1
|
Horner D, Jepsen JRM, Chawes B, Aagaard K, Rosenberg JB, Mohammadzadeh P, Sevelsted A, Følsgaard N, Vinding R, Fagerlund B, Pantelis C, Bilenberg N, Pedersen CET, Eliasen A, Chen Y, Prince N, Chu SH, Kelly RS, Lasky-Su J, Halldorsson TI, Strøm M, Strandberg-Larsen K, Olsen SF, Glenthøj BY, Bønnelykke K, Ebdrup BH, Stokholm J, Rasmussen MA. A Western Dietary Pattern during Pregnancy is Associated with Neurodevelopmental Disorders in Childhood and Adolescence. MEDRXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR HEALTH SCIENCES 2024:2024.03.07.24303907. [PMID: 38496582 PMCID: PMC10942528 DOI: 10.1101/2024.03.07.24303907] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/19/2024]
Abstract
Despite the high prevalence of neurodevelopmental disorders, there is a notable gap in clinical studies exploring the impact of maternal diet during pregnancy on child neurodevelopment. This observational clinical study examined the association between pregnancy dietary patterns and neurodevelopmental disorders, as well as their symptoms, in a prospective cohort of 10-year-old children (n=508). Data-driven dietary patterns were derived from self-reported food frequency questionnaires. A Western dietary pattern in pregnancy (per SD change) was significantly associated with attention-deficit / hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) (OR 1.66 [1.21 - 2.27], p=0.002) and autism diagnosis (OR 2.22 [1.33 - 3.74], p=0.002) and associated symptoms (p<0.001). Findings for ADHD were validated in three large (n=59725, n=656, n=348), independent mother-child cohorts. Objective blood metabolome modelling at 24 weeks gestation identified 15 causally mediating metabolites which significantly improved ADHD prediction in external validation. Temporal analyses across five blood metabolome timepoints in two independent mother-child cohorts revealed that the association of Western dietary pattern metabolite scores with neurodevelopmental outcomes was consistently significant in early to mid-pregnancy, independent of later child timepoints. These findings underscore the importance of early intervention and provide robust evidence for targeted prenatal dietary interventions to prevent neurodevelopmental disorders in children.
Collapse
|
2
|
Qin Y, Lu M, Liu L, Li M, Mi B, Zhou J, Xiao Y. The effects of diet quality, eating behavior, and sleep on the academic performance among elementary school students. Ecol Food Nutr 2024:1-17. [PMID: 38909380 DOI: 10.1080/03670244.2024.2371154] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/25/2024]
Abstract
The academic success of children contributes to their income, social status, and public health. This study was conducted with 217 elementary school students from western China. Scores on the Chinese Children Dietary Index (CCDI), Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension (DASH), adjusted DASH, and KIDMED index were calculated to evaluate diet quality. Eating behavior and sleep quality were assessed using the Children's Eating Behavior Questionnaire (CEBQ) and Children's Sleep Habits Questionnaire (CHSQ), respectively. Academic achievement was measured using school-provided average grades. Higher CCDI scores, longer sleep time, lower total CHSQ scores, and lower subscores on "satiety responsiveness," "slowness in eating," "emotional undereating," and "food fussiness" dimensions of the CEBQ were associated with high academic achievement. In conclusion, good diet quality, sleep quality, healthy eating behaviors, and adequate sleep duration were associated with better academic performance. Interventions are recommended to be developed in education system to improve healthy diets and lifestyles, enhancing academic achievement.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yujie Qin
- Department of Pediatrics, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China
| | - Mengnan Lu
- Department of Pediatrics, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China
| | - Lujie Liu
- Department of Pediatrics, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China
| | - Meng Li
- Department of Pediatrics, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China
| | - Baibing Mi
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Health Science Center, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China
| | - Jing Zhou
- Department of Pediatrics, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China
| | - Yanfeng Xiao
- Department of Pediatrics, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
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.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Antonio García-Hermoso
- Navarrabiomed, Hospital Universitario de Navarra (HUN), Universidad Pública de Navarra (UPNA), IdiSNA, Pamplona, Navarra, Spain
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
de Camargo EM, Chen S, Jiménez-López E, Victoria-Montesinos D, Smith L, López-Gil JF. Food insecurity and academic performance in Spanish adolescents: Results from the EHDLA study. Heliyon 2024; 10:e29489. [PMID: 38681539 PMCID: PMC11053195 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e29489] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2023] [Revised: 04/08/2024] [Accepted: 04/08/2024] [Indexed: 05/01/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction Food insecurity is a growing global issue that affects both developed and developing nations, and mounting evidence suggests that decreased consumption of healthy foods has been linked to lower academic performance in adolescents. The present study aimed to examine the relationship between food insecurity and academic performance in a sample of Spanish adolescents aged 12-17 years from the Valle de Ricote (Region of Murcia, Spain). Methods The present study analyzed data from the Eating Healthy and Daily Life Activities study, which included a sample of 777 adolescents (55.3 % girls). The Spanish Child Food Security Survey Module was used to assess food insecurity, and academic performance was evaluated using school records provided by the schools. Linear regression models (fitted by robust methods) were used to compare the relationships between food insecurity status and academic performance-related indicators. Results Adolescents with the highest levels of food insecurity reported the lowest academic performance in language (mean [M] = 4.7; 95 % confidence interval [CI] 3.6 to 5.7), math (M = 4.6; 95 % CI 3.5 to 5.8), foreign language (M = 4.8; 95 % CI 3.8 to 5.8), and grade point average (M = 5.7; 95 % CI 4.9 to 6.5). Conversely, adolescents with the lowest levels of food insecurity reported the highest academic performance in language (M = 6.2; 95 % CI 6.0 to 6.5), math (M = 5.9; 95 % CI 5.5 to 6.2), foreign language (M = 6.2; 95 % CI 5.9 to 6.4), and grade point average (M = 6.7; 95 % CI 6.5 to 6.9) compared to those with higher food security. Conclusions Living in a more food-insecure household could explain the lower academic performance of adolescents. Food insecurity should always be on the agenda of public policies. The availability of quality basic food essentials must be ensured in permanently satisfactory quantities without compromising access to other fundamental needs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Edina Maria de Camargo
- Department of Physical Education, Universidade Federal do Paraná (UFPR), Curitiba 81531-980, Paraná, Brazil
| | - Sitong Chen
- Institute for Health and Sport, Victoria University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Estela Jiménez-López
- Health and Social Research Center, Universidad de Castilla-La Mancha (UCLM), 16071 Cuenca, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Salud Mental (CIBERSAM), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
| | | | - Lee Smith
- Centre for Health, Performance and Wellbeing, Anglia Ruskin University, Cambridge CB1 1PT, UK
| | | |
Collapse
|
5
|
Nakamura Y, Yamasaki S, Okada N, Ando S, Nishida A, Kasai K, Koike S. Macronutrient intake is associated with intelligence and neural development in adolescents. Front Nutr 2024; 11:1349738. [PMID: 38706562 PMCID: PMC11067507 DOI: 10.3389/fnut.2024.1349738] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2023] [Accepted: 04/09/2024] [Indexed: 05/07/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction Macronutrient intake can be one of the most influential factors in cognitive and neural development in adolescents. Adolescence is a specific period of cognitive and neural development, and nutritional effects during this period could be life-long. Therefore, understanding the effects of macronutrient intake on cognitive and neural development in adolescents is crucially important. We thus examined the association across macronutrient intake, intelligence, and neural development using population-based cohort data. Methods We conducted two studies. In study 1, we included a total of 1,734 participants (boys, 907, age [mean ± standard deviation] 171.9 ± 3.44 months; range 163.0-186.0 months) from the Tokyo TEEN Cohort (TTC) to examine the association between macronutrient intake and intelligence quotient (IQ). In study 2, we included a total of 63 participants (boys, 38, age 174.4 ± 7.7 months; range 160.7-191.6 months) to investigate the effect of nutrition intake on neural development using graph theory analysis for resting-state functional magnetic resonance imaging (rs-fMRI) derived from a subset of the TTC. Results TTC data revealed that a higher IQ was associated in boys with increased protein intake (β = 0.068, p = 0.031), and in girls, with reduced carbohydrate intake (β = -0.076, p = 0.024). Graph theory analysis for rs-fMRI at approximately age 12 has shown that impaired local efficiency in the left inferior frontal gyrus was associated with higher carbohydrate and fat intake ([x, y, z] = [-51, 23, 8], pFDR-corrected = 0.00018 and 0.02290, respectively), whereas increased betweenness centrality in the left middle temporal gyrus was associated with higher carbohydrate, fat, and protein intake ([x, y, z] = [-61, -43, -13], pFDR-corrected = 0.0027, 0.0029, and 0.00075, respectively). Moreover, we identified a significant moderating effect of fat and protein intake on the relationship between change in betweenness centrality over a 2-year measurement gap in the left middle temporal gyrus and intelligence (β = 12.41, p = 0.0457; β = 12.12, p = 0.0401, respectively). Conclusion Our study showed the association between macronutrient intake and neural development related to intelligence in early adolescents. Appropriate nutritional intake would be a key factor for healthy cognitive and neural development.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yuko Nakamura
- Center for Evolutionary Cognitive Sciences, Graduate School of Art and Sciences, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
- University of Tokyo Institute for Diversity & Adaptation of Human Mind (UTIDAHM), Tokyo, Japan
| | - Syudo Yamasaki
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Science, Tokyo Metropolitan Institute of Medical Science, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Naohiro Okada
- Department of Neuropsychiatry, Graduate School of Medicine, University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
- International Research Center for Neurointelligence (IRCN), Tokyo, Japan
| | - Shuntaro Ando
- Department of Neuropsychiatry, Graduate School of Medicine, University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Atsushi Nishida
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Science, Tokyo Metropolitan Institute of Medical Science, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Kiyoto Kasai
- University of Tokyo Institute for Diversity & Adaptation of Human Mind (UTIDAHM), Tokyo, Japan
- Department of Neuropsychiatry, Graduate School of Medicine, University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
- International Research Center for Neurointelligence (IRCN), Tokyo, Japan
| | - Shinsuke Koike
- Center for Evolutionary Cognitive Sciences, Graduate School of Art and Sciences, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
- University of Tokyo Institute for Diversity & Adaptation of Human Mind (UTIDAHM), Tokyo, Japan
- International Research Center for Neurointelligence (IRCN), Tokyo, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Peña-Jorquera H, Martínez-Flores R, Espinoza-Puelles JP, López-Gil JF, Ferrari G, Zapata-Lamana R, Lofrano-Prado MC, Landaeta-Díaz L, Cigarroa I, Durán-Agüero S, Cristi-Montero C. Adolescents with a Favorable Mediterranean-Style-Based Pattern Show Higher Cognitive and Academic Achievement: A Cluster Analysis-The Cogni-Action Project. Nutrients 2024; 16:608. [PMID: 38474736 DOI: 10.3390/nu16050608] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2023] [Revised: 01/08/2024] [Accepted: 01/11/2024] [Indexed: 03/14/2024] Open
Abstract
A Mediterranean diet (MedDiet) has emerged as a crucial dietary choice, not only in attenuating various adolescents' metabolic health issues but it has also been associated with improved cognitive and academic achievement. However, few studies have established patterns of food consumption linked to both cognitive and academic achievement in adolescents living in a developing country with non-Mediterranean-based food. Methods: This cross-sectional study included 1296 Chilean adolescents (50% girls) aged 10-14 years. The MedDiet Quality Index was used to assess adherence to the MedDiet in children and adolescents. Through cluster analysis, four distinct dietary patterns were identified: Western diet (WD = 4.3%); low fruit and vegetables, high-sugar diet (LFV-HSD = 28.2%); low fruit and vegetables, low-sugar diet (LFV-LSD = 42.2%); and the MedDiet (25.3%). A mixed-model analysis was conducted to compare these clusters and their relationships with cognitive and academic achievements. Principal component analysis was performed to identify four primary cognitive domains: working memory, cognitive flexibility, inhibitory control, and fluid reasoning. Academic achievement was determined with five school subjects (Language, English, Mathematics, Science, and History) and included the Academic-PISA score derived from the mean scores in Language, Mathematics, and Science. Results: A marked difference was observed between the four clusters, which was mainly related to the consumption of sugar, ultra-processed foods, fruits, and vegetables. According to cognitive performance, the MedDiet group showed higher performance across all domains than the LFV-HSD, LFV-LSD, and WD groups. Regarding academic achievement, the WD underperformed in all analyses compared to the other groups, while the MedDiet was the unique profile that achieved a positive difference in all academic subjects compared to the WD and LFV-HSD groups (p < 0.05). Conclusions: These findings suggest that higher adherence to Mediterranean-style-based patterns and better food quality choices are associated with improved cognitive and academic achievements.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Humberto Peña-Jorquera
- IRyS Group, Physical Education School, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Valparaíso, Valparaíso 2530388, Chile
| | - Ricardo Martínez-Flores
- IRyS Group, Physical Education School, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Valparaíso, Valparaíso 2530388, Chile
| | - Juan Pablo Espinoza-Puelles
- IRyS Group, Physical Education School, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Valparaíso, Valparaíso 2530388, Chile
| | | | - Gerson Ferrari
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Universidad Autónoma de Chile, Av. Pedro de Valdivia 425, Providencia 7500912, Chile
- School of Physical Activity, Sports and Health Sciences, Universidad de Santiago de Chile (USACH), Santiago 9170022, Chile
| | | | | | - Leslie Landaeta-Díaz
- Faculty of Health and Social Sciences, Universidad de las Américas, Santiago 7500975, Chile
- Core in Environmental and Food Sciences, Universidad de las Américas, Santiago 7500975, Chile
| | - Igor Cigarroa
- School of Kinesiology, Faculty of Health, Universidad Santo Tomás, Los Ángeles 4440000, Chile
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Universidad Arturo Prat, Victoria 4720000, Chile
| | - Samuel Durán-Agüero
- School of Nutrition and Dietetics, Faculty of Health Care Sciences, Universidad San Sebastián, Santiago 8330106, Chile
| | - Carlos Cristi-Montero
- IRyS Group, Physical Education School, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Valparaíso, Valparaíso 2530388, Chile
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Raudeniece J, Vanags E, Justamente I, Skara D, Fredriksen PM, Brownlee I, Reihmane D. Relations between the levels of moderate to vigorous physical activity, BMI, dietary habits, cognitive functions and attention problems in 8 to 9 years old pupils: network analysis (PACH Study). BMC Public Health 2024; 24:544. [PMID: 38383413 PMCID: PMC10882845 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-024-18055-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2023] [Accepted: 02/09/2024] [Indexed: 02/23/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Physical activity (PA) and dietary habits (DH) play a crucial role on quality of life and health outcomes from various aspects. METHODS This study aims to investigate the relations between recommended daily levels of moderate to vigorous physical activity (MVPA) in 8 to 9 year old pupils, and their body mass index (BMI), DH, cognitive functions and attention problem scores by network analysis. Study participants were split into two groups based on their MVPA levels on weekdays. RESULTS Our findings suggest that children who reach recommended MVPA levels consume more vegetables and fruits, eat breakfast more frequently, have better motor speed and lower impulsivity score. CONCLUSIONS The number of interlinkages between various parameters in network structure for children who do not reach recommended MVPA levels is greater and more intense, highlighting the differences between the groups and suggesting that different interventions and approaches to improve/change lifestyle habits might be used.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jelena Raudeniece
- Department of Human and Animal Physiology, Faculty of Biology, University of Latvia, Jelgavas Street 1, Riga, LV-1004, Latvia
- Department of Human Physiology and Biochemistry, Riga Stradiņš University, Dzirciema Street 16, Riga, LV-1007, Latvia
| | - Edmunds Vanags
- Department of Psychology, Faculty of Education, Psychology and Art, University of Latvia, Jelgavas Street 1, Riga, LV-1004, Latvia
| | - Ilze Justamente
- Department of Human and Animal Physiology, Faculty of Biology, University of Latvia, Jelgavas Street 1, Riga, LV-1004, Latvia
- Department of Human Physiology and Biochemistry, Riga Stradiņš University, Dzirciema Street 16, Riga, LV-1007, Latvia
| | - Dana Skara
- Department of Psychology, Faculty of Education, Psychology and Art, University of Latvia, Jelgavas Street 1, Riga, LV-1004, Latvia
| | - Per Morten Fredriksen
- Department of Biotechology, Faculty of Applied Ecology, Agricultural Sciences and Biotechnology, Inland Norway University of Applied Sciences, 2318, Hamar, Norway
| | - Iain Brownlee
- Department of Applied Sciences, Northumbria University, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE1 8ST, UK
| | - Dace Reihmane
- Department of Human and Animal Physiology, Faculty of Biology, University of Latvia, Jelgavas Street 1, Riga, LV-1004, Latvia.
- Department of Human Physiology and Biochemistry, Riga Stradiņš University, Dzirciema Street 16, Riga, LV-1007, Latvia.
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Jiménez-López E, Mesas AE, Visier-Alfonso ME, Pascual-Morena C, Martínez-Vizcaíno V, Herrera-Gutiérrez E, López-Gil JF. Adherence to the Mediterranean diet and depressive, anxiety, and stress symptoms in Spanish adolescents: results from the EHDLA study. Eur Child Adolesc Psychiatry 2024:10.1007/s00787-023-02351-0. [PMID: 38170283 DOI: 10.1007/s00787-023-02351-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2023] [Accepted: 12/04/2023] [Indexed: 01/05/2024]
Abstract
Depression and anxiety are prevalent and disabling conditions among adolescents. The aim of this study was to examine the relationship between adherence to the Mediterranean diet (MD) and depressive, anxiety, and stress symptoms in adolescents. This cross-sectional study included a sample of 698 adolescent students from a region of Spain (mean age of 13.9 ± 1.5 years; 56.2% girls). Adherence to the MD was evaluated with the Mediterranean Diet Quality Index in children and adolescents (KIDMED). Mental health symptoms were measured with the Depression, Anxiety, and Stress Scale (DASS-21). Logistic regression models were performed, including a wide range of potential confounders. Compared to individuals with low adherence to the MD, those with moderate and high adherence had lower odds of experiencing depressive symptoms (odds ratio [OR] = 0.40, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.24-0.65 and OR = 0.33, 95% CI 0.20-0.55, respectively), which were statistically significant even after adjustment. No significant associations were found regarding anxiety or stress symptoms. Therefore, according to our results, higher adherence to the MD is inversely related to having depressive symptoms among adolescents, regardless of socioeconomic, anthropometric, and lifestyle factors. Considering the deleterious effects of mental health problems in youths, further research on the role of nonpharmacological strategies for the prevention and treatment of depressive symptoms in adolescence is essential.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Estela Jiménez-López
- Health and Social Research Center, Universidad de Castilla-La Mancha, Santa Teresa Jornet s/n, 16071, Cuenca, Spain
- Department of Psychiatry, Hospital Virgen de La Luz, Cuenca, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Salud Mental (CIBERSAM), ISCIII, Madrid, Spain
| | - Arthur Eumann Mesas
- Health and Social Research Center, Universidad de Castilla-La Mancha, Santa Teresa Jornet s/n, 16071, Cuenca, Spain.
- Postgraduate Program in Public Health, Universidade Estadual de Londrina, Londrina, Paraná, 86057-970, Brazil.
| | - María Eugenia Visier-Alfonso
- Health and Social Research Center, Universidad de Castilla-La Mancha, Santa Teresa Jornet s/n, 16071, Cuenca, Spain
| | - Carlos Pascual-Morena
- Health and Social Research Center, Universidad de Castilla-La Mancha, Santa Teresa Jornet s/n, 16071, Cuenca, Spain
| | - Vicente Martínez-Vizcaíno
- Health and Social Research Center, Universidad de Castilla-La Mancha, Santa Teresa Jornet s/n, 16071, Cuenca, Spain
- Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad Autónoma de Chile, 1101, Talca, Chile
| | - Eva Herrera-Gutiérrez
- Department of Developmental and Educational Psychology, Faculty of Psychology, University of Murcia, Espinardo Campus, 30100, Murcia, Spain
| | | |
Collapse
|
9
|
Colillas-Malet E, Bosque-Prous M, Esquius L, González-Casals H, Lafon-Guasch A, Fortes-Muñoz P, Espelt A, Aguilar-Martínez A. Relationship between Diet Quality and Socioeconomic and Health-Related Factors in Adolescents by Gender. Nutrients 2023; 16:139. [PMID: 38201968 PMCID: PMC10780370 DOI: 10.3390/nu16010139] [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: 11/06/2023] [Revised: 12/15/2023] [Accepted: 12/20/2023] [Indexed: 01/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Adolescence is a key period for consolidating heathy lifestyles and proper eating habits that can last into adulthood. To analyze the diet quality of Spanish adolescents and its association with socioeconomic factors and health behaviors by gender, a cross-sectional study was conducted using data from the DESKcohort project, consisting of a biannual panel survey on health, health behaviors, and associated determinants, collected in secondary education centers. The study population consisted of 7319 students aged 12 to 18 years. Data were collected from October 2019 to March 2020. The dependent variable was diet quality score according to the Spanish adaptation of the Healthy Eating Index (S-HEI). The independent variables included were socioeconomic factors and health behaviors. We conducted linear regression separately by gender. Diet quality score was significantly higher for girls than for boys (68 and 65, respectively, p < 0.001). For both genders, poorer diet quality was associated with a low level of physical activity [-0.9 (95% CI = -1.6:-0.2) in boys, -1.2 (95% CI = -1.9:-0.4) in girls], alcohol use [-2.5 (95% CI = -3.7:-1.3) in boys, -1.0 (95% CI = -1.9:0.0) in girls], poor self-perceived health [-1.1 (95% CI = -2.4:0.2) in boys, -3.5 (95% CI = -4.6:-2.4) in girls], and having attended Intermediate Level Training Cycles [-2.9 (95% CI = -4.3:-1.5) in boys, -1.9 (95% CI = -3.5:-0.3) in girls]. In girls, poorer diet quality also was associated with low mood [-1.1 (95% CI = -1.9:-0.3)]. The variance was 9% in boys and 12% in girls. Our results highlight the need to consider socioeconomic and health-related factors, as well as gender, when conducting interventions to promote healthy eating among adolescents.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ester Colillas-Malet
- Epi4health Research Group, Faculty of Health Sciences of Manresa, Universitat de Vic—Universitat Central de Catalunya (UVic-UCC), Av. Universitària 4-6, 08242 Manresa, Spain; (E.C.-M.); (H.G.-C.); (A.L.-G.); (A.E.)
| | - Marina Bosque-Prous
- Epi4health Research Group, Faculty of Health Sciences, Universitat Oberta de Catalunya, Rambla del Poblenou, 156, 08018 Barcelona, Spain; (M.B.-P.); (P.F.-M.)
- Departament de Psicobiologia i Metodologia en Ciències de la Salut, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona (UAB), C/de Ca n’Altayó s/n, 08193 Bellaterra, Spain
| | - Laura Esquius
- Epi4health Research Group, Faculty of Health Sciences, Universitat Oberta de Catalunya, Rambla del Poblenou, 156, 08018 Barcelona, Spain; (M.B.-P.); (P.F.-M.)
| | - Helena González-Casals
- Epi4health Research Group, Faculty of Health Sciences of Manresa, Universitat de Vic—Universitat Central de Catalunya (UVic-UCC), Av. Universitària 4-6, 08242 Manresa, Spain; (E.C.-M.); (H.G.-C.); (A.L.-G.); (A.E.)
- Centre d’Estudis Epidemiològics sobre les ITS i Sida de Catalunya (CEEISCAT), 08916 Badalona, Spain
- Fundació Institut d’Investigació en Ciències de la Salut Germans Trias i Pujol (IGTP), 08916 Badalona, Spain
| | - Aina Lafon-Guasch
- Epi4health Research Group, Faculty of Health Sciences of Manresa, Universitat de Vic—Universitat Central de Catalunya (UVic-UCC), Av. Universitària 4-6, 08242 Manresa, Spain; (E.C.-M.); (H.G.-C.); (A.L.-G.); (A.E.)
- Epi4health Research Group, Faculty of Health Sciences, Universitat Oberta de Catalunya, Rambla del Poblenou, 156, 08018 Barcelona, Spain; (M.B.-P.); (P.F.-M.)
| | - Paula Fortes-Muñoz
- Epi4health Research Group, Faculty of Health Sciences, Universitat Oberta de Catalunya, Rambla del Poblenou, 156, 08018 Barcelona, Spain; (M.B.-P.); (P.F.-M.)
| | - Albert Espelt
- Epi4health Research Group, Faculty of Health Sciences of Manresa, Universitat de Vic—Universitat Central de Catalunya (UVic-UCC), Av. Universitària 4-6, 08242 Manresa, Spain; (E.C.-M.); (H.G.-C.); (A.L.-G.); (A.E.)
- Departament de Psicobiologia i Metodologia en Ciències de la Salut, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona (UAB), C/de Ca n’Altayó s/n, 08193 Bellaterra, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Epidemiología y Salud Pública (CIBERESP), C/Monforte de Lemos 3 Pabellón 11, 28029 Madrid, Spain
| | - Alicia Aguilar-Martínez
- Foodlab Research Group, Faculty of Health Sciences, Universitat Oberta de Catalunya, Rambla del Poblenou, 156, 08018 Barcelona, Spain;
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Nagata JM, Bashir A, Weinstein S, Al-Shoaibi AAA, Shao IY, Ganson KT, Testa A, Garber AK. Social epidemiology of the Mediterranean-dietary approaches to stop hypertension intervention for neurodegenerative delay (MIND) diet among early adolescents: the Adolescent Brain Cognitive Development Study. Pediatr Res 2023:10.1038/s41390-023-02959-7. [PMID: 38102419 PMCID: PMC11178675 DOI: 10.1038/s41390-023-02959-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2023] [Revised: 11/15/2023] [Accepted: 11/26/2023] [Indexed: 12/17/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The purpose of our study was to understand the relationship between sociodemographic factors and adherence to the MIND (Mediterranean-DASH [Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension] Intervention for Neurodegenerative Delay) diet in a demographically diverse national population-based sample of 9-12-year-olds in the US. METHODS We analyzed data from the Adolescent Brain and Cognitive Development (ABCD) Study (Year 1, N = 8333). Multivariable linear regression analysis was used to identify associations between MIND diet score and sociodemographic factors, including race/ethnicity, household income, parent education level, age, sex, and sexual minority status. RESULTS Compared to White adolescents, Latino adolescents showed the greatest adherence to the MIND diet. Boys had lower adherence to the MIND diet than girls. Lower household income was associated with lower adherence to the MIND diet. Older age was associated with lower adherence to the MIND diet. Sexual minorities had a lower adherence to the MIND diet when compared to their heterosexual counterparts. DISCUSSION Female sex, Latino ethnicity, Asian and Black race, high household income, heterosexual sexual orientation, and younger age were associated with higher adherence to the MIND diet. These sociodemographic differences can inform targeted screening and counseling for clinicians and public health organizations among diverse adolescent populations. IMPACT STATEMENT Sociodemographic disparities in diet quality have been documented, but none have explored adherence to the MIND (Mediterranean-DASH [Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension] Intervention for Neurodegenerative Delay) diet in early adolescence. In this demographically diverse sample of 9-12-year-old early adolescents in the U.S., we found notable and nuanced sociodemographic disparities in adherence to the MIND diet. Sociodemographic factors associated with higher adherence to the MIND diet included female sex, Latino ethnicity, high household income, heterosexual sexual orientation, and younger age.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jason M Nagata
- Department of Pediatrics, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA.
| | - Ammal Bashir
- Department of Pediatrics, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Shayna Weinstein
- Department of Pediatrics, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Abubakr A A Al-Shoaibi
- Department of Pediatrics, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Iris Yuefan Shao
- Department of Pediatrics, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Kyle T Ganson
- Factor-Inwentash Faculty of Social Work, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Alexander Testa
- Department of Management, Policy and Community Health, University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Andrea K Garber
- Department of Pediatrics, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Cunha-Rodrigues M, Rosário R, Duarte A, Silva MJ, Augusto C, Rodrigues M, Padrão P, Moreira P. Neurodevelopment and Dietary Intake in Toddlers-A Cross-Sectional Study from the Healthy Children 2021 Project. Nutrients 2023; 15:5105. [PMID: 38140364 PMCID: PMC10745499 DOI: 10.3390/nu15245105] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2023] [Revised: 12/06/2023] [Accepted: 12/12/2023] [Indexed: 12/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Little is known about the potential associations between neurodevelopment, dietary diversity and food processing in the toddler period. This study aimed to estimate the association between these dietary quality dimensions and neurodevelopment in toddlers. Data for this cross-sectional analysis came from the Healthy Children 2021 project and included 212 toddlers (51.9% females, aged 12-36 months) from 15 Portuguese childcare centers. Neurodevelopment was assessed through Bayley Scales of Infant and Toddler Development. Dietary intake was gathered by a two-day non-consecutive dietary recall. The food items were categorised with NOVA classification. Dietary diversity was explored through Minimum Dietary Diversity (MDD). Logistic regression models adjusted for potential confounders were performed. Girls with a higher energy contribution of unprocessed/minimally processed foods and with an above median MDD score had higher odds of achieving a higher neurodevelopment score (aOR:1.04; 95%CI 1.01; 1.08 and aOR:2.26; 95%CI 1.01; 5.06, respectively); no significant association was observed in boys. Our findings suggest that these dietary dimensions are associated with a higher neurodevelopment in toddler girls. This should be further studied as a possible early link between dietary factors and neurodevelopment. Promotion of healthy eating can be promising in improving neurocognitive development and might help to introduce public health recommendations for toddlers' nutrition.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Micaela Cunha-Rodrigues
- Faculty of Nutrition and Food Sciences, University of Porto, 4150-180 Porto, Portugal; (M.C.-R.); (M.R.); (P.P.)
| | - Rafaela Rosário
- School of Nursing, University of Minho, 4710-057 Braga, Portugal; (A.D.); (M.J.S.); (C.A.)
- Health Sciences Research Unit: Nursing (UICISA: E), Nursing School of Coimbra (ESEnfC), 3045-043 Coimbra, Portugal
- Nursing Research Centre, University of Minho, 4710-057 Braga, Portugal
| | - Ana Duarte
- School of Nursing, University of Minho, 4710-057 Braga, Portugal; (A.D.); (M.J.S.); (C.A.)
- Health Sciences Research Unit: Nursing (UICISA: E), Nursing School of Coimbra (ESEnfC), 3045-043 Coimbra, Portugal
- Research Centre on Child Studies (CIEC), Institute of Education, University do Minho, 4710-057 Braga, Portugal
| | - Maria José Silva
- School of Nursing, University of Minho, 4710-057 Braga, Portugal; (A.D.); (M.J.S.); (C.A.)
- Nursing Research Centre, University of Minho, 4710-057 Braga, Portugal
| | - Cláudia Augusto
- School of Nursing, University of Minho, 4710-057 Braga, Portugal; (A.D.); (M.J.S.); (C.A.)
- Health Sciences Research Unit: Nursing (UICISA: E), Nursing School of Coimbra (ESEnfC), 3045-043 Coimbra, Portugal
- Nursing Research Centre, University of Minho, 4710-057 Braga, Portugal
| | - Mónica Rodrigues
- Faculty of Nutrition and Food Sciences, University of Porto, 4150-180 Porto, Portugal; (M.C.-R.); (M.R.); (P.P.)
| | - Patrícia Padrão
- Faculty of Nutrition and Food Sciences, University of Porto, 4150-180 Porto, Portugal; (M.C.-R.); (M.R.); (P.P.)
- Epidemiology Research Unit and Laboratory for Integrative and Translational Research in Population Health, Institute of Public Health, University of Porto, 4050-600 Porto, Portugal
| | - Pedro Moreira
- Faculty of Nutrition and Food Sciences, University of Porto, 4150-180 Porto, Portugal; (M.C.-R.); (M.R.); (P.P.)
- Epidemiology Research Unit and Laboratory for Integrative and Translational Research in Population Health, Institute of Public Health, University of Porto, 4050-600 Porto, Portugal
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Halkjelsvik T, Bere E. The effect of free school fruit on academic performance: a nationwide quasi-experiment. Sci Rep 2023; 13:20815. [PMID: 38012241 PMCID: PMC10682398 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-48095-4] [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: 03/06/2023] [Accepted: 11/22/2023] [Indexed: 11/29/2023] Open
Abstract
In past research, higher intake of fruit has been associated with better academic achievement. In Norway, the government required lower secondary schools to provide fruit to their pupils from 2007 to 2014. The present study assessed whether this policy improved academic performance. In addition to secondary schools, the policy covered schools with combined elementary and lower secondary education, but not ordinary elementary schools. This differentiation, in combination with administrative data on test scores before, during, and after the law was enforced, created a nationwide quasi-experiment. Population register data on parents' sociodemographic characteristics allowed for targeted analyses on a subsample of boys with low sociodemographic status. In analyses of 5th grade tests, the free fruit policy coincided with a slight decline in test scores among eligible compared to non-eligible pupils in the subsample (B = - 0.18, 95%CI[- 0.35, - 0.01]) and entire population (B = - 0.14, 95%CI[- 0.24, - 0.05]). Exploratory analyses of exam data in 10th grade yielded similar results, and sensitivity tests either failed to detect any effect or demonstrated a negative tendency. In a Western country with low levels of food insecurity, a policy that required schools to provide free fruit to pupils did not appear to improve academic performance.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Torleif Halkjelsvik
- Centre for Evaluation of Public Health Measures, Norwegian Institute of Public Health, Folkehelseinstituttet, Skøyen, Postboks 222, 0213, Oslo, Norway
- Department of Alcohol, Tobacco and Drugs, Norwegian Institute of Public Health, Oslo, Norway
| | - Elling Bere
- Centre for Evaluation of Public Health Measures, Norwegian Institute of Public Health, Folkehelseinstituttet, Skøyen, Postboks 222, 0213, Oslo, Norway.
- Department of Health and Inequalities, Norwegian Institute of Public Health, Oslo, Norway.
- Faculty of Health and Sport Sciences, University of Agder, Kristiansand, Norway.
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Naveed S, Sallinen T, Eloranta AM, Skog H, Jalkanen H, Brage S, Ekelund U, Pentikäinen H, Savonen K, Lakka TA, Haapala EA. Effects of 2-year dietary and physical activity intervention on cognition in children-a nonrandomized controlled trial. Scand J Med Sci Sports 2023; 33:2340-2350. [PMID: 37555467 DOI: 10.1111/sms.14464] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2023] [Revised: 07/26/2023] [Accepted: 07/27/2023] [Indexed: 08/10/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE We investigated the effects of a combined dietary and PA intervention on cognition in children and whether changes in diet quality, PA, sedentary behavior (SB), and sedentary time (ST) are associated with changes in cognition. METHODS We conducted a 2-year nonrandomized controlled trial in 504 children aged 6-9 years at baseline. The children were allocated to a combined dietary and PA intervention group (n = 237) or a control group (n = 160) without blinding. INTERVENTIONS The children and their parents allocated to the intervention group had six dietary counseling sessions of 30-45 min and six PA counseling sessions of 30-45 min during the 2-year intervention period. The children were also encouraged to participate in after-school exercise clubs. Cognition was assessed by the Raven's Colored Progressive Matrices. We assessed dietary factors by 4 days food records and computed the Baltic Sea Diet Score (BSDS) as a measure of diet quality. PA and ST were assessed by a combined heart rate and body movement monitor, types of PA and SB by a questionnaire. RESULTS The intervention had no effect on cognition. Increased BSDS and consumption of low-fat milk and decreased consumption of red meat and sausages were associated with improved cognition over 2 years. Increased organized sports, ST, and reading were positively, while unsupervised PA, computer use, and writing were negatively associated with cognition. CONCLUSION Combined dietary and PA intervention had no effect on cognition. Improved diet quality and increased organized sports and reading were associated with improved cognition.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sehrish Naveed
- Physiology, Institute of Biomedicine, School of Medicine, University of Eastern Finland, Kuopio, Finland
| | - Taisa Sallinen
- Physiology, Institute of Biomedicine, School of Medicine, University of Eastern Finland, Kuopio, Finland
- Clinical Nutrition, Institute of Public Health and Clinical Nutrition, University of Eastern Finland, Kuopio, Finland
- University of Eastern Finland Library Kuopio, Kuopio, Finland
| | - Aino-Maija Eloranta
- Physiology, Institute of Biomedicine, School of Medicine, University of Eastern Finland, Kuopio, Finland
- Clinical Nutrition, Institute of Public Health and Clinical Nutrition, University of Eastern Finland, Kuopio, Finland
| | - Hannamari Skog
- Physiology, Institute of Biomedicine, School of Medicine, University of Eastern Finland, Kuopio, Finland
| | - Henna Jalkanen
- Physiology, Institute of Biomedicine, School of Medicine, University of Eastern Finland, Kuopio, Finland
| | - Soren Brage
- MRC Epidemiology Unit, University of Cambridge School of Clinical Medicine, Box 285 Institute of Metabolic Science, Cambridge Biomedical Campus, Cambridge, UK
| | - Ulf Ekelund
- Department of Sports Medicine, Norwegian School of Sport Sciences (NIH), Oslo, Norway
| | | | - Kai Savonen
- Kuopio Research Institute of Exercise Medicine, Kuopio, Finland
- Department of Clinical Physiology and Nuclear Medicine, Kuopio University Hospital, Kuopio, Finland
| | - Timo A Lakka
- Physiology, Institute of Biomedicine, School of Medicine, University of Eastern Finland, Kuopio, Finland
- Kuopio Research Institute of Exercise Medicine, Kuopio, Finland
- Department of Clinical Physiology and Nuclear Medicine, Kuopio University Hospital, Kuopio, Finland
| | - Eero A Haapala
- Physiology, Institute of Biomedicine, School of Medicine, University of Eastern Finland, Kuopio, Finland
- Faculty of Sport and Health Sciences, University of Jyväskylä, Jyväskylä, Finland
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Zagkos L, Drenos F, Emmett P, Blakemore AI, Nordström T, Hurtig T, Jarvelin MR, Dovey TM. Associations of adolescents' diet and meal patterns with school performance in the Northern Finland Birth Cohort 1986: A Mendelian randomisation study. Appetite 2023; 190:107036. [PMID: 37734238 DOI: 10.1016/j.appet.2023.107036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2022] [Revised: 09/03/2023] [Accepted: 09/07/2023] [Indexed: 09/23/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Several observational studies indicate that dietary habits in children and adolescents are associated with school performance. These associations are heavily confounded by socio-economic characteristics, such as household income and parents' educational attainment, amongst other factors. The objective of this study was to explore the association between diet and school performance in adolescents from the Northern Finland Birth Cohort 1986 (NFBC1986). METHODS Dietary and school performance data were collected using self-reported questionnaires from adolescents in the NFBC1986 cross-sectional, 16-year follow-up study. In this work we derived exploratory factors for the dietary variables, frequency of skipping main meals and school performance variables, performed genome-wide association studies (GWAS) against these factors to obtain genetic association data and conducted one-sample and two-sample Mendelian randomisation (MR) analyses using individual level data for up to 9220 adolescents in NFBC1986 and GWAS results from external cohorts. We report observational and MR effects of diet on school performance and cognition-related phenotypes. RESULTS The observational study and the one-sample Mendelian randomisation analysis showed that high fat, salt and sugar (HFSS) consumption was associated with poor school performance in general/science subjects (-0.080, -0.128 to -0.033) and staple food consumption with better school performance in general/science subjects (0.071, 0.024 to 0.119) and physical education (0.065, 0.021 to 0.110). Findings from our two-sample MR analysis identified dietary principal components described best as whole brain bread, wheat, cheese, oat cereal and red wine to be associated with higher educational attainment and other cognition-related phenotypes. CONCLUSION Using genetics, we highlighted the potential role of HFSS food consumption and consumption of the components of a staple food diet for school performance. However, further research is required to find conclusive evidence that could support a causal role of diet on school performance.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Loukas Zagkos
- Department of Life Sciences, College of Health, Medicine and Life Sciences, Brunel University London, Kingston Lane, Uxbridge, London, UB8 3PH, UK; Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Imperial College London, St Mary's Campus, London, W2 1PG, UK.
| | - Fotios Drenos
- Department of Life Sciences, College of Health, Medicine and Life Sciences, Brunel University London, Kingston Lane, Uxbridge, London, UB8 3PH, UK
| | - Pauline Emmett
- Bristol Medical School: Population Health Sciences, University of Bristol, 69 St Michael's Hill, Bristol, BS2 8DZ, UK
| | - Alexandra I Blakemore
- Department of Life Sciences, College of Health, Medicine and Life Sciences, Brunel University London, Kingston Lane, Uxbridge, London, UB8 3PH, UK; Department of Metabolism, Digestion and Reproduction, Faculty of Medicine, Imperial College London, Hammersmith Campus, Du Cane Road, London, W12 0NN, UK
| | - Tanja Nordström
- Northern Finland Birth Cohorts, Infrastructure for Population Studies, Faculty of Medicine, University of Oulu, Pentti Kaiteran Katu 1, 90570, Oulu, Finland; Center for Life Course Health Research, Faculty of Medicine, University of Oulu, PO Box 8000, FI-90014, Oulun Yliopisto, Finland; Medical Research Center Oulu, Oulu University Hospital and University of Oulu, Pentti Kaiteran Katu 1, 90570, Oulu, Finland
| | - Tuula Hurtig
- Research Unit of Clinical Neuroscience and PEDEGO Research Unit, University of Oulu, Finland; Clinic of Child Psychiatry, Oulu University Hospital, 90230, Peltolantie 13-15, 90210, Oulu, Finland
| | - Marjo-Riitta Jarvelin
- Department of Life Sciences, College of Health, Medicine and Life Sciences, Brunel University London, Kingston Lane, Uxbridge, London, UB8 3PH, UK; Center for Life Course Health Research, Faculty of Medicine, University of Oulu, PO Box 8000, FI-90014, Oulun Yliopisto, Finland; Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, MRC-PHE Centre for Environment and Health, School of Public Health, Imperial College London, St Mary's Campus, London, W2 1PG, UK; Unit of Primary Health Care, Oulu University Hospital, OYS, Kajaanintie 50, 90220, Oulu, Finland
| | - Terence M Dovey
- Department of Life Sciences, College of Health, Medicine and Life Sciences, Brunel University London, Kingston Lane, Uxbridge, London, UB8 3PH, UK
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Barg G, Frndak S, Queirolo EI, Peregalli F, Kordas K. Dietary patterns and cognitive achievement among school children in socio-cultural context, a case of Montevideo, Uruguay. Eur J Nutr 2023; 62:2475-2488. [PMID: 37148356 PMCID: PMC10927011 DOI: 10.1007/s00394-023-03167-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2022] [Accepted: 04/27/2023] [Indexed: 05/08/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE The benefits of a healthy diet on children´s cognition have been described in several studies. However, many previous studies have analyzed the effect on general cognitive domains (e.g. intelligence), used measures based almost exclusively on local examinations, and rarely consider social context. OBJECTIVE The objective of the present study was to examine the relationship between two diet patterns and contextualized cognitive performance measures of children aged 6-8 years from low-average income neighborhoods in Montevideo, Uruguay. METHODS 270 first-grade children with complete data participated in the study. Consumption of foods was determined via two averaged 24-h dietary recalls with the mother. Two dietary patterns were identified via principal component analysis: "processed (high calorie) foods" and "nutrient dense". Children´s cognitive performance, including general cognitive abilities, achievement in mathematics and reading, and discrepancy scores between predicted and actual achievement was assessed with the Woodcock-Muñoz Cognitive and Achievement scales. The association of dietary patterns and cognitive endpoints was analyzed in multilevel models, clustered by children´s school. Sociodemographic and biological variables were used as covariates. RESULTS The nutrient dense foods pattern, characterized by higher consumption of dark leafy and red-orange vegetables, eggs, beans & peas, potatoes, was associated with better performance in reading, with beta coefficient 3.28 (95% CI 0.02, 6.54). There was also an association between the nutrient dense foods factor and the Discrepancy in reading, 2.52 (0.17, 4.87). Processed (high calorie) foods pattern, characterized by higher consumption of breads, processed meats, fats and oils, sweetened beverages, and sweetened yogurt/dairy products; reduced intake of milk, pastries and pizza dinners was not associated with cognitive performance. CONCLUSIONS Nutrient dense food pattern was positively associated with children's reading achievement. A nutrient-rich diet may benefit written language acquisition at the beginning of schooling.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Gabriel Barg
- Department of Neuroscience and Learning, Faculty of Health Sciences, Universidad Católica del Uruguay, Comandante Braga 2715, CP 11600, Montevideo, Uruguay.
| | - Seth Frndak
- Department of Epidemiology and Environmental Health, University at Buffalo, Buffalo, NY, USA
| | - Elena I Queirolo
- Department of Neuroscience and Learning, Faculty of Health Sciences, Universidad Católica del Uruguay, Comandante Braga 2715, CP 11600, Montevideo, Uruguay
| | - Fabiana Peregalli
- Department of Neuroscience and Learning, Faculty of Health Sciences, Universidad Católica del Uruguay, Comandante Braga 2715, CP 11600, Montevideo, Uruguay
| | - Katarzyna Kordas
- Department of Epidemiology and Environmental Health, University at Buffalo, Buffalo, NY, USA
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Hammoudi Halat D, Hallit S, Younes S, AlFikany M, Khaled S, Krayem M, El Khatib S, Rahal M. Exploring the effects of health behaviors and mental health on students' academic achievement: a cross-sectional study on lebanese university students. BMC Public Health 2023; 23:1228. [PMID: 37365573 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-023-16184-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2023] [Accepted: 06/23/2023] [Indexed: 06/28/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND High academic achievement, an important determinant of future success, is known to be influenced by many factors including dietary behavior, lifestyle and mental health, among others. The objectives of the current study were to explore university students' nutritive habits, daily lifestyle, and mental status, and to scrutinize the associations between these factors and students' academic achievement. METHODS A cross-sectional study was conducted among students of a private Lebanese university, using an electronic survey. Diet, eating habits, physical activity, sleep, and smoking were evaluated, and mental health was assessed using a validated Arabic version of the combined Depression, Anxiety, Stress Score (DASS-8). Academic achievement was measured using the Subjective Academic Achievement Scale (SAAS). RESULTS A total of 1677 students participated in the questionnaire. The results of a linear regression taking the SAAS score as the dependent variable, showed that students who have a non-scientific versus scientific major (Beta = 0.53), and having breakfast ≥ 4 days per week compared to less than 2 days (Beta = 0.28) were significantly associated with higher SAAS scores. More psychological distress (Beta = - 0.06) and a higher number of days of eating out (Beta = - 0.07) were significantly associated with lower SAAS scores. CONCLUSIONS This is the first investigation on a Lebanese university students' academic success in relation to lifestyle and mental profiles. Better academic achievement was demonstrated by students having healthier dietary and lifestyle habits, as well as less distressing mental status. Such results, in light of the compounded and unprecedented crises with which Lebanon has been assailed, suggest the need to focus on promoting healthy habits among students in higher education as a possible driver of better academic success.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Dalal Hammoudi Halat
- Academic Quality Department, QU Health, Qatar University, Doha, Qatar
- School of Pharmacy, Lebanese International University, Bekaa, Lebanon
| | - Souheil Hallit
- School of Medicine and Medical Sciences, Holy Spirit University of Kaslik, P.O. Box 446, Jounieh, Lebanon.
- Applied Science Research Center, Applied Science Private University, Amman, Jordan.
- Department of Research, Psychiatric Hospital of the Cross, Jal Eddib, Lebanon.
| | - Samar Younes
- School of Pharmacy, Lebanese International University, Bekaa, Lebanon
| | - Mira AlFikany
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, School of Arts and Sciences, Lebanese International University, Bekaa, Lebanon
| | - Sanaa Khaled
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, School of Arts and Sciences, Lebanese International University, Bekaa, Lebanon
| | - Maha Krayem
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, School of Arts and Sciences, Lebanese International University, Bekaa, Lebanon
| | - Sami El Khatib
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, School of Arts and Sciences, Lebanese International University, Bekaa, Lebanon
- Center for Applied Mathematics and Bioinformatics (CAMB), Gulf University for Science and Technology (GUST), Hawally, Kuwait
| | - Mohamad Rahal
- School of Pharmacy, Lebanese International University, Bekaa, Lebanon
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
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.
Collapse
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
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
JaBaay NR, Nel NH, Comstock SS. Dietary Intake by Toddlers and Preschool Children: Preliminary Results from a Michigan Cohort. CHILDREN (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2023; 10:children10020190. [PMID: 36832319 PMCID: PMC9955406 DOI: 10.3390/children10020190] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2022] [Revised: 01/04/2023] [Accepted: 01/05/2023] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
Identifying the consumption patterns of toddlers and preschool children is critical to evaluating their potential for healthy development and future heath trajectories. The purpose of this longitudinal cohort study was to describe breastfeeding, nutritional trends, and dietary diversity in 12-to-36-month-old children in a Michigan cohort. Mothers completed surveys when their children were 12 (n = 44), 24 (n = 46) and 36 months old (n = 32). Mothers reported their child's dietary intake in the past 24 h and intake of specific foods in the past year. About 95% of 12-to-24-month-old children in the study population were ever breastfed, with 70% consuming human milk at 6 months and just over 40% at 12 months. Over 90% of participants gave their child a bottle since birth, with 75% providing human milk and 69% giving formula. Consumption of juice significantly increased with age and ~55% of the 36-month-old children consumed juice. A larger proportion of children consumed soda, chocolate, and candy as they aged. Though dietary diversity numerically increased with child age, this did not reach significance. Gut microbiota composition and structure was not associated with diet diversity. This research lays the foundation for future work to determine which nutritional interventions may be most effective in this population.
Collapse
|
19
|
Kukla-Acevedo SA, Ernst MG, Sommer EC, Adams LE, Barkin SL. Diet Quality and School Attendance: Cost Analysis Informing Absence-Reduction Strategies in Schools With Underserved Students. THE JOURNAL OF SCHOOL HEALTH 2023; 93:44-52. [PMID: 35906011 DOI: 10.1111/josh.13220] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2022] [Revised: 07/10/2022] [Accepted: 07/10/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND As school districts across the nation evaluate strategies and implement programs to reduce absenteeism, health-related interventions remain largely underutilized. This study provides the estimated cost of improving students' diet quality as a means to increase attendance. Then, it compares the costs and efficacy of improving diet quality to those of other absence-reduction interventions. METHODS This study used child-level diet quality data from the Growing Right Onto Wellness (GROW) randomized control trial merged with Metro Nashville Public Schools (MNPS) absences data, as well as food cost estimates from Rose et al. to study the cost effectiveness of improving underserved elementary student attendance through improved diet quality. RESULTS The results suggest that improving diet quality might be a cost-efficient way of improving attendance among elementary students in underserved areas. Further, improving diet quality compares favorably to other absence-reduction strategies, in terms of cost and effectiveness. CONCLUSIONS Investments in school food programs to improve diet quality may be a cost-effective strategy to reduce student absenteeism, especially for schools with higher concentrations of students with lower diet quality. These results may assist decision-makers who allocate scarce resources aimed at improving school attendance.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sharon A Kukla-Acevedo
- Department of Political Science and Public Administration, Central Michigan University, 243 Anspach Hall, Mt. Pleasant, MI, 48859
| | - Micah G Ernst
- Meharry Medical College, 2146 Belcourt Avenue, Nashville, TN, 37232
| | - Evan C Sommer
- Department of Pediatrics, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, 2146 Belcourt Avenue, Nashville, TN, 37232
| | - Laura E Adams
- Department of Pediatrics, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, 2146 Belcourt Avenue, Nashville, TN, 37232
| | - Shari L Barkin
- Department of Pediatrics, Vanderbilt University School of Medicine2200 Children's Way, Doctor's Office Tower 8232, Nashville, TN, 37232
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Towards reconciling population nutrition goals and investment policy in Thailand: understanding how investment policy actors defined, framed and prioritised nutrition. Global Health 2022; 18:94. [DOI: 10.1186/s12992-022-00888-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2022] [Accepted: 11/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Background
Government’s investment policy is an important driver of food system activities, which in turn influence consumers practices, dietary consumption patterns and nutrition-related health of populations. While governments globally have committed to developing coherent public policies to advance population nutrition, the objectives of investment policies are seen as being divorced from nutrition and health goals. This study aimed to examine investment policy in Thailand and explore how key actors variously define and frame their objectives in food investment policy, how nutrition issues are represented by the actors, and what discursive effects of the nutrition results were represented within the field of investment in Thailand.
Methods
This study conducted semi-structured interviews with 16 actors (from 23 recruited actors) from government, civil society, academia and industry. A coding framework was developed based on Bacchi’s analytical framework encapsulated in the question “What’s the problem represented to be?” which examines the problem and assumptions underlying a policy. Data coding was first undertaken by a lead researcher and then double-coded and cross-checked by research team. Disagreements were resolved with discussion until consensus was achieved. The interview data were analysed using thematic analysis.
Results
The principal “problem” represented in food investment policy in Thailand was the perceived irrelevance of nutrition to governmental commitments towards increasing productivity and economic growth. Technological innovation in food production and processing such as ultra-processed foods was perceived as a key driver of economic growth. The key assumption underlying this representation was the primacy of a “productivist” policy paradigm, via which the government focuses on industrially driven food and agriculture and expansion to increase productivity and economic growth. This entails that the nutrition needs of Thai people are silenced and remain unacknowledged in investment policy contexts, and also does not take cognisance of the term “nutrition” and its importance to economic growth.
Conclusion
The findings show that nutrition was not perceived as a political priority for the government and other investment actors. Promoting productivity and economic growth were clearly positioned as the primary purposes of investment within the dominant discourse. Nutrition regulation, particularly of UPF, may conflict with current investment policy directions which prioritise development of modern food production and processing. The study suggests that comprehensive policy communication about nutrition and food classification is needed.
Collapse
|
21
|
Marinoni M, Giordani E, Mosconi C, Rosolen V, Concina F, Fiori F, Carletti C, Knowles A, Pani P, Bin M, Ronfani L, Ferraroni M, Barbone F, Parpinel M, Edefonti V. Are Dietary Patterns Related to Cognitive Performance in 7-Year-Old Children? Evidence from a Birth Cohort in Friuli Venezia Giulia, Italy. Nutrients 2022; 14:nu14194168. [PMID: 36235820 PMCID: PMC9571625 DOI: 10.3390/nu14194168] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2022] [Revised: 09/30/2022] [Accepted: 10/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/07/2022] Open
Abstract
Research from different sources supports a link between nutrition and neurodevelopment, but evidence is still sparse regarding the relationship between a posteriori dietary patterns (DPs) and cognitive performance in school-aged children. Within the Northern Adriatic Cohort II, Friuli Venezia Giulia, Italy, 379 7-year-old children were cross-sectionally evaluated. Dietary patterns were identified through a principal component factor analysis based on 37 nutrients from children’s 3-day dietary records. The Wechsler Intelligence Scale of Children (WISC-IV) test provided measures of cognitive performance, including the full-scale intelligence quotient (FSIQ) and single index scores. Each DP was related to FSIQ or single index scores through multiple robust linear regression models. We identified five DPs named “Dairy Products”, “Plant-based Foods”, “Fats”, “Meat and Potatoes”, and “Seafood” (63% of variance explained). After adjustment, no significant relationship was observed with the FSIQ score; positive associations were found between the “Seafood” DP and Verbal Comprehension Index or Perceptual Reasoning Index. The “Meat and Potatoes” and “Dairy Products” DPs were inversely associated with the Verbal Comprehension Index and Processing Speed Index scores, respectively. In the absence of a relation with the overall FSIQ score, single DPs might influence specific cognitive functions, including verbal and reasoning abilities, as targeted by single indexes, in the expected direction.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Michela Marinoni
- Department of Medicine—DAME, University of Udine, Via Colugna 50, 33100 Udine, Italy
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +39-0432-559601
| | - Elisa Giordani
- Department of Medicine—DAME, University of Udine, Via Colugna 50, 33100 Udine, Italy
| | - Cedric Mosconi
- Branch of Medical Statistics, Biometry, and Epidemiology “G.A. Maccacaro”, Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health, Università degli Studi di Milano, Via Celoria 22, 20133 Milan, Italy
| | - Valentina Rosolen
- Institute for Maternal and Child Health, IRCCS “Burlo Garofolo”, Via dell’Istria 65/1, 34137 Trieste, Italy
| | - Federica Concina
- Institute for Maternal and Child Health, IRCCS “Burlo Garofolo”, Via dell’Istria 65/1, 34137 Trieste, Italy
| | - Federica Fiori
- Department of Medicine—DAME, University of Udine, Via Colugna 50, 33100 Udine, Italy
| | - Claudia Carletti
- Institute for Maternal and Child Health, IRCCS “Burlo Garofolo”, Via dell’Istria 65/1, 34137 Trieste, Italy
| | - Alessandra Knowles
- Institute for Maternal and Child Health, IRCCS “Burlo Garofolo”, Via dell’Istria 65/1, 34137 Trieste, Italy
| | - Paola Pani
- Institute for Maternal and Child Health, IRCCS “Burlo Garofolo”, Via dell’Istria 65/1, 34137 Trieste, Italy
| | - Maura Bin
- Institute for Maternal and Child Health, IRCCS “Burlo Garofolo”, Via dell’Istria 65/1, 34137 Trieste, Italy
| | - Luca Ronfani
- Institute for Maternal and Child Health, IRCCS “Burlo Garofolo”, Via dell’Istria 65/1, 34137 Trieste, Italy
| | - Monica Ferraroni
- Branch of Medical Statistics, Biometry, and Epidemiology “G.A. Maccacaro”, Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health, Università degli Studi di Milano, Via Celoria 22, 20133 Milan, Italy
- Fondazione IRCCS Ca’ Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Via Francesco Sforza 35, 20122 Milan, Italy
| | - Fabio Barbone
- Department of Medicine—DAME, University of Udine, Via Colugna 50, 33100 Udine, Italy
- Institute of Hygiene and Clinical Epidemiology, Azienda Sanitaria Universitaria Friuli Centrale, Via Colugna 50, 33100 Udine, Italy
| | - Maria Parpinel
- Department of Medicine—DAME, University of Udine, Via Colugna 50, 33100 Udine, Italy
| | - Valeria Edefonti
- Branch of Medical Statistics, Biometry, and Epidemiology “G.A. Maccacaro”, Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health, Università degli Studi di Milano, Via Celoria 22, 20133 Milan, Italy
- Fondazione IRCCS Ca’ Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Via Francesco Sforza 35, 20122 Milan, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Effect of a 16-week multi-level classroom standing desk intervention on cognitive performance and academic achievement in adolescents. Sci Rep 2022; 12:14504. [PMID: 36050353 PMCID: PMC9437021 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-18248-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2022] [Accepted: 08/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
The replacement of traditional classroom desks for active-permissive desks has been tested to reduce sitting time during classes. However, their impact on other domains is still unclear. We aimed to verify the potential effects of a classroom standing desk intervention on cognitive function and academic achievement in 6th-grade students. This was a controlled trial conducted with two classes [intervention (n = 22) and control (n = 27)] from a public school in Lisbon, Portugal. The intervention was carried out for 16 weeks and consisted of multi-level actions (students, parents, and teachers) centered on the implementation of standing desks in the intervention classroom. The control group had traditional classes with no use of standing desks or any other interference/action from the research team. Pre- and post-assessments of executive functions (attention, inhibitory function, memory, and fluid intelligence) and academic achievement were obtained. No differences between groups were found at baseline. Both groups improved (time effect) academic achievement (p < 0.001), memory span (p < 0.001), and inhibitory function (p = 0.008). Group versus time interactions were observed regarding operational memory (intervention: + 18.0% and control: + 41.6%; p = 0.039) and non-verbal fluid intelligence (intervention: − 14.0% and control: + 3.9%; p = 0.017). We concluded that a 16-week classroom standing desk intervention did not improve cognitive performance or academic achievement more than the traditional sitting classes. Trial registration: ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier (NCT03137836) (date of first registration: 03/05/2017).
Collapse
|
23
|
The Association between Sugar-Sweetened Beverages and High-Energy Diets and Academic Performance in Junior School Students. Nutrients 2022; 14:nu14173577. [PMID: 36079833 PMCID: PMC9460257 DOI: 10.3390/nu14173577] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2022] [Revised: 08/27/2022] [Accepted: 08/29/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
This study aimed to understand the consumption frequency of sugar-sweetened beverages (SSBs) and high-energy diets in junior school students in China and to explore the relationship between SSBs and high-energy diets and academic performance. Information about 9251 junior school students was retrieved from the China Education Panel Survey (CEPS) database. The Mann−Whitney U test and the Kruskal−Wallis test were used to compare differences in academic performance based on the variables of interest. Generalized linear mixed models were used to analyze the association between the consumption frequency of SSBs and high-energy diet and student academic performance, fixed and random effects were included to control for confounding factors. The proportions of the “often” consumption group of SSBs and high-energy diets were 21.5% and 14.6%, respectively. For SSBs, the total score of the “often” consume group was 4.902 (95%CI: −7.660~−2.144, p < 0.001) points lower than that of the “seldom” consume group. Scores of Chinese math, and English were 0.864 (95%CI: −1.551~−0.177, p = 0.014), 2.164 (95%CI: −3.498~−0.831, p = 0.001), and 1.836 (95%CI: −2.961~−0.710, p = 0.001) points lower, respectively. For high-energy diets, the scores of total, Chinese and English in the “sometimes” consume group were 2.519 (95%CI: 0.452~4.585, p = 0.017), 1.025 (95%CI: 0.510~1.540, p < 0.001) and 1.010 (95%CI: 0.167~1.853, p = 0.019) points higher than that of the “seldom” consume group, respectively. Our findings suggested that consumption of SSBs was often negatively associated with academic performance in junior school students, while medium consumption of high-energy diets had a positive correlation. The positive association between high-energy diets and academic performance may be related to the food items included in the high-energy diets consumed by Chinese students. Schools and families should pay more effort to reduce the consumption of SSBs, and for high-energy diets, the focus should be on food selection and avoiding excessive intake. Longitudinal studies are needed to further test these findings among adolescents.
Collapse
|
24
|
Hansen J, Hanewinkel R, Galimov A. Physical activity, screen time, and sleep: do German children and adolescents meet the movement guidelines? Eur J Pediatr 2022; 181:1985-1995. [PMID: 35113254 PMCID: PMC8811591 DOI: 10.1007/s00431-022-04401-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2021] [Revised: 01/24/2022] [Accepted: 01/25/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
UNLABELLED The interactions between physical activity (PA), screen time, and sleep affect the health of children and adolescents. This study described the national prevalence estimates of German youth aged 9 to 18 years who meet PA, screen time, and sleep guidelines alone and in combination and examined the associations of demographic and personal characteristics with adherence to guidelines. Data from a 2019-2020 German student survey were used (n = 15,786). The target population consisted of children and adolescents enrolled in grades 5-10, with a mean age of 13.0 years (SD = 1.8) and an equal gender distribution (male: 50%). The levels of PA, screen time, and sleep were assessed by self-reports (online questionnaires). The prevalence rates of meeting each guideline individually and in different combinations were calculated, and multilevel logistic regression models were used to examine the associations of demographic and personal characteristics with meeting versus not meeting guidelines. Overall, 9.7% of the respondents met all three guidelines combined, and approximately 25% did not meet any of the guidelines. Half of the participants (50%) met the sleep guidelines, and approximately one third met the screen time (35%) and PA (37%) guidelines alone. Demographic characteristics associated with adherence to meeting all three movement guidelines included younger age, male gender, higher self-reported socioeconomic status, and school type. Personal characteristics related to adherence to meeting all three movement guidelines included better subjective school performance, less frequent attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), lower levels of depressive symptoms, lower body mass index (BMI), and not using substances in the past 30 days. CONCLUSION A low percentage of German children and adolescents met the movement guidelines. With increasing age, the proportion of young people who follow the recommendations decreases. There is an urgent need for health interventions devoted to youth behavior as a whole. WHAT IS KNOWN • High levels of PA, low levels of screen time, and optimal sleep duration provide enhanced health benefits in comparison to the adoption of just one of these behaviors. • Evidence shows that movement behaviors interact throughout the day and should be studied concurrently. WHAT IS NEW • Approximately 10% of German children and adolescents met the recommendations on PA, screen time, and sleep, while 25% did not meet any guidelines. • Meeting all guidelines was associated with less frequent ADHD and depressive symptoms, lower BMI, and less frequent substance use in the past 30 days.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Julia Hansen
- Institute for Therapy and Health Research, IFT-Nord, Harmsstrasse 2, 24114 Kiel, Germany
| | - Reiner Hanewinkel
- Institute for Therapy and Health Research, IFT-Nord, Harmsstrasse 2, 24114 Kiel, Germany
| | - Artur Galimov
- Department of Population and Public Health Sciences, Keck School of Medicine of University of Southern California, Institute for Health Promotion and Disease Prevention Research, Los Angeles, USA
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Hermassi S, Bartels T, Hayes LD, Schwesig R. Fitness, Fatness, and Academic Attainment in Male Schoolchildren from a Soccer Academy. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:ijerph19053106. [PMID: 35270798 PMCID: PMC8910146 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19053106] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2021] [Revised: 03/02/2022] [Accepted: 03/04/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
This investigation explored the association between anthropometric measures, fitness, and academic attainment (mathematics and science grade point average [GPA]) in male schoolchildren from a soccer academy. Thirty-one males (age: 10.3 ± 1.19 years; body mass: 41.7 ± 6.5 kg; height: 1.43 ± 0.07 m; body mass index (BMI): 20.2 ± 2.8 kg/m2) participated. Body mass, body fat percentage (%BF), and BMI were used as measures of anthropometry. The Yo-Yo Intermittent Recovery Test (level 1), squat and counter-movement jumps (SJ and CMJ), static balance, 10 and 15 m sprint, and a T-half test for change-of-direction (CoD) performance were used to measure fitness parameters. The GPA of mathematics and science determined academic attainment. All physical performance tests showed excellent relative reliability. ICC was between 0.87 (10 m sprint) and 1.00 (15 m sprint, CMJ). Regarding correlations between fatness and academic attainment, we found three correlations of practical value (r > 0.5), but only for mathematics (BMI: r = 0.540, subscapular skinfold: r = 0.589, body fat: r = 0.560). Mathematics was relevantly correlated with 15 m sprint (r = 0.574) and Yo-Yo IR1 test (r = 0.770). Only static balance (r = 0.428) did not reach the relevance criteria (r > 0.5). Science only showed large correlations with static balance (r = 0.620) and Yo-Yo IR1 test (r = 0.730). In conclusion, fatness and fitness are related to academic attainment in schoolchildren. In addition, except for static balance, all physical performance parameters were relevantly (r > 0.5) correlated with mathematics.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Souhail Hermassi
- Physical Education Department, College of Education, Qatar University, Doha 2713, Qatar
- Correspondence:
| | - Thomas Bartels
- Sports Clinic Halle, Center of Joint Surgery, 06108 Halle (Saale), Germany;
| | - Lawrence D. Hayes
- School of Health and Life Sciences, University of the West of Scotland, Glasgow G72 0LH, UK;
| | - René Schwesig
- Department of Orthopaedic and Trauma Surgery, Martin-Luther-University Halle-Wittenberg, Ernst-Grube-Str. 40, 06120 Halle (Saale), Germany;
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Carneiro L, Pellerin L. Nutritional Impact on Metabolic Homeostasis and Brain Health. Front Neurosci 2022; 15:767405. [PMID: 35153657 PMCID: PMC8829049 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2021.767405] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2021] [Accepted: 12/13/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Aging in modern societies is often associated with various diseases including metabolic and neurodegenerative disorders. In recent years, researchers have shown that both dysfunctions are related to each other. Although the relationship is not fully understood, recent evidence indicate that metabolic control plays a determinant role in neural defects onset. Indeed, energy balance dysregulation affects neuroenergetics by altering energy supply and thus neuronal activity. Consistently, different diets to help control body weight, blood glucose or insulin sensitivity are also effective in improving neurodegenerative disorders, dampening symptoms, or decreasing the risk of disease onset. Moreover, adapted nutritional recommendations improve learning, memory, and mood in healthy subjects as well. Interestingly, adjusted carbohydrate content of meals is the most efficient for both brain function and metabolic regulation improvement. Notably, documented neurological disorders impacted by specific diets suggest that the processes involved are inflammation, mitochondrial function and redox balance as well as ATP production. Interestingly, processes involving inflammation, mitochondrial function and redox balance as well as ATP production are also described in brain regulation of energy homeostasis. Therefore, it is likely that changes in brain function induced by diets can affect brain control of energy homeostasis and other brain functions such as memory, anxiety, social behavior, or motor skills. Moreover, a defect in energy supply could participate to the development of neurodegenerative disorders. Among the possible processes involved, the role of ketone bodies metabolism, neurogenesis and synaptic plasticity, oxidative stress and inflammation or epigenetic regulations as well as gut-brain axis and SCFA have been proposed in the literature. Therefore, the goal of this review is to provide hints about how nutritional studies could help to better understand the tight relationship between metabolic balance, brain activity and aging. Altogether, diets that help maintaining a metabolic balance could be key to both maintain energy homeostasis and prevent neurological disorders, thus contributing to promote healthy aging.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lionel Carneiro
- Department of Biological Chemistry and Pharmacology, Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, United States
- *Correspondence: Lionel Carneiro,
| | - Luc Pellerin
- Inserm U1082, Université de Poitiers and CHU de Poitiers, Poitiers, France
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
Bučan Nenadić D, Kolak E, Selak M, Smoljo M, Radić J, Vučković M, Dropuljić B, Pijerov T, Babić Cikoš D. Anthropometric Parameters and Mediterranean Diet Adherence in Preschool Children in Split-Dalmatia County, Croatia-Are They Related? Nutrients 2021; 13:nu13124252. [PMID: 34959811 PMCID: PMC8706144 DOI: 10.3390/nu13124252] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2021] [Revised: 11/24/2021] [Accepted: 11/25/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Obesity is a rapidly growing problem in European countries, Croatia being among them. According to the latest CroCOSI data, every third child in Croatia aged 8.0–8.9 years is overweight or obese. The Mediterranean diet (MeDi) and its impact on nutritional status and health has been the focus of recent research. Therefore, the aim of this cross-sectional, observational study was to determine the nutritional status and adherence to the MeDi of preschool children in Split, Croatia. We included 598 preschool children aged 3 to 7 years and, for each child, parents completed a lifestyle questionnaire and the Mediterranean Diet Quality Index (KIDMED) in order to assess adherence to the MeDi. The anthropometric assessment included the measurement of weight, height, mid-upper arm circumference (MUAC), waist circumference (WC) and the z-score was calculated. According to the z-score, 420 (70.2%) children had a healthy body weight with 54 (9%) underweight and 124 (20.8%) overweight or obese children. Almost half (49%) of the study participants had a low KIDMED index score, indicating a low MeDi adherence, 37% had an average score, while only 14% had high MeDi compliance. Statistically significant negative correlations between MUAC and WC and the consumption of a second daily serving of fruit (p = 0.04) as well as a daily serving of vegetables (p = 0.03) were found. In conclusion, low compliance to the MeDi principles in preschool children is concerning. Considering the beneficial effects of the MeDi on overall health, further education, and the adoption of healthy eating habits in preschool children in this Mediterranean region are required.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Dora Bučan Nenadić
- Department of Nutrition and Dietetics, University Hospital Centre Split, 21000 Split, Croatia;
- Croatian Association of Nutritionists, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia; (M.S.); (B.D.); (T.P.); (D.B.C.)
- Correspondence: (D.B.N.); (E.K.)
| | - Ela Kolak
- Department of Nutrition and Dietetics, University Hospital Centre Split, 21000 Split, Croatia;
- Croatian Association of Nutritionists, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia; (M.S.); (B.D.); (T.P.); (D.B.C.)
- Correspondence: (D.B.N.); (E.K.)
| | - Marija Selak
- Department of Nutrition and Dietetics, University Hospital Centre Split, 21000 Split, Croatia;
- Croatian Association of Nutritionists, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia; (M.S.); (B.D.); (T.P.); (D.B.C.)
| | - Matea Smoljo
- Croatian Association of Nutritionists, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia; (M.S.); (B.D.); (T.P.); (D.B.C.)
| | - Josipa Radić
- Department of Nephrology and Dialysis, University Hospital Centre Split, 21000 Split, Croatia; (J.R.); (M.V.)
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Split School of Medicine, 21000 Split, Croatia
| | - Marijana Vučković
- Department of Nephrology and Dialysis, University Hospital Centre Split, 21000 Split, Croatia; (J.R.); (M.V.)
| | - Bruna Dropuljić
- Croatian Association of Nutritionists, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia; (M.S.); (B.D.); (T.P.); (D.B.C.)
| | - Tanja Pijerov
- Croatian Association of Nutritionists, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia; (M.S.); (B.D.); (T.P.); (D.B.C.)
| | - Dora Babić Cikoš
- Croatian Association of Nutritionists, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia; (M.S.); (B.D.); (T.P.); (D.B.C.)
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Granziera F, Guzzardi MA, Iozzo P. Associations between the Mediterranean Diet Pattern and Weight Status and Cognitive Development in Preschool Children. Nutrients 2021; 13:nu13113723. [PMID: 34835979 PMCID: PMC8624841 DOI: 10.3390/nu13113723] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2021] [Revised: 10/09/2021] [Accepted: 10/17/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Cognitive dysfunctions are a global health concern. Early-life diet and weight status may contribute to children’s cognitive development. For this reason, we explored the associations between habitual food consumption, body mass index (BMI) and cognitive outcomes in 54 preschool children belonging to the Pisa birth Cohort (PISAC). We estimated groups of foods, nutrients and calorie intakes through a food frequency questionnaire (FFQ) and Italian national databases. Then, we adopted the Mediterranean diet (MD) score to assess relative MD adherence. Cognition was examined using the Griffiths Mental Development Scales-Extended Revised (GMDS-ER). We found that higher, compared to low and moderate, adherence to MD was associated with higher performance scores. Furthermore, white meat consumption was positively related to BMI, and BMI (age–gender specific, z-scores) categories were negatively related to practical reasoning scores. All associations were independent of maternal IQ estimates, parents’ socioeconomic status, exclusive/non-exclusive breastfeeding, actual age at cognitive assessment and gender. In conclusion, in preschool children, very high adherence to MD seemed protective, whereas BMI (reinforced by the intake of white meat) was negatively associated with cognition.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Federico Granziera
- Institute of Clinical Physiology, National Research Council (CNR), 56124 Pisa, Italy; (F.G.); (P.I.)
- Sant’Anna School of Advanced Studies, 56127 Pisa, Italy
| | - Maria Angela Guzzardi
- Institute of Clinical Physiology, National Research Council (CNR), 56124 Pisa, Italy; (F.G.); (P.I.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +39-050-3152789
| | - Patricia Iozzo
- Institute of Clinical Physiology, National Research Council (CNR), 56124 Pisa, Italy; (F.G.); (P.I.)
| |
Collapse
|
29
|
Tapia-Serrano MA, García-Hermoso A, Sevil-Serrano J, Sánchez-Oliva D, Sánchez-Miguel PA. Is adherence to 24-Hour Movement Guidelines associated with a higher academic achievement among adolescent males and females? J Sci Med Sport 2021; 25:155-161. [PMID: 34649760 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsams.2021.09.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2021] [Revised: 08/26/2021] [Accepted: 09/10/2021] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES This study aims to examine the independent and combined associations of 24-Hour Movement Guidelines for physical activity, screen time, and sleep duration with academic achievement in adolescent males and females. DESIGN Cross-sectional study. METHODS 1290 Spanish adolescents (565 females), aged 11 to 16 years (13.06 ± 0.84), participated in this study. Self-reported physical activity, screen time, and sleep duration questionnaires were assessed. Academic achievement was calculated as an average score of the adolescents'' grades in first language (Spanish), first foreign language (English), and mathematics subjects. A multiple linear regression model was used to examine the association between meeting 24-Hour Movement Guidelines and academic achievement. Covariates included age, sex, socioeconomic status, body mass index, and cardiorespiratory fitness. RESULTS Not meeting any of the three 24-Hour Movement Guidelines was associated with lower academic achievement in the whole sample (p < 0.001). Meeting physical activity and sleep duration guidelines, both independently and together, was associated with higher academic achievement in the whole sample (p < 0.001). Meeting at least two recommendations was associated with higher academic achievement in males (p < 0.01). However, trend analysis revealed that participants who met two or three recommendations had higher academic achievement compared to those who met one or none of these recommendations (p < 0.05). All these results were similar for males and females. CONCLUSIONS Our findings suggest the importance of promoting more than one 24-Hour Movement Guidelines, mainly physical activity and sleep duration, which seems to contribute positively to increased academic performance in adolescents.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Miguel Angel Tapia-Serrano
- Department of Didactics of Musical, Plastic and Body Expression, Faculty of Teaching Training, University of Extremadura, Spain.
| | - Antonio García-Hermoso
- Navarrabiomed, Public University of Navarra (UPNA), Health Research Institute of Navarra (IdiSNA), Navarra Hospital Complex (CHN), Spain; School of Physical Activity, Sports and Health Sciences, University of Santiago de Chile (USACH), Chile.
| | - Javier Sevil-Serrano
- Didáctica de la Expresión Musical, Plástica y Corporal, Grupo Análisis Comportamental de la Actividad Física y el Deporte (ACAFYDE), Universidad de Extremadura, Facultad de Educación, Av. de Elvas, s/n, 06006, Badajoz, Spain.
| | - David Sánchez-Oliva
- Department of Didactics of Musical, Plastic and Body Expression, Faculty of Sports Sciences, University of Extremadura, Spain.
| | - Pedro Antonio Sánchez-Miguel
- Department of Didactics of Musical, Plastic and Body Expression, Faculty of Teaching Training, University of Extremadura, Spain.
| |
Collapse
|
30
|
Bôto JM, Marreiros A, Diogo P, Pinto E, Mateus MP. Health behaviours as predictors of the Mediterranean diet adherence: a decision tree approach. Public Health Nutr 2021; 25:1-13. [PMID: 34369348 PMCID: PMC9991829 DOI: 10.1017/s1368980021003293] [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: 10/13/2020] [Revised: 07/20/2021] [Accepted: 08/04/2021] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This study aimed to identify health behaviours that determine adolescent's adherence to the Mediterranean diet (MD) through a decision tree statistical approach. DESIGN Cross-sectional study, with data collected through a self-fulfilment questionnaire with five sections: (1) eating habits; (2) adherence to the MD (KIDMED index); (3) physical activity; (4) health habits and (5) socio-demographic characteristics. Anthropometric and blood pressure data were collected by a trained research team. The Automatic Chi-square Interaction Detection (CHAID) method was used to identify health behaviours that contribute to a better adherence to the MD. SETTING Eight public secondary schools, in Algarve, Portugal. PARTICIPANTS Adolescents with ages between 15 and 19 years (n 325). RESULTS According to the KIDMED index, we found a low adherence to MD in 9·0 % of the participants, an intermediate adherence in 45·5 % and a high adherence in 45·5 %. Participants that regularly have breakfast, eat vegetable soup, have a second piece of fruit/d, eat fresh or cooked vegetables 1 or more times a day, eat oleaginous fruits at least 2 to 3 times a week, and practice sports and leisure physical activities outside school show higher adherence to the MD (P < 0·001). CONCLUSIONS The daily intake of two pieces of fruit and vegetables proved to be a determinant health behaviour for high adherence to MD. Strategies to promote the intake of these foods among adolescents must be developed and implemented.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Joana Margarida Bôto
- University of Algarve – School of Health, Department of Dietetics and Nutrition, Gambelas Campus, 8005-139Faro, Portugal
| | - Ana Marreiros
- University of Algarve – School of Health, Department of Dietetics and Nutrition, Gambelas Campus, 8005-139Faro, Portugal
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Medicine, Faro, Portugal
| | - Patrícia Diogo
- University of Algarve – School of Health, Department of Dietetics and Nutrition, Gambelas Campus, 8005-139Faro, Portugal
- Necton SA, Olhão, Algarve, Portugal
| | - Ezequiel Pinto
- University of Algarve – School of Health, Department of Dietetics and Nutrition, Gambelas Campus, 8005-139Faro, Portugal
- School of Health, Department of Dietetics and Nutrition, Faro, Portugal
- Centre for Health Studies and Development, Faro, Portugal
| | - Maria Palma Mateus
- University of Algarve – School of Health, Department of Dietetics and Nutrition, Gambelas Campus, 8005-139Faro, Portugal
- School of Health, Department of Dietetics and Nutrition, Faro, Portugal
| |
Collapse
|
31
|
Illøkken KE, Johannessen B, Barker ME, Hardy-Johnson P, Øverby NC, Vik FN. Free school meals as an opportunity to target social equality, healthy eating, and school functioning: experiences from students and teachers in Norway. Food Nutr Res 2021; 65:7702. [PMID: 34349612 PMCID: PMC8287658 DOI: 10.29219/fnr.v65.7702] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2021] [Revised: 05/05/2021] [Accepted: 06/01/2021] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Background There are no national arrangements for free school meals provision in Norway despite this being an important opportunity to improve children’s and adolescents’ nutritional status and ultimately their physical and cognitive development. During a one academic year (2014–2015), a group of Norwegian sixth graders were served a free healthy school meal in a project called ‘The School Meal Project’. Objective To explore students’ and teachers’ experiences of receiving free school meals after the free school meal in 2015 and 5 years later. Design In-depth, semi-structured interviews with separate groups in 2015 and in 2020 were conducted face to face or via telephone or digital platforms. The findings are based on 13 students (aged 12–16) and 5 teacher interviews. Findings Thematic analysis identified four main themes that describe the perceived benefits of receiving free school meals: 1) the meal as a social event where students made new friends and learned new skills; 2) as an aid to forming healthy eating habits; and as an opportunity to 3) improve school functioning and 4) increase social equality among students. Discussion Our analysis suggests that the free school meal may influence healthy behaviors not only at the individual level but also at the social-, physical-, and macro-levels. Methodological limitations, including self-selection bias, should be considered when interpreting our findings. Conclusion This study provides unique insights into the social benefits for students of receiving free school meals. Our findings illustrate the potential of free school meals: eating healthy foods, sharing a meal together, and interaction between students and teachers at mealtime, to promote health, learning, and equality. In order to maximize these benefits through national implementation of free school meals, more understanding is needed of possible facilitators and barriers related to the provision and uptake of free school meals.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kristine E Illøkken
- Department of Nutrition and Public Health, University of Agder, Kristiansand, Norway
| | - Berit Johannessen
- Department of Health and Nursing Sciences, University of Agder, Kristiansand, Norway
| | - Mary E Barker
- Department of Nutrition and Public Health, University of Agder, Kristiansand, Norway.,Medical Research Council Lifecourse Epidemiology Unit, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK.,NIHR Southampton Biomedical Research Centre, University Hospitals Southampton Foundation Trust, Southampton, UK
| | - Polly Hardy-Johnson
- Medical Research Council Lifecourse Epidemiology Unit, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK
| | - Nina Cecilie Øverby
- Department of Nutrition and Public Health, University of Agder, Kristiansand, Norway
| | - Frøydis Nordgård Vik
- Department of Nutrition and Public Health, University of Agder, Kristiansand, Norway
| |
Collapse
|
32
|
Si J, Zhang H, Zhu L, Chen A. The Relationship between Overweight/Obesity and Executive Control in College Students: The Mediating Effect of BDNF and 5-HT. Life (Basel) 2021; 11:life11040313. [PMID: 33916706 PMCID: PMC8065408 DOI: 10.3390/life11040313] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2021] [Revised: 03/23/2021] [Accepted: 03/31/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
The main aim of this study was to explore the association between overweight/obesity and executive control (EC) in young adults, and to further analyze the mediating effect of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and serotonin (5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT)) on the relationship between overweight/obesity and EC. A total of 449 college students aged between 18 and 20 years were recruited for the study between March and December 2019. Their height and weight were then measured professionally. Subsequently, body mass index (BMI) was calculated as weight (kg) divided by the square of height (m). The EC of the participants was then estimated using the Flanker task, while their serum BDNF levels and 5-HT levels were measured using an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) kit. Finally, the multiple intermediary models in SPSS were used to analyze the mediating effect of 5-HT and BDNF between overweight/obesity and EC. The result show that the overweight/obesity of college students was positively correlated with the response of EC (p ≤ 0.005). However, it was negatively correlated with BDNF (p ≤ 0.05) and 5-HT (p ≤ 0.05). Moreover, BDNF (p ≤ 0.001) and 5-HT (p ≤ 0.001) were negatively correlated with the response of EC. The BDNF level played a partial mediating role between overweight/obesity and EC that accounted for 7.30% of the total effect value. Similarly, the 5-HT of college students played a partial mediating role between overweight/obesity and EC that accounted for 8.76% of the total effect value. Gender and age had no regulatory effect on the relationship between overweight/obesity, BDNF, 5-HT, and EC. This study provides the evidence that 5-HT and BDNF mediated the association between overweight/obesity and executive control. It is indicated that 5-HT and BDNF might be the biological pathways underpinning the link between overweight/obesity and executive control.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jing Si
- College of Physical Education, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225127, China; (J.S.); (H.Z.)
| | - Haidi Zhang
- College of Physical Education, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225127, China; (J.S.); (H.Z.)
| | - Lina Zhu
- School of Physical Education and Sports Science, Beijing Normal University, Beijing 100875, China;
| | - Aiguo Chen
- College of Physical Education, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225127, China; (J.S.); (H.Z.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +86-514-8797-8013
| |
Collapse
|
33
|
Kaliszewska A, Allison J, Martini M, Arias N. Improving Age-Related Cognitive Decline through Dietary Interventions Targeting Mitochondrial Dysfunction. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22073574. [PMID: 33808221 PMCID: PMC8036520 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22073574] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2021] [Revised: 03/24/2021] [Accepted: 03/25/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Aging is inevitable and it is one of the major contributors to cognitive decline. However, the mechanisms underlying age-related cognitive decline are still the object of extensive research. At the biological level, it is unknown how the aging brain is subjected to progressive oxidative stress and neuroinflammation which determine, among others, mitochondrial dysfunction. The link between mitochondrial dysfunction and cognitive impairment is becoming ever more clear by the presence of significant neurological disturbances in human mitochondrial diseases. Possibly, the most important lifestyle factor determining mitochondrial functioning is nutrition. Therefore, with the present work, we review the latest findings disclosing a link between nutrition, mitochondrial functioning and cognition, and pave new ways to counteract cognitive decline in late adulthood through diet.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Aleksandra Kaliszewska
- Department of Basic and Clinical Neuroscience, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King’s College London, Denmark Hill, London SE5 8AF, UK; (A.K.); (J.A.)
| | - Joseph Allison
- Department of Basic and Clinical Neuroscience, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King’s College London, Denmark Hill, London SE5 8AF, UK; (A.K.); (J.A.)
| | - Matteo Martini
- Department of Psychology, University of East London, London E154LZ, UK;
| | - Natalia Arias
- Department of Basic and Clinical Neuroscience, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King’s College London, Denmark Hill, London SE5 8AF, UK; (A.K.); (J.A.)
- Instituto de Neurociencias del Principado de Asturias (INEUROPA), 33005 Oviedo, Spain
- Correspondence:
| |
Collapse
|
34
|
Mediterranean Diet and the Emotional Well-Being of Students of the Campus of Melilla (University of Granada). Nutrients 2020; 12:nu12061826. [PMID: 32575368 PMCID: PMC7353387 DOI: 10.3390/nu12061826] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2020] [Revised: 06/13/2020] [Accepted: 06/17/2020] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
A certain link exists between the consumption of particular groups of food and well-being. In this study, we analyzed in depth the relationship between strict adherence to the Mediterranean diet (MD) and emotional well-being through a descriptive, exploratory, transversal, and correlational study of students from the Campus of Melilla, University of Granada, Spain. The sample consisted of 272 individuals. Adherence to the MD was measured with the PREvención con DIetaMEDiterránea (PREDIMED) questionnaire, emotional well-being (both positive and negative affection) with the Spanish version of the Positive and Negative Affect Schedule (PANAS), the state of perceived health with the Short Form-36 (SF36), and the degree of physical activity using the International Physical Activity Questionnaire Short Form (IPAQ-SF). A strict adherence to the MD was found to be significantly related to positive emotional state (β = 0.018, p = 0.009). The perceived state of health (β = 0.192, p < 0.001), mental role (β = 0.346, p < 0.001), and physical activity (β = 0.155, p = 0.007) were found to be predictive factors of a positive emotional state. Conversely, the relationship between the adherence to the MD and a negative emotional state was not significant. Various components of the MD were found to be independently connected to well-being. The results suggest that adopting a nutritional pattern such as the MD is linked to an improvement in emotional well-being.
Collapse
|