Nutr Health [JOURNAL]
Sun
200 papers
Caffeine addiction symptoms mediate the link of depression and anxiety to psychotic experiences in the general population of young adults.
Fekih-Romdhane F, Hallit R, Malaeb D … +5 more , Sakr F, Dabbous M, Obeid S, Harb F, Hallit S
Nutr Health · 2026 May · PMID 42175803 · Publisher ↗
BackgroundTo date, the mechanisms that underlie the relationship between the onset of anxiety/depression symptoms and the risk of developing psychotic experiences (PEs) remain poorly understood. This study aimed to exami...
BackgroundTo date, the mechanisms that underlie the relationship between the onset of anxiety/depression symptoms and the risk of developing psychotic experiences (PEs) remain poorly understood. This study aimed to examine the direct and indirect effects of depression and anxiety on PEs through the mediating role of caffeine addiction symptoms.MethodIn total, 1447 young adults from the general population of Tunisia, aged 18-35 years, enrolled in this cross-sectional study and filled an online survey. A mixed convenience and snowball sampling technique was used to collect data.ResultsCaffeine addiction symptoms partially mediated the associations between depression and PEs and between anxiety and PEs. Depression and anxiety scores were associated with higher caffeine addiction symptoms (Beta = 0.37; < 0.001 and Beta = 0.38; < 0.001, respectively). In turn, caffeine addiction symptoms were associated with higher PEs (Beta = 0.29; < 0.001 and Beta = 0.30; < 0.001, respectively). Depression and anxiety scores were directly associated with PEs (Beta = 0.36; < 0.001 and Beta = 0.32; < 0.001, respectively). The values of both models showed that 29.0% and 26.7% of the variance in PEs is accounted for by caffeine addiction symptoms, respectively.ConclusionYoung people presenting with depression and anxiety symptoms should be carefully assessed for caffeine intake in clinical practice, educated regarding the known health risks associated with this substance, and advised to limit excessive caffeine intake, which can, in turn, help prevent the occurrence of PEs.
From selective eating to rigid healthy eating: Childhood picky eating, perfectionism, and orthorexic tendencies in adulthood.
Grabois M, Horovitz O
Nutr Health · 2026 May · PMID 42172017 · Publisher ↗
Orthorexic tendencies involve rigid, rule-governed "healthy eating" and are associated with perfectionism, yet their developmental correlates are less understood. This study examined whether retrospectively reported chi...
Orthorexic tendencies involve rigid, rule-governed "healthy eating" and are associated with perfectionism, yet their developmental correlates are less understood. This study examined whether retrospectively reported childhood picky eating is associated with orthorexic tendencies in adulthood, whether maladaptive perfectionism dimensions mediate these associations, and whether associations vary by gender. Adults (N = 209) completed validated self-report measures of childhood picky eating, orthorexic tendencies (Eating Habits Questionnaire), and multidimensional perfectionism. Correlations, bootstrapped mediation models (2000 resamples), and gender-moderation analyses were conducted, controlling for age and gender. Childhood picky eating was modestly associated with orthorexic tendencies (r = .18, p = .009). Indirect effects were statistically significant via doubts about actions (β = .06, 95% CI [.02, .10]) and parental expectations/criticism (β = .05, 95% CI [.01, .10]). The association was significant among men but not women. Retrospectively reported childhood picky eating may function as a developmental correlate, rather than a deterministic risk factor, for orthorexic tendencies.
Dietary interventions for hyperuricemia in adolescents and young adults (14-35 years): A narrative review of prevalence and dietary mechanisms for lowering uric acid.
Riaz S, Liu Y, Ma X … +9 more , Han Y, Wang K, Qu H, Wa Y, Chen D, Huang Y, Wei H, Gu R, Ma W
Nutr Health · 2026 May · PMID 42165563 · Publisher ↗
BACKGROUND: Hyperuricemia (HUA) is increasingly recognized as a metabolic disorder in adolescents and young adults, yet its prevalence and nonpharmacological management remain neglected. OBJECTIVE: This narrative review...
BACKGROUND: Hyperuricemia (HUA) is increasingly recognized as a metabolic disorder in adolescents and young adults, yet its prevalence and nonpharmacological management remain neglected. OBJECTIVE: This narrative review critically combines evidence on the prevalence of HUA among individuals aged 14 to 35 years and evaluates the mechanistic potential of food-based interventions for HUA management. METHODS: A structured literature search was conducted in Web of Science and Google Scholar in February 2025 to identify English-language studies on HUA prevalence and food-derived bioactive compounds affecting uric acid metabolism in young adults. RESULTS: Reported prevalence of HUA among young individuals ranged from 23.3% to 55.1%, varying by sex, region, and assessment criteria. Dietary compounds such as polysaccharides, flavonoids, polyphenols, and peptides consistently reduced serum urate by suppressing xanthine oxidase activity, regulating renal transporters (URAT1, GLUT9, and OAT1/3), and modulating microbiota composition. CONCLUSION: This review identifies an emerging burden of HUA in young populations and provides a methodology-based synthesis associating diet and urate regulation. Food-derived compounds present a safe, mechanistically supported approach for early prevention of HUA.
Analysis of child malnutrition from the risk factors, social determinants, and social determination of health, a scoping review.
Troche-Gutiérrez IY, Torres Muñoz LD, Gómez Tovar LO
Nutr Health · 2026 May · PMID 42165562 · Publisher ↗
BackgroundChild malnutrition remains a serious global health problem, but the theoretical frameworks for understanding this phenomenon remain fragmented and primarily biomedical in nature.AimThis article aims to analyze...
BackgroundChild malnutrition remains a serious global health problem, but the theoretical frameworks for understanding this phenomenon remain fragmented and primarily biomedical in nature.AimThis article aims to analyze and compare the conceptualization and study of child malnutrition, explaining it through theoretical approaches to risk factors, social determinants, and the social determination of health in scientific literature.MethodWe conducted a scoping review following the Preferred Reporting Items for Scoping Reviews and Meta-Analyses for Scoping Reviews Statement. We searched articles related to the topic of research, published between 2012 and 2023, and papers written in English, Spanish, or Portuguese on the databases SciELO, Medline, ScienceDirect, SCOPUS, EBSCO CINAHL, LILACS, and Redalyc. Letters to the editor, conference reports, and opinion articles were excluded.ResultsForty-one articles were analyzed across the three theoretical approaches. The risk factor approach ( = 29, 70.7%) predominated, emphasizing environment, lifestyle, human biology, and healthcare organizations. Social determinants studies ( = 8, 19.5%) incorporated structural factors including capitalism, socioeconomic inequalities, and educational disparities, alongside intermediary factors such as sociocultural practices. Social determination studies ( = 4, 9.7%) employed a three-dimensional framework encompassing general dimensions (historical capital accumulation), particular dimensions (modes of living and social integration), and singular dimensions (food consumption patterns).ConclusionChild malnutrition has been predominantly analyzed from the perspective of classical epidemiology, which reduces the problem to biological and individual dimensions. Although the evidence for social determination is limited, it is theoretically significant because it includes the social, historical, and political nature of nutrition.
wound healing and anti-inflammatory properties of a multicomponent gel food supplement: Preclinical evidence for a complementary approach in gastroesophageal reflux disease management.
Pulcini M, Mori V, Marini MG … +1 more , Massaccesi L
Nutr Health · 2026 May · PMID 42165551 · Publisher ↗
BackgroundGastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is associated with epithelial injury and inflammation of the upper gastrointestinal tract. Long-term pharmacological therapies may present limitations, encouraging interes...
BackgroundGastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is associated with epithelial injury and inflammation of the upper gastrointestinal tract. Long-term pharmacological therapies may present limitations, encouraging interest in complementary approaches.AimThis study evaluated the wound healing and anti-inflammatory activity of the multicomponent gel food supplement Reflus Gel (RG), formulated for gastric acidity management.MethodsWound healing was assessed using a scratch assay on fully confluent Caco-2 cells, while anti-inflammatory activity was evaluated by measuring interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-6, and tumour necrosis factor (TNF)-α release in lipopolysaccharide-stimulated THP-1-derived macrophages by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay.ResultsRG enhanced wound closure at 24 and 48 h compared with untreated control ( < 0.0001) and reduced IL-1β ( < 0.01), IL-6 and TNF-α ( < 0.0001) secretion in stimulated macrophages.ConclusionsThese findings indicate that RG promotes cell migration and modulates inflammatory responses , suggesting a potential role as a complementary strategy in GERD management.
profiling of date palm pollen phytochemicals: Molecular interactions with sperm-associated proteins and implications for male fertility.
Esmaili M, Namavar Jahromi B, Cava C … +1 more , Sabetian S
Nutr Health · 2026 May · PMID 42165548 · Publisher ↗
BackgroundMale infertility is a significant global health concern, with sperm motility, morphology, and capacitation being critical determinants of reproductive success. pollen has been used in traditional medicine to s...
BackgroundMale infertility is a significant global health concern, with sperm motility, morphology, and capacitation being critical determinants of reproductive success. pollen has been used in traditional medicine to support male fertility, but its molecular mechanisms remain poorly defined.AimThis study aimed to elucidate the molecular interactions between dominant phytochemicals from date palm pollen and key sperm-associated proteins through a comprehensive approach.MethodsFour major phytochemicals-catechin, gallic acid, quercetin, and rutin-were selected based on concentration (>2%) and reported pharmacological relevance. Fifteen sperm-associated proteins implicated in motility, morphology, and capacitation were modeled using GalaxyTBM, Phyre2, and SWISS-MODEL, followed by structural refinement (GalaxyRefine) and validation (ERRAT, PROCHECK, Verify3D, WHAT_CHECK). Molecular docking was performed with CB-Dock2, while protein flexibility and stability were assessed by Normal Mode Analysis and Atomic Displacement Parameter analysis. Pharmacokinetic and toxicity profiles were predicted using ADMETlab 2.0.SummaryCatechin, quercetin, and gallic acid satisfied Lipinski's Rule of Five, indicating good oral bioavailability, while rutin demonstrated strong binding affinity but failed drug-likeness criteria. Rutin and quercetin exhibited the highest binding affinities with Catsper1 (-9.2 kcal/mol) and Catsper2 (-8.5 kcal/mol), respectively. These findings provide mechanistic evidence supporting the traditional use of date palm pollen in enhancing male fertility and highlight its potential as a phytotherapeutic candidate. However, this study is limited to computational approaches, and further validation through and studies is required to confirm the biological relevance of these findings.
Mediterranean diet and MIND diet adherence in relation to biochemical markers in Metabolic Dysfunction-Associated Steatotic Liver Disease (MASLD): A cross-sectional study.
Acar Ozer T, Arslan M, Şahin K
Nutr Health · 2026 May · PMID 42165543 · Publisher ↗
BackgroundMetabolic Dysfunction-Associated Steatotic Liver Disease (MASLD) is one of the most prevalent chronic liver diseases worldwide and is strongly associated with metabolic dysfunction. Dietary patterns such as the...
BackgroundMetabolic Dysfunction-Associated Steatotic Liver Disease (MASLD) is one of the most prevalent chronic liver diseases worldwide and is strongly associated with metabolic dysfunction. Dietary patterns such as the Mediterranean and Mediterranean-DASH Intervention for Neurodegenerative Delay (MIND) diets have been suggested to improve metabolic and hepatic outcomes; however, evidence regarding their association with biochemical markers in individuals with MASLD remains limited.AimThis study aimed to evaluate the relationship between adherence to the Mediterranean diet and MIND diet score with biochemical parameters in individuals diagnosed with MASLD.MethodsThis cross-sectional study included 411 individuals aged 18 to 65 years diagnosed with MASLD. Data were collected via face-to-face interviews using structured questionnaires, including Mediterranean Diet Adherence Screener (MEDAS) and MIND diet adherence scales.ResultsHigher MEDAS scores were positively associated with low-density lipoprotein, very low-density lipoprotein, aspartate aminotransferase, alanine aminotransferase, gamma-glutamyl transferase, and total bilirubin levels (p < 0.05), whereas higher MIND diet scores were inversely associated with total cholesterol and liver enzymes (p < 0.01).ConclusionWhile greater adherence to the MIND diet was associated with more favorable biochemical profiles, the unexpected positive associations between MEDAS scores and several biochemical markers suggest a complex relationship that may be influenced by dietary composition, total energy intake, and potential confounding factors. Longitudinal studies are needed to clarify these associations.
Sugar Habit Hacker: A pilot randomised controlled trial of personalised normative feedback to change sugar consumption.
Bijker R, Khullar H, Te Ao B … +1 more , Rodda SN
Nutr Health · 2026 May · PMID 42131929 · Publisher ↗
BackgroundExcessive sugar consumption is a major public health concern, yet effective, scalable interventions remain limited.AimTo explore the effects of a brief online intervention of personalised normative feedback (PN...
BackgroundExcessive sugar consumption is a major public health concern, yet effective, scalable interventions remain limited.AimTo explore the effects of a brief online intervention of personalised normative feedback (PNF) on sugar consumption, mental well-being, craving, and self-efficacy at one and two months in New Zealanders.MethodsRandom assignment was to PNF on sugar consumption with feedback on mental wellbeing, craving, and self-efficacy scores, and information on strategies for change or a personalised summary of total sugar consumption and scores on measures. The main outcome was change in sugar intake from baseline, assessed using a self-reported Food Frequency Questionnaire (FFQ). Secondary outcomes were change in craving strength, craving frequency, self-efficacy and mental well-being.ResultsA total of 605 participants were recruited over a four-week period. Most participants were female (86%), aged >45 years (56%), and consumed sugar within the recommended 10% daily energy intake limit (72%). Sugar consumption reduced by 10.2% at one-month post-intervention (Cohen's = -0.27; 95% CI [-0.43, -0.11]), and this change was maintained at two months. Improvements were found for all secondary outcomes except mental well-being. There were, however, no significant group-by-time interactions for sugar intake or other outcomes.ConclusionPNF shows promise in improving sugar consumption, but outcomes were similar to offering a personalised summary of scores alone. Given rapid recruitment and strong retention, future research should compare these conditions with a true control group that provides no feedback. Further work should also examine the reliability and validity of the FFQ for measuring sugar consumption.
Timing matters? Assessing the relationship between a regular eating pattern compared to intermittent fasting (early versus late) and mental health outcomes: A cross-sectional study.
Giuffrida A, Burnett-Armstrong L, West E … +1 more , King A
Nutr Health · 2026 May · PMID 42126289 · Publisher ↗
BACKGROUND: Depressive and anxiety disorders are prevalent, impactful conditions that are rising globally. Antidepressants showed limited efficacy and side effects, highlighting the need for alternatives. Intermittent fa...
BACKGROUND: Depressive and anxiety disorders are prevalent, impactful conditions that are rising globally. Antidepressants showed limited efficacy and side effects, highlighting the need for alternatives. Intermittent fasting (IF) has emerged as a potential nutritional strategy to improve mood-related symptoms (MRSs). AIM: To evaluate differences in anxiety and depression between adults practising IF and those following a regular eating pattern (REP), exploring variations within IF groups, comparing early IF (EIF; morning/afternoon feeding), late IF (LIF; afternoon/evening feeding) and REP groups, and between sexes. METHODS: A cross-sectional study (May 2024-May 2025) employed an anonymous 41-question online survey distributed globally, including the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS) questionnaire to assess anxiety and depression. Data from 302 healthy participants aged 18-65 (88 male, 214 female) were analysed using IBM SPSS Statistics. A two-way ANOVA examined the effects of sex and eating patterns on anxiety and depression. RESULTS: Participants included 214/302 (70.9%) in the REP and 88/302 (29.1%) in the IF group, with 22/302 (7.2%) in the EIF and 66/302 (21.9%) in the LIF group. Females reported significantly higher mean anxiety than males ( = 0.047). The IF group reported significantly lower anxiety ( = 0.031) and depression ( = 0.022) than the REP group. CONCLUSION: Our findings suggest an association between IF and reduced anxiety and depression. Further research is needed to elucidate the IF-MRSs relationship, explore sex-specific approaches and optimal dietary strategies to improve MRSs.
Binge eating, multimorbidity and sociodemographic characteristics are associated with a high prevalence of depression and anxiety in adults with class II and III obesity.
Silveira EA, de Sousa Canheta AB, Simão VC … +3 more , de Oliveira Rezende AT, de Carvalho Santos ASEA, de Oliveira C
Nutr Health · 2026 May · PMID 42125853 · Publisher ↗
BackgroundObesity increases chronic disease risk and is related to psychological implications like depression and anxiety. However, research has predominantly focused on overweight or class I obesity, leaving a gap conce...
BackgroundObesity increases chronic disease risk and is related to psychological implications like depression and anxiety. However, research has predominantly focused on overweight or class I obesity, leaving a gap concerning severe (class II/III) obesity. The objective of this study was to evaluate the prevalence of anxiety and depression and associated factors in adults with class II/III obesity.MethodsThis cross-sectional study used baseline data from the DieTBra Clinical Trial. A total of 150 adults (mean age 39.6 ± 8.8 years; 85.3% female) with class II/III obesity were evaluated. Sociodemographic, lifestyle, biochemical variables (iron, 25-hydroxyvitamin D, vitamin B12, homocysteine, C-reactive protein), multimorbidity, and binge eating disorder (BED) were assessed. The hospital anxiety and depression scale and binge eating scale were used. The outcomes analyzed were anxiety symptoms, depression, and their co-occurrence, using multiple Poisson regression with a significance level of 5%.ResultsThe prevalence of depression was 63.3%, anxiety 72.7%, and their co-occurrence was 56.7%. After multivariate analysis, factors associated with anxiety were female sex (p = 0.048), age over 50 (p = 0.029), lower educational level (p = 0.002), and BED (p = 0.003). Factors associated with depression included: female sex (p = 0.006), age over 50 (p = 0.029), age 18-29 (p = 0.043), multimorbidity (p = 0.027), and BED (p = 0.026).ConclusionsWe observed high prevalences of anxiety, depression, and their co-occurrence in adults with class II/III obesity. Independent risk factors included female sex, specific age groups, lower educational level, multimorbidity, and BED. Future longitudinal studies are needed to establish causality, and interventional research should focus on these high-risk subgroups.
Plant-based diet quality and cardiometabolic biomarkers in pregnant U.S. women.
Shi L, Lichtenstein AH, Hayman LL
Nutr Health · 2026 May · PMID 42125850 · Publisher ↗
Evidence suggests that high-quality plant-based diets are associated with favorable cardiometabolic outcomes. However, there is no consensus on the optimal measure to assess the quality of plant-based diet. Furthermore,...
Evidence suggests that high-quality plant-based diets are associated with favorable cardiometabolic outcomes. However, there is no consensus on the optimal measure to assess the quality of plant-based diet. Furthermore, little is known about how plant-based diet quality relates to cardiometabolic health in pregnant women. Determine the relationship between plant-based diet and cardiometabolic biomarkers in pregnant women, with a specific focus on different approaches to assess plant-based diet quality. Data from 580 pregnant women who participated in seven cycles (2005 to 2020 prepandemic) of the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) were used. Four previously established indices, including the overall Plant-Based Diet Index (PDI), healthful PDI (hPDI), total plant-based foods (All PBF), and Healthy PBF, were calculated. In addition, two modified indices were developed. Multivariable log-linear regression models were used to assess associations between these indices and cardiometabolic biomarkers. Higher plant-based diet quality index values, independent of the index used, were positively associated with high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) concentrations, and negatively associated with triglyceride (TG)/HDL-C ratios. Each one-point increase in the diet index was associated with a 0.004 to 0.016 mg/dL increase in HDL-C and 0.018 to 0.031 decrease in TG/HDL-C ratio. Additionally, those indices that accounted for plant foods quality were also associated with lower fasting insulin and TG concentrations, and homeostatic model assessment for insulin resistance (HOMA-IR). In this NHANES cohort of pregnant women, higher values of all plant-based diet indices were associated with more favorable biomarkers of cardiometabolic health. Those plant-based diet indices that emphasized the quality of plant foods rather than penalizing the inclusion of animal foods were more strongly associated with cardiometabolic health biomarkers.
Effects of intermittent fasting combined with a ketogenic diet versus a hypocaloric diet on metabolic outcomes in adults with type 2 diabetes mellitus: A controlled clinical study.
Barrionuevo-Burgos E, García-García RM, Muñoz L … +1 more , Arreguín-Coronado A
Nutr Health · 2026 May · PMID 42101451 · Publisher ↗
BackgroundType 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) continues to rise globally, highlighting the need for effective and sustainable dietary strategies. Intermittent fasting (IF) and ketogenic diets have been associated with metabo...
BackgroundType 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) continues to rise globally, highlighting the need for effective and sustainable dietary strategies. Intermittent fasting (IF) and ketogenic diets have been associated with metabolic adaptations such as enhanced fat oxidation, ketone body production, and improved insulin sensitivity; however, evidence on their combined implementation in clinical settings remains limited.ObjectiveTo evaluate the associations of three dietary strategies-IF combined with a ketogenic diet (IF + KD), a hypocaloric diet (HD), and a control group (CG)-with anthropometric, metabolic, behavioral, and quality-of-life outcomes in adults with T2DM.MethodsA 12-week controlled, parallel-group clinical study was conducted in 30 adults with T2DM allocated to IF + KD (n = 10), HD (n = 10), or CG (n = 10). The IF + KD group followed a structured 16:8 IF protocol combined with a ketogenic diet, while the HD group received an individualized energy-restricted diet. Anthropometric, biochemical, physical activity, and quality-of-life measures were assessed at baseline and week 12.ResultsReductions were observed in body weight, body mass index, waist circumference, and body fat percentage (all p < 0.05). HbA1c decreased in both IF + KD and HD groups, and total cholesterol was reduced without adverse changes in renal function. Physical activity and quality-of-life scores improved in intervention groups, with minimal variation in the CG.ConclusionIF + KD and HD were associated with short-term improvements in metabolic and anthropometric outcomes in adults with T2DM. Findings provide real-world evidence on combined dietary strategies and should be interpreted within the context of a non-randomized design.
-Chalcone protects against high-fat diet-induced kidney injury in rats by regulating the miR-874/TLR4 pathway.
Karimi-Sales E, Hajiasgharzadeh K, Alipour MR
Nutr Health · 2026 May · PMID 42101448 · Publisher ↗
BackgroundChronic high-fat diet (HFD) consumption is linked to chronic kidney disease. Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4) promotes pro-fibrotic and pro-inflammatory pathways in the kidney. It is directly inhibited by renal miR-...
BackgroundChronic high-fat diet (HFD) consumption is linked to chronic kidney disease. Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4) promotes pro-fibrotic and pro-inflammatory pathways in the kidney. It is directly inhibited by renal miR-874. -Chalcone has protective effects against HFD-related diseases. However, its effects on renal miR-874 and TLR4 expression in HFD-fed animals remain unexamined.AimThe current study examined the possible influences of -chalcone and HFD on the renal miR-874/TLR4 axis.MethodsMale rats were divided into control, HFD, and HFD + -chalcone groups. They received Tween 80 in control, high-fat emulsion in HFD and HFD + -chalcone groups, and -chalcone in the HFD + -chalcone group. Fasting insulin resistance index (FIRI) was calculated, and real-time PCR was used to determine the expression levels of miR-874 and TLR4 in the kidneys.ResultsChronic HFD feeding elevated FIRI levels. In contrast, co-treatment with -chalcone and HFD significantly reduced FIRI levels in the HFD + -chalcone group compared with the HFD group. Consumption of an HFD also significantly reduced miR-874 and increased TLR4 expression. These HFD-induced changes were inhibited by -chalcone. There were no significant differences in renal expression of miR-874 and TLR4 between the control and HFD + -chalcone groups.ConclusionDown-regulation of renal miR-874 may be responsible for elevated TLR4 mRNA levels during HFD feeding. Furthermore, miR-874 dysregulation may be linked to the development of HFD-related kidney disease. This study suggests that -chalcone is a potential therapeutic chalcone for protecting the kidney against the dysregulation of the miR-874/TLR4 pathway during HFD feeding.
Long-term effects of zinc replacement therapy continuation in hemodialysis patients on mortality and nutritional indices: A posthoc analysis.
Furumachi K, Hara Y, Hosokawa K … +4 more , Kurihara A, Kumagai E, Hosohata K, Takai S
Nutr Health · 2026 May · PMID 42101440 · Publisher ↗
BackgroundZinc deficiency has been identified as an important factor contributing to chronic nutritional disorders in maintenance hemodialysis (HD) patients.AimWe assessed the long-term effect of zinc replacement therapy...
BackgroundZinc deficiency has been identified as an important factor contributing to chronic nutritional disorders in maintenance hemodialysis (HD) patients.AimWe assessed the long-term effect of zinc replacement therapy on all-cause mortality among patients undergoing HD.MethodsThis posthoc analysis utilized data from an open-label, multicenter, randomized, active-controlled study including HD patients aged 40-94 years, registered between December 2019 and May 2020. Patients who initiated zinc supplementation were categorized into two groups based on treatment status 12 months after initiation: continuation (n = 46) and discontinuation (n = 22). The primary outcome was 4-year all-cause mortality. Survival was compared by Kaplan-Meier analysis, and hazard ratios (HRs) were estimated using Cox proportional hazards models.SummaryThe 4-year survival rate was higher in the continuation group (54.8%) than in the discontinuation group (33.9%, log-rank = 0.122). Continuation of zinc therapy significantly reduced mortality risk (HR: 0.33, 95% CI: 0.11-0.95, = 0.041). Independent predictors of mortality included age (HR: 1.09 per year), female sex (HR: 2.46), primary kidney disease (HR: 2.81), serum albumin <3.5 g/dL (HR: 4.35), transthyretin <20 mg/dL (HR: 3.59), and phosphorus <3.7 mg/dL (HR: 3.28). Subgroup analysis revealed that albumin ≥3.5 g/dL was protective in the continuation group, while malnutrition and inflammation markers were strongly associated with mortality in the discontinuation group. Continuation of zinc replacement therapy was associated with significantly improved survival in HD patients. These findings suggest that sustained supplementation may provide prognostic benefit, particularly in those with preserved nutritional status.RegistrationThe study was registered with the University Hospital Medical Information Network (UMIN) under registration number 000038759.
Toward sustainable food service systems: Dietitians' perspectives on digitalization.
Adiyan NN, Beyhan Y
Nutr Health · 2026 May · PMID 42101432 · Publisher ↗
BackgroundIntegrating digital applications-which provide convenience across many domains-into Food Service Systems (FSS) plays a key role in improving operational efficiency and ease. This study aimed to evaluate the pro...
BackgroundIntegrating digital applications-which provide convenience across many domains-into Food Service Systems (FSS) plays a key role in improving operational efficiency and ease. This study aimed to evaluate the professional experiences of dietitians working in FSS and their perspectives on innovative developments within the context of sustainability.MethodsThis descriptive, cross-sectional study included 70 dietitians employed in FSS. Data were collected through an online survey developed after expert consultation. The survey addressed demographic characteristics, professional practice experiences, stages of the service process where digitalization could facilitate work, and perspectives on digital menu planning.ResultsA weak but statistically significant positive correlation was identified between the ranking of professional issues encountered by dietitians and the ranking of consumer dissatisfaction ( = 0.280, < 0.05). Most respondents (89.2%) reported no general difficulties in professional processes, while 70% indicated that digitalization could facilitate FSS-related tasks. A significant difference by graduation degree was observed in tendencies toward digitalization in sustainable menu planning, specifically in seasonal food selection ( < 0.05).ConclusionDigital applications may contribute to the perceived facilitation of work processes, according to dietitians' evaluations. The integration of professional experiences and digital tools across food service operations may enhance workflow efficiency and support the implementation of innovative practices as technological advancements continue.
The game of chess: Future directions for sports nutrition and supplementation.
Todorovic N, Andjelic B, Nedeljkovic D … +1 more , Ostojic S
Nutr Health · 2026 May · PMID 42095763 · Publisher ↗
Competitive chess is a cognitively intensive sport that demands sustained executive control, complex visuospatial processing, prolonged attention, and effective regulation of psychological stress under time pressure. Des...
Competitive chess is a cognitively intensive sport that demands sustained executive control, complex visuospatial processing, prolonged attention, and effective regulation of psychological stress under time pressure. Despite growing professionalization, research on nutritional strategies to support chess performance remains limited. Existing work has largely emphasized pharmacological cognitive enhancers, which offer limited ecological validity and raise ethical and regulatory concerns, while comparatively little attention has been paid to safe, non-prohibited interventions applicable to real-world competition. This paper synthesizes evidence on the neurocognitive and psychophysiological demands of competitive chess and identifies priorities for future nutrition and supplementation research. Drawing on mechanistic and translational insights from cognitive neuroscience and esports, we evaluate dietary supplements with potential to support cerebral bioenergetics, attentional stability, and stress modulation. Finally, we propose a structured, ecologically grounded research framework to guide evidence-based, ethically compliant performance optimization in chess.
Nutrition security, diet quality, and food assistance program use among food insecure households with children: A cross-sectional analysis.
Chapman KL, Haushalter K, Wu AJ … +8 more , Luo M, Perkins M, Gundewar A, Calloway EE, Taitelbaum D, Burgun R, Davis J, Fiechtner L
Nutr Health · 2026 May · PMID 42068285 · Publisher ↗
BackgroundWhile food insecurity (FI) assesses household access to sufficient food, increasing attention is being paid to nutrition security (NS), the ability to obtain health-promoting foods.AimThis cross-sectional analy...
BackgroundWhile food insecurity (FI) assesses household access to sufficient food, increasing attention is being paid to nutrition security (NS), the ability to obtain health-promoting foods.AimThis cross-sectional analysis examined differences in sociodemographics, diet quality, and health status between food insecure families with low versus high NS and assessed if FI and NS severity was associated with food assistance program use.MethodsData were obtained from the 2023 Massachusetts Statewide Food Access Survey of >3000 adults. FI was assessed using the United States Department of Agriculture 18-item Household Food Security Module, NS via a validated four-item scale, and diet quality via the Prime Diet Quality Score (PDQS). FI and NS were analyzed as binary and continuous variables. Inferential statistics assessed group differences. Logistic regression assessed associations between the severity of FI and NS and food assistance program use.SummaryHouseholds with FI, ≥1 child (≤18 years), and annual income ≤$50,000 (n = 335) were included. Forty-three percent reported low NS. Low (vs. high) household NS was associated with a higher prevalence of child-level FI (79% vs. 43%, 0.001), SNAP use (83% vs. 70%, 0.009), food pantry use (69% vs. 44%, < 0.001), adult overweight/obesity (39% vs. 17%, < 0.001), and lower adult PDQS (43 ± 5.1 vs. 44 ± 4.3, 0.023), indicating lower diet quality. More severe household FI and lower NS were associated with higher odds of SNAP and food pantry use ( < 0.001). These findings support expanding food assistance programs to increase nutritious food access for families with children before food and nutrition insecurity become severe.
Comparing dietary patterns and weight outcomes between smokers and ex-smokers.
Shabani D, Haliti D, Murtezani A … +1 more , Ibraimi Z
Nutr Health · 2026 May · PMID 42068282 · Publisher ↗
BackgroundSmoking and obesity are two major health problems that are strongly associated with chronic diseases. While weight gain after smoking cessation is well recognized, less is known about the specific dietary patte...
BackgroundSmoking and obesity are two major health problems that are strongly associated with chronic diseases. While weight gain after smoking cessation is well recognized, less is known about the specific dietary patterns that may drive it.AimThis study aimed to compare dietary patterns between smokers and ex-smokers and to examine how changes in eating behaviors relate to body weight outcomes.MethodsWe conducted a descriptive cross-sectional pilot study between May and June 2025 in two large private companies in Prishtina, Kosova. A total of 500 sedentary employees (aged 18+) participated over a six-week period. Participants completed a self-administered questionnaire that collected sociodemographic data, smoking history, and dietary patterns during smoking and after cessation.SummaryOverall, 55% of participants were smokers (34% smoked 10-20 cigarettes/day; 10% smoked >20/day), while 45% were ex-smokers. Increased appetite after quitting smoking was reported by 81% of ex-smokers, who experienced greater overall weight gain compared to smokers, rather than weight gain limited to the thigh or chest area. Ex-smokers reported higher intake of protein-rich foods, pastries, sweets, fast food, and healthy foods, reflecting broader dietary changes after cessation. These findings indicate that increased appetite and higher consumption of pastries, sweets, and fast food among ex-smokers may be associated with weight gain. They also suggest that nutritional counseling could help manage postcessation weight gain.
Effects of ashwagandha supplementation on athletic performance and recovery: A narrative review.
AKbulut B, Canbolat E
Nutr Health · 2026 May · PMID 42068281 · Publisher ↗
Ashwagandha, a plant belonging to the Solanaceae family, has gained increasing attention in recent years due to its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and adaptogenic properties, and its potential to improve physical perfor...
Ashwagandha, a plant belonging to the Solanaceae family, has gained increasing attention in recent years due to its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and adaptogenic properties, and its potential to improve physical performance and support post-exercise recovery. This narrative review aims to summarize and critically evaluate the current scientific evidence regarding the effects of Ashwagandha supplementation on exercise-induced oxidative stress, athletic performance, and safety. This study is a narrative review based on previously published literature. The synthesis involved evaluating current studies focusing primarily on Ashwagandha supplementation and its relationship to exercise and sports performance. The included sources comprise clinical trials, meta-analyses, and review articles reporting outcomes related to strength, endurance, recovery, and safety. Studies suggest that Ashwagandha dosages of 330-1000 mg daily will increase endurance and facilitate quicker recoveries, with a twice daily dose of 300 mg in combination with weight training increasing muscular strength and hypertrophy. Ashwagandha is also believed to regulate cortisol levels and relieve anxiety and insomnia. Typical dosage levels in the sporting field appear to be higher, at approximately 600 mg/day, but a lower dose will be required by less active people. Side effects are mild in the majority of the literature and no dangerous side effects occur at recommended dosages. Ashwagandha has been found to be safe and effective in a natural supplementary capacity in sports and athletics. The correct dosage and application period of Ashwagandha should be taken into consideration to reap its properties in the human body.
Influence of autonomic function on the thermic effect of food and postprandial insulin sensitivity in individuals with obesity, submitted to a test meal with or without ultra-processed foods: Secondary analysis of a randomized trial.
Maria Moreira Almeida K, Galdino-Silva MB, Bueno NB
Nutr Health · 2026 Apr · PMID 42053230 · Publisher ↗
BackgroundThe role of the autonomic nervous system in postprandial metabolic responses to ultra-processed foods (UPFs) in individuals with obesity remains uncertain.ObjectiveTo investigate how fasting autonomic function,...
BackgroundThe role of the autonomic nervous system in postprandial metabolic responses to ultra-processed foods (UPFs) in individuals with obesity remains uncertain.ObjectiveTo investigate how fasting autonomic function, assessed by heart rate variability (HRV), affects the thermogenic response and insulin sensitivity after meals with or without UPF in individuals with obesity.MethodsParticipants consumed one of two matched test meals differing only in UPF content. Fasting HRV was assessed, and associations with postprandial glucose, insulin, homeostatic model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA-IR), and the thermic effect of food (TEF) were analyzed using mixed-ANCOVA and linear regression models, adjusted for age, sex, and group.Results40 individuals were analyzed. Considering the two groups together, there was a negative relationship between RMSSD and blood glucose variation ( = -7.95, CI95%: -13.05; -2.84) and a positive relationship between LF/HF and blood glucose variation ( = 12.05, CI95%: 2.35; 21.76), insulin ( = 16.90, CI95%: 1.90; 31.90) and HOMA-IR ( = 1.79, CI95%: 0.27; 3.23). When considering interaction with groups, RMSSD showed a positive relationship with TEF in the control meal and a negative relationship in the UPF meal (-interaction = 0.04).ConclusionFasting autonomic function influences postprandial insulin sensitivity in individuals with obesity, regardless of the UPF content of the meal. The influence on TEF appears to depend on the meal's UPF content.Clinical trial registry (ReBEC)RBR-56nsh92: https://ensaiosclinicos.gov.br/rg/RBR-56nsh92.
About
- Frequency
- Sun
- Papers found
- 200
- RSS feed
- Subscribe