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Blasi E, Rossi ES, Pietrangeli R, Nasso M, Cicatiello C, Palombieri S, Sestili F. Functional Biscuits, a Healthy Addition to Your Coffee Break-Evaluating Consumer Acceptability and Willingness to Pay. Foods 2024; 13:1731. [PMID: 38890960 PMCID: PMC11171973 DOI: 10.3390/foods13111731] [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: 05/13/2024] [Revised: 05/24/2024] [Accepted: 05/29/2024] [Indexed: 06/20/2024] Open
Abstract
An increasing number of individuals are eating out due to work and study commitments. This trend directly influences people's food choices, especially those who frequently rely on snacks and pre-packaged foods. Consuming these foods can lead to long-term health consequences. Adding functional foods to vending machines could lead to healthier choices. Our aim is to evaluate the acceptability and willingness to pay (WTP) of workers and students for a snack pack of novel functional biscuits (FBs) made with high amylose contents. We found that the experimental flour used is effective in preventing various non-communicable diseases; two phases of analysis were carried out on 209 participants. The participants blindly tested the products and only after the sensory evaluation were they informed about the biscuits' health contents. Firstly, the blind investigation highlighted the acceptability of the FBs compared to the conventional biscuits. Secondly, the finite mixture model on WTP revealed that some consumers are interested in the health benefits associated with high-amylose test blends and others are focused on hedonistic taste. The design of a communication strategy and industry approach should aim to assist consumers in comprehending the health benefits and sensory aspects of novel functional foods available on the market.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emanuele Blasi
- Department for Innovation in Biological, Agro-Food and Forest Systems (DIBAF), University of Tuscia, Via San Camillo del Lellis snc, 01100 Viterbo, Italy; (E.B.); (M.N.); (C.C.)
| | - Eleonora Sofia Rossi
- Department for Innovation in Biological, Agro-Food and Forest Systems (DIBAF), University of Tuscia, Via San Camillo del Lellis snc, 01100 Viterbo, Italy; (E.B.); (M.N.); (C.C.)
| | - Roberta Pietrangeli
- Department of Economics, Engineering, Society and Business Organization (DEIM), University of Tuscia, Via del Paradiso 47, 01100 Viterbo, Italy;
| | - Marco Nasso
- Department for Innovation in Biological, Agro-Food and Forest Systems (DIBAF), University of Tuscia, Via San Camillo del Lellis snc, 01100 Viterbo, Italy; (E.B.); (M.N.); (C.C.)
| | - Clara Cicatiello
- Department for Innovation in Biological, Agro-Food and Forest Systems (DIBAF), University of Tuscia, Via San Camillo del Lellis snc, 01100 Viterbo, Italy; (E.B.); (M.N.); (C.C.)
| | - Samuela Palombieri
- Department of Agriculture and Forest Sciences (DAFNE), Via San Camillo de Lellis, 01100 Viterbo, Italy; (S.P.); (F.S.)
| | - Francesco Sestili
- Department of Agriculture and Forest Sciences (DAFNE), Via San Camillo de Lellis, 01100 Viterbo, Italy; (S.P.); (F.S.)
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Warren A. The relationship between gender differences in dietary habits, neuroinflammation, and Alzheimer's disease. Front Aging Neurosci 2024; 16:1395825. [PMID: 38694261 PMCID: PMC11061392 DOI: 10.3389/fnagi.2024.1395825] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2024] [Accepted: 04/03/2024] [Indexed: 05/04/2024] Open
Abstract
Neurocognitive decline is one of the foremost dire issues in medicine today. The mechanisms by which dementia pathogenesis ensues are complicated and multifactorial, particularly in the case of Alzheimer's disease (AD). One irrefutable, yet unexplained factor is the gender disparity in AD, in which women are disproportionately affected by AD, both in the rate and severity of the disease. Examining the multifaceted contributing causes along with unique gender dynamics in modifiable risk factors, such as diet, may lend some insight into why this disparity exists and potential paths forward. The aim of this brief narrative review is to summarize the current literature of gender differences in dietary habits and how they may relate to neuroinflammatory states that contribute to AD pathogenesis. As such, the interplay between diet, hormones, and inflammation will be discussed, along with potential interventions to inform care practices.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alison Warren
- The Department of Clinical Research and Leadership, George Washington University School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Washington, DC, United States
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Feraco A, Armani A, Amoah I, Guseva E, Camajani E, Gorini S, Strollo R, Padua E, Caprio M, Lombardo M. Assessing gender differences in food preferences and physical activity: a population-based survey. Front Nutr 2024; 11:1348456. [PMID: 38445208 PMCID: PMC10912473 DOI: 10.3389/fnut.2024.1348456] [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: 12/04/2023] [Accepted: 02/12/2024] [Indexed: 03/07/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction Food preferences are influenced by various factors, such as culture, age, and gender. The relationship between food tastes, meal preferences, and eating habits has been studied extensively in recent years; however, research on gender differences in these fields still needs to be addressed. The aim of this study was to investigate gender differences in food preferences and eating habits through self-administered questionnaires in a large Italian population sample. Methods The online survey included questions on food tastes, meal preferences, eating habits, and sport involvement. Results The results of the study underline significant gender-specific dietary tendencies among the 2198 participants (1314 females and 884 males, average age 41.1 ± 12.7 yrs). The majority of subjects were in the annual income range between €20,000 and €40,000. Our analysis reveals significant gender differences in dietary preferences and eating habits. Men prefer red and processed meat, with significantly higher consumption rates than women. Women, on the other hand, show a greater inclination towards vegetables, whole grains, tofu, and high-cocoa-content dark chocolate, aligning with healthier food choices. The study also found differences in eating behaviors, including the frequency of meals, snacking habits, and hunger patterns: women tend to eat more frequently and report higher levels of hunger in the morning, while men tend to skip snacks. Furthermore, differences extend to eating contexts, such as the speed of eating, eating out, and eating alone, with men more likely to eat quickly and dine out. Episodes of uncontrolled eating without hunger also differ, with women reporting these behaviors more frequently than men. In addition, the analysis of sports preferences showed distinct patterns, with a lower percentage of women playing sports and those who do play sports preferring endurance and strength training, while men prefer strength training and endurance sports. Discussion These findings elucidate the complex interplay of biological, cultural, and gender-based factors in shaping dietary preferences and eating behaviors. In particular, our study reveals that gender dynamics significantly influence food choice and eating habits: women tend to choose healthier foods and eat regular meals, while men show preferences for specific tastes and meal-related behaviors. This analysis underscores the nuanced differences between male and female dietary patterns, influenced not only by inherent biological factors such as genetics and hormonal responses but also by societal norms and cultural contexts. Taken together, our results highlight the importance of integrating different perspectives, thus providing valuable insights into the development of public health strategies and tailored nutrition interventions aimed at chronic disease prevention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessandra Feraco
- Department of Human Sciences and Promotion of the Quality of Life, San Raffaele Open University, Rome, Italy
- Laboratory of Cardiovascular Endocrinology, San Raffaele Research Institute, IRCCS San Raffaele Roma, Rome, Italy
| | - Andrea Armani
- Department of Human Sciences and Promotion of the Quality of Life, San Raffaele Open University, Rome, Italy
- Laboratory of Cardiovascular Endocrinology, San Raffaele Research Institute, IRCCS San Raffaele Roma, Rome, Italy
| | - Isaac Amoah
- Department of Biochemistry and Biotechnology, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana
| | - Elena Guseva
- Department of Human Sciences and Promotion of the Quality of Life, San Raffaele Open University, Rome, Italy
| | - Elisabetta Camajani
- Department of Human Sciences and Promotion of the Quality of Life, San Raffaele Open University, Rome, Italy
- Laboratory of Cardiovascular Endocrinology, San Raffaele Research Institute, IRCCS San Raffaele Roma, Rome, Italy
| | - Stefania Gorini
- Department of Human Sciences and Promotion of the Quality of Life, San Raffaele Open University, Rome, Italy
- Laboratory of Cardiovascular Endocrinology, San Raffaele Research Institute, IRCCS San Raffaele Roma, Rome, Italy
| | - Rocky Strollo
- Department of Human Sciences and Promotion of the Quality of Life, San Raffaele Open University, Rome, Italy
| | - Elvira Padua
- Department of Human Sciences and Promotion of the Quality of Life, San Raffaele Open University, Rome, Italy
| | - Massimiliano Caprio
- Department of Human Sciences and Promotion of the Quality of Life, San Raffaele Open University, Rome, Italy
- Laboratory of Cardiovascular Endocrinology, San Raffaele Research Institute, IRCCS San Raffaele Roma, Rome, Italy
| | - Mauro Lombardo
- Department of Human Sciences and Promotion of the Quality of Life, San Raffaele Open University, Rome, Italy
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Almoraie NM, Alothmani NM, Alomari WD, Al-Amoudi AH. Addressing nutritional issues and eating behaviours among university students: a narrative review. Nutr Res Rev 2024:1-16. [PMID: 38356364 DOI: 10.1017/s0954422424000088] [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: 02/16/2024]
Abstract
University life is a critical period for establishing healthy eating habits and attitudes. However, university students are at risk of developing poor eating habits due to various factors, including economic conditions, academic stress and lack of information about nutritional concepts. Poor diet quality leads to malnutrition or overnutrition, increasing the risk of preventable diseases. Food environments on university campuses also play a significant role in shaping the dietary habits of students, with the availability of and accessibility to healthy food options being important factors influencing food choices and overall diet quality. Disordered eating habits and body dissatisfaction are prevalent among university students and can lead to eating disorders. Income and living arrangements also influence dietary habits, with low household income and living alone being associated with unhealthy eating habits. This study is a narrative review that aimed to address nutritional issues and eating behaviours, specifically among university students. We investigated the eating behaviours of university students, including their dietary patterns, food choices and food environments. The objective of this review was to provide insights into the nutritional issues and eating behaviours of university students, with the aim of identifying target areas for intervention to improve the overall health and wellbeing among college students. University food environments need to be restructured to promote healthy eating, including the availability, accessibility, affordability and labelling of healthy foods, and policies to limit the availability of unhealthy foods and drinks on campus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Noha M Almoraie
- Department of Food and Nutrition, Faculty of Human Sciences and Design, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Noor M Alothmani
- Department of Food and Nutrition, Faculty of Human Sciences and Design, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Wajd D Alomari
- Department of Food and Nutrition, Faculty of Human Sciences and Design, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Amal H Al-Amoudi
- Department of Food and Nutrition, Faculty of Human Sciences and Design, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
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Castellanos-López I, González-Rodríguez LG, Bermejo LM, Cuadrado-Soto E, López-Sobaler AM. [Nutritional problems in cis and trans women]. NUTR HOSP 2023; 40:33-36. [PMID: 37929906 DOI: 10.20960/nh.04952] [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] [Indexed: 11/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Women deserve special attention due to the different requirements they have in comparison with men. In the same way, transgender women need individualized attention. Transgender women are at greater risk of suffering heart attacks or ischemic accidents, among other diseases, and are also at greater risk of developing eating disorders, poorer weight control and poorer perception of their image. Hormone therapy for gender reaffirmation in trans women modifies their body composition, and may also increase the risk of suffering from some pathologies. The nutritional needs of cisgender women are different from those of men, and trans women also have special needs, which may depend on whether or not they follow hormone therapy. Dietary studies, although scarce, suggest that transgender women have poor dietary habits and lifestyle. It is necessary to deepen the study of the nutritional situation of the female group, considering its diversity, and to develop standards and references appropriate to each case that allow better attention to the needs of these groups.
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Affiliation(s)
- Isabel Castellanos-López
- Departamento de Nutrición y Ciencia de los Alimentos. Facultad de Farmacia. Universidad Complutense de Madrid
| | | | - Laura M Bermejo
- Departamento de Nutrición y Ciencia de los Alimentos. Facultad de Farmacia. Universidad Complutense de Madrid. Grupo de Investigación VALORNUT-UCM (920030). IdISSC
| | | | - Ana M López-Sobaler
- Departamento de Nutrición y Ciencia de los Alimentos. Facultad de Farmacia. Universidad Complutense de Madrid. Grupo de Investigación VALORNUT-UCM (920030). IdISSC
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Domaradzki J. Congruence between Physical Activity Patterns and Dietary Patterns Inferred from Analysis of Sex Differences in Lifestyle Behaviors of Late Adolescents from Poland: Cophylogenetic Approach. Nutrients 2023; 15:nu15030608. [PMID: 36771315 PMCID: PMC9921920 DOI: 10.3390/nu15030608] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2022] [Revised: 01/18/2023] [Accepted: 01/19/2023] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Global trends toward physical inactivity and the replacement of healthy dietary behaviors with unhealthy food consumption, particularly in late adolescence, were commonly observed. Thus, the aim of this work was twofold: (1) to examine congruence between PAPs and DPs by identifying sex differences in healthy and unhealthy behaviors and (2) to assess the explanation behind why certain participants were classified into clusters using BMI and fat mass covariates. Late adolescents (19-21 years of age, n = 107) were selected to study. PAPs and DPs were assessed with questionnaires (IPAQ, QEB) and body height, weight, and fat mass percentage were self-reported (the accuracy and reliability of self-reported data were empirically verified). A cophylogenetic approach with several clustering procedures (heatmaps and tanglegrams) was the way to solve the stated problems. Results showed that students achieved the minimal level of physical activity, lower than students from other regions in Poland, Czech Republic, or Germany. There was congruence between PAPs and DPs in some males' and females' behaviors. Significant similarities in sex patterns of behaviors were revealed (Mantel tests-PAPs: r = 0.70, p < 0.001; DPs: r = 0.84, p < 0.001). Similarities in PAPs were related to transportation cycling and school/work activities behaviors. Non-healthy triads in dietary behaviors were found: fast-food, sweetened beverages, and alcoholic drinks in the first, and sweets, fried meals, and yellow cheese in the second. One healthy diad was revealed: vegetables and fruits. Only females' dietary behaviors were reflected in body mass index (F = 3.19, p = 0.049), percentage of body fat (F = 3.87, p = 0.027), and fat mass index (F = 3.83, p = 0.028). The usefulness of the cophenetic approach in patterns study was verified. Sex similarities and specific disparities could help preparing targeted tailored intervention programs that improve healthy habits in late adolescents. This is especially important in relation to females, who more strongly reflected dietary behaviors in body composition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jarosław Domaradzki
- Department of Biostructure, Wroclaw University of Health and Sport Sciences, 51-612 Wrocław, Poland
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