Eur J Nutr [JOURNAL]
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200 papers
Differences in plant- and animal-based protein sources consumed across socioeconomic groups in The Netherlands and their associated environmental impact.
Lopez Mariaca HA, Blokhuis C, Zhu Y
Eur J Nutr · 2026 Mar · PMID 41843210 · Full text
PURPOSE: This study explored the differences in sources of protein (SOP) consumed across socioeconomic groups in the Netherlands and their environmental impact. METHODS: Using data from the Dutch National Food Consumptio...
PURPOSE: This study explored the differences in sources of protein (SOP) consumed across socioeconomic groups in the Netherlands and their environmental impact. METHODS: Using data from the Dutch National Food Consumption Survey 2019–2021, 1746 participants aged 18–79 years were included. Socioeconomic status (SES) was determined by education level. Protein sources included nuts and seeds, dairy, red meat, poultry, processed meats, fish, legumes, meat substitutes, and eggs. Environmental impact (EI) was assessed using data from life cycle assessment (LCA), considering greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, land use (LU) and water use (WU). Dietary intake was estimated using two non-consecutive 24-h dietary recalls and reported in g/day; fish consumption was converted to g/w for this study. Linear and logistic regressions were applied to explore the associations between SES (predictor variable) and SOP and EI indicators (response variables). RESULTS: Compared to the high SES group, individuals with low SES consumed more red meat, processed meat, and dairy (p for trend < 0.05 for all), and less nuts and seeds (p < 0.001), fish (p = 0.004). They were less likely to consume meat substitutes (p < 0.001). No significant differences were found for poultry, eggs, and legumes consumption. Individuals with low SES showed greater total GHG emissions and LU but lower WU (p < 0.05 for all). Across all SES groups, animal-based protein sources (ABPs) contributed the most to GHG emissions, LU and WU, while plant-based protein sources (PBPs) contributed minimally. CONCLUSIONS: Individuals with low SES tend to consume more ABPs, and were associated with greater GHG emissions and LU, whereas total WU was higher among individuals with high SES, due to a greater consumption of water-intensive PBPs, such as nuts and seeds. These findings highlight socioeconomic disparities in dietary patterns and environmental impact that may be relevant for future strategies toward healthier and more sustainable diets.
Higher intake of dietary dicarbonyl compounds is associated with lower incidence of type 2 diabetes: European Prospective Investigation into Cancer and Nutrition (EPIC)-InterAct case-cohort study.
Maasen K, Mayen AL, Hana C … +33 more , Knaze V, van Greevenbroek MMJ, Eussen SJPM, Debras C, Stehouwer CDA, Tjønneland A, Kyrø C, Ibsen DB, Dah CC, Mancini F, Laouali N, Hajji M, Schulze MB, Bajracharya R, Katzke V, Masala G, Pasanisi F, Milani L, Pala V, Mañé MF, Moreno-Iribas C, Rodriguez-Barranco M, Yohar SMC, Mokoroa O, Papier K, Weiderpass E, Freisling H, Wareham NJ, Forouhi NG, Christakoudi S, Vangrieken P, Jenab M, Schalkwijk CG
Eur J Nutr · 2026 Mar · PMID 41843191 · Full text
PURPOSE: Dicarbonyls are reactive precursors of advanced glycation end-products. They are formed during food processing, and endogenously in humans during glycolysis and lipid peroxidation. Higher plasma dicarbonyls, par...
PURPOSE: Dicarbonyls are reactive precursors of advanced glycation end-products. They are formed during food processing, and endogenously in humans during glycolysis and lipid peroxidation. Higher plasma dicarbonyls, particularly methylglyoxal (MGO), promote insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes, but the association between dietary dicarbonyls intake and type 2 diabetes is unknown. This study examined the associations between dietary dicarbonyls and type 2 diabetes incidence. METHODS: 11,995 incident type 2 diabetes cases and a sub-cohort of 15,797 controls from the prospective multi-center European Prospective Investigation into Cancer and Nutrition (EPIC)-InterAct cohort were included. Intakes of three major dicarbonyls MGO, glyoxal [GO], and 3-deoxyglucosone [3-DG] were estimated at baseline using dietary questionnaires. Type 2 diabetes risk according to dietary dicarbonyl intake was estimated by multivariable-adjusted hazard ratios from Prentice-weighted Cox-regression analyses. RESULTS: Higher intakes of MGO (sample-specific mean intake 3.4 ± 1.3 mg/d) and 3-DG (13.8 ± 10.5) were associated with lower incidence of type 2 diabetes (HR 0.92 [95% CI 0.90–0.95] for 1 SD higher MGO intake and 0.93 [0.90–0.95] for 1 SD higher 3-DG intake). No associations were observed for dietary GO. CONCLUSION: Participants who consumed more dietary dicarbonyls MGO and 3-DG had a lower risk to develop type 2 diabetes. This protective association contrasts with the harmful effects on type 2 diabetes risk reported for endogenously formed dicarbonyls.
The Prime Diet Quality Score (PDQS), chronic disease and cause-specific mortality in UK Biobank: a prospective study.
Kronsteiner-Gicevic S, Thompson AS, Cordova R … +5 more , Gaggl M, Woodside JV, Cassidy A, Rohrmann S, Kühn T
Eur J Nutr · 2026 Mar · PMID 41843181 · Full text
PURPOSE: The Prime Diet Quality Score (PDQS) is a global food-based metric for assessing diet quality. We evaluated PDQS-measured diet quality in relation to mortality and major chronic disease outcomes in the UK Biobank...
PURPOSE: The Prime Diet Quality Score (PDQS) is a global food-based metric for assessing diet quality. We evaluated PDQS-measured diet quality in relation to mortality and major chronic disease outcomes in the UK Biobank. METHODS: This population-based cohort study included UK adults (40–69 years) recruited in 2006–2010 and followed until 2021. PDQS was derived from ≥ 2 dietary recalls. Multivariable Cox regression estimated hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for total and cause-specific mortality, cardio-metabolic diseases (type 2 diabetes [T2D], cardiovascular disease [CVD], myocardial infarction [MI], stroke), respiratory diseases (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease [COPD], asthma), cancers (total, lung, colorectal, oesophageal, postmenopausal breast, prostate), neurodegenerative diseases (dementia, Parkinson’s, anxiety, depression), non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), chronic kidney disease (CKD), eczema, psoriasis, fracture, and osteoporosis. RESULTS: Among 124,851 participants (mean age 59 ± 8 years), those in the highest PDQS quartile had lower mortality risks: total (HR 0.80, 95% CI 0.73–0.88), cancer (0.87, 0.77–0.98), respiratory (0.56, 0.37–0.87), and neurodegenerative (0.61, 0.39–0.96). Chronic morbidity risks were lower for T2D (0.73, 0.66–0.81), MI (0.80, 0.71–0.90), ischemic stroke (0.86, 0.74–1.00), COPD (0.80, 0.69–0.94), total cancer (0.94, 0.88–0.99), lung cancer (0.75, 0.58–0.97), anxiety (0.85, 0.78–0.92), NAFLD (0.66, 0.56–0.77), and CKD (0.74, 0.69–0.80). CONCLUSIONS: Higher PDQS scores are linked to reduced mortality and chronic disease risk. PDQS is a practical tool for assessing diet quality in epidemiological research.
YFAS-derived 'sugar addiction symptom scores' are unrelated to BMI or sugar intake.
Kodithuwakku H, Palihakkara P, Wasalathanthri S … +2 more , Peng M, Abeywickrema S
Eur J Nutr · 2026 Mar · PMID 41843180 · Publisher ↗
PURPOSE: High intake of sugar is prevalent and has been linked to adverse health outcomes. This study aimed to assess ‘sugar addiction symptoms’ in young adults and their links to BMI, actual sugar and sweet snack intake...
PURPOSE: High intake of sugar is prevalent and has been linked to adverse health outcomes. This study aimed to assess ‘sugar addiction symptoms’ in young adults and their links to BMI, actual sugar and sweet snack intake. METHODS: In this cross-sectional study, 148 participants (final 106; 18–30 years, females = 64) were assessed for ‘sugar addiction symptoms’ using the modified Yale Food Addiction Scale (YFAS 2.0). Dietary intake was evaluated using a Food Frequency Questionnaire, which was subsequently used to estimate total and added sugar intake, as well as snack choice for Sweet, Sweet + Fat, and Non-Sweet foods. Individual BMI measures were based on measured height and weight. Univariate and multivariate analyses explored associations between ‘sugar addiction symptoms’, sweetness liking, BMI, sugar intake, and food choices. RESULTS: Results showed that 9.6% of participants exhibited strong ‘sugar addiction symptoms’, 61.4% moderate, 23.2% mild, and 5.8% without symptoms. While a significant positive correlation was observed between BMI and total/added sugar intake, ‘sugar addiction symptom scores’ were not significantly linked to any of those measures (p > 0.1). However, ‘sugar addiction symptom scores’ significantly predicted choices of Sweet foods (χ² (7) = 67.29, p = 0.011, Pseudo R2 =0.48), with one-unit increase in YFAS-scores had a stronger impact on choosing Sweet + Fat foods than on Sweet foods alone. CONCLUSION: ‘Sugar addiction symptoms’ was unrelated to BMI or sugar intake but significantly predicted preferences for Sweet and especially Sweet + Fat foods, highlighting the role of sensory properties over sugar quantity in addictive-like eating. This study provides insights for future research and interventions targeting addictive eating patterns and healthier dietary behaviours.
Trimester-specific associations of maternal prenatal dietary patterns with fetal growth: a prospective pre-birth cohort study.
Hu J, Li C, Liu Y … +10 more , Yang X, Li M, Yin S, Zheng L, Wu S, Ge W, Liu C, Wei J, Wen D, Qiao C
Eur J Nutr · 2026 Mar · PMID 41843162 · Publisher ↗
BACKGROUND: The trimester-specific association of prenatal dietary patterns with intrauterine fetal growth and neonatal birth size is unclear. We evaluated the trimester-specific association of prenatal dietary patterns...
BACKGROUND: The trimester-specific association of prenatal dietary patterns with intrauterine fetal growth and neonatal birth size is unclear. We evaluated the trimester-specific association of prenatal dietary patterns with intrauterine fetal growth and neonatal birth size. METHODS: A prospective pre-birth cohort study included 1,857 mother-neonate pairs in China. Food frequency questionnaires were used to assess the maternal diet across three trimesters. we used generalized estimating equation models to examine the longitudinal associations of prenatal dietary patterns with intrauterine fetal growth and neonatal birth size. In addition, we used multinomial logistic regression models and multivariable linear regression models to estimate the trimester-specific associations. RESULTS: 5.0% and 6.8% of the neonates were low birth weight and macrosomia births, respectively. We observed longitudinal positive associations of maternal adherence to a "dairy-egg pattern" over three trimesters with the risk of macrosomia births [tertile 3 (T3) vs. tertile 1 (T1): odds ratio = 1.64, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.01, 2.65], and the association was more pronounced in the first trimester (T3 vs. T1: relative risk ratio = 2.12, 95% CI: 1.08, 4.18). Higher adherence to the "dairy-egg pattern" and the "fish-seafood pattern" in the second and third trimesters were associated with higher and lower risk of estimated fetal weight>90th percentile during corresponding trimesters, respectively. CONCLUSIONS: Trimester-specific dietary patterns were differentially associated with fetal growth trajectory and neonatal birth size. These findings highlight the importance of trimester-tailored dietary guidance for optimizing fetal growth during pregnancy.
Comparison of associations of intake of ultra-processed and non-ultra-processed whole-grain foods with cardiometabolic risk measures in Australian and US adults.
Price EJ, Du M, Barrett EM … +5 more , McKeown NM, Batterham MJ, Zhang FF, Martínez-Steele E, Beck EJ
Eur J Nutr · 2026 Mar · PMID 41843158 · Full text
PURPOSE: Evidence suggests total ultra-processed food (UPF) consumption increases disease risk. As whole grains are health protective, their inclusion in UPF definitions warrants consideration. We aimed to quantify Austr...
PURPOSE: Evidence suggests total ultra-processed food (UPF) consumption increases disease risk. As whole grains are health protective, their inclusion in UPF definitions warrants consideration. We aimed to quantify Australian and US whole-grain consumption by level of food processing and compare associations on cardiometabolic risk measures. METHODS: A cross-sectional analysis of Australian (NNPAS 2011-12)(n = 7735) and US (NHANES 2015-18)(n = 8343) nationally representative 2d intake data. The Nova classification system determined levels of processing. Mean and median whole-grain intakes were estimated by processing level, and regression models were used to explore associations across tertiles for total, non-UPF (Nova 1-3) and UPF (Nova 4) whole-grain intakes with cardiometabolic risk measures. RESULTS: Adults median total whole-grain intake was 34.3 g/10 MJ/d (Australia) and 11.6 g/10 MJ/d (US). Mean whole-grain intake from UPF sources was higher in the US (71.0%) compared to Australia (48.9%). In Australia and the US, respectively, tertiles of non-UPF whole-grain intake were inversely associated with body weight (p = 0.02; p = 0.002), BMI (p = 0.001; p < 0.0001), waist circumference (p = 0.02; p = 0.001), waist-to-height ratio (WHR) (p = 0.003; p = 0.0001), and C-reactive protein (CRP) (p = 0.02; p = 0.0003), and for fasting plasma glucose (p = 0.002) in Australia only. UPF whole-grain intake was inversely associated with WHR (p = 0.04; p = 0.03) and diastolic blood pressure (p = 0.01; p = 0.03), as well as waist circumference (p = 0.0496) in Australia, and BMI (p = 0.03) and CRP (p = 0.02) in the US. Non-UPF whole-grain sources had stronger inverse associations than UPF sources. CONCLUSIONS: All whole grain foods should be promoted in public health and consumer messaging with emphasis on less processed sources given their greater observed benefit to cardiometabolic risk measures.
Environmental and economic impact of a vegan versus traditional mediterranean diet: OMNIVEG study.
López-Moreno M, Marrero-Fernández P, Galiana C … +4 more , Aguilar-Navarro M, Muñoz A, Gutiérrez-Hellín J, Fresán U
Eur J Nutr · 2026 Mar · PMID 41843153 · Full text
BACKGROUND: Shifting dietary patterns toward more sustainable dietary practices is essential for addressing both chronic disease risk and environmental degradation. While the Mediterranean diet (MedDiet) is widely recogn...
BACKGROUND: Shifting dietary patterns toward more sustainable dietary practices is essential for addressing both chronic disease risk and environmental degradation. While the Mediterranean diet (MedDiet) is widely recognized for its health benefits, its environmental impact and cost may be higher than fully plant-based dietary patterns due to the inclusion of animal-derived foods. This secondary data analysis aimed to compare the environmental impacts and retail food costs of a traditional MedDiet and a vegan MedDiet, using dietary intake data from a controlled crossover trial. METHODS: In the OMNIVEG study, 14 healthy, physically active men followed a traditional MedDiet for 3 weeks and a vegan MedDiet for 4 weeks, with a 1-week washout. Environmental impacts were assessed using Life Cycle Assessment while food costs were calculated from national retail price data. RESULTS: The vegan MedDiet significantly reduced environmental impacts related to human health (− 54.5%), ecosystems (− 50.9%), and resource use (− 43.4%) compared to the traditional MedDiet (p < 0.01). Retail food cost was also reduced by 16.3% (p < 0.05). Differences were mainly attributable to the exclusion of animal-based foods; no significant differences in environmental impact were observed for shared food groups. CONCLUSIONS: Replacing animal products with plant-based foods in a Mediterranean dietary framework can enhance environmental sustainability and reduce food costs. These findings support the promotion of whole plant-based diets as a viable strategy for sustainable and affordable nutrition.
Association between genetically predicted dietary patterns and atrial fibrillation: a two sample Mendelian randomization study.
You X, Guo W, Huang K … +3 more , Zhong C, Yang L, Jiang Q
Eur J Nutr · 2026 Mar · PMID 41843021 · Publisher ↗
BACKGROUND: The impact of dietary habits on atrial fibrillation (AF) remains unclear, and observational findings are often inconsistent. Clarifying the causal relationships between specific dietary habits and AF may prov...
BACKGROUND: The impact of dietary habits on atrial fibrillation (AF) remains unclear, and observational findings are often inconsistent. Clarifying the causal relationships between specific dietary habits and AF may provide insights into disease etiology and primary prevention. OBJECTIVES: This study aimed to investigate the causal effects of 20 dietary habits on AF using Mendelian randomization (MR) approaches. METHODS: Genetic instruments for 20 predefined dietary habits, including alcohol, processed meat, pork, poultry, beef, fish, bread, cheese, vegetables, fruits, coffee, water intake, and coffee-adjusted water intake, were obtained from the IEU GWAS project. Summary-level data for AF were derived from large genome-wide association studies of European ancestry. The primary MR analysis was performed using the inverse variance weighted (IVW) method, with replication in the UK Biobank cohort. Sensitivity analyses included MR-Egger intercept testing, MR-PRESSO global testing, and leave-one-out analyses to assess robustness and potential horizontal pleiotropy. RESULTS: Among the 20 dietary habits analyzed, higher genetically predicted consumption of pork (OR 1.819; 95% CI 1.144–2.893; P = 0.012), coffee (OR 1.281; 95% CI 1.036–1.583; P = 0.022), water intake (OR 1.262; 95% CI 1.005–1.583; P = 0.045), and coffee-adjusted water intake (OR 1.133; 95% CI 1.004–1.279; P = 0.044) showed evidence of a causal association with an increased risk of AF. No causal associations were observed for other dietary habits. Sensitivity analyses indicated robust results with no substantial heterogeneity or horizontal pleiotropy. CONCLUSION: This MR study suggests that genetically predicted pork consumption, coffee intake, and water-related dietary habits may be causally associated with an increased risk of AF. These findings contribute to understanding the potential role of specific dietary behaviors in AF susceptibility.
Hypertension incidence according to branched-chain amino acid intake in Brazilian adults: a six-year follow-up of the CUME study.
da Silva FMO, Pimenta AM, Juvanhol LL … +2 more , Hermsdorff HHM, Bressan J
Eur J Nutr · 2026 Mar · PMID 41811502 · Full text
PURPOSE: Recent studies show that dietary intake of branched-chain amino acids (BCAA) may be associated with chronic diseases, including hypertension. This study aimed to evaluate the association between BCAA intake and...
PURPOSE: Recent studies show that dietary intake of branched-chain amino acids (BCAA) may be associated with chronic diseases, including hypertension. This study aimed to evaluate the association between BCAA intake and the incidence of hypertension. METHODS: This longitudinal study included 3192 participants (M = 1067, F = 2125; mean age = 34 years) from the Cohort of Universities of Minas Gerais (CUME Study, 2016–2022), Brazil. BCAA intake was assessed using a validated 144-item semi-quantitative food frequency questionnaire. Participants were classified as an incident case of hypertension when they were free of this disease at baseline and had systolic blood pressure ≥ 140 mmHg, diastolic blood pressure ≥ 90 mmHg, or used antihypertensives or received a diagnosis of hypertension by a physician in at least one follow-up. Crude and adjusted Cox regression models were used to evaluate the association between BCAA intake and incidence of hypertension. RESULTS: After a median follow-up time of 2.21 years, 213 new cases of hypertension were identified. A direct association was shown between the second tertile of total BCAA (HR = 1.76; 95% CI 1.06–2.90) and isoleucine (HR = 2.04; 95% CI 1.14–3.62) consumption and the incidence of hypertension in males. A direct association was observed between the second tertile of valine (HR = 1.74; 95% CI 1.01–3.02) and leucine (HR = 1.94; 95% CI 1.10–3.41) intake and hypertension incidence among adults aged 30–39 years. Conversely, among younger participants (18–29 years), leucine intake in the second tertile was inversely associated with hypertension (HR = 0.36; 95% CI 0.14–0.89). The main foods that contributed to BCAA intake were unprocessed chicken (16.56%), dairy (16.33%), unprocessed beef (14.98%), fish (7.85%), and beans/lentils (6.44%). CONCLUSION: Our findings may provide valuable evidence to support dietary interventions for the primary prevention of hypertension.
Behavioral, antioxidant, and kynurenine pathway modulation of a specific strain of Ligilactobacillus salivarius in a preclinical model of depression.
Martín-Hernández D, Caso JR, Díaz-García C … +5 more , Regidor PA, Rizo JM, Román M, Gutiérrez R, Leza JC
Eur J Nutr · 2026 Mar · PMID 41801488 · Full text
PURPOSE: Current antidepressants targeting neurotransmitters often fail to alleviate symptoms. Alternative hypotheses suggest inflammation may trigger an alternative route that converts tryptophan into kynurenine, reduci...
PURPOSE: Current antidepressants targeting neurotransmitters often fail to alleviate symptoms. Alternative hypotheses suggest inflammation may trigger an alternative route that converts tryptophan into kynurenine, reducing the bioavailability of tryptophan to synthesize serotonin while producing neuroactive metabolites such as quinolinic acid (QUINA, excitotoxic) and kynurenic acid (KYNA, neuroprotective). This study evaluates the effects on these systems of a specific strain of Ligilactobacillus salivarius (L. salivarius), identified in the Spanish Type Culture Collection as CECT 30632, in a preclinical model depression. METHODS: Male Wistar rats (n = 32) were divided into control (CT) and chronic mild stress (CMS) groups, treated with either vehicle or L. salivarius CECT 30632 for four weeks, starting one week before CMS exposure. Behavioral assessments, including the splash test (ST) and open field test (OF), were conducted. Biochemical analyses of peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs), plasma, and frontal cortex (FC) samples assessed antioxidant markers phospho-nuclear factor (erythroid-derived 2)-like 2 (p-Nrf2) and glutathione peroxidase 1 (GPx1), as well as tryptophan metabolites. RESULTS: In the ST, L. salivarius CECT 30,632 reduced latency to groom, indicating improved anhedonia and self-care, while no changes were observed in the OF test. CMS reduced p-Nrf2 and GPx1 expression in PBMCs, which was restored by L. salivarius CECT 30,632. This bacterium also reduced the QUINA/KYNA ratio in plasma and FC, suggesting a lower excitotoxicity risk. CONCLUSION: Ligilactobacillus salivarius CECT 30632 improved behavioral outcomes, enhanced antioxidant defenses, and modulated tryptophan metabolism in a rat model of CMS. These findings support its potential as a probiotic intervention for depression.
Adherence to the EAT-Lancet diet and risk of colorectal cancer in the general population and among individuals with diabetes: a cohort study.
Rosendal LB, Bundgaard C, Zhang J … +4 more , Olsen A, Rostgaard-Hansen AL, Dahm CC, Ibsen DB
Eur J Nutr · 2026 Mar · PMID 41801472 · Full text
BACKGROUND: Healthy and sustainable diets, such as the EAT-Lancet diet, may benefit planetary and human health, though evidence for colorectal cancer (CRC) is limited. This study examined the association between EAT-Lanc...
BACKGROUND: Healthy and sustainable diets, such as the EAT-Lancet diet, may benefit planetary and human health, though evidence for colorectal cancer (CRC) is limited. This study examined the association between EAT-Lancet diet adherence and CRC risk in middle-aged Danes, including subgroup analysis among individuals with diabetes. METHODS: Based on data from the Danish Diet, Cancer, and Health cohort (1993–1997), we included 55,651 participants aged 50–64 without cancer at baseline. Adherence to the EAT-Lancet diet was evaluated using a diet score (0–42 points, 42 indicating highest adherence) from a validated food frequency questionnaire. Cox proportional hazard models were used to estimate hazard ratios (HR) for CRC, colon cancer, and rectal cancer. The pseudo-observation method was used to estimate risk differences after 20 years. RESULTS: In total 1877 participants were diagnosed with CRC (median follow-up: 18.7 years). Multivariable-adjusted HRs for CRC, colon cancer, and rectal cancer were 0.75 (95% CI: 0.60, 0.93), 0.73 (95% CI: 0.57, 0.95), and 0.76 (95% CI: 0.50, 1.16) for highest (24–34 points) versus lowest adherence (9–16 points), respectively. The 20-year RD for CRC was -0.60% (95% CI: -1.27, 0.06). CONCLUSIONS: Higher adherence to the EAT-Lancet diet was associated with lower risk of CRC in middle-aged Danes.
Dietary intake temporal patterns during early childhood in relation to diet quality in middle childhood and the role of family characteristics: the GECKO Drenthe cohort.
Yang J, Navis G, Mars M … +1 more , Corpeleijn E
Eur J Nutr · 2026 Mar · PMID 41801459 · Full text
PURPOSE: Early childhood food intakes may influence subsequent diet quality. This study described dietary intake temporal patterns of specific food groups from infancy to 3 years. It explored associations with diet quali...
PURPOSE: Early childhood food intakes may influence subsequent diet quality. This study described dietary intake temporal patterns of specific food groups from infancy to 3 years. It explored associations with diet quality at 10/11 years and investigated how family characteristics affect these dietary patterns. METHODS: Food group intake was assessed in 2552 children (49.9% boys) at several time points from 7 months to 3 years (GECKO Drenthe cohort). Latent class analyses (LCA) identified temporal patterns for healthy foods (fruit, vegetable, bread type, and dairy) and unhealthy foods ('meat and fish', convenience meals, savory snacks, sweet snacks, and sugar-sweetened beverages [SSB]). Associations with diet quality at 10/11 years (n = 856) were assessed using linear regression. Associations with family characteristics (n = 2256) were examined using multinomial logistic regression. RESULTS: Three distinct temporal patterns were identified for each food group, differing in intake levels and changing over time. Dietary intake patterns were associated with intake of the same food group at 10/11 years (p < 0.05). The weakest tracking was observed for 'meat and fish', while the strongest tracking was seen for SSB. Higher intake patterns of healthy foods were associated with better diet quality at 10/11 years, while the opposite was true for unhealthy foods. Unhealthier food intake patterns were related to lower parental education and household income, younger parental age, higher parental BMI, smoking during pregnancy, and having siblings at birth. CONCLUSION: Food group intakes from infancy to age 3 were associated with subsequent diet quality. Promoting healthy eating in early life is essential for long-term dietary health.
Food sources of macro- and micronutrients in young children and adults following vegan, vegetarian, and omnivorous diets.
Tilli V, Hovinen T, Kettunen E … +5 more , Freese R, Itkonen ST, Erkkola M, Suomalainen A, Korkalo L
Eur J Nutr · 2026 Mar · PMID 41801422 · Full text
PURPOSE: Understanding key nutrient sources in the rapidly changing food environment is essential for advising balanced food choices across different diets. We examined the main food sources of macro- and micronutrients...
PURPOSE: Understanding key nutrient sources in the rapidly changing food environment is essential for advising balanced food choices across different diets. We examined the main food sources of macro- and micronutrients in Finnish children and their caregivers following vegan (VGN), vegetarian or pesco-vegetarian (VGT), and omnivorous (OMN) diets. METHODS: In this cross-sectional study, food consumption and nutrient intakes were analyzed from 3-day food records and compared across diet groups in 73 children aged 2–7 years (n = 29, n = 18, and n = 26 for VGN, VGT, and OMN diets, respectively) and 93 caregivers (n = 34, n = 27, and n = 32). RESULTS: Dairy products and plant-based dairy alternatives (PBDAs), the latter often fortified, were the most significant sources of calcium, riboflavin, vitamin D and vitamin B12. In both children and adults, higher consumption of pulses, seeds, nuts and PBDAs contributed to greater intake of fiber, polyunsaturated fatty acids, and folate in the VGT and VGN groups compared to the OMN. The VGN diet was associated with a more favourable fat quality (highest intake of polyunsaturated fatty acids, lowest intake of saturated fatty acids); however, eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) were absent from diets that contained no fish or eggs. CONCLUSION: Consumption of fortified dairy and PBDA products was widespread and played an important role in supporting adequate nutrition across different diet groups. Greater attention should be given to dietary sources of iodine and long-chain n-3 fatty acids.
Novel insights into how gestational diet affects maternal-infant microbiota: a cross-sectional causal mediation analysis at one month postpartum.
Ventura EF, Ruiz-Saavedra S, Cabrera-Rubio R … +3 more , Martínez-Costa C, González S, Collado MC
Eur J Nutr · 2026 Mar · PMID 41801411 · Full text
PURPOSE: Maternal diet shapes maternal and infant microbiota, influencing early-life health. This study assessed associations between maternal dietary indices and infant gut microbiota, and the mediating role of maternal...
PURPOSE: Maternal diet shapes maternal and infant microbiota, influencing early-life health. This study assessed associations between maternal dietary indices and infant gut microbiota, and the mediating role of maternal core taxa. METHODS: In the MAMI cohort, pregnancy diet was evaluated using the Modified Mediterranean Dietary Score (MMDS), Dietary Quality Index (DQI), Healthy Eating Index (HEI), and Dietary Inflammatory Index (DII). Perinatal data, clinical records, and infant gut microbiota (1 month postpartum, 16S rRNA sequencing) were analyzed using clustering, regression, and causal mediation analysis (CMA). RESULTS: Among 104 mother–infant pairs, DII was inversely correlated with MMDS, HEI, and DQI. Higher MMDS (β = 0.785, p = 0.037) and lower DII (β = –0.783, p = 0.037) were associated with increased infant Veillonella relative abundance; MMDS was also positively linked to Shannon and Simpson diversity. In the maternal microbiota, Coprococcus correlated positively with MMDS and negatively with DII. CMA identified maternal Coprococcus as the strongest mediator, linking MMDS to lower infant Veillonella (a × b = –0.15) and DII to higher infant Veillonella (a × b = 0.15). CONCLUSIONS: A Mediterranean-style pregnancy diet was associated with greater infant gut diversity and, via maternal Coprococcus, lower Veillonella abundance, whereas a pro-inflammatory diet showed the opposite pattern. These findings highlight both direct and microbiota-mediated pathways linking maternal nutrition to early microbial programming. Clinical trial registry number: registration ID: NCT03552939 (date record study 2018–06-10). URL: https://clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT03552939 .
A single oral dose of an iso-alpha acids rich hop extract dampens the lipoteichoic acid mediated immune response of monocytes in healthy individuals.
Csarmann K, Jung F, Baumann A … +6 more , Simbrunner B, Schweiger K, Burger K, Staltner R, Hellerbrand C, Bergheim I
Eur J Nutr · 2026 Mar · PMID 41793519 · Full text
PURPOSE: Bacterial infections significantly contribute to global mortality. Lipoteichoic acid (LTA), a key component of Gram-positive bacterial cell walls, triggers immune responses via Toll-like receptor 2 (TLR2). Iso-a...
PURPOSE: Bacterial infections significantly contribute to global mortality. Lipoteichoic acid (LTA), a key component of Gram-positive bacterial cell walls, triggers immune responses via Toll-like receptor 2 (TLR2). Iso-alpha acids (IAA), bitter compounds derived from hops (Humulus lupulus L.), are known for their anti-inflammatory properties, but their effects on human immune modulation remain unclear. This study explored the effect of a single oral dose of IAA on LTA-induced inflammatory responses in human immune cells and underlying molecular mechanisms. METHODS: In a pilot study in healthy female volunteers (n = 5) dose- and time-dependent effects (0-90 mg IAA) on LTA-induced immune responses in monocytes were assessed. A randomized, placebo-controlled cross-over study (n = 13, male and female) evaluated the acute effects of 15 mg IAA. Peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) were stimulated with LTA ex vivo, and cytokine release (IL-6, IL-1β) was measured. Mechanistic studies using J774A.1 cells and TLR2-transfected HEK293 cells explored the molecular pathways of IAA. RESULTS: In the pilot study, 15 mg IAA was identified as the most tolerated dose in terms of taste for the participants which still had a marked effect on LTA-mediated IL-6 release from monocytes. In the main study, PBMCs from IAA-treated participants showed significantly lower IL-6 and IL-1β secretion after LTA stimulation compared to placebo (p < 0.05). In vitro, IAA suppressed JNK-mediated inflammatory signaling without affecting TLR2 activation. CONCLUSION: A single low-dose intake of IAA from hops reduces LTA-induced cytokine release in blood immune cells, likely via JNK inhibition, suggesting its potential role in modulating inflammatory responses.
Immune-modulating effects of energy-restricted ketogenic diet in women with overweight and obesity: KETO-MINOX study.
Drabińska-Fois N, Ogrodowczyk AM, Bauer W … +6 more , Topolska J, Bączek N, Stenbäck V, Herzig KH, Borowicz-Skoneczny S, Romaszko J
Eur J Nutr · 2026 Mar · PMID 41793518 · Publisher ↗
PURPOSE: The ketogenic diet (KD) is widely applied to manage obesity, however, their immunological effects under moderate, standardized caloric restriction and their persistence after intervention remain insufficiently c...
PURPOSE: The ketogenic diet (KD) is widely applied to manage obesity, however, their immunological effects under moderate, standardized caloric restriction and their persistence after intervention remain insufficiently characterized in individuals with obesity. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of an 8-week, isocaloric, energy-restricted Mediterranean-type KD on body composition and cytokine profiles in women with overweight and class I obesity. Observational long-term outcomes were assessed one year post-intervention. METHODS: Eighty women (BMI 25.5–34.9 kg/m2) without chronic diseases were randomized to either a KD (KETO group) or a standard diet (STD group), both providing 1750 kcal/day. Assessments were conducted at baseline (T0), 4 weeks (T1), 8 weeks (T2), and one year post-intervention (T3). Body composition and inflammatory markers were measured after overnight fasting. RESULTS: Sixty-six participants completed the intervention, and 49 returned for the T3 follow‑up. The adaptation to ketosis was confirmed in the KETO group around fourth week. Both diets significantly improved body composition and reduced inflammatory markers. Compared with the STD group, the KETO group achieved greater reductions in body weight, total fat mass, and truncal fat. The KD was also associated with significant short‑term modulation of specific cytokines, including interleukin‑5 (IL‑5), granulocyte‑macrophage colony‑stimulating factor (GM‑CSF), interleukin‑8 (IL‑8), and monocyte chemoattractant protein‑1 (MCP‑1). At T3, no significant long-term differences in body composition or inflammation were found, except for an increase in IL-10 in the KETO group. CONCLUSIONS: In summary, the findings indicate that the effectiveness of dietary interventions is more strongly influenced by participant adherence than by the specific macronutrient composition, as both dietary approaches resulted in significant weight loss and reductions in inflammation-related biomarkers. While the Mediterranean‑type KD induced greater short‑term fat loss and selective cytokine modulation, these advantages did not translate into sustained long‑term differences. Clinical Trial Registry number NCT05652972 ( https://clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT05652972 ).
Relationship between habitual glucosamine use and risk of incident idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis with the modification effect of genetic susceptibility: a prospective cohort study.
Yang L, Xie Y, Yao Y … +5 more , Yin H, Shang B, Yang S, You X, Ma J
Eur J Nutr · 2026 Mar · PMID 41793481 · Publisher ↗
PURPOSE: We aimed to investigate the relationship between habitual glucosamine use and the risk of incident idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF). Moreover, we assessed the modification effect of genetic predisposition on...
PURPOSE: We aimed to investigate the relationship between habitual glucosamine use and the risk of incident idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF). Moreover, we assessed the modification effect of genetic predisposition on such association. METHODS: We analyzed 472,615 individuals from the UK Biobank. The genetic risk score (GRS) for IPF was constructed. The Cox proportional hazard models were fitted to estimate the association. RESULTS: During a median of 12.5 years of follow-up, 1870 incident cases of IPF were identified. After adjusting for potential covariates, we observed that glucosamine intake was related to a reduced risk of IPF. Moreover, an additive interaction and joint effect were observed between non-users of glucosamine and genetic susceptibility on the development of IPF. CONCLUSION: These findings suggested that habitual glucosamine consumption was related to a lower incidence of IPF, and this relationship could be influenced by genetic susceptibility.
Are European diets healthy and sustainable? Evidence from nine countries using the planetary health diet framework.
Miranda AR, Meunier JMM, Romagosa Vilarnau S … +2 more , Jani A, Verger EO
Eur J Nutr · 2026 Mar · PMID 41793479 · Full text
PURPOSE: Contemporary food systems pose challenges for both human and planetary health. This study aimed to assess and compare adherence to the Planetary Health Diet (PHD) in nine European countries. METHODS: Nationally...
PURPOSE: Contemporary food systems pose challenges for both human and planetary health. This study aimed to assess and compare adherence to the Planetary Health Diet (PHD) in nine European countries. METHODS: Nationally representative dietary surveys (post-2013) from Estonia, Finland, France, Hungary, the Netherlands, Portugal, Spain, Switzerland, and the United Kingdom, with ≥ 2 non-consecutive 24-hour recalls, were used (n = 16,083 adults). Adherence to the PHD was assessed at two levels: (1) food group compliance, evaluated as the alignment with PHD target values and recommended ranges; (2) overall adherence, captured by three valid dietary indices. Multivariate regression analyses were conducted to identify associations with demographic factors. RESULTS: Dietary patterns across Europe were characterised by insufficient intake of plant-based foods (whole grains, legumes, nuts, vegetables, and unsaturated oils) relative to PHD targets, alongside excessive consumption of foods to limit (red meat, saturated fats, and added sugars). Spain, Portugal, and the Netherlands showed comparatively better alignment with the PHD, whereas Hungary, the United Kingdom, and Estonia had the lowest scores. Red meat, particularly pork, and added sugars were the primary contributors to low scores across PHD indices. Being female, older, and having a higher level of education were positively associated with PHD adherence. CONCLUSION: European diets show systematic deviations from the PHD. Targeted and multilevel policies are needed to promote healthy and sustainable diets.
Changes in eating behavior traits and diet in older prediabetic men during a 3-year lifestyle intervention.
Koivu N, Lankinen M, Schwab U
Eur J Nutr · 2026 Mar · PMID 41784807 · Full text
PURPOSE: Eating behavior traits are linked to diet, but how changes in these traits are associated with dietary changes, particularly in men, remains unclear. Understanding these associations may help develop personalize...
PURPOSE: Eating behavior traits are linked to diet, but how changes in these traits are associated with dietary changes, particularly in men, remains unclear. Understanding these associations may help develop personalized prevention and treatment strategies for non-communicable diseases such as type 2 diabetes. This study aimed to examine how eating behavior traits and food intake change in older Finnish men with prediabetes during a lifestyle intervention, and to explore the associations between these changes. METHODS: The Three-Factor Eating Questionnaire-R18 was used to assess three eating behavior traits (cognitive restraint, uncontrolled eating and emotional eating), and repeated 4-day food records were used to evaluate food intake in 368 prediabetic men aged 50–75 during a 3-year lifestyle intervention. RESULTS: During the intervention, cognitive restraint increased while uncontrolled eating and emotional eating decreased (FDR-p < 0.001 for all). The intake of fiber-rich foods increased and the intake of foods rich in saturated fat decreased. A decrease in uncontrolled eating associated with decreases in the intake of sweet (FDR-p = 0.02) and savory pastries (FDR-p = 0.01) and chocolate (FDR-p = 0.02). A decrease in emotional eating was associated with a higher intake of vegetables, fruit and berries (FDR-p = 0.01). CONCLUSIONS: A decrease in uncontrolled and emotional eating plays a role in increased intake of vegetables, fruit and berries and decreased intake of energy-dense foods. The findings are essential to consider when developing effective prevention and treatment strategies for type 2 diabetes.
Association of shift work with body weight, stress, sleep, and dietary intake in prison officers and firefighters.
Mosomi LN, Fyfe CL, Horgan GW … +4 more , Giles K, O'Connor DB, de Roos B, Johnstone AM
Eur J Nutr · 2026 Mar · PMID 41784663 · Full text
PURPOSE: We explored how shift work in UK prison officers and firefighters is associated with body composition, stress, and sleep, and with the quantity, quality, and timing of dietary intake whilst on-shift and off-shif...
PURPOSE: We explored how shift work in UK prison officers and firefighters is associated with body composition, stress, and sleep, and with the quantity, quality, and timing of dietary intake whilst on-shift and off-shift. METHODS: Secondary analysis of cross-sectional data from an intensive 7 day study on anthropometry, stress, sleeping patterns and dietary intake, obtained in 22 prison officers and 51 firefighters (both male and female), taking part in the neurobiology of food addiction and stress (NeuroFAST) study. RESULTS: Mean age was 37.4 ± 7.23 years, while 78% of prison officers and 61% of firefighters were classified as living with either overweight or obesity. Overall, daily energy and total fat intakes were within recommended ranges. However, carbohydrate and dietary fibre intakes were below, while saturated fat and salt intakes exceeded, recommended amounts for health. Prison officers had a significantly lower frequency of breakfast and dinner occasions when on-shift, whereas firefighters had a significantly lower frequency of all eating occasions when on-shift, than when off-shift (all p < 0.001). In prison officers, intake of energy and sugar was significantly higher when off-shift (p = 0.001 and p = 0.002, respectively). Both prison officers and firefighters had higher stress scores during shift days than on non-shift days (p = 0.007 and p < 0.001 respectively). Both groups had longer sleep durations on non-shift days than on shift days (all p < 0.001). CONCLUSION: Prison officers and firefighters had a high prevalence of overweight and obesity and their dietary patterns, and timing of eating occasions, especially when off-shift, may increase risk of metabolic disease.
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