Journal Description
Dietetics
Dietetics
is an international, peer-reviewed, open access journal on all aspects of human dietetics published quarterly online by MDPI.
- Open Access— free for readers, with article processing charges (APC) paid by authors or their institutions.
- Rapid Publication: first decisions in 16 days; acceptance to publication in 5.8 days (median values for MDPI journals in the second half of 2023).
- Recognition of Reviewers: APC discount vouchers, optional signed peer review, and reviewer names published annually in the journal.
- Dietetics is a companion journal of Nutrients.
Latest Articles
Improving Health through Sustainable and Healthy Urban Food System Policy in Nigeria
Dietetics 2024, 3(1), 1-15; https://doi.org/10.3390/dietetics3010001 - 11 Jan 2024
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Diet-related diseases and mortalities are assuming epidemic proportions globally. It is more worrisome in the Global South, especially in Africa, where the healthcare system is not resilient to the public health burden. There is a growing effort around the world to foster urban
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Diet-related diseases and mortalities are assuming epidemic proportions globally. It is more worrisome in the Global South, especially in Africa, where the healthcare system is not resilient to the public health burden. There is a growing effort around the world to foster urban food system policies that would checkmate the failing health of the public and ensure improved quality of life. However, these efforts seem non-existent in many African regions. Therefore, there is a need for heightened efforts in these areas to address the food system and ensure a global healthy society. This study identified Nnewi, Nigeria, in sub-Saharan Africa, a typical urban area in Nigeria, and analyzed the public health challenges attributed to the non-existent food system policy and poor nutritional practices. The Milan Urban Food Policy Pact model, which has been successfully implemented in many cities, was adopted to propose a sustainable food system policy for Nnewi. Key policies proposed include autonomous local government power, government-assisted programs, clean and sustainable amenities, agricultural reforms, nutrition education, and reductions in food wastage to achieve a circular economy. An evaluation tool for implementing the food system policy was also developed. Overall, implementing the food system policies proposed herein would improve the quality of life of Nnewi residents. Other urban areas could also adopt similar food system policies to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals of a healthy and resilient global society.
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Open AccessArticle
Gestational Age Is Positively Associated with Retinol and α-Tocopherol in Preterm Infants: The Mediating Role of Birth Weight
Dietetics 2023, 2(4), 366-376; https://doi.org/10.3390/dietetics2040027 - 18 Dec 2023
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Oxidative stress is thought to be one of the common mechanisms for several neonatal diseases in premature infants. Moreover, fat-soluble antioxidant vitamins, i.e., retinol and α-tocopherol, have been found to be low in preterm neonates; however, data are limited. The aim of this
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Oxidative stress is thought to be one of the common mechanisms for several neonatal diseases in premature infants. Moreover, fat-soluble antioxidant vitamins, i.e., retinol and α-tocopherol, have been found to be low in preterm neonates; however, data are limited. The aim of this was to assess the circulating α-tocopherol and retinol concentrations in preterm infants at birth and investigate if they are related to gestational age. Retinol and α-tocopherol were measured on the first day after birth in 30 preterm neonates with HPLC. Means ± SD of serum retinol and α-tocopherol were 392.0 ± 162.9 μg/L and 6.83 ± 3.02 mg/L, respectively. In total, 73% of infants had a very low birth weight (<1500 g) and 23.3% were small for gestational age (SGA). Moreover, 10% of neonates had a retinol deficiency and 20% had an α-tocopherol deficiency. The retinol concentration was lower in SGA infants compared to appropriate for gestational age ones (340.85 ± 75.89 vs. 407.60 ± 179.83 μg/L, correspondingly p = 0.030). Retinol was linearly related to gestational age (Pearson’s rho = 0.84, p < 0.001) but the association did not remain significant after an adjustment for birth weight (partial rho = 0.193, p = 0.316). α-tocopherol was nonlinearly associated with gestational age (Spearman’s rho = 0.470, p = 0.044). The assessment of the vitamin status and potential deficiency in neonates is crucial in order to appropriately support the nutritional needs of newborns.
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Open AccessArticle
Impact of Corn Fiber on the Physicochemical/Technological Properties, Emotions, Purchase Intent and Sensory Characteristics of Gluten Free Bread with Novel Flours
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Dietetics 2023, 2(4), 356-365; https://doi.org/10.3390/dietetics2040026 - 12 Dec 2023
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Gluten-free products present huge advantages for individuals with gluten intolerance or celiac disease. The most influential strategy to develop a product comparable to wheat-containing gluten products is to promote its nutritional and sensorial attributes. Recently, rice flour and teosinte flour were used to
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Gluten-free products present huge advantages for individuals with gluten intolerance or celiac disease. The most influential strategy to develop a product comparable to wheat-containing gluten products is to promote its nutritional and sensorial attributes. Recently, rice flour and teosinte flour were used to develop gluten-free bread. As a result, this work aimed to compare the physical/technological attributes of bread made with rice flour and teosinte flour with corn fiber fortification and examine consumer acceptance and purchase intent. An extreme vertices mixture design decided that a teosinte flour (43.4%), high protein white rice flour (55%), and high protein brown rice flour (1.6%) ratio of gluten-free flour mixture for bread was best based on the sensory attributes utilized for the desirability function methodology. After optimizing the gluten-free flour mixture, the bread was fortified with corn fiber under 1.7 g and 3.8 g per serving, and it was evaluated to examine its physical/technological attributes, consumer perception, liking, emotions, and purchase intent. Incorporating fiber into gluten-free bread impacted the color and texture, giving lighter and yellower colors with a firmer texture. Likewise, concerning health benefit claims, gluten-free bread with fiber claims only improves the purchase intent and overall liking of bread containing 1.7 g per serving of fiber. The flavor attribute was the main driver for consumers’ purchase decisions. This product could be beneficial for consumers who are seeking fiber in their diet.
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Open AccessArticle
Nutrition Knowledge and Diet in Female College Students in Turkey: Youth Education in Nutrition Initiative/Nutrition Education Works (YENI/NEW)—A Cross-Sectional Pilot Study
Dietetics 2023, 2(4), 344-355; https://doi.org/10.3390/dietetics2040025 - 07 Dec 2023
Abstract
Healthy dietary patterns can play a major role in preventing chronic diseases. Improving nutrition-related knowledge in young individuals is considered a promising approach to adopting healthy dietary behaviors, thus improving outcomes later in life. However, healthy eating habits in college students may prove
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Healthy dietary patterns can play a major role in preventing chronic diseases. Improving nutrition-related knowledge in young individuals is considered a promising approach to adopting healthy dietary behaviors, thus improving outcomes later in life. However, healthy eating habits in college students may prove challenging to acquire and maintain. This cross-sectional pilot study aimed to investigate the relationship between nutrition knowledge and its effect on dietary factors, body weight, and body composition in female college students in Turkey. Second- and third-year female college nutrition students (NS), (n = 85) and corresponding non-nutrition/non-health sciences students (NNS) (n = 80), aged 20–22 years old, were evaluated using a validated nutrition knowledge questionnaire, 24 h recalls, anthropometry, and body composition analysis using bioelectrical impedance during the 2015–2016 academic year. The findings revealed that nutrition knowledge was positively associated with increased intake of water, fruits and vegetables, grains, and fiber, whereas total carbohydrate intake exhibited an inverse relationship with nutrition knowledge. Moreover, protein and lipid intake, while not significant, appeared to show higher and lower values, respectively, for the NS participants compared to NNS, revealing a healthier trend for more nutrition-knowledgeable students, which was similar to the finding of a marginally better body composition profile in nutrition-knowledgeable students. As young adulthood is critical for the development of dietary habits, demonstrating the effectiveness of nutrition education is important as a potential tool for public health in terms of improving the risk of chronic diseases.
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Open AccessArticle
Comparing Self-Reported Dietary Intake to Provided Diet during a Randomized Controlled Feeding Intervention: A Pilot Study
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Dietetics 2023, 2(4), 334-343; https://doi.org/10.3390/dietetics2040024 - 17 Nov 2023
Cited by 1
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Systematic and random errors based on self-reported diet may bias estimates of dietary intake. The objective of this pilot study was to describe errors in self-reported dietary intake by comparing 24 h dietary recalls to provided menu items in a controlled feeding study.
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Systematic and random errors based on self-reported diet may bias estimates of dietary intake. The objective of this pilot study was to describe errors in self-reported dietary intake by comparing 24 h dietary recalls to provided menu items in a controlled feeding study. This feeding study was a parallel randomized block design consisting of a standard diet (STD; 15% protein, 50% carbohydrate, 35% fat) followed by either a high-fat (HF; 15% protein, 25% carbohydrate, 60% fat) or a high-carbohydrate (HC; 15% protein, 75% carbohydrate, 10% fat) diet. During the intervention, participants reported dietary intake in 24 h recalls. Participants included 12 males (seven HC, five HF) and 12 females (six HC, six HF). The Nutrition Data System for Research was utilized to quantify energy, macronutrients, and serving size of food groups. Statistical analyses assessed differences in 24 h dietary recalls vs. provided menu items, considering intervention type (STD vs. HF vs. HC) (Student’s t-test). Caloric intake was consistent between self-reported intake and provided meals. Participants in the HF diet underreported energy-adjusted dietary fat and participants in the HC diet underreported energy-adjusted dietary carbohydrates. Energy-adjusted protein intake was overreported in each dietary intervention, specifically overreporting beef and poultry. Classifying misreported dietary components can lead to strategies to mitigate self-report errors for accurate dietary assessment.
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Open AccessReview
Historical Perspective and Current State Review: Advancing Lifelong Learning and Continuing Professional Education in Nutrition and Dietetics to Expand Opportunities, Equity, Access, and Future Transformations
Dietetics 2023, 2(4), 321-333; https://doi.org/10.3390/dietetics2040023 - 08 Nov 2023
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Lifelong learning has been integral to advancement of the nutrition and dietetics profession and its practitioners. Both the United States (US) Commission on Dietetic Registration (CDR) and the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics (Academy) advocate for continuous skill development and professional growth. Responding
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Lifelong learning has been integral to advancement of the nutrition and dietetics profession and its practitioners. Both the United States (US) Commission on Dietetic Registration (CDR) and the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics (Academy) advocate for continuous skill development and professional growth. Responding to evolving environmental trends and diverse practice perspectives, the CDR joined the Joint Accreditation for Interprofessional Continuing Education organization in 2020, and the CDR is transforming its own continuing professional education (CPE) requirements and prior-approval program. This paper presents a historical perspective and a current state narrative review, chronicling past and recent developments in nutrition and dietetics CPE in the US, including opportunities for reflective learning and interprofessional continuing education (IPCE). Also explored are the establishment and expansion of the Joint Accreditation organization and its standards, as well as applicable case examples. Additionally, this paper outlines the CDR and the Academy’s strategies for advancing inclusion, diversity, equity, and access (IDEA) within the profession and identifies how CPE advancements may facilitate accessible and equitable CPE for an increasingly diverse membership of practitioners. Nutrition and dietetics professionals stand to benefit from a more comprehensive understanding of changes in CPE and the opportunities they may bring to the future of the profession.
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Open AccessReview
A Narrative Review of the Tale of the Dysbiotic Microbiome in the Preterm Neonate
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Dietetics 2023, 2(4), 308-320; https://doi.org/10.3390/dietetics2040022 - 24 Oct 2023
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Background: Researchers have established that the preterm neonate is born with an immature gastrointestinal tract. The preterm neonate is thus susceptible to various complications often seen in the neonatal intensive care unit, e.g., feeding intolerances, necrotizing enterocolitis, and hospital-acquired bloodstream infections. These complications
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Background: Researchers have established that the preterm neonate is born with an immature gastrointestinal tract. The preterm neonate is thus susceptible to various complications often seen in the neonatal intensive care unit, e.g., feeding intolerances, necrotizing enterocolitis, and hospital-acquired bloodstream infections. These complications can be life-threatening, and if survived, can have an unfavorable effect on the neonate’s growth and development. Aim: The aims of this narrative review article were to provide an in-depth understanding of the various factors contributing to the development of the preterm neonatal microbiome. Further, we reviewed gastrointestinal microbiome dysbiosis and its potential role in the development of feeding intolerances, necrotizing enterocolitis, and hospital-acquired bloodstream infections. Lastly, we described the potential role of probiotics in this vulnerable population. Methods: A PubMed database search was conducted identifying articles that describe the development and function of the neonatal microbiome, the role of gastrointestinal dysbiosis, and the development of neonatal complications as well as the role of probiotics in gastrointestinal dysbiosis. Results: Various maternal, neonatal, and environmental factors play a role in the development of gastrointestinal dysbiosis in the preterm neonate. This can lead to feeding intolerances, necrotizing enterocolitis, and hospital-acquired bloodstream infections. Discussion: The pathogenesis of the development of short-term complications in the preterm neonate can be linked to the immaturity of the host immune system as well as alterations seen in the intestinal microbiome. There is a growing body of evidence that probiotics can play a role in preventing dysbiosis and thus complications observed in the preterm neonate. However, the optimal combination of probiotic strains and dosage still needs to be identified.
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Open AccessReview
Exercise-Induced Gastrointestinal Symptoms in Endurance Sports: A Review of Pathophysiology, Symptoms, and Nutritional Management
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Dietetics 2023, 2(3), 289-307; https://doi.org/10.3390/dietetics2030021 - 19 Sep 2023
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Strenuous exercise can be associated with “Exercise Induced Gastrointestinal Syndrome” (Ex-GIS), a clinical condition characterized by a series of gastrointestinal (GI) disturbances that may impact the physical and psychological performance of athletes. The pathophysiology comprises multi-factorial interactions between the GI tract and the
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Strenuous exercise can be associated with “Exercise Induced Gastrointestinal Syndrome” (Ex-GIS), a clinical condition characterized by a series of gastrointestinal (GI) disturbances that may impact the physical and psychological performance of athletes. The pathophysiology comprises multi-factorial interactions between the GI tract and the circulatory, immune, enteric, and central nervous systems. There is considerable evidence for increases in the indices of intestinal damage, permeability, and endotoxemia associated with impaired gastric emptying, slowing of small intestinal transit, and malabsorption of nutrients. Heat stress and racing mode seem to exacerbate these GI disturbances. GI symptomatology that derives from strenuous exercise is similar to that of IBS and other GI functional disorders defined in the Rome IV Criteria. To manage Ex-GIS, the exercise modality, state of dehydration, environmental temperature, concomitant therapies, and self-managed diet should be evaluated, and if risk elements are present, an attempt should be made to modify them. Multiple strategies can be successively adopted to manage Ex-GIS. Nutritional and behavioral interventions appear to be the principal ones to avoid symptoms during the exercise. The aim of this review will be to explore the pathophysiology, clinical aspect, and current literature on behavioral and nutritional strategies to manage Ex-GIS, regarding a gluten-free diet and low-fermentable oligo-, di-, and mono-saccharides and polyols (FODMAP) diet.
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Open AccessReview
The Lower the Better? Discussion on Non-Alcoholic Wine and Its Marketing
Dietetics 2023, 2(3), 278-288; https://doi.org/10.3390/dietetics2030020 - 30 Aug 2023
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In the German beverage market, a shift in consumption has become apparent in recent decades: away from alcoholic beverages and towards non-alcoholic alternatives. This indicates a tradeoff between two important and nutritionally relevant substances: alcohol and sugar. This review, therefore, addresses the question
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In the German beverage market, a shift in consumption has become apparent in recent decades: away from alcoholic beverages and towards non-alcoholic alternatives. This indicates a tradeoff between two important and nutritionally relevant substances: alcohol and sugar. This review, therefore, addresses the question of the significance of these developments to the German wine industry, where non-alcoholic wines and sparkling wines are becoming increasingly important. The production of these products is accompanied by a reduction in alcohol content with a simultaneous increase in sugar. Furthermore, these products could also become the focus of health policy efforts when it comes to accusations of possible “alibi marketing”. Here, parallels with the handling of tobacco products become clear, while the tradeoff between alcohol and sugar recedes into the background.
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Open AccessArticle
Lessons Learnt from Rapid Implementation of Telehealth in a Paediatric Dietetics’ Outpatient Service: Is There a Silver Lining beyond the Coronavirus Pandemic to Support Patient-Centred Care?
Dietetics 2023, 2(3), 267-277; https://doi.org/10.3390/dietetics2030019 - 04 Aug 2023
Abstract
The aim of this paper is to report on the differences in clinical and service engagement outcomes of patients attending the paediatric dietetic outpatient service at a major metropolitan hospital before the outbreak of the coronavirus (using face-to-face care) and during the pandemic
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The aim of this paper is to report on the differences in clinical and service engagement outcomes of patients attending the paediatric dietetic outpatient service at a major metropolitan hospital before the outbreak of the coronavirus (using face-to-face care) and during the pandemic (using telehealth). This paper also reports on learning lessons from the rapid implementation of telehealth in this service. This study collected pre- and post-coronavirus pandemic data from 44 paediatric patients. Data on outcomes pre- and post-implementation were analysed. There were no statistically significant differences between pre- and post-coronavirus data for growth (p = 0.92), adherence to dietetic recommendations (p = 0.08) or attendance rate (p = 1.00). This study also found a low uptake of virtual telehealth, technical issues and suboptimal anthropometric data collection associated with this modality of care. Telehealth was not associated with a change in clinical and service engagement outcomes. Thus, telehealth service delivery is not inferior to usual face–face dietetic care and has the potential to be a useful adjunct to usual nutrition care for paediatric health service users after the coronavirus pandemic.
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Open AccessReview
The Relationship of Fruits and Fruit-Products Consumption with Glucose Homeostasis and Diabetes: A Comprehensive Update on the Current Clinical Literature
Dietetics 2023, 2(3), 237-266; https://doi.org/10.3390/dietetics2030018 - 20 Jul 2023
Abstract
Type 2 diabetes mellitus is a major contributor to morbidity and mortality worldwide. This disease often leads to poor health outcomes, such as neuropathy and diabetic foot ulcers, and increased risk for comorbidities such as cardiovascular complications and renal disease. Lifestyle modifications including
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Type 2 diabetes mellitus is a major contributor to morbidity and mortality worldwide. This disease often leads to poor health outcomes, such as neuropathy and diabetic foot ulcers, and increased risk for comorbidities such as cardiovascular complications and renal disease. Lifestyle modifications including diet and physical activity interventions are often explored as prevention and management strategies for T2DM. It is well established that fruits are a rich source of fiber and a variety of phytochemicals, vitamins, minerals, and bioactive compounds that can help optimize human health. Unfortunately, many experts associate the consumption of fruit with a moderate to high glycemic index (GI), which leads to a spike in blood glucose and eventually elevated hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c). The purpose of this comprehensive review is to outline the current clinical literature on the relationship between fruit consumption and various indices of glucose metabolism. A variety of fruits have been clinically studied to determine this relationship, namely in the fresh form (e.g., berries, apples, watermelon, cherries, mangoes), dried fruits (raisins and dates), and juices (derived from cranberry, orange, grape, cherry, and pomegranate). Overall, intake of fruits and fruit-derived products is beneficial for healthy subjects and subjects with T2DM regarding their impact on glucose metabolism and other cardiometabolic markers (e.g., inflammatory responses, lipid profiles). Nonetheless, it is more advisable for diabetic patients to consume fresh or dried fruits rather than fruit-derived products. A special consideration needs to be attributed to both the amount of fruit intake with regards to their respective GI and glycemic load (GL), and when these fruits are consumed. Trials with more a comprehensive design and specific outcomes are required to reveal the mechanisms underlying the beneficial effects of fruit consumption on the T2DM population particularly.
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(This article belongs to the Topic Recent Advances in Consumers’ Preferences and Behavior toward Healthy and Functional Foods)
Open AccessSystematic Review
Effect of Cocoa Beverage and Dark Chocolate Intake on Lipid Profile in People Living with Normal and Elevated LDL Cholesterol: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
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Dietetics 2023, 2(3), 215-236; https://doi.org/10.3390/dietetics2030017 - 07 Jul 2023
Cited by 1
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Cocoa beverage and dark chocolate are important dietary sources of polyphenol and have been hypothesised to improve the lipid profile. This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to investigate the effect of cocoa beverage and dark chocolate intake on lipid profile in individuals living
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Cocoa beverage and dark chocolate are important dietary sources of polyphenol and have been hypothesised to improve the lipid profile. This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to investigate the effect of cocoa beverage and dark chocolate intake on lipid profile in individuals living with normal and elevated LDL cholesterol. The question on whether cocoa beverage and chocolate differentially modify the lipid profile was also explored. A systematic literature search was conducted on PubMed and Cochrane Library on 26 February 2022 following the PRISMA guideline. Cocoa beverage and chocolate consumption had no significant effect on circulating concentrations of total cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, and triglycerides (p > 0.05, all), but favourably and significantly increased circulating concentration of HDL cholesterol by 0.05 (95% CI [0.02, 0.09]) mmol/L (p = 0.002). Changes in lipid profile were similar when comparing populations with normal vs. elevated LDL cholesterol (p > 0.05, all). When considering the food matrix, cocoa beverage intake significantly increased HDL cholesterol by 0.11 (95% CI [0.06, 0.17]) mmol/L (p < 0.001), but the improvement in HDL cholesterol was not significant when chocolate (p = 0.10) or a combination of cocoa beverage and chocolate (p = 0.19) (subgroup differences, p = 0.03) was administered. Cocoa consumption could be recommended as part of a healthy diet in the general population with normal and elevated LDL cholesterol.
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Open AccessArticle
Nutritional Adequacy and Patient Perceptions of the Hospital Inpatient Haemodialysis Menu: A Mixed Methods Case Series
Dietetics 2023, 2(3), 203-214; https://doi.org/10.3390/dietetics2030016 - 21 Jun 2023
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Aim: To evaluate the nutritional adequacy of the hospital haemodialysis menu, quantify the dietary intake of hospitalised haemodialysis patients and explore patient perceptions of the menu. Methods: The menu analysis compared the default menu to reference standards using a one sample t-test
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Aim: To evaluate the nutritional adequacy of the hospital haemodialysis menu, quantify the dietary intake of hospitalised haemodialysis patients and explore patient perceptions of the menu. Methods: The menu analysis compared the default menu to reference standards using a one sample t-test via SPSS. Eight hospitalised haemodialysis patients were purposively interviewed using semi-structured interviews. Thematic analysis was used to identify the dominant themes. The participant’s actual dietary intake was calculated and compared to individual nutrients using evidence-based guidelines. Results: Compared to the reference standards, the default inpatient haemodialysis menu did not provide adequate energy (p < 0.001, mean = 8767 kJ/day ± 362), sodium (p < 0.001, mean = 72 mmol/day ± 9), potassium (p < 0.001, mean = 64 mmol/day ± 4), vitamin C (p ≤ 0.001, mean = 33 mg/day ± 10) and fibre (p < 0.001, mean = 26 g/day ± 3). Inadequate intake of energy and protein occurred in half of the participants. Passive acceptance of the menu, environmental and cultural considerations contributed to missed food opportunities impacting the patient experience and limited intake. Conclusions: The profile of the current default inpatient haemodialysis menu impacts the dietary intake and the experience of haemodialysis inpatients. It is recommended that the default menu is optimised in line with evidence-based guidelines for inpatients.
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Open AccessArticle
Perilla Oil, An Omega-3 Unsaturated Fatty Acid-Rich Oil, Enhances Diversity of Gut Microbiota and May Relieve Constipation in Sedentary Healthy Female: A Nonrandomized Placebo-Controlled Pilot Study
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Dietetics 2023, 2(2), 191-202; https://doi.org/10.3390/dietetics2020015 - 19 Jun 2023
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This study shows the effect of omega-3 unsaturated fatty acids via perilla oil intake on gut microbiota and constipation. Eight sedentary females participated in a nonrandomized placebo-controlled pilot study consisting of eight-week perilla oil (OIL) and placebo (PLA) intervention phases. There was a
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This study shows the effect of omega-3 unsaturated fatty acids via perilla oil intake on gut microbiota and constipation. Eight sedentary females participated in a nonrandomized placebo-controlled pilot study consisting of eight-week perilla oil (OIL) and placebo (PLA) intervention phases. There was a 10-month washout period between phases. All participants received 9 g of perilla oil-containing jelly in the OIL phase, and a placebo jelly in the PLA phase. Gut microbiota, α-diversity, and constipation scores were measured pre- and post-intervention in both phases. The α-diversity, an important indicator of gut microbiota diversity, was significantly increased post-intervention (4.5 ± 0.1) compared to pre-intervention (3.8 ± 0.3) in the OIL only (p = 0.021). Notably, the level of α-diversity was maintained even after the washout period of 10 months. Butyrate-producing bacteria, Lachnospiraceae (%), did not change in the OIL but were significantly reduced post-intervention (15.1 ± 4.8) compared to pre-intervention (20.1 ± 7.0) in the PLA (p = 0.040). In addition, the constipation scores were significantly or tended to be reduced during the OIL phase only (p < 0.05, p < 0.1). In conclusion, an eight-week perilla oil supplementation may enhance and establish the diversity of gut microbiota, which may relieve constipation.
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Open AccessReview
Cardioprotective Effects of Resveratrol in the Mediterranean Diet: A Short Narrative Review
Dietetics 2023, 2(2), 174-190; https://doi.org/10.3390/dietetics2020014 - 26 May 2023
Cited by 1
Abstract
The beneficial effects of a Mediterranean diet are due to the numerous active compounds in the food and, particularly, the high concentration of compounds with synergistically acting antioxidant properties. Resveratrol, a stilbenoid nonflavonoid phenol, is an antioxidant that is naturally produced by numerous
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The beneficial effects of a Mediterranean diet are due to the numerous active compounds in the food and, particularly, the high concentration of compounds with synergistically acting antioxidant properties. Resveratrol, a stilbenoid nonflavonoid phenol, is an antioxidant that is naturally produced by numerous plants as a defensive agent in response to attacks from pathogens, such as bacteria and fungi. Resveratrol has several effects on human health, including on the lipid profile, where it primarily downregulates the enzyme 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl coenzyme A reductase, reducing the synthesis of cholesterol. Resveratrol also increases the expression of LDL receptors in the liver, contributing to the reduction in the LDL-cholesterol levels. This short narrative review, based on relevant articles written in English from a PubMed search, using the keywords “resveratrol”, “atherosclerosis”, “cardiovascular disease”, and “Mediterranean Diet“, focuses on the possible effects of this molecule on cardiovascular disease, lipid metabolism, and atherosclerosis.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Mediterranean Diet, Cardiovascular Diseases, Aging and Frailty)
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Open AccessArticle
A Prospective Study Measuring the Effect of an Interactive Educational Program on Overweight and Obesity among School-Aged Children
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Dietetics 2023, 2(2), 161-173; https://doi.org/10.3390/dietetics2020013 - 06 May 2023
Cited by 1
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Being overweight or obese is a public health problem. This work evaluated a food and nutrition education (FNE) intervention to reduce overweight status among schoolchildren in four schools in the West Panama Province. This was a quasi-experimental before-and-after study that implemented a 34-week
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Being overweight or obese is a public health problem. This work evaluated a food and nutrition education (FNE) intervention to reduce overweight status among schoolchildren in four schools in the West Panama Province. This was a quasi-experimental before-and-after study that implemented a 34-week FNE intervention through workshops with didactic material to 403 children between 8 and 13 years old. A knowledge and attitude survey was used as an evaluation tool before and after the FNE intervention. The prevalence of excess weight (40%) did not reduce after the intervention. The zBMI at the beginning was 0.57 (1.29) for girls and 0.70 (1.36) for boys, and at the final evaluation was 0.57 (1.28) for girls and 0.67 (1.33) for boys. No significant differences were observed between the point of evaluation and sex. No differences were reported in the median level of attitude, although higher levels of knowledge were reported in students of both sexes. The FNE in schoolchildren can be effective in acquiring knowledge and maintaining a positive attitude towards food, but more research is needed to address nutritional status. Although the intervention had no impact on nutritional status, the FNE facilitated the adoption of skills and competencies in schoolchildren. The success of the implementation of the study highlighted the feasibility of replicating the FNE interventions on a larger scale to contribute positively to the multi-level and sectoral public policy Study Without Hunger in Panama.
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Open AccessReview
A Narrative Review on Eating Disorders and Disordered Eating in Inflammatory Bowel Diseases: Need for Increased Awareness
Dietetics 2023, 2(2), 150-160; https://doi.org/10.3390/dietetics2020012 - 24 Apr 2023
Cited by 1
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Recent evidence suggests a link between Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) and eating disorders, an emerging complex bidirectional association. Indeed, the overlap of symptoms and signs can lead to delayed diagnosis and misdiagnosis of both conditions, but also the fear of food-induced symptoms, commonly
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Recent evidence suggests a link between Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) and eating disorders, an emerging complex bidirectional association. Indeed, the overlap of symptoms and signs can lead to delayed diagnosis and misdiagnosis of both conditions, but also the fear of food-induced symptoms, commonly observed in patients with IBD, determines dietary restrictions which in predisposed individuals may induce an overt eating disorder. ARFID (Avoidant Restrictive Food Intake Disorder) and anorexia nervosa are the eating disorders more frequently reported, while disordered eating and orthorexia nervosa are emerging conditions. Disease worsening due to refusal of therapies in patients with anorexia is also a matter of concern and an increased awareness of the possible association of these conditions by gastroenterologists and dietitians is strongly warranted in order for patients to receive the appropriate counseling.
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Open AccessArticle
Association between Time from Dinner to Bedtime and Sleep Quality Indices in the Young Japanese Population: A Cross-Sectional Study
Dietetics 2023, 2(2), 140-149; https://doi.org/10.3390/dietetics2020011 - 12 Apr 2023
Cited by 1
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Sleep quality (duration, efficiency, and latency) is directly associated with human health. An interventional study reported that the time of dinner influenced sleep latency, suggesting that it may also be associated with other sleep quality indices under free-living conditions. Therefore, we cross-sectionally examined
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Sleep quality (duration, efficiency, and latency) is directly associated with human health. An interventional study reported that the time of dinner influenced sleep latency, suggesting that it may also be associated with other sleep quality indices under free-living conditions. Therefore, we cross-sectionally examined the association between the time from dinner to bedtime (TDB) and sleep quality indices under free-living conditions in the young Japanese population. Based on the TDB, 264 participants were separated into three quantiles (T1, ≤3.79 h; T2, 3.80–4.94 h; T3, ≥4.95 h from dinner to bedtime). The T1 (mean ± standard error; 26.4 ± 2.2 min, p = 0.081) and T2 groups (30.8 ± 2.2 min, p = 0.001) showed longer sleep latency compared to the T3 group (19.6 ± 2.2 min), after adjusting for confounding factors. Sleep efficiency in the T1 group (77.5 ± 1.6%) tended to be greater than in the T3 group (72.1 ± 1.6%, p = 0.061), whereas sleep efficiency in the T2 group was not significantly different (77.0 ± 1.6%) from that in the T1 group. Therefore, shortened TDB was associated with prolonged sleep latency in free-living conditions. Meal timing, especially dinner, should be considered along with other sleep hygiene measures to improve human health.
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Open AccessArticle
Perceived Barriers and Facilitators to a Healthy Diet among Cancer Survivors: A Qualitative Exploration Using the TDF and COM-B
Dietetics 2023, 2(1), 123-139; https://doi.org/10.3390/dietetics2010010 - 15 Mar 2023
Cited by 1
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Cancer survivors consider nutrition to be highly important and are motivated to seek information about lifestyle changes, including nutrition, to improve their long-term health. Despite this, suboptimal dietary intake is still reported. Understanding cancer-specific barriers and facilitators to healthy eating among this population
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Cancer survivors consider nutrition to be highly important and are motivated to seek information about lifestyle changes, including nutrition, to improve their long-term health. Despite this, suboptimal dietary intake is still reported. Understanding cancer-specific barriers and facilitators to healthy eating among this population could help develop targeted interventions for this group. This study explored the barriers and facilitators to following a healthy diet among cancer survivors using the Theoretical Domains Framework (TDF) and COM-B model. Semi-structured focus groups with 20 cancer survivors were conducted between February and August 2021, which were transcribed verbatim. Seven key TDF domains accounted for 87% of all coded responses. These were (a) environmental context and resources; (b) knowledge; (c) behavioural regulation; (d) social/professional role and identity; (e) belief about consequences; (f) social influences; and (g) skills. Key barriers were lack of knowledge, non-specific or irrelevant information, environmental aspects, and family. Facilitators were awareness of the importance of nutrition, the health benefits of a plant-based diet, confidence in cooking skills, organisation, balance, family, time, and viewing themselves as someone who eats healthily and access to fresh produce. Enablement was the most prominently linked intervention function. This work can inform future interventions in this area and ensure they are end-user-centred.
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Open AccessSystematic Review
The Effect of Plant-Based and Mycoprotein-Based Meat Substitute Consumption on Cardiometabolic Risk Factors: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Controlled Intervention Trials
by
and
Dietetics 2023, 2(1), 104-122; https://doi.org/10.3390/dietetics2010009 - 08 Mar 2023
Cited by 3
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Background: Climate change is a serious threat to human wellbeing and development. Global reduction of meat intake is key to addressing climate change and other modern sustainability challenges. Plant-based and mycoprotein-based meat substitutes are predicted to play a key role in the reduction
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Background: Climate change is a serious threat to human wellbeing and development. Global reduction of meat intake is key to addressing climate change and other modern sustainability challenges. Plant-based and mycoprotein-based meat substitutes are predicted to play a key role in the reduction of meat intake; however, their impact on human health is unclear. The main objective of this meta-analysis was to assess the short-term effects of meat substitutes on important cardiometabolic biomarkers (total cholesterol, TC; LDL-cholesterol, LDL-C; HDL-cholesterol, HDL-C; triglycerides, TG; systolic blood pressure, SBP; diastolic blood pressure, DBP; fasting blood glucose, FBG; weight) in controlled clinical trials. Methods: Embase and MEDLINE were searched to identify controlled clinical trials with meat substitute interventions and cardiometabolic biomarker outcomes. Standardised mean differences in TC, LDL-C, HDL-C, TG, FBG, SBP, DBP, and weight and 95% confidence intervals were pooled using a random effects model. Risk of bias, heterogeneity, sensitivity, and publication bias were assessed. Of the 934 records identified, 12 studies met the inclusion criteria. In the pooled analyses, the consumption of meat substitutes was associated with significantly lower TC (−0.50 mmol/L [95% CIs −0.70, −0.29]), LDL-C (−0.39 mmol/L [−0.57, −0.21]), and TG (−0.15 mmol/L [−0.29, −0.01]), non-significantly lower FBG (−0.08 [−0.23, 0.08]), SBP (−0.32 [−1.79, 1.41]), and weight (−0.12 [−1.52, 1.27]), and non-significantly higher HDL-C (0.01 [−0.02, 0.05]) and DBP (0.49 [−0.30, 1.28]). There was evidence of publication bias, and some heterogeneity was detected. The certainty of evidence was moderate for the TC and HDL-C results, low for the LDL-C, TG, SBP, DBP, and weight results, and very low for the FBG results. Conclusions: Replacement of some or all meat with plant-based or mycoprotein-based substitutes may lower TC, LDL-C, and TG.
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