BackgroundChildhood obesity is associated with significant impairments in health-related quality of life (HRQoL), yet culturally adapted, weight-specific tools are lacking in French-speaking settings.AimThis study aimed to validate French versions of the Sizing Me Up (SMU) and Sizing Them Up (STU) questionnaires to assess obesity-related quality of life in children and adolescents from self- and parent-report perspectives.MethodsShortened French versions of the SMU and STU were developed, retaining three subscales common to both instruments (Emotional, Physical, and Teasing/Marginalization) based on theoretical and psychometric criteria. A clinical sample included 120 children and adolescents with obesity (aged 5-18 years) and their parents. Psychometric analyses included internal consistency, confirmatory factor analysis, convergent validity with the Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory (PedsQL), sensitivity to body mass index (BMI) z-scores, measurement invariance across age and sex, and parent-child agreement.ResultsBoth instruments demonstrated good internal consistency and a stable three-factor structure. Associations were observed between the BMI z-score and the Physical domain, with modest effect sizes comparable to those of the generic PedsQL. Convergent validity was supported by correlations with corresponding PedsQL subscales. Measurement invariance held across age groups and for the SMU across sex, but the STU across sex did not achieve configural invariance. Procrustean analysis indicated moderate structural similarities between child and parent profiles, with moderate to good individual-level agreement, higher for physical than emotional domains.SummaryThe shortened French SMU and STU are reliable and valid tools for assessing HRQoL in pediatric obesity, supporting their use in clinical and research settings.
BackgroundDuring adolescence, nutritional literacy, eating behaviors, and body image play important roles in body weight management.AimThis study aimed at the relationships between nutritional literacy, eating behaviors, and body cathexis according to BMI in high school students.MethodsThis study was designed as a cross-sectional study including 568 students (73.6% female) aged 14-18 studying in four different high schools in Ankara, Turkey. Data were collected using a questionnaire that included sociodemographic information, the Adolescent Nutrition Literacy Scale, the Dutch Eating Behavior Questionnaire, and the Body-Cathexis Scale.SummaryCritical nutrition literacy scores were significantly lower in overweight than underweight adolescents (p = 0.014). BMI showed a weak positive correlation with interactive nutrition literacy (r = 0.107, p < 0.001). External eating scores were lower in obese adolescents and negatively correlated with BMI (r = -0.149, p < 0.001), whereas restrained eating showed a moderate positive correlation with BMI (r = 0.437, p < 0.001). No significant association was found between BMI and emotional eating (r = 0.250, p = 0.905), and body cathexis scores were lower in obese adolescents. In multivariable regression analysis, restrained eating emerged as an independent positive predictor of BMI, whereas body cathexis and external eating were independently associated with lower BMI; nutrition literacy and emotional eating were not independent predictors. These findings suggest that interventions targeting eating behaviors and body satisfaction may be more effective for promoting healthy body weight in adolescents than strategies focusing solely on nutrition knowledge.
Background and AimOlder adults are susceptible to hospitalization-associated disability (HAD), particularly when nutritional status is impaired. This study aimed to examine the association between GLIM-defined malnutrition and HAD in hospitalized older adults and to descriptively compare HAD-related clinical characteristics according to HAD status within GLIM malnutrition and non-malnutrition groups.MethodsThis prospective observational cohort study used a multicenter database to identify 166 patients aged ≥70 years who were admitted to acute care wards between February 2023 and March 2025 and were independent in ADL before hospitalization. GLIM-defined malnutrition was assessed at admission and treated as the exposure. Patients were categorized into GLIM malnutrition and non-malnutrition groups and followed until discharge to determine the occurrence of HAD. Logistic regression analysis was used to identify the independent HAD predictors.ResultsThe mean age of the patients was 80 years; 103 were men and 63 were women. GLIM malnutrition was present in 67 (40%) patients. The occurrence of HAD during hospitalization was higher in patients with GLIM malnutrition than in those without GLIM malnutrition (48% vs. 16%, p < 0.001). Patients with malnutrition were older, frailer, and had lower body mass index. Multivariable logistic regression analysis showed that GLIM malnutrition was independently associated with HAD (odds ratio, 2.732; 95% confidence interval, 1.190-6.271; p = 0.018).SummaryGLIM-defined malnutrition is independently associated with HAD in older patients. Early nutritional assessment, targeted frailty prevention, and integrated prehospital care may help reduce the risk of HAD and improve recovery after discharge.
BackgroundThere is growing recognition of the positive role of mindful eating in improving eating behaviours and weight management.AimHowever, there is limited research that explored how mindful eating behaviour (i.e., regulated attention while eating) may moderate the association between binge eating (BE) and body mass index (BMI), which was the primary aim of the present research.MethodsIn a cross-sectional study, 146 participants were recruited through online opportunity sampling to complete an online survey administered via QuestionPro exploring BE, mindful eating behaviour, and BMI, and bivariate correlations and Hayes' PROCESS Macro were used to explore relationships and moderations.SummaryFindings suggested that there is a significant positive association between BE and BMI, which was moderated by mindful eating behaviour with a significant interaction effect (p < .001). Specifically, in individuals who scored low in mindful eating behaviour, there was a significant relationship between BE and BMI, while higher scores made this relationship non-significant. While mindful eating may not directly reduce the frequency of BE in all contexts, it serves as a factor that weakens the positive association between BE and BMI. The research, therefore, emphasised the potential of mindful eating behaviour as a targeted intervention for individuals at risk of weight-related health difficulties. Implications, limitations, and recommendations for future research are discussed.
BackgroundManaging type 2 diabetes becomes more difficult during fasting Ramadan. Alterations in meal timing, food choices, and medication schedules can increase the risk of glycemic complications. Although pre-Ramadan education is strongly recommended, there are still few culturally tailored interventions.AimThis study assessed the impact of a culturally appropriate pre-Ramadan nutritional education program on diabetes-related knowledge and practices for self-management.MethodsA one-group, pretest-posttest quasi-experimental study was carried out in Egypt. A sample of 53 adults with type 2 diabetes was included. A culturally suitable intervention based on the guidelines of the International Diabetes Federation and Diabetes and Ramadan Alliance was specified. Data collection at baseline, after Ramadan, 3 months, and 6 months was conducted using a structured assessment questionnaire.SummaryFemale participants were 64.2%, and the average age was 52.2 ± 7.8 years. The mean total knowledge score rose from 26.3 ± 8.4 at baseline to 35.2 ± 6.9 (p < 0.001) after 6 months. Ramadan-specific knowledge increased significantly, from 8.6 ± 3.3 to 11.0 ± 1.8 (p < 0.001), and nutritional knowledge scores rose from 7.2 ± 3.1 to 9.5 ± 2.9 (p < 0.001). Improvements in self-management practices were observed, including better identification of hypoglycemic symptoms (77.4-98.1%). Self-reported medication adherence rose from 41.5% to 71.7%. Among Egyptian adults with type 2 diabetes, a culturally tailored, Ramadan-focused diabetes education program greatly and sustainably boosted knowledge and self-management practices. Healthy fasting behaviors are improved by including religious and cultural contexts in diabetes education.
BackgroundObesity is increasingly recognized as a global metabolic disease, often accompanied by endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress, which contributes to the development of metabolic disorders such as insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes. Kombucha, a fermented tea known for its health-promoting effects, has been associated with weight loss and lipid-lowering properties.AimThis study aimed to evaluate the potential effects of kombucha on ER stress in obese rats induced by a high-fat diet (HFD).MethodsFifty male Wistar albino rats were randomly assigned to four groups: Control, Kombucha, HFD, and HFD combined with Kombucha (HFD + Kombucha). Rats in the Kombucha and HFD + Kombucha groups received oral kombucha at a dose of 5 ml/kg daily for 5 weeks. Body weights were monitored weekly. At the end of the experimental period, liver tissues were collected for analysis of ER stress markers (p-inositol-requiring enzyme 1, activating transcription factor 6, p-JNK, p-eIF2a, GRP78) using western blotting. Serum samples were also analyzed for metabolic parameters.SummaryRats treated with kombucha exhibited less weight gain compared to those fed an HFD alone. Although no statistically significant differences were observed in the expression of ER stress markers, numerical reductions were noted in the kombucha-treated groups, suggesting a potential modulatory effect on ER stress rather than a definitive reduction. Kombucha may be associated with reduced weight gain and may have a potential role in ER stress modulation; however, these findings should be considered preliminary due to the lack of statistically significant differences. Importantly, the western blot findings do not support a definitive conclusion regarding ER stress attenuation. The absence of statistically significant differences in ER stress markers represents an important limitation of the study. Further studies involving larger cohorts and longer intervention periods are needed to confirm these findings.
BackgroundDehydroepiandrosterone sulfate (DHEAS) has been consistently linked to cardiovascular and skeletal health; however, the relationship between circulating antioxidant concentrations, including vitamins, and DHEAS levels in older adults has been insufficiently examined.AimTo assess associations between serum DHEAS and five antioxidants: β-cryptoxanthin, total lycopene, α-tocopherol, γ-tocopherol, and retinol.MethodsData from the Midlife in the United States (MIDUS3) Biomarker Project (2017-2022) were analyzed in a cross-sectional design. Analyses evaluated associations between DHEAS, antioxidant levels, and demographic and metabolic characteristics, including age, sex, smoking history, creatinine, HbA1c, total cholesterol, body mass index, dietary quality, alcohol intake, physical activity, and sleep quality. Multivariable linear regression models adjusting for all antioxidants and potential confounders were conducted following square-root transformation of DHEAS.SummaryThe analytical sample comprised 747 participants (55.8% female) with a mean age of 66.0 years (SD = 9.64). In adjusted models, higher α-tocopherol concentrations were associated with lower DHEAS levels (β = -0.09; 95% CI: [-0.172 to -0.009], P < 0.031) whereas retinol demonstrated a positive association with DHEAS (β = 0.081; 95% CI: [0.009-0.154], P = 0.029). None of the other antioxidants had a significant association with serum DHEAS. Increasing age, female sex, and poorer sleep quality were significantly associated with lower DHEAS concentrations. In conclusion, in older adults, serum retinol levels are positively associated with DHEAS concentrations, whereas α-tocopherol shows an inverse association. Conversely, no significant associations were observed between serum DHEAS levels and β-cryptoxanthin, total lycopene, or γ-tocopherol.
BackgroundSugar-sweetened beverages (SSB) are a key source of energy and sugars in the American diet.AimThis assessment examined trends in SSB and sugar-sweetened carbonated soft drink (ssCSD) consumption.MethodsIntake estimates were generated using NHANES 2003-2020 and August 2021-August 2023 and temporal trends were examined using linear and logistic regression.SummaryThe percentage of individuals ≥2 years consuming SSB or ssCSD declined significantly from 2003 to 2023. The percentage of youth consuming SSB or ssCSD dropped from 2003 to 2023 (76%-44% and 56% to 22%, respectively), as did the percentage of adults consuming SSB or ssCSD (52%-32% and 42%-22%, respectively). Per capita energy intake from SSB or ssCSD declined among youth (-135 and -96 kcal/day, respectively) and adults (-89 and -75 kcal/day, respectively). The downward trends in SSB or ssCSD consumption among the US population suggest trends consistent with dietary recommendations.
BackgroundPreconception health influences pregnancy outcomes, with poor nutrition and health-related behaviors linked to anemia, preeclampsia, and fetal growth restriction. Despite increasing attention to these adverse outcomes, evidence on preconception nutritional and behavioral interventions remains limited, fragmented, and inconsistently synthesized.ObjectivesTo synthesize evidence on the role of preconception nutritional supplementation and behavioral interventions in supporting maternal and neonatal health outcomes.MethodsWe conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis following Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines with the protocol registered in PROSPERO (#CRD42024592645). Studies published from the inception to October 1, 2024, were identified through six databases. A total of 24 studies met the eligibility criteria, which included randomized, non-randomized, and controlled before-after studies involving women aged 18-45 planning pregnancy or interconception period. Preconception interventions included nutritional supplementation (e.g., folic acid, calcium, multiple micronutrients) and behavioral/lifestyle strategies (e.g., counseling, diet, physical activity). Findings were analyzed separately by intervention type and outcome. Two reviewers independently screened studies and extracted data. Meta-analyses were conducted using RevMan software. Risk of bias was assessed using Cochrane RoB 2 and ROBINS-I, and certainty of evidence was rated using Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development, and Evaluation (GRADE).ResultsThe included studies suggested that lifestyle interventions reduced the risk of gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) with Risk Ratio (RR): 0.76; 95% Confidence Interval (CI): 0.60-0.95), lowered gestational weight gain (GWG) with Mean Deviation (MD): -3.88 kg; 95% CI: -10.53 to -4.75), and improved GWG adequacy (RR: 1.62; 95% CI: 1.17-2.25). Nutritional supplementation were associated with reduced GDM risk (RR: 0.55; 95% CI: 0.43-0.71), increased birth weight by 72.26 g (95% CI: 47.40-97.12; I2 = 96%), reduced preeclampsia risk with calcium (RR: 0.71; 95% CI: 0.54-0.92), and lowered neurodevelopmental disorder risk with folic acid/multivitamin use (RR: 0.14; 95% CI: 0.11-0.18). No pooled or synergistic association across intervention categories was estimated.ConclusionOutcome-specific evidence suggests that preconception nutritional and behavioral interventions are associated with improvements in selected maternal and neonatal outcomes. However, heterogeneity and limitations of underlying studies constrain causal inference, underscoring the need for rigorous longitudinal and integrated intervention research.
Background Malnutrition affects nearly half of patients in Canadian hospitals and is associated with increased complications, longer hospital stays, and higher mortality. Audits at an urban acute care hospital identified gaps in nutrition screening, oral intake monitoring, weight surveillance, and interdisciplinary coordination, highlighting the need for a structured, patient-centred nutrition care model. Aim To evaluate the patients eating and recovering (PEAR) model by assessing improvements in nutrition screening, oral intake monitoring, and weight surveillance; evaluating the feasibility and effectiveness of delegating supportive nutrition care tasks to dietitian assistants (DAs); and determining its impact on interdisciplinary collaboration and staff satisfaction. Methods An interdisciplinary team, including patient partners, developed PEAR to clarify roles, improve workflows, and integrate a DA into nutrition care. The DA collaborated with nurses and allied health staff to conduct nutrition screening, monitor oral intake and weight, and support mealtime care, including tray setup, food preferences, dental care, and positioning. A descriptive pre- and post-implementation evaluation examined changes in nutrition care processes, workflow feasibility, and staff perceptions. Summary PEAR improved nutrition care processes. Nutrition screening increased from 9% to 49%, while monitoring of oral intake and weight became more consistent. The DA played a key role in identifying patients at risk of malnutrition and supporting reliable nutrition tracking. Staff reported clearer workflows, stronger interdisciplinary collaboration, and reduced workload pressures. PEAR also reduced food waste by 7.47 kg between pre- and post-implementation measurement days, demonstrating environmental and financial benefits while strengthening interdisciplinary nutrition care in an acute elderly care unit.
BackgroundSmoking is associated with appetite regulation and food cravings, yet its relationship with intuitive eating (IE), an internally guided, non-restrictive eating style, remains unclear.AimTo examine associations between smoking status, nicotine dependence, and IE among adults in primary care.MethodsIn a cross-sectional study in Western France (June-July 2023), adults (18-75 y) attending general practices completed a questionnaire on sociodemographics, smoking, physical activity/sedentary time, cannabis use, anthropometrics, and IE (French Intuitive Eating Scale-2, IES-2; total and three subscales). Participants were categorized as non-smokers, smokers with low dependence (Fagerström Test for Nicotine Dependence [FTND] 0-4), or moderate-to-high dependence (FTND 5-10). Associations were tested using ANCOVA, adjusting for sex, BMI, and covariates selected a priori and by statistical criteria.SummaryAmong 466 participants (67.6% women; mean age 42.5 ± 14.1 years; mean BMI 25.5 ± 5.5 kg/m2), 101 (21.7%) were smokers, including 72 with low nicotine dependence and 29 with moderate-to-high dependence. Compared with non-smokers, smokers with low nicotine dependence had higher total IES-2 scores (β = 0.20, 95% CI: 0.03-0.37) and higher Reliance on Hunger and Satiety Cues scores (β = 0.25, 95% CI: 0.05-0.46), whereas smokers with moderate-to-high dependence had higher Unconditional Permission to Eat scores (β = 0.56, 95% CI: 0.22-0.91). No differences were observed for Eating for Physical Rather Than Emotional Reasons. These findings suggest that intuitive eating and its dimensions differ according to nicotine dependence. Longitudinal studies are needed to determine how intuitive eating changes during smoking cessation, whether it predicts post-cessation weight gain, and which mechanisms underlie these associations.
Background Regular moderate exercise generates low levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS). However, excessive ROS production during exercise can harm the physiological functions of tissues, including skeletal muscle. This can lead to increased muscle soreness, impaired function and delayed recovery. Eccentric exercise induces mechanical muscle damage and triggers an acute inflammatory response. This response is characterised by fluid infiltration and recruitment of immune cells to clear damaged tissue, which also initiates the repair process. Dietary antioxidants were proposed to reduce oxidative stress and enhance recovery, while the potential of native Australian plants as functional recovery foods remains underexplored. Aim To determine whether 10 days of consumption of a strawberry sorbet containing Davidson plum (Davidsonia jerseyana ) powder enhances muscle recovery following a high-intensity interval training session in long-distance runners. The study is designed as a pilot double-blind, randomised, placebo-controlled trial over a period of 3 weeks. Methods Endurance-trained participants will complete a running session after consuming either the active sorbet or a placebo sorbet for 7 days (pre-loading). Muscle recovery will be assessed using a visual analogue scale, countermovement jumps on dual force plates and a sit-and-reach test. Capillary blood samples will be analysed for muscle damage (creatine kinase). Physiological parameters including heart rate variability, blood pressure and anthropometrics will be recorded. Baseline cardiorespiratory fitness will be determined using a V˙O 2 max test. Summary This trial aims to determine whether a sorbet containing bioactive compounds from an Australian native plant can enhance recovery following intense exercise.
BackgroundExperimental evidence suggests that capsaicin supplementation improves calcium metabolism in skeletal muscle, suggesting an ergogenic potential. Previous studies, however, have numerous methodological biases.AimWe investigated the effect of acute capsaicin supplementation on countermovement jump (CMJ) height and strength endurance in trained individuals, addressing previous methodological limitations.MethodsSixteen young (24 ± 4 years; 73.9 ± 2.7 kg; 1.73 ± 0.06 m), advanced resistance-trained men underwent: (1) one-repetition maximum (1-RM) tests to fulfill eligibility and to determine the strength endurance test intensity; (2) strength endurance tests (4 sets, 70% 1-RM) in the 45° leg press; and (3) CMJ tests. After successive familiarizations, the participants performed strength endurance and CMJ tests with a ≥ 72 h inter-session interval, under three different conditions, in a double-blind, counterbalanced crossover design: (1) Control (CON, no supplementation), (2) Placebo (PLA), and (3) Capsaicin (CAP, 12 mg). The capsules were ingested 40 min before the tests. Mixed models were used to analyze the intervention effect, with a significance level set at p ≤ 0.05.SummaryNo significant differences were detected between the experimental conditions, neither for the total number of repetitions in the strength endurance test (CAP: 55 ± 15 vs PLA: 52 ± 16 vs CON: 54 ± 16; p = 0.854), nor for jump height in the CMJ test (CAP: 36.0 ± 3.3 cm vs PLA: 36.3 ± 3.6 cm vs CON: 36.2 ± 3.7 cm; p = 0.976). Neither positive nor negative expectancy effects (both p > 0.05) from capsaicin ingestion were detected on performance outcomes. We conclude that acute capsaicin supplementation does not represent an effective strategy to improve CMJ height or strength endurance in advanced resistance-trained individuals.
BackgroundDysmenorrhea is highly prevalent among young women and impairs their academic performance and quality of life. Zinc and vitamin E may influence menstrual pain via anti-inflammatory and antioxidant pathways; however, data on habitual intake in Southeast Asia are limited.AimThis study aimed to describe the adequacy of zinc and vitamin E intake among Indonesian female medical students and explore their associations with dysmenorrhea severity.MethodsA cross-sectional study was conducted with 107 female medical students in Indonesia. Dietary zinc and vitamin E intakes were assessed using a validated semi-quantitative food frequency questionnaire. Intake adequacy was defined as ≥77% of the Indonesian Recommended Dietary Allowance. Dysmenorrhea severity was measured using the Working Ability, Location, Intensity, Days of Pain, Dysmenorrhea (WaLIDD) score and was categorized as mild, moderate, or severe. Associations were examined using Fisher's exact test, with exploratory quartile analyses to assess potential intake-severity patterns.ResultsZinc intake was adequate in almost all participants (98.1%), whereas vitamin E intake inadequacy was widespread (83.2%). Dysmenorrhea was highly prevalent, with 29.9% reporting mild symptoms, 55.1% moderate symptoms, and 15.0% severe symptoms. No significant associations were observed between zinc (P = 0.745) or vitamin E (P = 0.337) intake adequacy and dysmenorrhea severity, and quartile analyses showed no clear dose-response patterns.ConclusionVitamin E inadequacy was highly prevalent, whereas zinc intake was generally adequate among Indonesian female medical students. Although no significant associations with dysmenorrhea severity were observed, these findings should be interpreted with caution. Further biomarker-based and longitudinal studies are warranted.
BackgroundWhile global nutrition policies increasingly promote plant-based diets for environmental sustainability, this approach may implicitly assume biological homogeneity and overlook interindividual genetic variability in nutrient metabolism.AimThis review evaluates potential molecular bottlenecks and genetic variations that may influence individual adaptation to plant-based dietary patterns, based on recent literature in nutrigenetics and micronutrient metabolism.MethodsPeer-reviewed literature published primarily between 2015 and 2025 was searched across PubMed, Web of Science, and Scopus using nutrigenetics- and plant-based nutrition-related terms; Google Scholar was additionally consulted for supplementary citation tracking. Foundational studies were included where mechanistically relevant. Studies lacking genotypic data, in vitro models without clinical relevance, and non-English publications were excluded.SummaryCurrent evidence suggests that the conversion efficiency of plant-derived precursors into biologically active forms differs according to polymorphisms in genes including fatty acid desaturases (FADS1/FADS2), beta-carotene oxygenase-1 (BCO1), and phosphatidylethanolamine N-methyltransferase (PEMT). Moreover, phytate-mediated constraints and variations affecting mineral absorption-transmembrane serine protease 6 (TMPRSS6) and solute carrier family 39 member 4 (SLC39A4)-and vitamin B12 transport-fucosyltransferase-2 (FUT2) and transcobalamin-2 (TCN2)-may increase susceptibility to subclinical micronutrient insufficiencies in genetically predisposed individuals. Although many associations reach statistical significance, their clinical impact varies across populations and depends on the overall dietary context. These genetic influences are not deterministic and may potentially be mitigated through targeted dietary planning and personalized supplementation. Precision nutrition frameworks incorporating genetic variability may improve dietary personalization; however, future large-scale longitudinal trials are required before these findings can address consensus clinical guidelines.
BackgroundPlant cell wall's polysaccharides constitute a fundamental source of energy, influencing voluntary intake and digestibility of food, and also affecting peristalsis and health of the digestive tract in animals and people. Because herbivores are less prone to cancer than meat eaters, over the last decades, different teams have investigated the role of plant polysaccharides in immune system activation.AimIn this work, we examine this research seeking to understand if dietary carbohydrates from plant cell walls can be justifiably considered effective components for preventing breast cancer, specifically as it's the most common type of cancer for women.MethodsWe evaluate results from in vitro and in vivo experiments, observational studies (prospective cohort studies) conducted on people (nonvegetarian and vegetarian), and research studies on animals (monogastric herbivores and ruminants).SummarySpecific studies evaluating fiber intake and quality over long periods are scarce, inconclusive, or show mixed results regarding the plant cell polysaccharides present in the diet (structural and storage polysaccharides). We conclude that at the moment, there is not enough causal evidence to justify a recommendation that plant cell walls can be justifiably considered effective components for preventing breast cancer. Proposed steps to follow: a people prospective cohort study with special emphasis on retrieving information about fiber intake and composition of the ingested fiber to better elucidate a causal link in the prevention of breast cancer. Furthermore, a long-life, systematic study on mammalian herbivorous animals for addressing the link specifically between plant cell wall polysaccharides and breast cancer incidence.
BackgroundLactococcus cremoris YRC3780 (previously Lactococcus lactis subsp. cremoris YRC3780), isolated from kefir, has been suggested to improve sleep quality by acting on intestinal immune cells and promoting cytokine production and has been shown to improve subjective sleep quality in healthy young men without sleep problems.AimWe examined the effects of YRC3780 in subjects dissatisfied with their sleep.MethodsWe investigated the effects of daily YRC3780 intake for 8 weeks on sleep in a randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blind, parallel-group study involving 105 healthy Japanese adults with baseline Athens Insomnia Scale (AIS) scores of ≥6.SummaryAfter 8 weeks, the AIS score and the change from baseline score were significantly better in the YRC3780 group than in the placebo group. The YRC3780 group showed significant improvements compared with the placebo group in the scores for the individual AIS items related to "sleep induction" at 4 weeks and in those for "functioning capacity during the day" at 8 weeks. The percentage changes from baseline at 4 weeks for the Oguri-Shirakawa-Azumi Sleep Inventory Middle-aged and Aged version question "fell asleep quickly" and for the Japanese version of the Epworth Sleepiness Scale question about sleepiness while watching TV were significantly better in the YRC3780 group than in the placebo group. In conclusion, daily YRC3780 intake significantly improved sleep quality and alleviated daytime sleepiness and difficulty falling asleep in healthy Japanese adults with sleep complaints (UMIN-CTR, https://center6.umin.ac.jp/cgi-open-bin/ctr_e/ctr_view.cgi?recptno = R000060004, UMIN000052586).
BackgroundPoor diet quality and fatigue adversely affect daily functioning and quality of life.AimThe present study explored associations between dietary patterns, sleep quality, and fatigue, with a focus on potential associations with supplement use.MethodsA cross-sectional study recruited 400 adults (276 females). Data were collected via a face-to-face survey using validated Arabic questionnaires.Summary35.5% of participants were aged 18-24 years, and the overall mean BMI was 25.9 ± 4.54 kg/m2. The average daily energy intake was 2057.5±563.9 kcal. Mean Food Group Diversity Score (FGDS) and Global Dietary Recommendations (GDR) scores were 3.25 ± 2.60 and 9.86 ± 2.25, respectively. Only 22.5% of participants reported taking vitamins and minerals. Supplement users had higher mean GDR scores than non-users (10.53 ± 2.38 vs. 9.66 ± 2.17). Overall, 40.9% of participants reported fairly good subjective sleep quality. Females reported a higher fatigue score than males (26.29 ± 19.17 vs. 16.96 ± 20.10, P< 0.001). FGDS was negatively associated with fatigue (β = -0.121, P = 0.028) among participants and positively associated with sleep quality score (β = 0.200, P = 0.009) among males. Also, GRD was positively and significantly associated with quality of life (β = 0.092, P = 0.031). Finally, poor sleep quality and fatigue were significant predictors of lower quality of life (β= -0.267, P< 0.001 vs. β = -0.427, P< 0.001). In conclusion, poor sleep quality and fatigue are highly prevalent among Jordanian adults, particularly women. Higher diet quality was associated with better sleep quality and quality of life, highlighting the potential role of dietary patterns as a modifiable lifestyle factor.
BackgroundThe nutrition transition in Latin America and the Caribbean (LAC) is shifting from traditional diets to Westernized patterns high in ultra-processed foods, coinciding with a growing hypertension epidemic. A synthesis of region-specific evidence is needed to inform culturally appropriate public health strategies.AimThis systematic review evaluates evidence from 2017 to 2025 on the association between dietary patterns and hypertension in LAC adults, analyzing socioecological determinants within the nutrition transition framework.MethodsFollowing Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines, we searched PubMed, Scopus, LILACS, and other databases for observational and intervention studies in LAC. Two reviewers independently performed screening, data extraction, and quality assessment using NIH and Cochrane tools. A narrative synthesis was conducted due to heterogeneity.SummaryTwelve studies were included. Traditional diets were associated with lower blood pressure (beta: -1.85 mmHg) and reduced hypertension prevalence (prevalence ratio (PR): 0.57), while Westernized diets and ultra-processed foods increased risk (beta: +2.09 mmHg; risk ratio: 1.35). Food insecurity was linked to 39% higher uncontrolled hypertension prevalence (PR: 1.39), while higher education was protective (odds ratio: 0.66). One randomized controlled trial showed a culturally tailored nutrition intervention improved dietary quality. The nutrition transition drives hypertension in LAC. Effective mitigation requires dual strategies: structural policies regulating ultra-processed foods and promoting healthy food environments, alongside culturally adapted interventions addressing socioecological barriers.
BackgroundEnergy drink (ED) consumption is common among undergraduate students and has been linked with adverse health outcomes, including sleep disturbances, cardiovascular effects, and risk-related behaviours.AimThis study aimed to estimate the prevalence of ED consumption among undergraduate students and examine regional variations, associated factors, and reported adverse effects.MethodsA systematic review and meta-analysis were conducted in accordance with PRISMA guidelines. PubMed, Scopus, CINAHL, and Web of Science were searched from database inception to August 2025, with additional screening of Google Scholar and grey literature. Cross-sectional studies reporting ED consumption among undergraduate students were included. Three reviewers independently screened studies, extracted data, and assessed risk of bias using the Joanna Briggs Institute checklist. A random-effects meta-analysis was used to estimate the pooled prevalence.SummaryFifty-eight studies were included. The pooled prevalence of ED consumption among undergraduate students was 49.6% (95% CI: 39.8%-59.5%), although substantial heterogeneity was observed (I2 = 99.6%). Subgroup analyses showed the highest prevalence in Africa (61%), followed by Asia (50%), North America (47%), and Europe (37%). Common motivations for consumption included staying awake, enhancing academic performance, and improving energy levels, while peer influence, marketing, affordability, and availability were identified as important contributing factors. Reported adverse effects primarily involved cardiovascular, neurological, and psychological symptoms. Overall, ED consumption appears to be common among undergraduate students and is associated with behavioural and environmental factors and a range of self-reported adverse effects. As the evidence is derived from cross-sectional studies, causal inferences cannot be made, highlighting the need for longitudinal research to better understand long-term health outcomes and inform targeted interventions.
