Twenty years of research validates mediterranean diet’s role in lowering hypertension risk
A landmark study published in the European Journal of Clinical Nutrition has shed light on the enduring benefits of the Mediterranean diet in preventing hypertension (HTN) over an extensive 20-year period. Conducted among a group of initially non-hypertensive adults, this research marks a significant step in understanding long-term dietary impacts on health.
Hypertension remains a critical challenge globally, significantly influencing the onset of heart diseases and strokes, predominantly in low- and middle-income nations. Despite advancements in medication that stabilise blood pressure, approximately 30% of adults still suffer from HTN, which escalates both the healthcare costs and mortality associated with cardiovascular diseases (CVD). Lifestyle changes such as adopting balanced diets, regular physical activity, and smoking cessation are crucial for managing and preventing HTN. Official health guidelines recommend diets rich in plant-based foods, healthy fats, and lean proteins while being low in sodium and alcohol. The Mediterranean diet, celebrated since the 1960s for its role in preventing chronic conditions and reducing CVD mortality, has lacked long-term concrete evidence of its efficacy in managing blood pressure, prompting further investigation.
The study in question, known as the ATTICA study, complies with the Declaration of Helsinki and explores CVD incidence among Greek adults. Beginning in 2001-2002 with 4,056 individuals from the Attica region invited to participate, 3,042 agreed, embarking on a two-decade-long health journey. Initial assessments involved detailed face-to-face interviews at homes or workplaces by trained health professionals, who collected extensive socio-demographic, clinical, and biochemical data. Key health measures included fasting blood samples for glucose, insulin, total cholesterol, and high sensitivity C-reactive protein levels, among others. Participants also underwent physical examinations to ensure no pre-existing CVD and to measure blood pressure. Lifestyle factors including diet, exercise, and smoking habits were meticulously recorded, using a validated food frequency questionnaire to evaluate adherence to the Mediterranean diet through the MedDietScore.
Throughout the 20-year study period, participant engagement was maintained through regular follow-ups, with the latest in 2022 assessing 2,169 of the original cohort. This follow-up re-evaluated their health outcomes, including HTN, diabetes, and CVD development, corroborating data through family reports and medical records for deceased participants.
Statistical analyses utilised advanced software to contrast initial and 10-year dietary patterns, identifying four distinct adherence trajectories to the Mediterranean diet. Techniques such as correlation coefficients, chi-squared tests, and logistic regression models were employed to ascertain the connection between dietary adherence and HTN risk, accounting for variables like age, sex, body mass index, lifestyle habits, and initial health status.
Findings revealed that at the start, participants averaged 41 years of age with a near-equal gender distribution and showed moderate adherence to the Mediterranean diet, scoring an average MedDietScore of 27.1. Physically, 63.1% were minimally active, and about half were classified as having overweight or obesity. Early medical evaluations noted a 35.3% prevalence of hypercholesterolemia and a 3.9% incidence of diabetes.
Analysis of initial data highlighted a strong negative correlation between adherence to the Mediterranean diet and both systolic and diastolic blood pressures, indicating that higher dietary adherence correlated with lower blood pressure levels. Over the study’s duration, 314 individuals developed hypertension, representing a 22.2% incidence rate. Those who developed HTN typically were older, predominantly male, had higher obesity rates, poorer cardiometabolic profiles, and greater tobacco use compared to those who remained free from HTN.
In-depth analysis demonstrated that participants with low initial MedDietScore faced significantly higher HTN development rates than those with medium or high adherence levels. Statistical evaluation confirmed that each point increase in MedDietScore at baseline correlated with a 7% decrease in HTN risk over 20 years, a relationship that persisted even after adjusting for demographic and lifestyle factors.
The study also examined changes in diet adherence from the start to the 10-year point, revealing varied patterns. Notably, participants consistently adherent to the Mediterranean diet showed a remarkably lower incidence of HTN, with a 46.5% reduced risk in the fully adjusted model, underscoring the diet’s protective effect against HTN when sustained over time.
Read MoreHeightened risk of iron deficiency in children with overweight and obesity
A comprehensive study conducted by the University of Leeds’ nutritional scientists has revealed a significant correlation between overweight and obesity in children and young people and an increased risk of iron deficiency. The research, spearheaded by the School of Food Science and Nutrition, involved a meticulous analysis of numerous medical studies across 44 countries, focusing on individuals under 25 years old. These studies assessed levels of essential vitamins and minerals, including iron, in relation to body weight.
The findings indicated that iron deficiency is prevalent among both underweight and overweight youths. Professor Bernadette Moore of the School of Food Science and Nutrition highlighted the broader implications of these findings, suggesting that “Iron status may be the canary in the coalmine, signalling deeper health issues like prolonged inflammation, which is linked to serious conditions including heart disease, diabetes, and fatty liver.”
Unlike deficiencies in zinc and vitamin A, which were primarily found in undernourished children, iron deficiency in overweight children appears to stem from inflammation that disrupts iron absorption. This research, funded by the UK Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council and published in the ‘BMJ Global Health’ journal on 10 May 2024, marks a significant advancement in understanding the nutritional challenges faced by children with obesity.
The impact of iron deficiency on cognitive functions such as attention, concentration, and memory is well-documented, with potential links to conditions like autism and ADHD. This study is pioneering in its focus on the association of iron deficiency with childhood obesity, an area previously unexplored.
Xiaomian Tan, a doctoral researcher at the University, emphasised the importance of this study, stating, “While the link between undernutrition and deficiency of crucial micronutrients in children’s growth is established, the risks posed by obesity—leading to what can be described as a hidden form of malnutrition—are less understood.”
The study also addresses the broader socio-economic implications. Historically, nutrient deficiencies have been associated with hunger, especially in lower- and middle-income countries where they contribute significantly to child mortality. However, the phenomenon of ‘hidden hunger’—nutrient deficiencies in the context of an energy-dense but nutrient-poor diet—is becoming more prevalent in both affluent and developing nations. This is often linked to diets dominated by ultra-processed foods in wealthier countries and limited dietary variety in poorer regions.
The dual burden of malnutrition and overnutrition is particularly pressing in regions like Africa and Asia, which are undergoing rapid economic changes and dietary shifts towards Western high-sugar, high-fat foods. Between 2000 and 2017, the number of overweight children under five years old rose significantly in these continents, alongside an increase in stunting.
Professor Moore also pointed out the alarming trend in the UK, where one in three children by age 11 have overweight or obesity, which compounds the risk of inflammation-driven iron deficiencies. She advocates for increased physical activity and dietary improvements to mitigate these risks.
The call for further research is clear, with an emphasis on the need for more comprehensive studies that address micronutrient deficiencies within the context of the growing global epidemic of obesity, particularly in regions currently lacking detailed data.
Read MoreStudy reveals sweeteners do not elevate hunger while aiding in blood sugar reduction
In a groundbreaking research endeavour, the substitution of sugar with both artificial and natural sweeteners has been shown to not increase hunger levels in individuals, whilst also facilitating a reduction in blood sugar levels. This discovery comes from a rigorous double-blind randomised controlled trial, which observed that foods containing sweeteners do not lead to heightened appetite sensations or alter appetite-related hormone reactions compared to their sugary counterparts. Notably, this substitution offers additional advantages, such as the lowering of blood sugar levels, a crucial factor for individuals at risk of developing type 2 diabetes.
The incorporation of sweeteners as a sugar substitute in food products has sparked considerable debate, with prior studies providing inconclusive evidence regarding their potential to stimulate appetite. However, this recent study, adhering to the highest standards of scientific proof, delivers compelling evidence that sweeteners and sweetness enhancers do not adversely affect appetite. Moreover, they play a significant role in reducing sugar intake.
Conducted under the auspices of the University of Leeds in collaboration with the Rhône-Alpes Research Center for Human Nutrition, this study forms part of the extensive research undertaken by the SWEET consortium. Comprising 29 European partners from research, consumer, and industry sectors, the consortium aims to investigate the long-term benefits and possible risks associated with the transition to sweeteners and sweetness enhancers, focusing on public health and safety, obesity, and sustainability. The research received funding from Horizon Europe.
Catherine Gibbons, the study’s lead author and an Associate Professor at the University of Leeds’ School of Psychology, stressed the importance of reducing sugar intake in combating the escalating prevalence of obesity-related metabolic diseases like type 2 diabetes. She noted that removing sugar from foods without offering a substitute could potentially compromise taste and heighten cravings for sweet foods, thus making adherence to a low-sugar diet challenging. The substitution of sugars with sweeteners and sweetness enhancers in food products represents a prevalent dietary and food manufacturing strategy to diminish sugar consumption and enhance the nutritional value of commercial foods and beverages.
Graham Finlayson, Principal Investigator and Professor of Psychobiology at the University of Leeds, highlighted the scrutiny that the use of sweeteners and sweetness enhancers has attracted, including claims linking their consumption to adverse health outcomes. These reports have muddled public perception, particularly among those at risk of metabolic diseases, about the safety of these substances.
“Our study provides essential evidence supporting the daily use of sweeteners and sweetness enhancers in managing body weight and blood sugar levels,” Finlayson stated.
This pioneering study, a first of its kind, examined the impact of consuming biscuits infused with either sugar, the natural sugar alternative Stevia, or the artificial sweetener Neotame on a group of 53 adult men and women with overweight or obesity issues. Prior research on sweeteners and sweetness enhancers predominantly utilised beverages as a medium and seldom included participants with overweight or obesity or both sexes. Moreover, these studies usually focused on a single sweetener, primarily aspartame, against a control, with very few examining the effects of repeated daily consumption of a known sweetener or sweetness enhancer as part of a regular diet.
The trial, executed at the University of Leeds and the Rhône-Alpes Research Center for Human Nutrition in France between 2021 and 2022, involved participants aged between 18 to 60, all with overweight or obesity. It comprised three two-week consumption phases, with participants consuming biscuits containing different fillings: sugar, Stevia, or Neotame, with intervals of 14-21 days between each phase.
The initial and final days of these phases were conducted in a laboratory setting. Participants, after an overnight fast, provided blood samples to establish baseline glucose, insulin, and appetite-related hormone levels. They were also asked to evaluate their hunger and food preferences. Following the biscuit consumption, participants rated their fullness over several hours, and measurements were taken for glucose and insulin levels, along with ghrelin, glucagon-like peptide 1, and pancreatic polypeptide – hormones linked to food consumption.
The findings indicated no significant differences in appetite or endocrine responses between the sweetener types and sugar. However, insulin levels, measured two hours post-consumption, along with blood sugar levels, were observed to decrease.
Professor Anne Raben, joint co-ordinator of the SWEET project from the University of Copenhagen, Denmark, remarked, “The findings affirm that sweeteners are a beneficial tool in reducing the consumption of added sugar without triggering a compensatory increase in hunger or energy intake. This supports the effectiveness of sweeteners in managing appetite, energy, and weight.”
Read MoreVery low calorie diets safe for teens with obesity when monitored by a dietitian, study finds
In recent findings set to be unveiled at the European Congress on Obesity (ECO) in 2024, researchers assert that stringent low-calorie diets, when under the vigilant oversight of seasoned dietitians, hold promise for adolescents grappling with moderate to severe obesity.
The study, originating from Australia, explored the viability and tolerance of very low energy diets (VLEDs) among teenagers, revealing an overall positive reception despite some experiencing adverse effects. VLEDs, characterised by a daily intake of 800 calories or less through specialised meal replacements like bars and shakes, aim to fulfil essential nutrient needs while offering an alternative path to weight loss. This approach is particularly geared towards young individuals who have found little success with traditional diet and exercise regimens, presenting a potential prelude to a more balanced diet without resorting to bariatric surgery.
Historically, the application of VLEDs in youth has been approached with caution due to scant data concerning potential side effects—ranging from headaches and fatigue to muscle cramps and digestive issues—and their impact on overall growth, cardiac health, and psychological well-being. This hesitancy underscores the significance of the study conducted by Dr. Megan Gow and her team at the Children’s Hospital Westmead Clinical School, affiliated with The University of Sydney, Westmead, Australia.
The research delves into the initial phase of the “Fast Track to Health” study, specifically the first four weeks during which participants engaged in a nutritionally balanced VLED to initiate weight loss. The cohort, comprising 141 adolescents aged 13 to 17 years with obesity and at least one obesity-related complication (e.g., hypertension, insulin resistance, or dyslipidemia), was divided to receive either four Optifast meal replacement products daily alongside low carbohydrate vegetables and a teaspoon of vegetable oil or a similar regimen with three meal replacements and one solid meal of lean meat and vegetables.
Support was provided through weekly consultations with a dietitian, with assessments at baseline, weekly intervals, and a comprehensive survey to gauge the diet’s acceptability, detailing aspects the participants found favourable or unfavourable.
Despite prevalent side effects, the adherence rate was notably high, with an average weight loss of 5.5kg observed across participants. The majority reported experiencing multiple side effects, including hunger, fatigue, headaches, and gastrointestinal disturbances, with the incidence peaking in the first week. Interestingly, a correlation was observed between the early onset of side effects and more substantial weight loss, hinting at higher compliance with the dietary restrictions.
Feedback on the VLED’s practicality and enjoyment yielded mixed reviews, with the structured nature and the tangible outcomes of weight loss cited as positives, whereas the restrictive diet and the palatability of meal replacements drew criticism.
The findings advocate for the short-term safety and potential acceptability of VLEDs under professional guidance for adolescents with significant obesity challenges. Dr. Gow emphasises the necessity for further research to pinpoint those who would benefit most from this approach. She advocates for the incorporation of VLEDs into clinical guidelines for managing severe obesity and related health issues in young people, positioning it as a preliminary step before considering medication or surgery.
Adolescents and their guardians are encouraged to consult healthcare professionals to explore suitable treatment avenues for obesity.
This study not only sheds light on the pragmatic aspects of implementing VLEDs among adolescents but also underscores the importance of professional oversight and the need for a broader discourse on obesity management in younger populations.
Read MoreComprehensive analysis shows ultra-processed foods elevate metabolic disease risks
A pivotal study published in Frontiers in Nutrition meticulously explores the connection between the intake of ultra-processed foods (UPFs) and the heightened risk of metabolic disorders.
The consumption of UPFs is often discouraged due to its potential role in fostering metabolic conditions such as type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and obesity. These conditions detrimentally impact various bodily systems by disrupting the normal breakdown and synthesis of substances during metabolism.
Although the root causes of metabolic disorders are complex and multifaceted, encompassing both genetic and environmental factors, diet emerges as a significant, modifiable environmental aspect.
Employing the NOVA food classification system, UPFs are identified as products of industrial processing, comprising extracted ingredients, additives, and minimal whole foods. Common examples include baked goods, processed snacks, sausages, and sugar-laden drinks.
Despite the established linkage between UPF consumption and metabolic diseases, critiques exist regarding the potential bias within the research findings.
This investigation conducted an umbrella review (UR), meticulously examining published systematic reviews coupled with meta-analyses to affirm the strength and validity of the association between UPF intake and the risk of metabolic diseases.
Databases such as Web of Science, PubMed, Embase, and the Cochrane Library were exhaustively searched up to July 15, 2023, without language limitations. The search also included citation tracking to identify additional relevant studies.
Exclusion criteria targeted studies focusing on laboratory and animal research, genetic polymorphisms, and those lacking specific data or quantitative analysis. Studies incorporating fewer than three original research articles were also omitted from the meta-analysis.
A thorough analysis of 13 meta-analyses was conducted, revealing a consistent association between UPF consumption and the onset of obesity and T2DM.
Notably, seven cross-sectional and numerous prospective cohort studies identified a 1.55 times increased risk of obesity with high UPF consumption, underscoring UPFs as a significant obesity risk factor. These results advocate for a reduction in UPF intake, highlighting a potential health benefit that healthcare professionals and policy makers should consider when developing dietary recommendations.
Furthermore, two meta-analyses indicated a significant link between UPF consumption and T2DM, with processed meats and sugar-sweetened beverages being particularly implicated. The consumption levels of these UPFs were closely tied to T2DM risk.
However, evidence supporting the connection between T2DM and UPF intake was weaker in some analyses and deemed insignificant among Asian populations.
Risks for non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), hypertension, and metabolic syndrome (MetS) were also associated with UPF consumption, though these findings were less consistent across different groups, indicating a need for further research.
This study underscores the association between UPF intake and an increased risk of metabolic diseases, especially obesity and T2DM, while suggesting the necessity for additional research on other metabolic conditions.
A key strength of this research lies in its thorough evaluation of the quality and credibility of each meta-analysis, marking it as the first UR to provide a comprehensive summary of the link between UPFs and metabolic diseases.
Limitations include the potential absence of specific data in underlying studies and the exclusion of certain studies in previous meta-analyses. Future research should expand to include other outcomes such as hyperuricemia and dyslipidemia. The study also did not account for residual confounding and measurement errors due to the absence of randomised controlled trials.
The consistency in defining UPFs was challenging, as few studies applied the NOVA classification system, and some meta-analyses included a mix of studies with and without this system, possibly leading to misclassification.
Moreover, the generalisability of these findings may be questioned, as the majority of the research was conducted in the United States, several European countries, and Brazil, suggesting a potential geographical bias in the results.
Read MoreStudy reveals kimchi’s role in combating obesity among South Koreans
In an insightful study featured in BMJ Open, the intricate link between the consumption of kimchi and obesity levels within the South Korean populace has been meticulously analysed. This research delves into the multifaceted relationship between diet and obesity, spotlighting the traditional Korean delicacy, kimchi, known for its low-calorie content yet high nutritional value, including an abundance of vitamins, dietary fibre, polyphenols, and probiotics.
Obesity, a burgeoning health crisis linked to a plethora of adverse health conditions such as diabetes, chronic kidney disease, cardiovascular diseases, and hyperlipidemia, has seen a steady rise in prevalence across South Korea. This trend accompanies a growing concern over abdominal obesity, further underscoring the urgency for effective public health strategies aimed at curtailing this epidemic. The escalating obesity rates have inevitably led to increased healthcare costs, highlighting the critical need for preventive measures.
Amidst growing concerns over kimchi’s contribution to dietary sodium intake, which a 2019-2020 survey pegged at 500 mg daily (accounting for 15% of total sodium consumption), the study embarked on exploring kimchi’s potential benefits. Despite the known risks associated with high sodium intake, including hypertension and obesity, previous investigations have suggested a positive correlation between fermented vegetables, such as kimchi, and reduced body weight, alongside improvements in cholesterol and blood glucose levels.
The current study leverages data from the expansive Health Examinees (HEXA) study, a part of a larger genetic and epidemiological research initiative aimed at uncovering the genetic and environmental determinants of chronic diseases in adults over 40. Initial assessments for HEXA were conducted between 2004 and 2013, with exclusions applied to individuals with a history of significant illnesses or lacking in reliable dietary or anthropometric data.
Utilising a semi-quantitative food frequency questionnaire, the researchers assessed participants’ dietary intakes over the past year, focusing on various types of kimchi, including kkakdugi, dongchimi, baechu kimchi, and others. The study defined obesity based on a body mass index (BMI) ≥ 25 kg/m^2 and abdominal obesity as a waist circumference (WC) ≥ 90 cm for men and ≥ 85 cm for women, incorporating a comprehensive questionnaire to gather additional demographic and lifestyle information.
The analysis involved categorising participants according to their kimchi intake levels and employing multivariable logistic regression to estimate the associations between kimchi consumption and obesity.
Involving 115,726 individuals, with an average age of 51.8 years and a majority being female, the study found an obesity prevalence of 28.2% overall. Notably, individuals indulging in five or more servings of kimchi daily exhibited higher weights and waist circumferences, alongside an increased likelihood of obesity and alcohol consumption.
Distinct patterns emerged between genders; men consuming significant amounts of kimchi tended to be younger, smokers, taller, and more physically active, while women with high kimchi intake were generally older, non-smokers, less active, post-menopausal, shorter, and married.
The study highlighted a nuanced relationship between kimchi consumption and obesity, indicating that moderate intake (one to three servings daily) was inversely associated with obesity risk in men. Specifically, a high intake of baechu kimchi significantly reduced the prevalence of both obesity and abdominal obesity among men, while women benefited from a moderate consumption level.
Furthermore, participants who consumed kkakdugi above the median quantity experienced lower rates of abdominal obesity, showcasing the differential impacts of various kimchi types on obesity metrics.
Despite some associations indicating higher obesity rates among those with excessive kimchi consumption, these findings were not statistically significant. The study also noted that higher kimchi intake correlated with increased consumption of proteins, carbohydrates, fats, sodium, cooked rice, and overall energy.
However, the study’s cross-sectional nature and its focus on a specific population limit the ability to draw causal connections and its applicability to broader demographics, respectively.
While this study doesn’t establish causation, it adds to the body of research supporting the inclusion of probiotic foods in the diet to promote gut microbiome diversity and subsequent weight management outcomes.
Read MoreCurbing fruit juice intake in childhood may reduce obesity risk, research indicates
Recent research indicates that reducing the consumption of 100% fruit juice in children could be a key strategy in addressing the growing concern of childhood obesity, especially in younger age groups.
Published in the journal JAMA Pediatrics, this study sheds light on a significant issue: children who have overweight or obesity are more likely to maintain this status into adulthood. The researchers, therefore, advocate for limiting fruit juice intake to avoid excess calorie consumption and subsequent weight gain.
A team from the University of Toronto in Canada spearheaded the research, analysing data from 42 previous studies to explore the relationship between drinking 100% fruit juice and weight gain in both children and adults. While the link with adult weight gain requires further exploration, the team observed a definitive correlation between juice consumption and weight gain in children.
The study defined 100% fruit juice as a drink with no added sugar, with a standard serving being 8 ounces. The researchers evaluated data for approximately 46,000 children aged between 1 and 15 years. Their findings pointed to a clear association between each additional serving of 100% fruit juice and an increase in body mass index (BMI), a standard metric for determining overweight and obesity status. The team highlighted that, unlike whole fruits, juice lacks significant fibre, potentially leading to high calorie intake without a corresponding feeling of fullness.
The American Academy of Pediatrics has set guidelines advising against fruit juice for infants under one year and recommending a daily limit of 4 ounces as part of a meal for toddlers and young children. For children aged 1 to 6 years, the intake should not exceed 6 ounces per day.
On its website, the Academy emphasises, “Fruit juice offers no nutritional benefits over whole fruit,” pointing out that whole fruits also contain fibre and other essential nutrients. It advises against giving fruit juice at bedtime and cautions against its use in managing dehydration or diarrhoea.
The urgency of addressing childhood overweight and obesity is underscored by alarming statistics from the U.S., where 1 in 5 children aged 2 to 19 years have obesity. Obesity in childhood carries the risk of serious health issues such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, type 2 diabetes, asthma, sleep apnea, and joint problems, according to the CDC.
The study observed that children consuming fruit juice gained more weight than those drinking zero-calorie beverages, like water. This weight gain was most pronounced in children aged 8 years and younger when compared to their peers consuming non-caloric drinks.
The types of juice consumed included pomegranate, berry, tart cherry, apple, citrus, and grape, with no noticeable differences in BMI impact based on juice type. The researchers suggested that weight gain could be attributed to the high liquid calorie content in fruit juice and the rapid absorption of fructose, which can affect liver function and cholesterol levels.
In conclusion, the study supports public health recommendations to limit the consumption of 100% fruit juice as a preventative measure against overweight and obesity in children.
Read MoreStudy shows early breastfeeding mitigates child obesity, regardless of maternal weight
A recent study funded by the Environmental influences on Child Health Outcomes (ECHO) Program at the National Institutes of Health has revealed a significant correlation between early breastfeeding and reduced childhood obesity risks. This relationship holds true irrespective of the mother’s pre-pregnancy body mass index (BMI).
The ECHO Cohort study delved into the impact of breastfeeding practices in women who had overweight or obesity before pregnancy and its influence on their children’s BMIz scores. BMIz scores are used to compare a child’s height and weight against their peers, whereas BMI assesses body weight relative to height.
The research discovered that any consistent breastfeeding during the first three months of an infant’s life was linked with lower BMIz scores at ages 2 to 6, regardless of the mother’s pre-pregnancy BMI. This association was particularly pronounced in children whose mothers had obesity before pregnancy, compared to those whose mothers were merely overweight.
Dr. Gayle Shipp from Michigan State University, who led the study, emphasised the importance of each additional month of breastfeeding, whether exclusive or combined with other foods, in contributing to lower childhood weights. This effect was notably significant for mothers who had overweight or obesity before pregnancy.
The study analysed data from 8,134 mother-child pairs across 21 sites in 16 states and Puerto Rico. It examined BMI and BMIz scores obtained from study visits, medical records, or self-reported information. The research particularly focused on two aspects of breastfeeding: whether the mother ever breastfed and if she was exclusively breastfeeding at three months. The definition of continuous breastfeeding included any breastfeeding duration with the allowance of formula or other food, and the duration of exclusive breastfeeding without formula feeding or other food.
The study found that exclusive breastfeeding at three months was linked to a lower child BMIz score primarily among women with a normal pre-pregnancy BMI. Each additional month of either any or exclusive breastfeeding correlated with a significantly lower child BMIz score, especially for mothers who had overweight or obesity before pregnancy.
Dr. Shipp highlighted the significance of this research for health professionals, suggesting it as an opportunity to promote breastfeeding among all women, particularly those with obesity. The study’s findings have been published in the journal Pediatrics.
Pomegranate proves potent in metabolic health management
A comprehensive study featured in Nutrients journal has cast a spotlight on pomegranate (Punica granatum l., PG) and its polyphenolic compounds, scrutinising their potential to modulate metabolic irregularities. Historically embraced for its therapeutic properties against bacterial infections, diabetes, and various metabolic syndromes, pomegranate’s efficacy is being re-evaluated amidst concerns over the side effects of conventional pharmacological treatments.
The review delves into pomegranate’s pharmacokinetic profiles, safety, and bioavailability, particularly focusing on its capacity to combat metabolic disorders such as type 2 diabetes, obesity, dyslipidemia, and cardiovascular diseases. It outlines how PG’s consumption could attenuate insulin resistance, inflammatory cytokines, redox gene expression, blood pressure elevation, vascular damage, and lipoprotein oxidation.
In animal models, pomegranate seed oil has been found to reduce fat mass and enhance insulin sensitivity, corroborating previous research indicating significant reductions in lipid levels. The study further explains how enzymes and nuclear receptors involved in lipid metabolism are positively influenced by PG’s floral components.
Despite some contradictory findings regarding PG’s impact on food intake and weight gain, the review suggests genetic differences may account for varied physiological reactions to phytochemicals. PG polyphenols are also being explored for their anti-diabetic properties through diverse mechanisms, including modulation of PPAR-γ activity and adiponectin gene expression.
The review also evaluates the pharmacodynamics and safety of PG’s ellagitannin compounds, noting individual differences in urolithin production and absorption, which are influenced by factors such as gut microbiota composition and pH. Although high doses of PG have shown cellular and nuclear alterations in toxicological studies, conventional uses of PG and its compounds appear safe, with adverse effects only predicted at dosages exceeding those traditionally used in ethnomedicine.
In conclusion, the research indicates that PG could play a beneficial role in preventing metabolic disorders. However, the outcomes of clinical and pharmacokinetic studies remain variable, attributed to factors like plant part selection, cultivar differences, environmental conditions, bioavailability, organ accessibility, and individual genetic profiles. Despite these discrepancies, the therapeutic potential of PG in addressing components of metabolic syndrome highlights the need for integrated treatment strategies.
Read MoreStudent’s bad eating habits could herald lifelong illness
Recent research emerging from UBC Okanagan delivers a stern warning: the unhealthy eating habits fostered during one’s university tenure could set the stage for a lifetime mired in significant health challenges, including obesity, respiratory ailments, and depression.
The caution comes from Dr. Joan Bottorff, a distinguished Professor affiliated with UBCO’s School of Nursing, who is part of a global team of investigators delving into the dietary habits of university attendees. The extensive study encapsulated the dietary patterns of nearly 12,000 medical scholars from a total of 31 universities located in China, striving to decipher the correlation between dietary behaviours, obesity, and a gamut of diseases.
Dr. Bottorff emphasised the crucial fact that the foundations for many unhealthy eating patterns are laid during the university phase and could persist for a substantial duration of an individual’s life.
“There’s a considerable amount of data that outlines how the consumption of high-calorie meals and sugar-laden foods and beverages by many students during this period can be a precursor to obesity,” Dr. Bottorff stated. While she acknowledged that these aren’t the sole contributing factors to obesity, they are significant and warrant attention.
The groundbreaking study, which recently graced the pages of Preventive Medicine Reports, was spearheaded by Dr. Shihui Peng from the School of Medicine at Jinan University in China. Although prior research robustly associates unhealthy diets with numerous chronic diseases, this particular inquiry aimed to unveil the link between poor dietary habits and infectious diseases, including common colds and diarrhoea.
Dr. Bottorff highlighted that while the structure of the study didn’t allow for a cause-effect demonstration, the association between unsound eating habits, obesity, and respiratory diseases was robustly substantiated.
She further brought to light the biomedical research backing the nexus between obesity and infectious diseases, a linkage further spotlighted amidst the COVID-19 pandemic. Dr. Bottorff explained, “Recent studies concerning COVID-19 reveal a tendency of individuals with obesity experiencing severe symptoms and outcomes, with explanations pointing towards compromised breathing due to excess weight and subpar inflammatory and immune responses.”
The quintessence of the problem, as per Dr. Bottorff, is rooted in the high-sugar, high-calorie dietary routine embraced by many students, which potentially morphs into a long-term plight, as these habits could segue into obesity. Moreover, she noted a vicious cycle where stress and anxiety could trigger overeating, which in turn could lead to further stress and depression.
She underscores the importance of not overlooking this perilous trend among university-goers, where a substantial fraction is known to indulge in unhealthy diets. “The nutritional quality of the food they consume is directly tied to obesity, which opens the gates to a host of other health issues extending beyond chronic diseases to infectious diseases,” she reiterated.
Dr. Bottorff recommends a university-wide initiative where students are educated on the principles of healthy eating. Additionally, she stresses the imperative for institutions to shoulder the responsibility of offering healthy and affordable food alternatives to the entire student body.
Reflecting on the matter, Dr. Bottorff advocated for a thorough examination of the food environment presented to students, ensuring that cafeterias and vending machines are stocked with healthy food choices. The collaborative effort between UBC Student Wellness and Food Services is a move in the right direction, addressing food security and literacy to mitigate the adverse impact of unaffordable food options and university-induced stress on students’ dietary choices.
Students facing food insecurity now have the recourse of a low-barrier food bank and a meal share program. Concurrently, the culinary team at UBCO Food Services, working in tandem with a registered dietitian, has been prioritising locally sourced, organic, and sustainably produced ingredients to diversify the food options available.
Encouraged by the progress, especially with healthier choices being more accessible in cafeterias and the reorganisation of vending machine items to place healthier options at eye level, Dr. Bottorff acknowledges the strides taken by many post-secondary institutions in addressing these issues. “The momentum gathered over the last four or five years is heartening,” she remarked, “It’s a positive deviation from the past, although there’s still a long journey ahead to fully tackle this issue.”
Read MoreLuton Council takes action against childhood obesity by banning unhealthy food ads on municipal property
Luton Council has made a significant decision to combat the growing concern of childhood obesity in the town by implementing a ban on advertising for unhealthy food items on most of its council-owned property. As part of this determined initiative, advertisements featuring food products high in fat, salt, and sugar will no longer be permitted to be displayed on billboards, lampposts, screens, or roundabouts within the town’s jurisdiction.
This move, according to the council, aims to “protect children and adults” from the influence of marketing that promotes unhealthy eating habits. The situation has become particularly alarming in Luton, where childhood obesity rates have exceeded national levels. The latest figures from the National Child Measurement Programme (NCMP) revealed that 11.4% of reception age children in Luton (ages four to five) were classified as having obesity, compared to the national rate of 10.1%. Similarly, obesity among children aged 10 to 11 (Year 6) in Luton stood at 29.2%, noticeably higher than the national rate of 23.4%.
Labour councillor Khtija Malik, who holds the portfolio for public health, declared the ban as a “start” in the town’s efforts to decrease its “high rates of obesity among young children.” Ms. Malik stressed the importance of fostering healthy eating habits early in life, acknowledging the considerable impact advertising has on shaping people’s food choices.
This ban, although extensive, will not encompass all advertising locations within the town. Unhealthy food adverts may continue to be seen on bus shelters until at least 2027, as the council’s current advertising contract for these spaces extends to that year. However, Ms. Malik reassured that the council, having “control of our assets,” would exercise control over “what is advertised” in areas under its jurisdiction.
The move by Luton Council has not only demonstrated a proactive approach to a pressing public health issue but has also been met with support from advocacy groups. Fran Bernhardt, the children’s food campaign coordinator at Sustain, a group dedicated to better food and farming, lauded the council’s efforts, stating, “Luton Council has stood up to the food and drinks industry on behalf of all their residents.” She further emphasised the importance of the decision, pointing out that those residing in the most deprived areas are the ones most affected by unhealthy food advertising and are consequently most at risk from diet-related diseases.
The decision by Luton Council signifies an important step in recognising and addressing the complex factors that contribute to childhood obesity. By limiting the exposure to advertising that encourages unhealthy food choices, the council is actively working to create an environment that supports healthier lifestyle decisions. This ban is a notable example of local governance taking decisive action to influence public behaviour and health, reflecting a growing awareness of the pivotal role advertising plays in shaping dietary habits and preferences. It serves as a landmark measure that could potentially inspire similar initiatives in other towns and cities, contributing to a broader societal shift towards prioritising public health.
Read MoreInnovative ear-mounted cameras: Revolutionising dietary monitoring and advice
A group of scientists are working on an unprecedented approach to dietary tracking, drawing inspiration from the concept of constant surveillance. The researchers are creating minute cameras that can be attached to the ear, recording every food item consumed by the wearer.
The camera’s footage will be processed by an artificial intelligence (AI) system that can identify both the type of food and portion sizes. The ultimate objective is to provide customised advice on dietary habits, bridging the gap in dietary research that has often relied on participants’ unreliable self-reporting via surveys or diaries. The common issues include forgetfulness in recording meals, inaccuracies in estimating portion sizes, and intentional omissions due to feelings of guilt, particularly with regard to treats and alcohol.
The Health Survey of England 2021 stated that approximately 25.9% of adults had obesity, with an additional 37.9% classified as having overweight. Obesity is linked to a variety of health issues, including depression, infertility, hypertension, cancer, dementia, heart failure, and type 2 diabetes. The latter condition significantly raises the risk of blindness, peripheral neuropathy, and limb amputation.
Predictions for 2035 suggest that the NHS will likely spend more on treating diet-related type 2 diabetes than on all types of cancer. However, despite nearly 700 policy interventions implemented between 1996 and 2020 to curb national weight gain, as cited by former government food tsar Henry Dimbleby, obesity rates continue to rise.
According to Professor Gary Frost, the Head of Nutrition Research at Imperial College London, “There is a glaring gap in our understanding of people’s daily dietary habits. The current tools for dietary tracking are inaccurate, making it challenging to discern the connection between diet and disease.”
The innovative project, named CoDiet, also plans to evaluate urine and blood samples to study the correlations between dietary habits, bodily changes, and the onset of diseases such as type 2 diabetes. A primary goal is to develop a tool using AI that can dispense diet advice specific to an individual’s needs.
“We anticipate the ability to formulate new individual-focused policies to counteract common diseases related to lifestyle,” Frost said.
Scheduled to commence in September (of 2023), the project will initially use the ear-mounted cameras to record the dietary practices of 50 British volunteers and an additional 150 participants from Cork in the Republic of Ireland, Spain, and Greece.
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