J. Nutr. [JOURNAL]
Sun
200 papers
Exogenous Carbohydrate Oxidation Is Higher When Consuming Glucose + Fructose Compared with Glucose Alone during Endurance Exercise Regardless of Energy Status.
Barney DE, Panik KN, Michalak J … +5 more , Wilson MA, Carrigan CT, Murphy NE, Drummer DJ, Margolis LM
J Nutr · 2026 May · PMID 42134413 · Publisher ↗
BACKGROUND: When glucose (GLU) is consumed during endurance exercise in an energy deficit state (DEF), exogenous carbohydrate oxidation is lower than in energy balance (BAL). Whether consuming multiple transportable carb...
BACKGROUND: When glucose (GLU) is consumed during endurance exercise in an energy deficit state (DEF), exogenous carbohydrate oxidation is lower than in energy balance (BAL). Whether consuming multiple transportable carbohydrates, such as glucose + fructose (GLU+FRU), better maintains exogenous carbohydrate oxidation during DEF is unclear. OBJECTIVES: This study assessed the effects of consuming GLU + FRU compared with GLU on substrate oxidation and physical performance during BAL and DEF. METHODS: Eleven participants (sex: n = 2 females, 9 males) completed this double-blind randomized crossover study (clinicaltrials.gov: NCT06394401). Participants completed 4 study arms, each initiated by a bout of cycling followed by 48 h of consuming BAL or DEF diets (100% or 50% energy needs). After each diet, participants consumed 80 g GLU or GLU + FRU (2:1 GLU:FRU; 36.0 g at 0 min and 14.7 g at 20, 40, and 60 min) during 80 min of steady-state cycling (62 ± 4% V̇Opeak). Participants then completed a graded exercise performance test, cycling under progressive intensity (+30 W every 2 min) until volitional failure. Substrate oxidation (g/min) during steady-state cycling was determined by indirect calorimetry and oral C isotope tracers. Data were analyzed by linear mixed models and are presented as means ± SDs. RESULTS: Independent of carbohydrate treatment, total carbohydrate oxidation was lower (P < 0.001) and fat oxidation was higher (P = 0.003) during DEF than BAL. Exogenous carbohydrate oxidation was higher when consuming GLU + FRU (0.48 ± 0.09) compared with GLU (0.39 ± 0.07, P < 0.001), regardless of energy status. Endogenous carbohydrate oxidation was lower during DEF (1.02 ± 0.40) than BAL (1.14 ± 0.39, P < 0.001) but did not differ between GLU + FRU (1.06 ± 0.38) and GLU (1.11 ± 0.41, P = 0.19). Regardless of treatment, time-to-exhaustion was shorter during DEF (576 ± 138 s) than BAL (599 ± 142, P = 0.043). CONCLUSIONS: Findings indicate that regardless of energy status, exogenous carbohydrate oxidation is higher when consuming GLU + FRU compared with GLU. However, differences in exogenous carbohydrate oxidation did not prevent the negative effects of DEF on physical performance.
Genetic Variation and phytase1 Gene-Based Regulation of Grain Phytase Activity for Improving Nutritional Phosphorus Bioavailability in Maize.
Ganesh BT, Hossain F, Katral A … +10 more , Thambiyannan S, Sheela Kr Veluchamy S, Mehta BK, Kyada AD, Sharma G, Kasana RK, Karjagi CG, Pandey S, Zunjare RU, Muthusamy V
J Nutr · 2026 May · PMID 42119731 · Publisher ↗
BACKGROUND: Developing crops with high phytase activity offers a sustainable solution to combat phosphorus and micronutrient deficiencies. Phytase enzyme hydrolyzes the "phytic acid" into inorganic "phosphorus" and relea...
BACKGROUND: Developing crops with high phytase activity offers a sustainable solution to combat phosphorus and micronutrient deficiencies. Phytase enzyme hydrolyzes the "phytic acid" into inorganic "phosphorus" and releases micronutrients that are bound to phytic acid. OBJECTIVES: This study aimed to identify stable, high-phytase maize genotypes taking advantage of InDel/SNP markers of the phytase1 gene. METHODS: To assess variability in phytase activity, 48 diverse maize inbreds were evaluated in 3 agroecologies during the rainy season of 2023. The phytase activity of each inbred was determined using the ammonium molybdate method. Phytase activity, grain yield, and other agronomic traits were subjected to analysis of variance (ANOVA) at each location and also across locations. RESULTS: The phytase activity ranged from 425.63 (PMI-PV3) to 1484.18 (LM14) U/kg of dry grain, with a mean of 957.61 U/kg across locations. Maize inbreds such as LM14, CML483, CML176, CML596, PMI-PV8, CML342, PMI-Q1, PMI-PV7, CML341, HKI193-1, and UMI1230 recorded higher kernel phytase activity (>1150 U/kg). Furthermore, biofortified maize showed phytase activity (939.89 U/kg) comparable to that of normal maize (1078.72 U/kg), whereas specialty maize exhibited significantly lower activity (832.07 U/kg). Combined ANOVA across locations indicated that genotypes differed significantly (P < 0.01), suggesting substantial variation in phytase activity (U/kg), which could be targeted through selection. Newly developed 8 InDel and 1 SNP markers, based on polymorphism of the phytase1 gene, were used to study molecular diversity among 48 genotypes. In addition, the effect of each marker (InDel/SNP) on phytase activity was identified and validated across genotypes. Deletions of 4 bp (phytase1_InDel1) and 16 bp (phytase1_InDel6) increased phytase activity by 1.16- and 1.02-fold, respectively. Another marker, phytase1_SNP4 in the coding region, enhanced phytase activity by 1.14-fold. CONCLUSIONS: Therefore, the InDel/SNP markers of the phytase1 gene-based markers facilitate introgression of the "high phytase" trait into elite maize cultivars.
An Association of Elevated Blood Vitamin A Level and Severity of Metabolic Dysfunction-Associated Steatotic Liver Disease in Humans.
OuYang D, Peng X, Huang Y … +2 more , Chen G, Zhang Y
J Nutr · 2026 May · PMID 42114770 · Publisher ↗
OBJECTIVES: This study aimed to investigate the association between serum levels of vitamin A, retinol-binding protein 4 (RBP4), and the severity of metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) in hum...
OBJECTIVES: This study aimed to investigate the association between serum levels of vitamin A, retinol-binding protein 4 (RBP4), and the severity of metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) in humans. METHODS: A total of 231 patients with MASLD were recruited and stratified into mild (n = 38), moderate (n = 68), and severe (n = 65) groups on the basis of diagnosis of transient elastography. A control group with 60 healthy individuals was also enrolled. Serum levels of vitamin A, RBP4, alanine transaminase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), γ-glutamyl transferase (γ-GT), total bilirubin, bile acids, carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA), lipid profiles, C-reactive protein (CRP), procalcitonin (PCT), and interleukin-6 were measured and compared among groups. RESULTS: No significant differences were observed in age, sex, or smoking status among the groups (P > 0.05). However, the prevalence of dyslipidemia was significantly higher in patients with MASLD than in healthy individuals (P < 0.001). The serum levels of ALT, AST, and γ-GT increased significantly with MASLD severity (P < 0.001). Among inflammatory markers, interleukin-6 level was significantly elevated in patients with MASLD (P < 0.001). The serum levels of CRP, PCT, total bilirubin, bile acids, CEA, and AFP were not significantly different among the groups. Serum vitamin A and RBP4 levels were significantly higher in patients with MASLD than in controls and showed a strong positive correlation with disease severity (P < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS: Serum levels of vitamin A and RBP4 in patients with MASLD are significantly elevated and correlated with disease severity, showing an association between blood vitamin A level and MASLD severity. Further well-designed studies are needed to evaluate whether these changes can serve as potential biomarkers for assessing MASLD severity.
High-Salt Diet Disrupts Mitochondria-Associated Endoplasmic Reticulum Membrane: A Unifying Mechanism Linking Nutrition to Systemic Pathologies.
Han HL, Zhang LM, Wang ZC … +7 more , Zhang H, Wang J, Du HB, Cui JL, Zhang GS, Niu CY, Zhao ZG
J Nutr · 2026 May · PMID 42107770 · Publisher ↗
The mitochondrial-associated endoplasmic reticulum membrane (MAM) is a dynamic contact site formed through protein-mediated connections between the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) and outer mitochondrial membrane. As a pivota...
The mitochondrial-associated endoplasmic reticulum membrane (MAM) is a dynamic contact site formed through protein-mediated connections between the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) and outer mitochondrial membrane. As a pivotal signaling and metabolic hub, MAM regulates core cellular physiological processes, including calcium homeostasis, lipid biosynthesis and trafficking, mitochondrial dynamics, autophagy, apoptosis, and inflammasome formation and activation. Growing evidence indicates that the disruption of MAM integrity and function is closely associated with various disorders induced by excessive salt consumption. High-salt intake perturbs ER-mitochondrial calcium ion exchange, partly through elevated intracellular sodium concentrations, leading to the structural and functional impairment of MAM. This disruption of calcium homeostasis subsequently triggers the ER and oxidative stress responses, exacerbating cellular damage. Concurrently, high-salt diets interfere with MAM-mediated lipid synthesis and transport, contributing to mitochondrial dysfunction and accelerating disease development. This review summarizes the involvement and underlying molecular mechanisms of MAM in high-salt diet-related disorders, including hypertension, cardiovascular disease, obesity, and metabolic dysfunction-associated fatty liver disease. Furthermore, this review explores the translational potential of targeting MAM as a therapeutic intervention, providing novel insights for developing interventions that target interorganelle communication to combat salt-related systemic disorders.
Genetic and Environmental Influences on Free Sugar and Nonnutritive Sweetener Intake in Toddlerhood and Middle Childhood Using Data from the Gemini Twin Cohort: Findings from the SWEET Project.
Heggie L, Nas Z, Conway R … +7 more , Fildes A, Smith A, Feskens E, Halford JC, Harrold JA, Raben A, Llewellyn CH
J Nutr · 2026 May · PMID 42107769 · Publisher ↗
BACKGROUND: Exceeding recommended free sugar (FS) intake is linked to poorer metabolic health. Nonnutritive sweeteners (NNS) offer an alternative to FS, and emerging evidence suggests that many children regularly consume...
BACKGROUND: Exceeding recommended free sugar (FS) intake is linked to poorer metabolic health. Nonnutritive sweeteners (NNS) offer an alternative to FS, and emerging evidence suggests that many children regularly consume them. Understanding the etiology of variation in FS and NNS intake in childhood can inform population-level strategies to reduce sugar consumption. OBJECTIVES: This study aimed to examine genetic and environmental influences on variation in FS and NNS intakes in toddlerhood and middle childhood, and investigate stability and change over time. METHODS: FS (as % energy intake) and NNS (categorized as non-, low-, and high consumers) were estimated using 3-d dietary data at 21 mo (n = 2592) with repeated measures in a subsample at 7 y (n = 592) from British twins in the Gemini cohort. Longitudinal Cholesky twin models estimated genetic and environmental influences on FS and NNS intakes at both ages. RESULTS: Shared environmental factors strongly influenced both FS and NNS intakes at 21 mo [FS: 0.88; 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.86, 0.90; NNS: 0.99; 95% CI: 0.99, 1] and 7 y (FS: 0.58; 95% CI: 0.45, 0.69; NNS: 0.92; 95% CI: 0.86, 1), but the effect decreased significantly over time for FS. There was no significant genetic influence on NNS at either age; genetic influence on FS intake increased significantly from toddlerhood (FS: 0.09; 95% CI: 0.08, 0.11) to middle childhood (FS: 0.33; 95% CI: 0.22, 0.47). Small longitudinal correlations indicated greater change than stability in intakes over time for FS (r = 0.28, P < 0.001) and NNS (r = 0.35, P < 0.001), explained predominantly by novel shared environmental influences in middle childhood and the emergence of novel genetic influence on FS. CONCLUSIONS: Shared environmental factors predominantly shape individual differences in FS and NNS intake during early life. Although increasing genetic influence from toddlerhood to middle childhood reflects growing autonomy in dietary choices for FS intake, variation in NNS intake remained overwhelmingly environmentally driven across both developmental periods. Findings emphasize the need for both age-specific public health interventions and food industry legislation to shape FS and NNS intakes in childhood.
Standardizing Rodent and Other Animal Diets: A Call for Global Action.
Speakman JR
J Nutr · 2026 May · PMID 42107768 · Publisher ↗
Abstract loading — click title to view on PubMed.
Quantum-Enabled Approaches to Precision Nutrition: Linking Molecular Interactions with Metabolic Prediction.
Kuna A, Killi K, Mettu TR
J Nutr · 2026 May · PMID 42105950 · Publisher ↗
Precision nutrition aims to tailor dietary guidance to individual biology, yet current methods struggle to integrate complex molecular and multiomic data into clinical care. Emerging quantum-driven technologies encompass...
Precision nutrition aims to tailor dietary guidance to individual biology, yet current methods struggle to integrate complex molecular and multiomic data into clinical care. Emerging quantum-driven technologies encompassing quantum computing, quantum chemistry, and quantum-enhanced sensors link detailed molecular modeling with real-time metabolic forecasting. Quantum chemical simulations and machine learning model nutrient-protein interactions at the atomic level, whereas quantum algorithms and echo-state networks have been applied to create digital metabolic avatars that predict weight and metabolic trajectories from daily diet and activity data. Quantum computing enables rapid integration of genomic, metabolomic, and microbiome datasets and supports optimization of personalized diet plans. Advances in computational molecular modeling now allow prediction of molecular structures and properties relevant to food components, and prototype quantum metabolic twins have demonstrated the capacity to forecast weight trends from incomplete real-world data. The clinical implications include proactive dietary interventions, noninvasive nutrient deficiency screening, and improved prediction of disease risk from metabolic profiles, all of which can enhance patient outcomes and clinical decision-making. This perspective synthesizes recent advances and delineates research directions at the intersection of quantum science, medical diagnostics, metabolism, and clinical nutrition, with implications for clinicians, physicians, dietitians, and clinical decision support in patient care.
Analytical Determination of Proanthocyanidin Content and its Association with Label-Declared Proanthocyanidin Amounts and Cranberry Material in Dietary Supplements: A Multilaboratory Study Using the 4-Dimethylamino-Cinnamaldehyde Method.
Pandey D, Vavilala S, Gusev P … +7 more , Andrews K, Oh L, Ekong J, Chung M, Wu X, Dwyer J, Pehrsson P
J Nutr · 2026 May · PMID 42103158 · Publisher ↗
BACKGROUND: Proanthocyanidins (PACs) represent the primary bioactive compounds in cranberries recognized for reducing urinary tract infection (UTI) recurrence. Accurate PAC measurement is essential for reliable labeling,...
BACKGROUND: Proanthocyanidins (PACs) represent the primary bioactive compounds in cranberries recognized for reducing urinary tract infection (UTI) recurrence. Accurate PAC measurement is essential for reliable labeling, evaluating therapeutic efficacy, and guiding consumer decisions. The 4-dimethylamino cinnamaldehyde (DMAC) assay remains the predominant method for quantifying PACs in cranberry dietary supplements (DSs). However, the influence of methodological variability in commercial laboratories remains unclear. OBJECTIVES: To quantify PAC content and evaluate label accuracy in commonly consumed United States cranberry DS, and to assess interlaboratory variability using commercially implemented DMAC protocols. METHODS: Fifty-three cranberry DS products (extracts, concentrates, or whole fruit powders) were analyzed for PACs by 4 independent commercial laboratories using harmonized extraction solvents and 2 standards (procyanidin A2 and cranberry PAC), while allowing laboratory-specific DMAC workflows for soluble PAC quantification. Insoluble PACs were quantified by butanol-hydrochloric acid assay in 1 laboratory. Statistical analyses included pairwise comparisons, meta-analysis, and heterogeneity testing. RESULTS: Overall, 3 of 53 products contained soluble PAC levels at or above 36 mg/d, the level associated with UTI risk reduction. Notably, 13 of 16 (81.3%) extract-based products provided PAC concentrations well below this level despite having higher average soluble PAC content than concentrate-based DS, and higher, although not statistically significantly, than whole fruit powder-based products. Products declaring PAC content contained significantly less than stated. Interlaboratory variability (%relative standard deviation) for in-house controls and products with >3.3 mg/d PAC ranged from 22.1% to 31.6%. Concentrate and fruit powder-based products contained more insoluble PAC than the extract-based products. CONCLUSIONS: Soluble PAC amounts in most commercial cranberry DS differ substantially from label claims. Although interlaboratory variability was high for low PAC products, variability was acceptable for products containing ≥3.3 mg/d soluble PAC. Current industry DMAC practices can distinguish clinically relevant PAC potencies. Findings highlight the need for more stable formulations and greater transparency in PAC labeling.
Impact of an Integrated Agricultural, Nutrition, and Water, Sanitation and Hygiene Intervention during the First 1000 Days on Child Growth and Micronutrient Status in Western Kenya: A Cluster-Randomized Controlled Trial.
Wegmüller R, Musau K, Lewycka S … +10 more , Vergari L, Custer E, Anyango H, Donkor WE, Kiprotich M, Siegal K, Petry N, Wirth JP, Woodruff BA, Rohner F
J Nutr · 2026 May · PMID 42103157 · Publisher ↗
BACKGROUND: Agricultural programs alone have shown limited impact on nutritional status. OBJECTIVES: We hypothesized that linear growth would improve by adding nutrition and water, sanitation and hygiene components to an...
BACKGROUND: Agricultural programs alone have shown limited impact on nutritional status. OBJECTIVES: We hypothesized that linear growth would improve by adding nutrition and water, sanitation and hygiene components to an existing agriculture program, targeting pregnant females and their offspring over the 1000-d window. METHODS: We conducted a cluster-randomized controlled trial in rural Kenya. Females <20 wk pregnant were randomly assigned to an existing agricultural intervention without (control) or with additional interventions (intervention), provided from enrolment until their child reached 24 mo. Additional interventions included daily small-quantity lipid-based nutrient supplements (SQ-LNS) to females during pregnancy until 6 mo postpartum; micronutrient powders (MNP) and eggs to children; and soap, chlorine solution, and monthly behavior change trainings. The main outcome was length-for-age z-score (LAZ) at 24 mo. Safety was assessed through active morbidity and passive adverse event monitoring. We used mixed-effects generalized linear models for analysis. RESULTS: Between June and December 2018, 1199 pregnant females from 164 clusters were enrolled (628 intervention and 571 control). Data on LAZ were available for 976 (81.4%) children at 24 mo. Adherence was >75% for SQ-LNS, MNP, eggs, and chlorine, and ∼50% for soap. At 24 mo, mean LAZ [95% confidence interval (CI)] was higher in the intervention group [-0.91 (-1.00, -0.82)] than in the control group [-1.15 (-1.25, -1.06)], with an adjusted effect size (95% CI) of 0.24 (0.11, 0.37), and stunting prevalence was lower [12% compared with 19%, adjusted relative risk: 0.69 (0.50, 0.96)]. LAZ declined less from birth to 24 mo in the intervention group [effect: 0.18 (0.06, 0.31)]. Intervention children showed better iron and vitamin A status at 6 and 24 mo and a lower prevalence of diarrhea at 6 mo; stunting at 6 mo and diarrhea at 24 mo did not differ between groups. CONCLUSIONS: An integrated intervention during pregnancy and early childhood improved linear growth and micronutrient status and reduced diarrheal disease. This trial was registered at clinicaltrials.gov as NCT03558464 (https://clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT03558464?locStr=Kenya&country=KE&cond=NCT03558464&aggFilters=status:com&rank=1).
Maternal Supplementation with Baru Almond and Oil (Dipteryx alata Vog.) Improves Hepatic and Cardiometabolic Health in Adult Offspring Rats: Role of Phenolics and Unsaturated Fatty Acids.
Bidô RCA, Pereira DE, Costa Alves MD … +8 more , de Lima Moura R, da Silva EB, Dutra LMG, Dos Santos SG, de Araújo DF, Guerra GCB, Viera VB, Soares JKB
J Nutr · 2026 May · PMID 42097449 · Publisher ↗
BACKGROUND: Maternal nutrition during critical periods influences long-term metabolic and cardiovascular health in offspring, with bioactive compounds such as unsaturated fatty acids and phenolics promoting beneficial ea...
BACKGROUND: Maternal nutrition during critical periods influences long-term metabolic and cardiovascular health in offspring, with bioactive compounds such as unsaturated fatty acids and phenolics promoting beneficial early life metabolic adaptations. OBJECTIVES: This study evaluated the effects of maternal supplementation with baru almond and baru almond oil during gestation and lactation on metabolic, hepatic, and cardiovascular outcomes in adult rat offspring. METHODS: Pregnant Wistar rats were divided into 3 groups: control group, almond group (AG), and oil group (OG), with the experimental groups receiving 2000 mg/kg/d of baru almond/oil by gavage. Gavage was administered daily from the first day of pregnancy until the 21st day of lactation. In the postlactation period, the puppies received standard feed (Nuvilab) and water ad libitum. Offspring was monitored for food intake, weight gain, and body measurements. At adulthood (70 d of life), murinometric indices were assessed, plasma biochemical markers were analyzed, and hepatic tissue was used to evaluate fat content, fatty acid profiles, and oxidative stress parameters. RESULTS: The AG showed higher food intake at specific time points, greater body length, lower BMI, and increased thoracic circumference and adiposity index, along with higher fat deposition. Both AG and OG groups exhibited reduced cardiovascular risk indices, more pronounced in AG. Plasma concentrations of glucose, triglycerides, aspartate aminotransferase, alanine aminotransferase, creatinine, urea, and albumin were significantly lower in experimental groups. Total cholesterol and HDL cholesterol was higher in AG, whereas hepatic fat was reduced in OG. Both treatments improved hepatic antioxidant status, decreasing malondialdehyde and increasing glutathione concentrations. Fatty acid analysis of the liver showed increased MUFAs, especially oleic acid, reduced SFAs, and a more favorable lipid profile, with decreased omega (ω)6 fatty acids, increased docosahexaenoic acid, and a lower ω6/ω3 ratio in the experimental groups compared with the control. CONCLUSIONS: Overall, maternal supplementation promoted beneficial metabolic and hepatic adaptations in offspring.
Carbon Isotope Ratios as Biomarkers for Added Sugar Intake: Fundamental Limitations that Constrain Valid Application.
Louie JCY
J Nutr · 2026 Jun · PMID 42092443 · Full text
Carbon isotope ratio (CIR; δC) analysis has been proposed as a biomarker for added sugar intake from C4 sources, but its specificity is limited. CIR biomarkers measure total C4 dietary carbon, conflating added sugars wit...
Carbon isotope ratio (CIR; δC) analysis has been proposed as a biomarker for added sugar intake from C4 sources, but its specificity is limited. CIR biomarkers measure total C4 dietary carbon, conflating added sugars with other C4 foods like corn-fed meats and whole corn products. This lack of specificity varies across populations and food systems. Moreover, metabolic redistribution of dietary carbon means that δC signals in tissues reflect complex mixtures of sources and processes, not sugar intake alone. Attempts to adjust for confounders rely on self-reported dietary data, undermining the objectivity that CIR biomarkers aim to provide. Even under ideal conditions, CIR validity is insufficient for most nutritional research, especially when assessing causal relationships or meaningful effects. The shift in public health focus from "added sugars" to "free sugars," including C3-derived sources like fruit juice and honey, further limits CIR utility. Although CIR has proven useful for distinguishing dietary protein sources (e.g., marine compared with terrestrial), its application to added sugars faces persistent challenges. Resources may be better directed toward improving dietary assessment tools or developing more specific metabolomic markers, acknowledging that all current methods have limitations.
Effects of Quintuply-Fortified Salt on the Micronutrient Status of Children 12 to 59 Months of Age in Punjab, India: Results from a Randomized, Community-Based, Household Trial.
Long JM, Goh YE, Duggal M … +11 more , Das R, Manger MS, Jamwal M, Singh BL, Brar GK, Westcott J, Thompson L, Arnold CD, Krebs NF, Brown KH, McDonald CM
J Nutr · 2026 May · PMID 42092442 · Publisher ↗
BACKGROUND: Micronutrient deficiencies remain prevalent among preschool-aged children (PSC) in India. Quintuply-fortified salt (QFS) is one of many potential interventions to improve micronutrient intake and status at th...
BACKGROUND: Micronutrient deficiencies remain prevalent among preschool-aged children (PSC) in India. Quintuply-fortified salt (QFS) is one of many potential interventions to improve micronutrient intake and status at the population level. OBJECTIVES: To determine the effect of QFS compared with iodized salt (IS) for 12 mo on the micronutrient status of PSC. METHODS: This was a substudy of a double-blinded, household-randomized, controlled, community-based trial involving nonpregnant females of reproductive age whose households were randomly assigned to receive: 1) QFS with zinc, vitamin B-12, folic acid, iodine, and iron as encapsulated ferrous fumarate (eFF-QFS); 2) QFS with the same micronutrients, but iron as encapsulated ferric pyrophosphate plus ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (eFePP-QFS); or 3) IS. The micronutrient status of 470 PSC (aged 12-59 mo) residing in these households was assessed at enrollment, 6 mo, and 12 mo. Continuous outcomes were analyzed with linear regression and reported as means or geometric mean ratios, and binary outcomes were analyzed with logistic regression and reported as odds ratios. RESULTS: At baseline, the prevalence of anemia, iron deficiency anemia, hypozincemia, vitamin B-12 insufficiency, and folate deficiency was 35%, 30%, 14%, 17%, and 5.5%, respectively. Effects of QFS at 6 and 12 mo were greatest for vitamin B-12 and folate. At 12 mo, the eFePP-QFS group had higher serum vitamin B-12 [geometric mean ratio (GMR) = 1.16, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 1.03, 1.30], serum folate (GMR = 1.29, 95% CI = 1.09, 1.53), and red blood cell folate (GMR = 1.21, 95% CI = 1.05, 1.39) concentrations compared with the IS group. Effects were similar among the 2 QFS groups. There were no significant differences in serum zinc, ferritin, hemoglobin, or urinary iodine between groups at 6 and 12 mo. CONCLUSIONS: Preschool children consuming QFS for 12 mo demonstrated greater improvements in vitamin B-12 and folate status compared with children consuming IS. QFS may be a useful vehicle to address micronutrient deficiencies, especially vitamin B-12 and folate, in this population.
Exposure to Social and Behavior Change Interventions Directly and Indirectly Improved Health and Nutrition-Related Awareness, Knowledge, and Practices among Male Household Heads and Grandmothers in Nepal.
Shakya E, Cunningham K, Gupta AS … +5 more , Adhikari RP, Kelcey B, Rana PP, Pun B, Frongillo EA
J Nutr · 2026 May · PMID 42092441 · Publisher ↗
BACKGROUND: Adult family members often share household tasks and decision-making, including those related to health and nutrition. Beyond the important role of mothers, grandparents and fathers also often play key contri...
BACKGROUND: Adult family members often share household tasks and decision-making, including those related to health and nutrition. Beyond the important role of mothers, grandparents and fathers also often play key contributing roles for maternal and child nutrition and health. OBJECTIVES: This study aimed to investigate whether exposure of male household heads (HHs) and grandmothers to social behavior change communication (SBCC) platforms was associated with ideal nutrition and health practices in their households and the mediating role of awareness and knowledge for this linkage. We also aimed to investigate whether key sociodemographic factors moderated these mediated paths. METHODS: We used data from the endline survey (2022) of Suaahara's quasi-experimental impact evaluation. Our samples were limited to households with a child <2 that included male HHs (n = 982) and grandmothers (n = 817). Structural equation models, accounting for community-level clustering, were used to examine the mediation paths for male HHs and grandmothers separately. All models were adjusted for household wealth and caste/ethnicity, child age, and respondent (male HHs or grandmothers) age and education. Stratified models examined potential moderating factors: wealth (relatively poorer 40% compared with wealthier 60%), caste/ethnicity (upper compared with lower), and household structure (nuclear compared with joint). RESULTS: Greater exposure to SBCC was associated with greater awareness and, in turn, knowledge, and ultimately, maternal and child health and nutrition practices. Approximately 30% and 40% of the total association was mediated through this indirect path among male HHs and grandmothers, respectively. The indirect path through greater awareness and knowledge was stronger among male HHs from lower (compared with upper) caste/ethnic groups and nuclear (compared with joint) households, as well as wealthier (compared with poorer) grandmothers. CONCLUSIONS: Family member engagement in SBCC interventions is an important mechanism for improving health and nutrition practices.
Effects of a Mixed Herbal and Fruit Dietary Supplement Shot on Antioxidant Status, Oxidative Stress Parameters, Skin Parameters, and Safety Profiles in Middle-Aged Women: A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Trial.
Settakorn K, Anek P, Na Takuathung M … +11 more , Apisitwittaya P, Aisara J, Yaja K, Chitphan J, Inpan R, Klinjan P, Kantasa T, Dukaew N, Yeerong K, Karat W, Koonrungsesomboon N
J Nutr · 2026 Jun · PMID 42082020 · Publisher ↗
BACKGROUND: Middle-aged women experience hormonal fluctuations and reproductive transitions that accelerate menopausal symptoms, tissue degeneration, and skin aging due to an imbalance between antioxidant defenses and re...
BACKGROUND: Middle-aged women experience hormonal fluctuations and reproductive transitions that accelerate menopausal symptoms, tissue degeneration, and skin aging due to an imbalance between antioxidant defenses and reactive oxygen species. Enhancing antioxidant defenses may mitigate oxidative stress and maintain skin health. OBJECTIVES: This study aimed to investigate the effects of a mixed herbal and fruit dietary supplement shot (HERB) on antioxidant status, oxidative stress, skin assessments, and safety profiles in middle-aged women over 12 wk. METHODS: In this 12-wk randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial, 30 participants received either HERB or placebo (PLA). Primary outcomes were antioxidant status and oxidative stress parameters. Skin parameters and safety profiles were also assessed. Data were analyzed using intention-to-treat and per-protocol approaches. Between-group comparisons were conducted using analysis of covariance adjusted for baseline or Student's t-tests. RESULTS: At week 12, the HERB intervention significantly increased superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity (mean difference = 7.99 U/L; 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.29, 14.70; P value = 0.0212) and reduced porphyrin intensity (mean difference = -44.56; 95% CI: -76.06, -13.60; P value = 0.0073) compared with PLA. Other antioxidants, oxidative stress, and skin parameters showed no significant changes. Safety profiles remained within reference ranges. Gastrointestinal disturbance occurred more frequently in the PLA group (8 participants in the PLA group compared with 1 participant in the HERB group, P value = 0.0142). Menstrual disturbances occurred equally (3 participants per group). All adverse events were mild and self-resolved without any medical treatment. CONCLUSIONS: Intervention with HERB for 12 wk resulted in higher SOD activity and lower facial porphyrin intensity when compared with PLA, whereas the other measured antioxidant and skin parameters did not differ between groups. The intervention was well tolerated. These findings should be interpreted with caution due to the small sample size and the limited extent of observed effects. Larger and longer trials are required to confirm these results. This clinical trial was registered at Thai Clinical Trials Registry as TCTR20241103003.
Association between a Periconception Healthy Plant-Based Diet and Adverse Pregnancy Outcomes.
Jancsura MK, Grobman WA, Wu J … +11 more , Griffis HM, Wirth MD, Haas DM, Silver RM, Feghali MN, Reddy UM, Levine L, Saade G, Yee LM, Lindsay KL, Venkatesh KK
J Nutr · 2026 Jun · PMID 42082019 · Full text
BACKGROUND: Plant-based diets are increasingly popular and may improve cardiometabolic health, but their association with adverse pregnancy outcomes (APOs) is unclear, and dietary patterns are influenced by food access....
BACKGROUND: Plant-based diets are increasingly popular and may improve cardiometabolic health, but their association with adverse pregnancy outcomes (APOs) is unclear, and dietary patterns are influenced by food access. OBJECTIVES: We investigated whether adherence to plant-based dietary patterns was associated with APOs and whether the association varied by neighborhood food access. METHODS: This is a secondary analysis using data from the Nulliparous Pregnancy Outcomes Study-Monitoring Mothers-to-Be cohort. Diet scores for the newer Healthy Plant-Based Diet Index (hPDI) and more established Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension (DASH) were derived from first-trimester Block Food Frequency Questionnaires and assessed in tertiles (T1 = "low," T3 = "high"). APOs included hypertensive disorders of pregnancy (HDP), gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM), preterm birth (PTB), small for gestational age (SGA), large for gestational age (LGA), and stillbirth. Modified Poisson regression models were used, adjusting for age, income, education, and health insurance. RESULTS: Among 7981 nulliparous individuals, higher hPDI scores were associated with lower risk of HDP [T3 compared with T1: adjusted risk ratio (aRR): 0.77; 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.64, 0.92; T2 compared with T1 aRR: 0.82; 95% CI: 0.70, 0.97] and GDM (T3 compared with T1: aRR: 0.55; 95% CI: 0.39, 0.76; T2 compared with T1: aRR: 0.71; 95% CI: 0.54, 0.95). Higher DASH scores were associated with lower risk of HDP (T3 compared with T1: aRR 0.83; 95% CI: 0.70, 0.98) and GDM, albeit for the second tertile only (T2 compared with T1: aRR 0.69; 95% CI: 0.52, 0.90). Neither diet was associated with PTB, SGA, or LGA. The frequency of low food access decreased across tertiles for both the hPDI and DASH (P < 0.05), but the associations between diet and APOs did not vary by food access (P > 0.05). CONCLUSIONS: A healthy plant-based diet in early pregnancy was associated with a lower risk of developing HDP and GDM in nulliparous individuals, which was similar to a DASH diet.
Trends in "Healthy" Food Consumption Overall and by Nova Food Processing Categories among United States Adults from 2003 to March 2020.
Tucker AC, Martínez-Steele E, Caulfield LE … +2 more , Rebholz CM, Wolfson JA
J Nutr · 2026 Apr · PMID 42067066 · Publisher ↗
BACKGROUND: In 2024, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) updated the "healthy" claim that can appear on foods and beverages. However, trends and demographic differences in intake of "healthy" foods are unknown, and th...
BACKGROUND: In 2024, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) updated the "healthy" claim that can appear on foods and beverages. However, trends and demographic differences in intake of "healthy" foods are unknown, and there is concern that ultraprocessed foods (UPF) may qualify for the "healthy" claim. OBJECTIVES: The objective of this study was to examine trends in "healthy" food intake by Nova food processing category among United States adults, overall and across demographic groups. METHODS: Using a serial cross-sectional design, we examined dietary intake among a nationally representative sample of United States adults (≥20 y) with 2 valid 24-h dietary recalls from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (2003-2004 to 2017-March 2020; n = 34,164). We examined trends in FDA-aligned (i.e., foods meeting "healthy" criteria) and FDA-unaligned (i.e., foods not meeting "healthy" criteria) intake as a proportion of total energy, overall and by Nova category. We used generalized linear models adjusted for demographic characteristics and examined differences using stratified models. RESULTS: FDA-aligned intake increased from 9.7% to 10.7% (P-trend = 0.03). FDA-aligned minimally processed food (MPF) intake did not change (P-trend = 0.36), but FDA-unaligned MPF intake decreased (P-trend < 0.001). FDA-aligned UPF intake increased but comprised <2% of energy intake. Intake of FDA-unaligned UPFs also increased (P-trend < 0.01) and comprised the majority of energy intake (>51%) in all years. Intake of "healthy" UPFs differed by age, race and ethnicity, and education. CONCLUSIONS: Intake of "healthy" foods and beverages increased, but comprised <12% of energy intake in all years. FDA-unaligned UPFs, not "healthy" foods, formed the foundation of United States adults' dietary intakes, regardless of demographic group.
Infant Intake of Nonlactose Carbohydrates in Milk Feeding Is Associated with Lower Diet Quality Scores for Dairy and Protein from Ages 13 to 72 Months.
Anderson CE, Ritchie LD, Whaley SE … +1 more , Chaparro MP
J Nutr · 2026 Jun · PMID 42061721 · Publisher ↗
BACKGROUND: Infant receipt of milk products with added nonlactose carbohydrates, primarily infant formula, is highly prevalent. This study was conducted to assess relationships between infant receipt of milk products wit...
BACKGROUND: Infant receipt of milk products with added nonlactose carbohydrates, primarily infant formula, is highly prevalent. This study was conducted to assess relationships between infant receipt of milk products with added nonlactose carbohydrates and subsequent child diet quality. METHODS: Data from the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) Infant and Toddler Feeding Practices Study-2, a national cohort study of infants born into WIC in 2013-2014 (n = 1379), were used. Child diet was assessed with 24-h dietary recalls. Intake of milk products with added nonlactose carbohydrates was determined from recalls at ages 1 and/or 3, 5, 7, 9, and 11 mo (continuous: percent of milk). Differences in subsequent Healthy Eating Index (HEI)-2020 Toddler (ages 13, 15, and 18 mo) and HEI-2020 (ages 2, 3, 4, 5, and 6 y) scores (total, individual components) were assessed using multivariable mixed effects regression models. RESULTS: Each additional 25% of infant milk product intake containing added nonlactose carbohydrates was associated with significantly lower dairy intake scores at ages 1 {difference [95% confidence interval]: [-0.12 (-0.20, -0.04)], 5 [-0.20 (-0.33, -0.08)], and 6 y [-0.24 points (-0.38, -0.11)]; lower total protein score at 1 y [-0.05 (-0.09, <0.00)]; higher fatty acid ratio score at 1 [0.13 (0.03, 0.23)] and 2 y [0.17 (0.02, 0.32)]; and with higher saturated fat score at 1 y [0.12 (0.03, 0.22)]}. CONCLUSIONS: Future research into whether caregiver-perceived lactose-sensitivity contributes to lower dairy intake in childhood among infants who consumed milk with added nonlactose carbohydrates in infancy is necessary.
Improved Iron Status, but Not Protein Source, Is Related to Appetite, Satiety, and Mood in Women of Reproductive Age With Iron Deficiency: A Randomized Controlled Trial.
Hennigar SR, Miller KM, Murphy RD … +6 more , Braymer A, Mayet CL, Greenway FL, Cheung SN, Weschenfelder C, Berryman CE
J Nutr · 2026 Jun · PMID 42061720 · Publisher ↗
BACKGROUND: Iron deficiency (ID) is associated with decreased appetite and altered mood, which can contribute to feelings of early satiety and reduced overall well-being. Few studies have examined differences in appetite...
BACKGROUND: Iron deficiency (ID) is associated with decreased appetite and altered mood, which can contribute to feelings of early satiety and reduced overall well-being. Few studies have examined differences in appetite, satiety, and mood between meals containing animal meat and plant-based meat, or whether improving iron status in those with ID improves these outcomes. OBJECTIVES: The objective of this study was to determine appetite, satiety, and mood after consumption of a meal containing animal meat or plant-based meat at baseline and after consuming the meal with an iron supplement once a day for 8 weeks in women of reproductive age (WRA) with ID. METHODS: In this randomized, double-blind, parallel-arm study, 52 nonpregnant WRA (24 ± 7 y; BMI: 22.9 ± 3.0 kg/m) with ID (serum ferritin: 13.7 ± 6.0 μg/L) consumed an iron supplement with a lunch meal containing either 4 oz. of beef (Animal) or Beyond Meat (Plant) once a day for 8 weeks. Meals were calorically matched but differed in macro- and micronutrient composition due to the inherent differences between protein sources. For this secondary analysis, at baseline and endpoint, fasted participants consumed a standardized lunch meal containing beef or plant-based meat and rated appetite (fullness, hunger, desire to eat, and prospective consumption) using 100 mm visual analog scales. A composite satiety score was calculated. The Profile of Mood States questionnaire was assessed at baseline and endpoint. RESULTS: Indicators of iron status and anemia improved after 8 weeks (P < 0.05 for all) but did not differ between Animal and Plant. Hunger and desire to eat decreased, and fullness and composite satiety score increased after the meal (P-time < 0.0001 for all). Measures of appetite, satiety, and mood did not differ between Plant and Animal at baseline or endpoint. Changes in transferrin saturation (r = 0.4, P < 0.01) and hemoglobin (r = 0.3, P = 0.04) and hematocrit (r = 0.3, P = 0.03) were positively associated with changes in prospective food consumption, and changes in transferrin saturation were negatively associated with satiety (r = -0.3, P = 0.02). Changes in transferrin saturation (r = 0.3, P = 0.03) and hematocrit (r = 0.3, P = 0.05) were positively associated with change in anger/hostility. CONCLUSIONS: These findings indicate that improvements in iron status, but not differences in protein source, affect appetite, satiety, and mood in WRA with ID. This trial was registered at Clinicaltrials.gov as NCT04793906.
Iron Deficiency and Neurobehavioral Outcomes in Ugandan Children Exposed to HIV.
Musiime V, Bangirana P, Ssenkusu J … +8 more , Conroy AL, Frosch AE, Park S, Dahl CM, Opondo H, Kroupina M, Georgieff MK, Cusick SE
J Nutr · 2026 Jun · PMID 42061719 · Full text
BACKGROUND: The prevalence of iron deficiency (ID) among children exposed to HIV in utero is unclear, and an association with ID and neurobehavioral deficits has not been investigated. OBJECTIVES: We assessed iron status...
BACKGROUND: The prevalence of iron deficiency (ID) among children exposed to HIV in utero is unclear, and an association with ID and neurobehavioral deficits has not been investigated. OBJECTIVES: We assessed iron status in Ugandan children aged 6 to 59 mo who were HIV-infected (HI), exposed to HIV but uninfected (HEU), or not exposed to HIV (HUU) and examined the relationship with neurobehavioral outcomes. METHODS: We enrolled children who were HI (n = 70), HEU (n = 70), or HUU (n = 70) and conducted assessments of cognition, attention, executive function, and socioemotional behavior. We used logistic regression to compare ID prevalence among the groups and tested for associations between iron status and neurobehavioral outcomes, using the HUU group to calculate age-adjusted Z-scores. RESULTS: More than 40% of children in each group had ID (plasma ferritin <12 or <30 μg/L if C-reactive protein >10 mg/L). Children who were HEU had a higher prevalence of ID than children who were HI (59.4% compared with 42%, P = 0.04) and a higher prevalence of ID with anemia (IDA) than children who were HUU (32.4% compared with 18.8%, P = 0.04). Overall, children with ID scored lower in fine motor {adjusted Z-score [95% confidence interval (CI)] for ID compared with not ID: -0.20 [-0.4, -0.03] compared with 0.07 [-0.09, 0.24]}, but there were no other differences by ID. Children with IDA, particularly those who were HI, had poorer socioemotional behavior, exhibiting poorer exploration quantity [adjusted odds ratio IDA compared with not IDA (95% CI): 0.39 (0.17, 0.92)], greater fear [4.5 (1.6, 12.1)], less positive affect [0.44 (0.23, 0.87)], and less adaptability [0.38 (0.17, 0.82)]. CONCLUSIONS: There is a significant burden of ID among Ugandan children, including those who are HI and HEU. IDA was associated with poorer socioemotional behavior, highlighting the need to study the safety and efficacy of early-life iron interventions to optimize neurobehavioral development in this population.
A Novel Elemental Nano-Selenium Improves Growth Performance and Meat Quality with Potentially Regulating Muscle Energy Metabolism via the AMPK-mTOR Signaling in Finishing Pigs.
Luo WC, Huang RH, Liu M … +6 more , Yang JC, Zhao YW, Zuo G, Cheng YZ, Deng ZC, Sun LH
J Nutr · 2026 Jun · PMID 42061718 · Publisher ↗
BACKGROUND: Selenium (Se) is a vital trace element affecting muscle development and quality. OBJECTIVES: This study aimed to evaluate the effects of sodium selenite (SeNa), selenomethionine (SeMet), and elemental nano-se...
BACKGROUND: Selenium (Se) is a vital trace element affecting muscle development and quality. OBJECTIVES: This study aimed to evaluate the effects of sodium selenite (SeNa), selenomethionine (SeMet), and elemental nano-selenium (SeNPs) on growth performance and meat quality and the underlying mechanisms in finishing pigs. METHODS: Finishing pigs (120 pigs/group) were fed with a basal diet [control group (CON), 0.108 mg Se/kg] or CON supplemented with 0.4 mg Se/kg SeNa, SeMet, or SeNPs. At week 6, the longissimus dorsi (LD) muscle was collected for meat quality, Se, redox status, metabolomics, and transcriptomics analysis. RESULTS: Compared with the CON, the 3 forms of Se supplementation increased (P < 0.05) body weight gain (1.84%-6.07%) and reduced (P < 0.05) the feed/gain ratio (2.72%-4.89%) of pigs. Feed intake (0.97%) increased (P < 0.05) in the SeNPs group, but no significant change was observed in the SeNa and SeMet groups. SeNPs further improved (P < 0.05) these performances by 1.65%-4.16% compared with SeNa. Moreover, SeNPs and SeMet enhanced (P < 0.05) Se concentration, marbling, and color, but decreased (P < 0.05) drip loss in the LD muscle compared with those of CON and SeNa. Notably, SeNPs uniquely stabilized postmortem pH and pH and minimized drip loss compared with the other 3 groups. In addition, SeMet and (or) SeNPs increased (P < 0.05) triglyceride contents and the activities of glutathione peroxidase and thioredoxin reductase in LD muscle. Metabolomic and transcriptomic profiling showed that SeNPs reduced lipid metabolism-related pathways and were associated with coordinated regulation of muscle and adipose tissue development. Multiomics integration further identified the AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK)-mechanistic target of rapamycin (mTOR) signaling pathway as a central regulatory network targeted by SeNPs, thereby contributing to improvements in growth performance and meat quality in finishing pigs. CONCLUSIONS: Compared with SeNa or SeMet, SeNPs demonstrated a unique ability to improve growth performance, meat quality, and antioxidant status in finishing pigs, associated with regulating energy metabolism by activating the AMPK-mTOR regulatory network.
About
- Frequency
- Sun
- Papers found
- 200
- RSS feed
- Subscribe