Spain
| | - María Medrano
- Health and Social Research Center, Universidad de Castilla-La Mancha, Cuenca, Spain.,Institute for Innovation and Sustainable Development in Food Chain (IS-FOOD), Public University of Navarra, 31006, Pamplona, Spain
| | | | - Celia Álvarez-Bueno
- Universidad Politécnica y Artística del Paraguay, 001518, Asunción, Paraguay
| | - Arthur Eumann Mesas
- Health and Social Research Center, Universidad de Castilla-La Mancha, Cuenca, Spain.,Postgraduate Program in Public Health, Universidade Estadual de Londrina, Londrina, Paraná, Brazil
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7
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Bekdash RA. Methyl Donors, Epigenetic Alterations, and Brain Health: Understanding the Connection. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24032346. [PMID: 36768667 PMCID: PMC9917111 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24032346] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2022] [Revised: 01/18/2023] [Accepted: 01/21/2023] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Methyl donors such as choline, betaine, folic acid, methionine, and vitamins B6 and B12 are critical players in the one-carbon metabolism and have neuroprotective functions. The one-carbon metabolism comprises a series of interconnected chemical pathways that are important for normal cellular functions. Among these pathways are those of the methionine and folate cycles, which contribute to the formation of S-adenosylmethionine (SAM). SAM is the universal methyl donor of methylation reactions such as histone and DNA methylation, two epigenetic mechanisms that regulate gene expression and play roles in human health and disease. Epigenetic mechanisms have been considered a bridge between the effects of environmental factors, such as nutrition, and phenotype. Studies in human and animal models have indicated the importance of the optimal levels of methyl donors on brain health and behavior across the lifespan. Imbalances in the levels of these micronutrients during critical periods of brain development have been linked to epigenetic alterations in the expression of genes that regulate normal brain function. We present studies that support the link between imbalances in the levels of methyl donors, epigenetic alterations, and stress-related disorders. Appropriate levels of these micronutrients should then be monitored at all stages of development for a healthier brain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rola A Bekdash
- Department of Biological Sciences, Rutgers University, Newark, NJ 07102, USA
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8
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de Seymour J, Stollenwerk Cavallaro A, Wharemate-Keung L, Ching S, Jackson J. Nutrient-Level Evaluation of Meals Provided on the Government-Funded School Lunch Program in New Zealand. Nutrients 2022; 14:nu14235087. [PMID: 36501117 PMCID: PMC9741039 DOI: 10.3390/nu14235087] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2022] [Revised: 11/25/2022] [Accepted: 11/25/2022] [Indexed: 12/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Approximately 1 in 6 children in New Zealand are living in households facing poverty and 14% of the population is food insecure. The Ka Ora, Ka Ako|Healthy School Lunches program aims to reduce food insecurity by providing access to a nutritious lunch every school day. This study analyzed the nutritional content of Ka Ora, Ka Ako meals and compared them to national and international standards. Meals were selected at random from approved menus. The suppliers covered by the 302 meals analyzed provide 161,699 students with a lunch (74.9% of students on the program). The meals were analyzed using Foodworks 10 nutrient analysis software. The nutrient content was compared against the New Zealand/Australia Nutrient Reference Values (NRVs) and to nutrient-level standards for international school lunch programs. A total of 77.5% of nutrients analyzed exceeded 30% of the recommended daily intakes. Protein, vitamin A and folate met the NRV targets and a majority of the international standards (55/57). Energy, calcium, and iron were low compared to NRVs and international standards (meeting 2/76 standards). Carbohydrates were low compared to international standards. The findings have been used to inform the development of revised nutrition standards for the program, which will be released in 2022.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jamie de Seymour
- Special Projects Team, Ministry of Education, Wellington 6011, New Zealand
- College of Health, Massey University, Auckland 0632, New Zealand
- Correspondence: (J.d.S.); (J.J.)
| | | | | | - Sheryl Ching
- Special Projects Team, Ministry of Education, Wellington 6011, New Zealand
| | - Jasmin Jackson
- Special Projects Team, Ministry of Education, Wellington 6011, New Zealand
- Correspondence: (J.d.S.); (J.J.)
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Antony AC, Vora RM, Karmarkar SJ. The silent tragic reality of Hidden Hunger, anaemia, and neural-tube defects (NTDs) in India. THE LANCET REGIONAL HEALTH. SOUTHEAST ASIA 2022; 6:100071. [PMID: 37383344 PMCID: PMC10305893 DOI: 10.1016/j.lansea.2022.100071] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/30/2023]
Abstract
Hidden Hunger arising from nutritional iron-, folate-, and vitamin-B12-deficiencies is exceedingly common in India and has profound negative impacts on anaemia, on pregnancy, and on embryonic-foetal neurodevelopment in utero, which predisposes to NTDs and psychological-psychiatric manifestations in childhood. Whereas younger-to-middle-aged Indians fail to perform at maximum potential, the elderly are at risk for calamitous neurologic events. However, these micronutrient-deficiencies are eminently correctable through food-fortification. Therefore, the Indian Government can no longer afford the luxury of inaction by either denying or downplaying the gravity of this problem. What is critically needed from India's leaders is an urgent, clear-eyed reappraisal and act of anagnorisis-(an often startling self-recognition and discovery of a profoundly serious error and tragic flaw)-in failing to confront this problem for decades. Only when closely followed by a metanoia-(a transformative change of heart that triggers remedial action)-can they help India avoid a catastrophic tryst with destiny.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aśok C. Antony
- Division of Hematology-Oncology, Department of Medicine, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, Indiana, USA
| | - Ravindra M. Vora
- Department of Paediatric Surgery, Paediatric Surgery Centre & Post-Graduate Institute, Implementing The Lancet Commission on Global Surgery in India, Sangli, Maharashtra, India
| | - Santosh J. Karmarkar
- Department of Paediatric Surgery, Lilavati Hospital and Research Centre, Mumbai, Maharashtra, India
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10
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López-Gil JF, Mesas AE, Álvarez-Bueno C, Pascual-Morena C, Saz-Lara A, Cavero-Redondo I. Association Between Eating Habits and Perceived School Performance: A Cross-Sectional Study Among 46,455 Adolescents From 42 Countries. Front Nutr 2022; 9:797415. [PMID: 35187033 PMCID: PMC8852839 DOI: 10.3389/fnut.2022.797415] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2021] [Accepted: 01/03/2022] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE This study analyzed the association between selected self-reported eating habits and perceived school performance in adolescents by gender. METHODS A cross-sectional analysis was conducted with data from a large representative sample of adolescents from 42 different countries. Participants answered questions about their weekly frequency of fruit, vegetable, sweets, and soft drink consumption, as well as the frequency of breakfast consumption and family meals. The adolescents subjectively rated their school performance compared to that of their classmates. Logistic regression models were adjusted for region, age, body mass index (z-score), socioeconomic status, physical activity, recreational screen time, and sleep difficulties. RESULTS Among the 46,455 (53.5% female, mean age of 13.7 ± 1.6 years) adolescents studied, 20.6% of males and 25.5% of females reported high perceived school performance. In the results of the fully adjusted analyses, the higher the frequency of all healthy eating habits studied, the higher the perceived school performance in both males and females. Specifically, both males and females reporting a higher frequency of fruit and vegetable consumption, a lower frequency of sweets and soft drink consumption, more frequent breakfast consumption, and more frequent family meals (breakfast and dinner) were more likely to perceive their school performance as higher compared to their classmates. In addition, having breakfast regularly on weekends and the frequency of family dinner were associated with better school performance in both males and females. CONCLUSIONS In summary, this study provide cross-sectional evidence on the association between healthy eating habits and perceived school performance. Considering that school performance is an indicator of healthy development in adolescence, our findings reinforce and extend the evidence on the importance of healthy eating at this stage of life.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Arthur Eumann Mesas
- Health and Social Research Center, Universidad de Castilla-La Mancha, Cuenca, Spain
- Postgraduate Program in Public Health, Universidade Estadual de Londrina, Londrina, Brazil
| | - Celia Álvarez-Bueno
- Health and Social Research Center, Universidad de Castilla-La Mancha, Cuenca, Spain
| | | | - Alicia Saz-Lara
- Health and Social Research Center, Universidad de Castilla-La Mancha, Cuenca, Spain
| | - Iván Cavero-Redondo
- Health and Social Research Center, Universidad de Castilla-La Mancha, Cuenca, Spain
- Rehabilitation in Health Research Center (CIRES), Universidad de las Américas, Santiago, Chile
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11
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Costello SE, Geiser E, Schneider N. Nutrients for executive function development and related brain connectivity in school-aged children. Nutr Rev 2021; 79:1293-1306. [PMID: 33355357 DOI: 10.1093/nutrit/nuaa134] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Executive functions refer to a set of higher-order cognitive processes involved in the control and organization of information to serve goal-directed behaviors. Skills in executive functioning are developed throughout childhood and adolescence and have been shown to be predictive of academic achievement. The coordination of these complex processes is critically dependent on brain maturation and connectivity, including key neurodevelopmental processes like myelination and synaptogenesis. Among other factors, research highlights the influential effect of nutrition and diet on these neurodevelopmental processes, which may impact executive function performance in healthy and deficient populations. This review considers the research to date on the role of key nutrients that have been identified for executive function development and their underlying neurophysiological processes in school-aged children.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah E Costello
- Société des Produits Nestlé S.A, Nestlé Research, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Eveline Geiser
- Société des Produits Nestlé S.A, Nestlé Research, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Nora Schneider
- Société des Produits Nestlé S.A, Nestlé Research, Lausanne, Switzerland
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12
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Diaz-Castro J, Garcia-Vega JE, Ochoa JJ, Puche-Juarez M, Toledano JM, Moreno-Fernandez J. Implementation of a Physical Activity Program Protocol in Schoolchildren: Effects on the Endocrine Adipose Tissue and Cognitive Functions. Front Nutr 2021; 8:761213. [PMID: 34746212 PMCID: PMC8568884 DOI: 10.3389/fnut.2021.761213] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2021] [Accepted: 09/28/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Practicing exercise is one of the best strategies to promote well-being and quality of life, however physical activity in schoolchildren and adolescents is developed in an unpredictable, intermittent way and in short periods. There are relatively few intervention studies investigating the role of physical activity in schoolchildren endocrine function of adipose tissue and cognitive function. One hundred and three boys, divided into two groups: control (n = 51, did not perform additional physical activity) and exercise (n = 52, performed vigorous physical activity after the regular school classes). The exercise group, developed a 6 months physical activity protocol delivered by the physical education teacher during the second semester of the academic course (6 months). Body composition measurements, adherence to the Mediterranean diet, nutritional intake, hematological and biochemical parameters, endocrine function of the adipose tissue and biomarkers of brain molecular function were assessed at enrolment and after 6 months of intervention. No statistically significant differences between both groups were found for age, height and bone mass. Weight and BMI was lower in the exercise group compared to the control group, increasing lean mass and reducing fat mass. 58.68% of children in the exercise group showed high adherence to the Mediterranean Diet compared to 46.32% of the control group. The exercise group was more concerned about their diet consumed more fiber, vitamin B1, B2, B6, B12, D, Niacin, Folic acid, Fe, Zn, Se and Cu. Triglycerides levels and HDL-cholesterol were higher in the exercise group at the end of the study. Leptin, MCP-1, lipocalin-2, adipsin and PAI-1 levels were lower in the exercise group at the end of the exercise protocol. In contrast, adiponectin and osteocrin markedly increased in the exercise group. Moreover, marked increases were recorded in healthy brain state biomarkers (NGF, BDNF, and irisin) in the exercise group, which could have a positive impact on academic performance. Taken together, all the findings reported are consistent with many benefits of the exercise protocol on adipose tissue and brain molecular function, demonstrating the usefulness of early interventions based on physical activity in children to reduce risk factors related to sedentary lifestyle.
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Affiliation(s)
- Javier Diaz-Castro
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Campus Universitario de Cartuja, University of Granada, Granada, Spain.,Institute of Nutrition and Food Technology "José Mataix Verdú", University of Granada, Granada, Spain.,Instituto de Investigación Biosanitaria (IBS), Granada, Spain
| | - Jose Eulogio Garcia-Vega
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Campus Universitario de Cartuja, University of Granada, Granada, Spain.,Institute of Nutrition and Food Technology "José Mataix Verdú", University of Granada, Granada, Spain.,Nutrition and Food Sciences Ph.D. Program, University of Granada, Granada, Spain
| | - Julio J Ochoa
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Campus Universitario de Cartuja, University of Granada, Granada, Spain.,Institute of Nutrition and Food Technology "José Mataix Verdú", University of Granada, Granada, Spain
| | - María Puche-Juarez
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Campus Universitario de Cartuja, University of Granada, Granada, Spain.,Institute of Nutrition and Food Technology "José Mataix Verdú", University of Granada, Granada, Spain
| | - Juan M Toledano
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Campus Universitario de Cartuja, University of Granada, Granada, Spain.,Institute of Nutrition and Food Technology "José Mataix Verdú", University of Granada, Granada, Spain
| | - Jorge Moreno-Fernandez
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Campus Universitario de Cartuja, University of Granada, Granada, Spain.,Institute of Nutrition and Food Technology "José Mataix Verdú", University of Granada, Granada, Spain
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Vora RM, Alappattu MJ, Zarkar AD, Soni MS, Karmarkar SJ, Antony AC. Potential for elimination of folate and vitamin B 12 deficiency in India using vitamin-fortified tea: a preliminary study. BMJ Nutr Prev Health 2021; 4:293-306. [PMID: 34308138 PMCID: PMC8258070 DOI: 10.1136/bmjnph-2020-000209] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2020] [Accepted: 05/14/2021] [Indexed: 01/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction The majority of Indian women have a poor dietary folate and vitamin B12 intake resulting in their chronically low vitamin status, which contributes to anaemia and the high incidence of folate-responsive neural-tube defects (NTDs) in India. Although many countries have successfully deployed centrally-processed folate-fortified flour for prevention of NTDs, inherent logistical problems preclude widespread implementation of this strategy in India. Because tea-the second most common beverage worldwide (after water)-is consumed by most Indians every day, and appeared an ideal vehicle for fortification with folate and vitamin B12, we determined if daily consumption of vitamin-fortified tea for 2 months could benefit young women of childbearing-age in Sangli, India. Methods Women (average age=20±2 SD) used teabags spiked with therapeutic doses of 1 mg folate plus either 0.1 mg vitamin B12 (Group-1, n=19) or 0.5 mg vitamin B12 (Group-2, n=19), or mock-fortified teabags (Group-0, n=5) to prepare a cup of tea every day for 2 months, following which their pre-intervention and post-intervention serum vitamin and haemoglobin concentrations were compared. Results Most women had baseline anaemia with low-normal serum folate and below-normal serum vitamin B12 levels. After 2 months, women in both Group-1 and Group-2 exhibited significant increases in mean differences in pre-intervention versus post-intervention serum folate levels of 8.37 ng/mL (95% CIs 5.69 to 11.04, p<0.05) and 6.69 ng/mL (95% CI 3.93 to 9.44, p<0.05), respectively; however, Group-0 experienced an insignificant rise of 1.26 ng/mL (95% CI -4.08 to 0.16). In addition, over one-half and two-thirds of women in Group-1 and Group-2, respectively, exhibited increases in serum vitamin B12 levels over 300 pg/mL. There was also a significant post-interventional increase in the mean haemoglobin concentration in Group-1 of 1.45 g/dL (95% CI 0.64 to 2.26, p=0.002) and Group-2 of 0.79 g/dL (95% CI 0.11 to 1.42, p=0.027), which reflected a bona fide clinical response. Conclusion Tea is an outstanding scalable vehicle for fortification with folate and vitamin B12 in India, and has potential to help eliminate haematological and neurological complications arising from inadequate dietary consumption or absorption of folate and vitamin B12.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ravindra M Vora
- Department of Paediatric Surgery, Paediatric Surgery Centre & Post-Graduate Institute, Implementing The Lancet Commission on Global Surgery in India, Sangli, Maharashtra, India
| | - Meryl J Alappattu
- Department of Physical Therapy, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, USA
| | - Apoorva D Zarkar
- Department of Paediatric Surgery, Paediatric Surgery Centre & Post-Graduate Institute, Sangli, Maharashtra, India
| | - Mayur S Soni
- Department of Paediatric Surgery, Paediatric Surgery Centre & Post-Graduate Institute, Sangli, Maharashtra, India
| | - Santosh J Karmarkar
- Department of Paediatric Surgery, Lilavati Hospital and Research Centre, Mumbai, Maharashtra, India
| | - Aśok C Antony
- Department of Medicine, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, Indiana, USA
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Golding J, Gregory S, Clark R, Iles-Caven Y, Ellis G, Taylor CM, Hibbeln J. Maternal prenatal vitamin B12 intake is associated with speech development and mathematical abilities in childhood. Nutr Res 2020; 86:68-78. [PMID: 33551260 PMCID: PMC7870459 DOI: 10.1016/j.nutres.2020.12.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2020] [Revised: 11/30/2020] [Accepted: 12/01/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Deficiencies of many nutrients in pregnancy have adverse effects on fetal brain development with consequent impaired cognitive function in childhood. However, it is unclear whether deficiencies of vitamin B12 prenatally are harmful to the developing fetus. We therefore used the Avon Longitudinal Study of Parents and Children to test the hypothesis that cognitive outcomes in childhood are reduced if their mothers consumed a diet low in vitamin B12 during pregnancy. A detailed exposome analysis was used to identify 9 factors independently associated with low vitamin B12 intake. These were taken into account in each of 26 outcome analyses. Results showed that the children of women with the lowest 10% intake of B12 were at increased risk of poor vocabulary at 24 months, reduced ability at combining words at 38 months, poor speech intelligibility at 6 years, poor mathematics comprehension at school years 4 and 6 (ages 8-9 and 10-11 years), and poor results on the national mathematics tests (age 13). There were no such significant adjusted associations for reading or spelling abilities, or for verbal or full-scale IQ (Intelligence Quotient) at 8 or at 15. Thus, we have confirmed that there are adverse effects on the child's development if the pregnant woman has a low intake of vitamin B12, and we have shown that these are specific to certain speech and mathematical abilities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jean Golding
- Centre for Academic Child Health, Population Health Sciences, Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, Oakfield House, Oakfield Grove, Bristol, BS8 2BN, United Kingdom.
| | - Steven Gregory
- Centre for Academic Child Health, Population Health Sciences, Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, Oakfield House, Oakfield Grove, Bristol, BS8 2BN, United Kingdom
| | - Rosie Clark
- Centre for Academic Child Health, Population Health Sciences, Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, Oakfield House, Oakfield Grove, Bristol, BS8 2BN, United Kingdom
| | - Yasmin Iles-Caven
- Centre for Academic Child Health, Population Health Sciences, Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, Oakfield House, Oakfield Grove, Bristol, BS8 2BN, United Kingdom
| | - Genette Ellis
- Centre for Academic Child Health, Population Health Sciences, Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, Oakfield House, Oakfield Grove, Bristol, BS8 2BN, United Kingdom
| | - Caroline M Taylor
- Centre for Academic Child Health, Population Health Sciences, Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, Oakfield House, Oakfield Grove, Bristol, BS8 2BN, United Kingdom
| | - Joseph Hibbeln
- Department of Psychiatry, Barton Health, South Lake Tahoe, California, USA
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15
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Jirout J, LoCasale-Crouch J, Turnbull K, Gu Y, Cubides M, Garzione S, Evans TM, Weltman AL, Kranz S. How Lifestyle Factors Affect Cognitive and Executive Function and the Ability to Learn in Children. Nutrients 2019; 11:E1953. [PMID: 31434251 PMCID: PMC6723730 DOI: 10.3390/nu11081953] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2019] [Revised: 08/08/2019] [Accepted: 08/14/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
In today's research environment, children's diet, physical activity, and other lifestyle factors are commonly studied in the context of health, independent of their effect on cognition and learning. Moreover, there is little overlap between the two literatures, although it is reasonable to expect that the lifestyle factors explored in the health-focused research are intertwined with cognition and learning processes. This thematic review provides an overview of knowledge connecting the selected lifestyle factors of diet, physical activity, and sleep hygiene to children's cognition and learning. Research from studies of diet and nutrition, physical activity and fitness, sleep, and broader influences of cultural and socioeconomic factors related to health and learning, were summarized to offer examples of research that integrate lifestyle factors and cognition with learning. The literature review demonstrates that the associations and causal relationships between these factors are vastly understudied. As a result, current knowledge on predictors of optimal cognition and learning is incomplete, and likely lacks understanding of many critical facts and relationships, their interactions, and the nature of their relationships, such as there being mediating or confounding factors that could provide important knowledge to increase the efficacy of learning-focused interventions. This review provides information focused on studies in children. Although basic research in cells or animal studies are available and indicate a number of possible physiological pathways, inclusion of those data would distract from the fact that there is a significant gap in knowledge on lifestyle factors and optimal learning in children. In a climate where childcare and school feeding policies are continuously discussed, this thematic review aims to provide an impulse for discussion and a call for more holistic approaches to support child development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jamie Jirout
- Center for Advanced Study of Teaching and Learning, Charlottesville, VA 22903, USA
| | | | - Khara Turnbull
- Center for Advanced Study of Teaching and Learning, Charlottesville, VA 22903, USA
| | - Yin Gu
- Center for Advanced Study of Teaching and Learning, Charlottesville, VA 22903, USA
| | - Mayaris Cubides
- Center for Advanced Study of Teaching and Learning, Charlottesville, VA 22903, USA
| | - Sarah Garzione
- Department of Kinesiology, Curry School of Education and Human Development, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA 22903, USA
| | - Tanya M Evans
- Center for Advanced Study of Teaching and Learning, Charlottesville, VA 22903, USA
| | - Arthur L Weltman
- Department of Kinesiology, Curry School of Education and Human Development, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA 22903, USA
| | - Sibylle Kranz
- Department of Kinesiology, Curry School of Education and Human Development, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA 22903, USA.
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17
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Monteagudo C, Scander H, Nilsen B, Yngve A. Folate intake in a Swedish adult population: Food sources and predictive factors. Food Nutr Res 2017; 61:1328960. [PMID: 28659736 PMCID: PMC5475292 DOI: 10.1080/16546628.2017.1328960] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2016] [Accepted: 04/26/2017] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction: Folate plays an important role in cell metabolism, but international studies show that intake is currently below recommendations, especially among women. The study objective was to identify folate food sources by food group, gender, and age group, and to identify factors influencing folate intake, based on food consumption data for Swedish adults in the 2010–11 Riksmaten study. Methods: The sample included a representative Swedish population aged 18–80 years (n = 1657; 56.3% female). Food and nutrient intakes were estimated from self-reported food records during 4 consecutive days. Food consumption was categorized into 26 food groups. Stepwise regression was used to analyze food groups as folate sources for participants. Factors predicting the highest folate intake (third tertile) were determined by logistic regression analysis. Results: Vegetables and pulses represented the most important folate source for all age groups and both genders, especially in women aged 45–64 years (49.7% of total folate intake). The next folate source in importance was dairy products for the youngest group (18–30 years), bread for men, and fruit and berries for women. The likelihood of being in the highest tertile of folate intake (odds ratio = 1.69, 95% confidence interval 1.354–2.104) was higher for men. Influencing factors for folate intake in the highest tertile were low body mass index and high educational level in the men, and high educational level, vegetarian diet, organic product consumption, non-smoking, and alcohol consumption within recommendations in the women. Conclusion: This study describes the folate intake per food group of Swedish adults according to the 2010–11 Riksmaten survey, identifying vegetables and pulses as the most important source. Data obtained on factors related to folate consumption may be useful for the development of specific nutrition education programs to increase the intake of this vitamin in high-risk groups.
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Affiliation(s)
- Celia Monteagudo
- Department of Food, Nutrition and Dietetics, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden.,Research Group on Nutrition, Diet and Risk Assessment-AGR255, Department of Nutrition and Food Science, University of Granada, Granada, Spain
| | - Henrik Scander
- School of Hospitality, Culinary Arts and Meal Science, Örebro University, Örebro, Sweden
| | - Bente Nilsen
- School of Hospitality, Culinary Arts and Meal Science, Örebro University, Örebro, Sweden
| | - Agneta Yngve
- Department of Food, Nutrition and Dietetics, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
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18
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Burrows T, Goldman S, Pursey K, Lim R. Is there an association between dietary intake and academic achievement: a systematic review. J Hum Nutr Diet 2016; 30:117-140. [DOI: 10.1111/jhn.12407] [Citation(s) in RCA: 84] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- T. Burrows
- School of Health Sciences; Faculty of Health and Medicine; University of Newcastle; NSW Australia
| | - S. Goldman
- School of Health Sciences; Faculty of Health and Medicine; University of Newcastle; NSW Australia
| | - K. Pursey
- School of Health Sciences; Faculty of Health and Medicine; University of Newcastle; NSW Australia
| | - R. Lim
- School of Biomedical Sciences and Pharmacy; Faculty of Health and Medicine; University of Newcastle; NSW Australia
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19
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Eating disorders, gene-environment interactions and the epigenome: Roles of stress exposures and nutritional status. Physiol Behav 2016; 162:181-5. [DOI: 10.1016/j.physbeh.2016.01.041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2015] [Revised: 01/22/2016] [Accepted: 01/29/2016] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
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20
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Srinivasan K, Thomas T, Kapanee ARM, Ramthal A, Bellinger DC, Bosch RJ, Kurpad AV, Duggan C. Effects of maternal vitamin B12 supplementation on early infant neurocognitive outcomes: a randomized controlled clinical trial. MATERNAL AND CHILD NUTRITION 2016; 13. [PMID: 27356547 DOI: 10.1111/mcn.12325] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2015] [Revised: 03/12/2016] [Accepted: 03/14/2016] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Maternal nutritional status during pregnancy impacts fetal brain development. Vitamin B12 plays a vital role in neuronal development. However, findings from studies on the association between maternal B12 status and child cognitive functions have been inconsistent. We performed a randomized, placebo-controlled clinical trial of oral B12 supplementation (50 µg) beginning at <14 weeks of gestation through a 6-week post-partum. In the present study, we report the effects of maternal B12 supplementation on cognitive development in infants at 9 months of age on Bayley Scales of Infant Development-III (BSID-III). One hundred eighty-three pregnant women received vitamin B12, and 183 received placebo. Nine-month BSID-III development score was available in 178 infants. There were no significant differences in maternal sociodemographic characteristics and baseline biochemical measures between infants who underwent BSID-III evaluation and infants who were not evaluated. There were no significant differences in any of the subscales of BSID-III between infants born to mothers who received B12 supplementation (n = 78) vs. placebo (n = 100). On multiple regression analysis, elevated maternal total homocysteine (tHcy) levels adjusted for treatment group, birthweight, parity, income and home environment at second trimester of pregnancy were significantly negatively associated with expressive language (β = 3.13 points, P < 0.001), and in third trimester of pregnancy with expressive language (β = -2.29 points, P < 0.001) and fine motor (β = -1.41 points, P = 0.005) domains of BSID-III. While no significant effects of maternal B12 supplementation were seen on cognitive development in infants at 9 months of age, elevated maternal tHcy levels were associated with poorer cognitive performance in some of the subdomains of BSID-III. In pregnant women with elevated tHcy levels and or B12 deficiencies, it may be worthwhile to study the impact of longer term maternal supplementation on infant cognitive outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Krishnamachari Srinivasan
- Division of Mental Health and Neurosciences, St. John's Research Institute, Bengaluru, Karnataka, India.,Department of Psychiatry, St. John's Medical College, Bangalore, Karnataka, India
| | - Tinku Thomas
- Division of Epidemiology, Biostatistics and Population Health, St. John's Research Institute, Bangalore, Karnataka, India
| | - Aruna Rose Mary Kapanee
- Department of Clinical Psychology, National Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences, Bangalore, Karnataka, India
| | - Asha Ramthal
- Division of Mental Health and Neurosciences, St. John's Research Institute, Bengaluru, Karnataka, India
| | - David C Bellinger
- Department of Neurology, Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Ronald J Bosch
- Department of Biostatistics, Harvard School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Anura V Kurpad
- Division of Nutrition, St. John's Research Institute, Bangalore, Karnataka, India.,Department of Physiology, St. John's Medical College, Bangalore, Karnataka, India
| | - Christopher Duggan
- Division of Nutrition, St. John's Research Institute, Bangalore, Karnataka, India.,Center for Nutrition, Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
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21
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Kennedy DO. B Vitamins and the Brain: Mechanisms, Dose and Efficacy--A Review. Nutrients 2016; 8:68. [PMID: 26828517 PMCID: PMC4772032 DOI: 10.3390/nu8020068] [Citation(s) in RCA: 428] [Impact Index Per Article: 53.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2015] [Revised: 01/11/2016] [Accepted: 01/21/2016] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The B-vitamins comprise a group of eight water soluble vitamins that perform essential, closely inter-related roles in cellular functioning, acting as co-enzymes in a vast array of catabolic and anabolic enzymatic reactions. Their collective effects are particularly prevalent to numerous aspects of brain function, including energy production, DNA/RNA synthesis/repair, genomic and non-genomic methylation, and the synthesis of numerous neurochemicals and signaling molecules. However, human epidemiological and controlled trial investigations, and the resultant scientific commentary, have focused almost exclusively on the small sub-set of vitamins (B9/B12/B6) that are the most prominent (but not the exclusive) B-vitamins involved in homocysteine metabolism. Scant regard has been paid to the other B vitamins. This review describes the closely inter-related functions of the eight B-vitamins and marshals evidence suggesting that adequate levels of all members of this group of micronutrients are essential for optimal physiological and neurological functioning. Furthermore, evidence from human research clearly shows both that a significant proportion of the populations of developed countries suffer from deficiencies or insufficiencies in one or more of this group of vitamins, and that, in the absence of an optimal diet, administration of the entire B-vitamin group, rather than a small sub-set, at doses greatly in excess of the current governmental recommendations, would be a rational approach for preserving brain health.
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Affiliation(s)
- David O Kennedy
- Brain, Performance and Nutrition Research Centre, Northumbria University, Newcastle-upon-Tyne NE1 8ST, UK.
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22
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Nilsson TK, Hurtig-Wennlöf A, Sjöström M, Herrmann W, Obeid R, Owen JR, Zeisel S. Plasma 1-carbon metabolites and academic achievement in 15-yr-old adolescents. FASEB J 2016; 30:1683-8. [PMID: 26728177 DOI: 10.1096/fj.15-281097] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2015] [Accepted: 12/14/2015] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
Academic achievement in adolescents is correlated with 1-carbon metabolism (1-CM), as folate intake is positively related and total plasma homocysteine (tHcy) negatively related to academic success. Because another 1-CM nutrient, choline is essential for fetal neurocognitive development, we hypothesized that choline and betaine could also be positively related to academic achievement in adolescents. In a sample of 15-yr-old children (n= 324), we measured plasma concentrations of homocysteine, choline, and betaine and genotyped them for 2 polymorphisms with effects on 1-CM, methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR) 677C>T, rs1801133, and phosphatidylethanolamineN-methyltransferase (PEMT), rs12325817 (G>C). The sum of school grades in 17 major subjects was used as an outcome measure for academic achievement. Lifestyle and family socioeconomic status (SES) data were obtained from questionnaires. Plasma choline was significantly and positively associated with academic achievement independent of SES factors (paternal education and income, maternal education and income, smoking, school) and of folate intake (P= 0.009,R(2)= 0.285). With the addition of thePEMTrs12325817 polymorphism, the association value was only marginally changed. Plasma betaine concentration, tHcy, and theMTHFR677C>T polymorphism did not affect academic achievement in any tested model involving choline. Dietary intake of choline is marginal in many adolescents and may be a public health concern.-Nilsson, T. K., Hurtig-Wennlöf, A., Sjöström, M., Herrmann, W., Obeid, R., Owen, J. R., Zeisel, S. Plasma 1-carbon metabolites and academic achievement in 15-yr-old adolescents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Torbjörn K Nilsson
- *Department of Medical Biosciences/Clinical Chemistry, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden; Faculty of Medicine and Health, School of Health and Medical Sciences, Örebro University, Örebro, Sweden; Department of Biosciences and Nutrition, Karolinska Institute, Stockholm, Sweden; Department of Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine, Saarland University Hospital, Homburg/Saar, Germany; Nutrition Research Institute, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, Kannapolis, North Carolina, USA; and Department of Nutrition, University of North Carolina Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - Anita Hurtig-Wennlöf
- *Department of Medical Biosciences/Clinical Chemistry, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden; Faculty of Medicine and Health, School of Health and Medical Sciences, Örebro University, Örebro, Sweden; Department of Biosciences and Nutrition, Karolinska Institute, Stockholm, Sweden; Department of Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine, Saarland University Hospital, Homburg/Saar, Germany; Nutrition Research Institute, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, Kannapolis, North Carolina, USA; and Department of Nutrition, University of North Carolina Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - Michael Sjöström
- *Department of Medical Biosciences/Clinical Chemistry, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden; Faculty of Medicine and Health, School of Health and Medical Sciences, Örebro University, Örebro, Sweden; Department of Biosciences and Nutrition, Karolinska Institute, Stockholm, Sweden; Department of Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine, Saarland University Hospital, Homburg/Saar, Germany; Nutrition Research Institute, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, Kannapolis, North Carolina, USA; and Department of Nutrition, University of North Carolina Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - Wolfgang Herrmann
- *Department of Medical Biosciences/Clinical Chemistry, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden; Faculty of Medicine and Health, School of Health and Medical Sciences, Örebro University, Örebro, Sweden; Department of Biosciences and Nutrition, Karolinska Institute, Stockholm, Sweden; Department of Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine, Saarland University Hospital, Homburg/Saar, Germany; Nutrition Research Institute, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, Kannapolis, North Carolina, USA; and Department of Nutrition, University of North Carolina Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - Rima Obeid
- *Department of Medical Biosciences/Clinical Chemistry, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden; Faculty of Medicine and Health, School of Health and Medical Sciences, Örebro University, Örebro, Sweden; Department of Biosciences and Nutrition, Karolinska Institute, Stockholm, Sweden; Department of Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine, Saarland University Hospital, Homburg/Saar, Germany; Nutrition Research Institute, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, Kannapolis, North Carolina, USA; and Department of Nutrition, University of North Carolina Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - Jennifer R Owen
- *Department of Medical Biosciences/Clinical Chemistry, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden; Faculty of Medicine and Health, School of Health and Medical Sciences, Örebro University, Örebro, Sweden; Department of Biosciences and Nutrition, Karolinska Institute, Stockholm, Sweden; Department of Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine, Saarland University Hospital, Homburg/Saar, Germany; Nutrition Research Institute, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, Kannapolis, North Carolina, USA; and Department of Nutrition, University of North Carolina Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - Steven Zeisel
- *Department of Medical Biosciences/Clinical Chemistry, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden; Faculty of Medicine and Health, School of Health and Medical Sciences, Örebro University, Örebro, Sweden; Department of Biosciences and Nutrition, Karolinska Institute, Stockholm, Sweden; Department of Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine, Saarland University Hospital, Homburg/Saar, Germany; Nutrition Research Institute, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, Kannapolis, North Carolina, USA; and Department of Nutrition, University of North Carolina Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
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A Western dietary pattern is associated with poor academic performance in Australian adolescents. Nutrients 2015; 7:2961-82. [PMID: 25898417 PMCID: PMC4425183 DOI: 10.3390/nu7042961] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2015] [Revised: 04/09/2015] [Accepted: 04/10/2015] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
The aim of this study was to investigate cross-sectional associations between dietary patterns and academic performance among 14-year-old adolescents. Study participants were from the Western Australian Pregnancy Cohort (Raine) Study. A food frequency questionnaire was administered when the adolescents were 14 years old, and from the dietary data, a 'Healthy' and a 'Western' dietary pattern were identified by factor analysis. The Western Australian Literacy and Numeracy Assessment (WALNA) results from grade nine (age 14) were linked to the Raine Study data by The Western Australian Data Linkage Branch. Associations between the dietary patterns and the WALNA (mathematics, reading and writing scores) were assessed using multivariate linear regression models adjusting for family and socioeconomic characteristics. Complete data on dietary patterns, academic performance and covariates were available for individuals across the different analyses as follows: n = 779 for mathematics, n = 741 for reading and n = 470 for writing. Following adjustment, significant negative associations between the 'Western' dietary pattern and test scores for mathematics (β = -13.14; 95% CI: -24.57; -1.76); p = 0.024) and reading (β = -19.16; 95% CI: -29.85; -8.47; p ≤ 0.001) were observed. A similar trend was found with respect to writing (β = -17.28; 95% CI: -35.74; 1.18; p = 0.066). ANOVA showed significant trends in estimated means of academic scores across quartiles for both the Western and Healthy patterns. Higher scores for the 'Western' dietary pattern are associated with poorer academic performance in adolescence.
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Abstract
Nutrition plays a fundamental role in supporting the structural and functional development of the human brain from conception, throughout early infancy and extending into later life. A growing body of evidence suggests that folate and the metabolically related B-vitamins are essential for brain health across all age groups, owing to their specific roles in C1 metabolism and particularly in the production of S-adenosylmethionine, a universal methyl donor essential for the production of neurotransmitters. Emerging, though not entirely consistent, evidence suggests that maternal folate status throughout pregnancy may influence neurodevelopment and behaviour of the offspring. Furthermore optimal B-vitamin status is associated with better cognitive health in ageing. Of note, a recent clinical trial provided evidence that supplementation with folic acid and related B-vitamins over a 2-year-period reduced global and regional brain atrophy, as measured by MRI scan in older adults. In terms of potential mechanisms, the effects of these B-vitamins on cognitive health may be independent or may be mediated by nutrient-nutrient and/or relevant gene-nutrient interactions. Furthermore, a new area of research suggests that the in utero environment influences health in later life. Folate, an important cofactor in C1 metabolism, is indirectly involved in DNA methylation, which in turn is considered to be one of the epigenetic mechanisms that may underlie fetal programming and brain development. The present review will explore the evidence that supports a role for folate and the related B-vitamins in brain health across the lifecycle, and potential mechanisms to explain such effects.
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25
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Iglesia I, Mouratidou T, González-Gross M, Novakovic R, Breidenassel C, Jiménez-Pavón D, Huybrechts I, De Henauw S, Geelen A, Gottrand F, Kafatos A, Mistura L, de Heredia FP, Widhalm K, Manios Y, Molnar D, Stehle P, Gurinovic M, Cavelaars AEJM, Van't Veer P, Moreno LA. Socioeconomic factors are associated with folate and vitamin B12 intakes and related biomarkers concentrations in European adolescents: the Healthy Lifestyle in Europe by Nutrition in Adolescence study. Nutr Res 2014; 34:199-209. [PMID: 24655486 DOI: 10.1016/j.nutres.2014.01.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2013] [Revised: 01/11/2014] [Accepted: 01/21/2014] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
Because socioeconomic factors (SEFs) may influence dietary quality and vitamin intakes, this study aimed to examine associations between socioeconomic factors and folate and vitamin B12 intakes as well as their related biomarkers in the Healthy Lifestyle in Europe by Nutrition in Adolescence study. Vitamin intakes were obtained from two 24-hour recalls in 2253 participants (47% males). Vitamin B biomarkers were assessed in a subsample of 977 participants (46% males). Socioeconomic factors were assessed by questionnaire, and 1-way analysis of covariance and linear regression analysis were applied. For males and females, mean intakes of folate were 211.19 and 177.18 μg/d, and for vitamin B12, 5.98 and 4.54 μg/d, respectively. Levels of plasma folate, red blood cell folate, serum B12, and holotranscobalamin were 18.74, 807.19, 330.64, and 63.04 nmol/L in males, respectively, and 19.13, 770.16, 377.9, and 65.63 nmol/L in females, respectively. Lower folate intakes were associated with several SEFs, including maternal and paternal education in both sexes. Regarding folate biomarkers, lower plasma folate intakes were associated with single/shared care in males and with lower paternal occupation in females. Lower vitamin B12 intakes were associated with almost all the studied SEFs, except paternal occupation in both sexes. In females, when considering vitamin B12 biomarkers, lower plasma vitamin B12 was associated with lower maternal education and occupation, and lower holotranscobalamin was associated with lower maternal education and lower paternal occupation. In conclusion, from the set of socioeconomic determinants studied in a sample of European adolescents, maternal education and paternal occupation were more consistently associated with folate and vitamin B12 intakes and biomarkers concentrations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Iris Iglesia
- GENUD: "Growth, Exercise, Nutrition and Development" Research Group, University of Zaragoza, Zaragoza, Spain; Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Zaragoza, Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Theodora Mouratidou
- GENUD: "Growth, Exercise, Nutrition and Development" Research Group, University of Zaragoza, Zaragoza, Spain; Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Zaragoza, Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Marcela González-Gross
- ImFINE Research Group, Department of Health and Human Performance, Universidad Politécnica de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - Romana Novakovic
- Institute for Medical Research, Centre of Research Excellence in Nutrition and Metabolism, University of Belgrade, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Christina Breidenassel
- ImFINE Research Group, Department of Health and Human Performance, Universidad Politécnica de Madrid, Madrid, Spain; Department of Nutrition and Food Science, University of Bonn, D-53115 Bonn, Germany
| | - David Jiménez-Pavón
- GENUD: "Growth, Exercise, Nutrition and Development" Research Group, University of Zaragoza, Zaragoza, Spain; Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Zaragoza, Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Inge Huybrechts
- Department of Public Health, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium; International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC), 150 Cours Albert Thomas, 69372 Lyon Cedex 08, France
| | | | - Anouk Geelen
- Division of Human Nutrition, Wageningen University, Wageningen, The Netherlands
| | | | - Anthony Kafatos
- University of Crete School of Medicine, GR-71033 Crete, Greece
| | | | - Fátima Pérez de Heredia
- Immunonutrition Research Group, Department of Metabolism and Nutrition, Institute of Food Science, Technology and Nutrition (ICTAN), Spanish National Research Council (CSIC), Madrid, Spain
| | - Kurt Widhalm
- Division of Clinical Nutrition and Prevention, Department of Pediatrics, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Yanis Manios
- Department of Nutrition and Dietetics, Harokopio University, Athens, Greece
| | - Denes Molnar
- Department of Paediatrics, University of Pécs, Pécs, Hungary
| | - Peter Stehle
- Department of Nutrition and Food Science, University of Bonn, D-53115 Bonn, Germany
| | - Mirjana Gurinovic
- Institute for Medical Research, Centre of Research Excellence in Nutrition and Metabolism, University of Belgrade, Belgrade, Serbia
| | | | - Pieter Van't Veer
- Division of Human Nutrition, Wageningen University, Wageningen, The Netherlands
| | - Luis A Moreno
- GENUD: "Growth, Exercise, Nutrition and Development" Research Group, University of Zaragoza, Zaragoza, Spain; Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Zaragoza, Zaragoza, Spain.
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Anjos T, Altmäe S, Emmett P, Tiemeier H, Closa-Monasterolo R, Luque V, Wiseman S, Pérez-García M, Lattka E, Demmelmair H, Egan B, Straub N, Szajewska H, Evans J, Horton C, Paus T, Isaacs E, van Klinken JW, Koletzko B, Campoy C. Nutrition and neurodevelopment in children: focus on NUTRIMENTHE project. Eur J Nutr 2013; 52:1825-42. [PMID: 23884402 DOI: 10.1007/s00394-013-0560-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 86] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2013] [Accepted: 07/11/2013] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
There is growing evidence that early nutrition affects later cognitive performance. The idea that the diet of mothers, infants, and children could affect later mental performance has major implications for public health practice and policy development and for our understanding of human biology as well as for food product development, economic progress, and future wealth creation. To date, however, much of the evidence is from animal, retrospective studies and short-term nutritional intervention studies in humans. The positive effect of micronutrients on health, especially of pregnant women eating well to maximise their child's cognitive and behavioural outcomes, is commonly acknowledged. The current evidence of an association between gestational nutrition and brain development in healthy children is more credible for folate, n-3 fatty acids, and iron. Recent findings highlight the fact that single-nutrient supplementation is less adequate than supplementation with more complex formulae. However, the optimal content of micronutrient supplementation and whether there is a long-term impact on child's neurodevelopment needs to be investigated further. Moreover, it is also evident that future studies should take into account genetic heterogeneity when evaluating nutritional effects and also nutritional recommendations. The objective of the present review is to provide a background and update on the current knowledge linking nutrition to cognition and behaviour in children, and to show how the large collaborative European Project NUTRIMENTHE is working towards this aim.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tania Anjos
- Department of Pediatrics, School of Medicine, University of Granada, Granada, Spain
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Guéant JL, Namour F, Guéant-Rodriguez RM, Daval JL. Folate and fetal programming: a play in epigenomics? Trends Endocrinol Metab 2013; 24:279-89. [PMID: 23474063 DOI: 10.1016/j.tem.2013.01.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 130] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2012] [Revised: 01/27/2013] [Accepted: 01/30/2013] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
Folate plays a key role in the interactions between nutrition, fetal programming, and epigenomics. Maternal folate status influences DNA methylation, inheritance of the agouti phenotype, expression of imprinting genes, and the effects of mycotoxin FB1 on heterochromatin assembly in rodent offspring. Deficiency in folate and other methyl donors increases birth defects and produces visceral manifestations of fetal programming, including liver and heart steatosis, through imbalanced methylation and acetylation of PGC1-α and decreased SIRT1 expression, and produces persistent cognitive and learning disabilities through impaired plasticity and hippocampal atrophy. Maternal folate supplementation also produces long-term epigenomic effects in offspring, some beneficial and others negative. Deciphering these mechanisms will help understanding the discordances between experimental models and population studies of folate deficiency and supplementation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jean-Louis Guéant
- Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale (INSERM) Unité 954, Department of Nutrition-Genetics-Environmental Risk Exposure, University of Lorraine and University Hospital of Nancy, Vandoeuvre-lès-Nancy, France.
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Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Multiple micronutrient deficiencies are still common worldwide and often occur at an early age, negatively affecting both physical and cognitive development. Even though specific effects of a variety of different micronutrients have been studied extensively, it is understood that a combination of multiple micronutrients may be more beneficial in most instances, as deficiencies usually do not occur in isolation. The aim of this review was to summarize the most recent evidence of the effects of micronutrient interventions on growth, mental, and physical performance as well as morbidity in children. RECENT FINDINGS For growth, cognitive or motor function, and morbidity, it appears that providing sufficient amounts of micronutrients especially to the most vulnerable and deficient groups of children can make a difference, but also that the intervention has to be planned carefully. However, findings are still variable, more particularly with reference to morbidity. Two reports of increased diagnoses of infection with micronutrient supplementation are also of concern. SUMMARY There are still difficulties in coming to a universal conclusion about benefit in all populations, because reports vary in study design, population, and so on. Although micronutrients have a role in depleted groups, it is also important to not only consider the group of children targeted, but also the regime of administration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anura V Kurpad
- Division of Nutrition, St John's Research Institute, St John's National Academy of Health Sciences, Bangalore, India.
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Zhang Y, Lai C, Su R, Zhang M, Xiong Y, Qing H, Deng Y. Quantification of Cry1Ab in genetically modified maize leaves by liquid chromatography multiple reaction monitoring tandem mass spectrometry using 18O stable isotope dilution. Analyst 2012; 137:2699-705. [PMID: 22543512 DOI: 10.1039/c2an35383k] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Cry1Ab is one of the most common Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) proteins in genetically modified crops, which exhibits strong resistance against insect pests. In the present study, a sensitive and precise liquid chromatography stable isotope dilution multiple reaction monitoring tandem mass spectrometry (LC-SID-MRM-MS) assay was developed and validated to quantify the amount of Cry1Ab expression in transgenic maize leaves. The measurement of protein was converted to measurement of unique peptides to Cry1Ab protein. Two peptides unique to Cry1Ab were synthesized and labeled in H(2)(18)O to generate (18)O stable isotope peptides as internal standards. The validated method obtained superior specificity and good linearity. And the inter- and intra-day precision and accuracy for all samples were satisfactory. The results demonstrated Cry1Ab protein was 31.7 ± 4.1 μg g(-1) dry weight in Bt-176 transgenic maize leaves. It proved that the novel LC-SID-MRM-MS method was sensitive and selective to quantify Cry1Ab in the crude extract without time-consuming pre-separation or purification procedures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yongqian Zhang
- School of Life Science, Beijing Institute of Technology, Haidian District, PR China
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30
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Breimer LH, Nilsson TK. Has folate a role in the developing nervous system after birth and not just during embryogenesis and gestation? Scandinavian Journal of Clinical and Laboratory Investigation 2012; 72:185-91. [DOI: 10.3109/00365513.2012.657230] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Lars H. Breimer
- Departments of Laboratory Medicine rebro University Hospital
| | - Torbjörn K. Nilsson
- Departments of Laboratory Medicine rebro University Hospital
- Departments of Clinical Medicine & Biomedicine, School of Health and Medical Sciences, Örebro University, Örebro, Sweden
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