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Nutr Health [JOURNAL]

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Nutritional intake, body composition, and psychological well-being in women with hypothyroidism: A cross-sectional study.

Özcan FÖ, Yıldız Z

Nutr Health · 2026 Apr · PMID 42041282 · Publisher ↗

BackgroundHypothyroidism is a prevalent endocrine disorder with wide-ranging metabolic and psychological consequences. While links between thyroid dysfunction, obesity, and depression are recognized, few studies have con... BackgroundHypothyroidism is a prevalent endocrine disorder with wide-ranging metabolic and psychological consequences. While links between thyroid dysfunction, obesity, and depression are recognized, few studies have concurrently explored dietary factors, body composition, and mental health in women, the most affected population.ObjectivesTo assess dietary and micronutrient intake, body composition, and psychological well-being in women with hypothyroidism compared with euthyroid controls.MethodsIn this cross-sectional study, 128 women (64 with hypothyroidism; 64 euthyroid) were evaluated. Dietary and micronutrient intake were assessed via a 24-h recall and food frequency questionnaire analyzed using BEBİS 8.1 Nutrition System. Anthropometric indices included body mass index (BMI) and waist-to-hip ratio (WHR). Psychological status was assessed with the Beck Depression Inventory-II (BDI-II) and Perceived Stress Scale-10. Multiple linear regressions identified independent predictors of psychological outcomes.ResultsWomen with hypothyroidism exhibited higher BMI (26.58 ± 4.96 vs 23.58 ± 4.56 kg/m; p = 0.001) and WHR (0.83 ± 0.09 vs 0.79 ± 0.09; p = 0.011). Depression scores were higher in hypothyroid group (BDI-II: 23.9 ± 21.4 vs 15.7 ± 11.6; p = 0.008), whereas perceived stress did not differ (p = 0.752). Micronutrient intake, including iodine and iron, was comparable between groups. BMI and hypothyroidism were independent predictors of depressive symptoms and perceived stress (p < 0.01; Cohen's d = 0.63).ConclusionHypothyroid women exhibit adverse body composition and higher depressive symptoms independent of diet. The associations between adiposity, depression, and stress emphasize the interconnection between metabolic and mental health. These findings highlight the holistic management combining hormonal, nutritional, and psychological care.

GLP-1 nutrition in the age of GLP-1s: When appetite shrinks but responsibility expands.

Asghar W, Javed K, Khalid N

Nutr Health · 2026 May · PMID 42029906 · Publisher ↗

Abstract loading — click title to view on PubMed.

Dietary patterns and metabolic syndrome in US adults: Moderation by food security and sex.

Zamora AN, Gersten ZP, Cadenhead JW

Nutr Health · 2026 Apr · PMID 42017962 · Publisher ↗

BackgroundMetabolic syndrome (MetS) comprises a cluster of cardiometabolic risk factors that are associated with dietary patterns and social conditions. Examining how dietary patterns and MetS are associated and whether... BackgroundMetabolic syndrome (MetS) comprises a cluster of cardiometabolic risk factors that are associated with dietary patterns and social conditions. Examining how dietary patterns and MetS are associated and whether assocations are moderated by food security and sex may inform targeted nutrition strategies for MetS prevention.AimTo examine associations between data-driven dietary patterns and MetS in a nationally representative sample of US adults and to assess whether associations differed by sex and household food security status.MethodsThis cross-sectional study analyzed data from 1333 adults aged ≥18 years in the 2015-2018 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey. Dietary intake was assessed using two non-consecutive 24-h recalls, and survey-weighted principal components analysis identified dietary patterns from energy-adjusted intakes of 26 food groups. MetS was defined using National Cholesterol Education Program Adult Treatment Panel III criteria (≥3 of: Elevated waist circumference, blood pressure, fasting glucose, triglycerides, or reduced high-density lipoprotein cholesterol). Survey-weighted logistic regression estimated odds of MetS across tertiles of dietary pattern adherence, adjusting for potential confounders.ResultsThree major dietary patterns were identified in the overall sample, with greater adherence to a Prudent Seafood and Plant-Based pattern associated with lower MetS -scores ( = 0.0019) and a lower odds of MetS ( = 0.0069). Among males, a Refined Grain, Tomato and Cheese pattern was associated with lower odds of MetS ( = 0.04), while an Oils, Nuts and Processed Meats pattern was associated with higher odds ( = 0.03). Food security status modified the association between the Whole Grain, Produce and Low-Fat Dairy pattern and MetS ( < 0.0001).ConclusionsIn a sample of US adults, data-driven dietary patterns showed differential associations with MetS, varying by sex and food security status. These findings indicate effect modification by sex and food security in the relationship between dietary patterns and MetS.

Megaloblastic anemia due to hereditary intrinsic factor deficiency presenting as recurrent anemia in a young girl-a case report.

Motamarri RSAL, Muthuvel V, Madhileti S … +3 more , Srinivasa Rangan R, Chandrasekaran V, Gunasekaran D

Nutr Health · 2026 Apr · PMID 42012420 · Publisher ↗

BACKGROUND: Childhood anemia is a very common problem in India, out of which more than one-third is attributed to vitamin B12 deficiency. AIM: To follow up on a girl with recurrent anemia who was later diagnosed with her... BACKGROUND: Childhood anemia is a very common problem in India, out of which more than one-third is attributed to vitamin B12 deficiency. AIM: To follow up on a girl with recurrent anemia who was later diagnosed with hereditary intrinsic factor deficiency. METHODS: An eight-year-old girl presented with recurrent anemia, easy fatigability, poor appetite, and abdominal pain for one month. The hemoglobin was 4.3 g/dL, and the peripheral smear showed a dimorphic picture. Serum vitamin B12 was severely low at <50 pg/mL. After a packed red blood cell transfusion, she was advised to take oral vitamin B12 and iron supplements. Her symptoms and vitamin B12 levels did not improve on follow-up, which led to suspicion of a congenital intrinsic factor deficiency (proven by whole exome sequencing). The child is currently doing well on monthly vitamin B12 injections. SUMMARY: This case highlights the importance of considering rare inherited causes in a child with recurrent severe anemia, even in regions where nutritional deficiencies are common.

Long-term aspartame consumption affects global levels of DNA methylation in different types of rat tissues.

Sadic AK, Susgun S, Alkhalidi D … +3 more , Yucesan E, Akbas F, Elibol B

Nutr Health · 2026 Apr · PMID 42012419 · Publisher ↗

BackgroundAspartame, a widely used artificial sweetener, is metabolized into phenylalanine, aspartic acid, and methanol. Previous studies have suggested that these metabolites may exert detrimental effects on the human b... BackgroundAspartame, a widely used artificial sweetener, is metabolized into phenylalanine, aspartic acid, and methanol. Previous studies have suggested that these metabolites may exert detrimental effects on the human body, particularly through alterations gene expression.AimThis study aimed to investigate the effects of long-term aspartame consumption on global DNA methylation levels in different tissues in order to evaluate the potential epigenetic mechanisms associated with low- and high-dose aspartame exposure.MethodsEighteen adult rats were divided into three groups: control ( = 6), low-dose aspartame (50 mg/kg,  = 6), and high-dose aspartame (250 mg/kg,  = 6). Aspartame was administered daily via drinking water for 10 weeks. At the end of the 10 week, the rats were sacrificed under anesthesia, and pancreas, liver, kidney, testis, and brain tissues were collected to determine global DNA methylation levels.ResultsHigh-dose aspartame consumption significantly increased the global 5-mC levels in the liver, kidney, and pancreas compared with the low-dose and control groups. No significant change was observed in global 5-mC levels in the testis. Interestingly, low-dose aspartame exposure increased the global 5-mC levels in the brain cortex, whereas high-dose aspartame did not produce a significant change.ConclusionThe present study provides the first evidence suggesting that prolonged exposure to high doses of aspartame may regulate gene expression by altering global DNA methylation levels in the liver, kidney, and pancreatic tissues.

When nutrition science fails: A bibliometric analysis of retracted diet-related articles (2000-2025).

Sánchez-Calabuig MA, Martínez-Roldán C, Izcara S … +4 more , Pedauyé-Rueda B, Lozano-Estevan MDC, Hervás-Pérez JP, Herrera-Peco I

Nutr Health · 2026 Apr · PMID 42012409 · Publisher ↗

IntroductionRetractions aim to remove flawed science, yet delayed withdrawals allow erroneous nutrition research to influence reviews, guidelines, and textbooks. This bibliometric study examined causes, geographic patter... IntroductionRetractions aim to remove flawed science, yet delayed withdrawals allow erroneous nutrition research to influence reviews, guidelines, and textbooks. This bibliometric study examined causes, geographic patterns, and post-retraction impact of nutrition articles withdrawn between 2000 and 2025.MethodsPubMed/MEDLINE and PubMed Central were searched (30 April 2025) for records indexed as 'Retracted Publication' using human-nutrition MeSH terms. Inclusion required a human-nutrition focus and formal retraction notice. Scopus provided citation counts, document types, and author affiliations. Notices were coded into eight exclusive categories (κ = 0.86). Time-to-retraction (TTR) was the interval, in years, between publication and withdrawal. Descriptive analyses used JAMOVI.ResultsForty-five retracted articles were identified. Leading causes were methodological/statistical errors (18.9%), lack of ethics approval (15.1%), and data-integrity breaches (11.3%). Mean TTR was 5.7 ± 4.8 years (median = 4.2). China and the U.S. contributed most to absolute numbers (28 % and 14 %), while Greece and Nigeria had the highest retraction densities. The corpus accrued 1155 citations, 53 % post-retraction; 62 % of those appeared in reviews or meta-analyses. Citation half-life post-withdrawal was 3.3 years, and fewer than 10 % included explicit warnings.ConclusionDelayed retractions enable flawed findings to distort pooled estimates in secondary research. Persistent citations expose gaps in alert systems. Most retractions stem from methodological or ethical flaws, yet their influence lingers. To safeguard scientific integrity, retraction notices must be standardised and machine-readable, peer review must include automated checks, and graduate education should incorporate training in citation.

Changes in maternal health care utilization in Afghanistan, 2010-2011 to 2022-2023.

Rawat R, Kaur N

Nutr Health · 2026 Apr · PMID 41989174 · Publisher ↗

Maternal healthcare in Afghanistan remains a challenge as it has the highest maternal mortality rate around the globe. Over the last decade, political instability has affected Afghanistan's health system and utilization... Maternal healthcare in Afghanistan remains a challenge as it has the highest maternal mortality rate around the globe. Over the last decade, political instability has affected Afghanistan's health system and utilization of healthcare services. The study examines the utilization of maternal healthcare services in Afghanistan during 2010-2011 to 2022-2023 to determine the changes of maternal health over the time. To achieve the study objective, data has been utilized from two rounds of Multiple Indicator Cluster Surveys (MICS4-2010-11 and MICS6-2022-23). The findings revealed that antenatal care coverage increased significantly from 58% in 2010-2011 to 74% in 2022-23 ( < 0.001). The results also show a substantial growth in deliveries occurring at public health facilities (from 31.6% to 56.9%) and a 4-percentage-point decline in caesarean section deliveries during the study period. Furthermore, the findings indicate that women's education levels played an important role in shaping these outcomes. Maternal healthcare utilization may have increased between the two survey periods, the political transition during the survey period was not directly measured, limiting the ability to draw causal inferences. The study findings highlight that improvements in women's education and economic status are strongly associated with higher use of maternal healthcare services. Persistently low levels of educational attainment and poor economic conditions among women remain significant barriers to accessing essential maternal health services. Ensuring equitable access to education and healthcare is therefore critical for improving maternal health outcomes and advancing Afghanistan's progress toward achieving Sustainable Development Goals 3 and 4.

Japanese sports dietitians' evidence-based practice implementation is associated with academic degree and English reading ability: A cross-sectional survey.

Tsukioka M, Ogawa S, Shimada M … +3 more , Tazawa A, Kojima R, Kakutani Y

Nutr Health · 2026 Apr · PMID 41989158 · Publisher ↗

BackgroundSport Nutrition is a fast-growing academic subject. Language and/or insufficient training will be barriers to evidence-based practice (EBP) for non-English native practitioners.AimWe investigated the EBP implem... BackgroundSport Nutrition is a fast-growing academic subject. Language and/or insufficient training will be barriers to evidence-based practice (EBP) for non-English native practitioners.AimWe investigated the EBP implementation in Japanese Accredited Sports Dietitians (ASDs).MethodsJapanese ASDs ( = 77) were recruited by snowball sampling for a cross-sectional online survey using the Japanese version of the Health Science EBP questionnaire. Correlations between the five domains' scores (attitudes, literacy, application, reflection, and environment) and differences by participants' sub-groups were analysed. Multiple regression analyses were performed for the literacy and application scores, respectively, using other domain scores (Model 1) and participants' sub-groups (Model 2).ResultsCorrelations between reflection skills and application scores ( = 0.724) and between the literacy and application scores ( = 0.721) were strong. In multiple regressions Model 1, the scores in application and environment were significant predictors of the literacy score (R = 0.602), while the literacy and reflection scores were of the application score (R = 0.693). The working area, academic degree, and English reading ability were significant factors in the literacy score Model 2 (R = 0.396), but not in the application score regression (R = 0.156). Thirty-six percent of the participants answered that they did not read scientific articles written in English, including six participants working in research/education (20%).ConclusionsEBP implementation in ASDs in a low English proficiency country could be improved with more EBP training, with strategies for optimal use of Artificial Intelligence tools and/or official translation of evidence-based guidelines.

Antenatal breastfeeding education approaches for breast soreness prevention among primiparous Indonesian women: A study protocol.

Nurhayati E, Sampurno E, Haksari EL … +5 more , Aliya LS, Fatimatasari F, Yanuar Saifudin IMM, Lewis EC, Lestari P

Nutr Health · 2026 Apr · PMID 41954512 · Publisher ↗

BACKGROUND: Inadequate positioning and attachment in the early postpartum period frequently result in breast soreness, which is among the leading causes of breastfeeding discontinuation. These conditions compromise exclu... BACKGROUND: Inadequate positioning and attachment in the early postpartum period frequently result in breast soreness, which is among the leading causes of breastfeeding discontinuation. These conditions compromise exclusive breastfeeding and may adversely affect infant nutrition, underscoring the importance of effective antenatal breastfeeding education. Yet, few studies have evaluated clinical approaches to improving breastfeeding technique during pregnancy in this setting. OBJECTIVES: This study aims to investigate the impact of antenatal breastfeeding education delivered through clinical demonstrations on the incidence of breast soreness among primiparous Indonesian women. METHODS: A quasi-experimental design with equivalent-time samples will be used. Participants will be pregnant women in their third trimester, randomized 1:1 into experimental and control groups. The intervention group will receive two 40-minute sessions, including a clinical demonstration of correct breastfeeding positioning and attachment, and an educational electronic booklet ("e-booklet"), while the control group will receive standard educational materials once. Primary outcomes will be evaluated at 7 and 14 days postpartum. Data analysis will include independent t-tests and repeated-measures analysis of variance (ANOVA) to compare mean differences between groups, with multivariate logistic regression used to identify covariates. SUMMARY: This protocol will inform future interventions and programs aimed at strengthening breastfeeding education among primiparous mothers in Indonesian community settings. Findings may also guide the application of evidence-based best practices in similar contexts worldwide, with potential implications for reducing early feeding difficulties.

Prebiotics characterization from traditional legumes and fruits sources and their synergistic effects on probiotic growth and short-chain fatty acid (SCFA) production.

Khatav PS, Sawant A, Kadam NS … +3 more , Badwe VU, Pandey PG, Doshi PJ

Nutr Health · 2026 Apr · PMID 41949542 · Publisher ↗

BackgroundPrebiotics are nondigestible compounds that support gut health by promoting beneficial microbes. Mung beans, horse gram, figs (), and umbar () are fiber-rich traditional foods with unexplored prebiotic potentia... BackgroundPrebiotics are nondigestible compounds that support gut health by promoting beneficial microbes. Mung beans, horse gram, figs (), and umbar () are fiber-rich traditional foods with unexplored prebiotic potential. Studying them may aid in developing affordable functional foods.AimTo evaluate the prebiotic potential of four culturally significant plant-based foods-mung beans, horse gram, figs, and umbar.MethodologyTotal dietary fiber was quantified using the AOAC 991.43 enzymatic-gravimetric method. Oligosaccharides were extracted with 80% ethanol and characterized by Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy. Insoluble dietary fiber (IDF) was used for batch culture growth experiments, whereas the extracted oligosaccharides were evaluated separately for gastric stability, fermentation, and short-chain fatty acid production. Gastric stability was assessed under simulated gastric conditions (pH 1-5, 6 h). survival under acidic stress (pH 2.0, 48 h), bacterial growth with oligosaccharide supplementation, and anaerobic fermentation (basal mineral medium, 48 h) were evaluated. Short-chain fatty acids were analyzed using high-performance liquid chromatography.ResultsFigs contained the highest total dietary fiber (26.98 g/100 g) and oligosaccharide content (47.5 g/100 g), followed by umbar, horse gram, and mung beans. Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy confirmed inulin-type fructans. Oligomers showed partial gastric hydrolysis, with maximal degradation at pH 1.0 (66.1% mung bean, 36.7% horse gram, 44.1% fig, 58% umbar). survived acidic stress and efficiently utilized plant-derived substrates, achieving 3.54 × 10 cells/mL (horse gram, 48 h). Fermentation sustained 2.3-2.6 × 10 cells/mL with moderate pH drops. Short-chain fatty acid analysis revealed lactic, propionic, and butyric acids (fig); acetic, formic, and 4-methylvaleric acids (horse gram, umbar); and lactic and propionic acids (mung bean).ConclusionThese legumes and fruits demonstrate promising prebiotic potential. Although fig contained the highest levels of dietary fiber and oligosaccharides, horse gram IDF supported the greatest proliferation of , indicating that both substrate composition and microbial utilization efficiency contribute to prebiotic effectiveness. These findings support the use of these foods in functional and synbiotic products to enhance gut health.

Exploring factors affecting the use of blended diets for children and young people in health, education and social care settings in the UK: The protocol for a realist mixed methods study.

Phillips G, Coad J, Hickson M … +1 more , Manning JC

Nutr Health · 2026 Apr · PMID 41949538 · Publisher ↗

BackgroundEnteral tube feeding provides supplementary or alternative nutrition for individuals who cannot meet their nutritional needs orally and remains essential for a number of children and young people with complex h... BackgroundEnteral tube feeding provides supplementary or alternative nutrition for individuals who cannot meet their nutritional needs orally and remains essential for a number of children and young people with complex health needs. Commercial formula remains standard practice in the UK, although increasing numbers of children and their families are choosing a blended diet and reporting significant physical and social benefits. However, support for families in using blended diets varies across health, education and social settings in the UK.AimTo explore factors affecting the use of blended diets in health, education and social care settings.MethodsThis sequential mixed methods study uses a realist approach to understand what works for who under what circumstances and why. A point prevalence study of blended diet use in the UK will identify a stratified sample of professionals and families for interviews exploring their experiences. A Delphi study will prioritise key issues identified in the interview data.SummaryThis paper presents a novel, realist mixed methods protocol to investigate the contextual factors influencing the use of blended diets for children and young people across health, education and social care settings in the UK. Grounded in lived-experience, it addresses a critical gap in the evidence-base responding to family-identified priorities. Integrating qualitative and quantitative data enhances explanatory power and applicability to practice. Findings will inform future interventions and policy development, aiming to improve support and equity in blended diet provision. This research offers a robust foundation for advancing personalised enteral feeding approaches within multidisciplinary care.

Effects of 8 days of Ashwagandha supplementation on strength, fatigue, soreness, and recovery in amateur handball players: A double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled trial.

Ferreira JF, Maia F, Ferreira RM … +4 more , Martinho DV, Fernandes LG, Leão C, Pimenta N

Nutr Health · 2026 Apr · PMID 41940566 · Publisher ↗

BackgroundNutritional supplements are commonly used to increase strength, recovery, and overall athletic performance. (), a natural adaptogen, has shown promising ergogenic potential; however, evidence in athletes-parti... BackgroundNutritional supplements are commonly used to increase strength, recovery, and overall athletic performance. (), a natural adaptogen, has shown promising ergogenic potential; however, evidence in athletes-particularly over short-term periods remains limited.MethodsThis randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial investigated the effects of 8 days of supplementation (600 mg of standardized root extract daily) - a duration chosen to evaluate its potential utility during acute competitive periods - on neuromuscular performance and recovery in 31 male handball players (age: 20.3 ± 3.1 years). Participants ingested either (600 mg/day) or placebo capsules. Assessments included knee extension and flexion strength, handgrip strength, perceived muscle soreness, fatigue, and total quality recovery (TQR), measured at baseline, day 4, and day 8.Results significantly improved handgrip strength compared with placebo after 8 days (d = 0.33;  = 0.011), whereas no consistent effects were found for knee flexion or extension. Perceived soreness, fatigue, and recovery did not differ meaningfully between groups.ConclusionsShort-term supplementation may enhance handgrip strength, suggesting a potential neuromuscular benefit in athletes. However, the lack of consistent effects on lower-limb strength and subjective recovery highlights the need for longer-term studies to confirm these findings.

Natural carb blockers: Emerging nutritional strategy, or overhyped nutraceuticals?

Asghar W, Javed K, Khalid N

Nutr Health · 2026 Mar · PMID 41934644 · Publisher ↗

Abstract loading — click title to view on PubMed.

An antiageing telomere-protective effect of superoxide dismutase-rich in human cells.

Blázquez-Moreno A, Orgaz L, Rodríguez-Moreno E … +6 more , Asensio A, Marsal M, Mantecón L, Infante C, Samper E, Flemetakis E

Nutr Health · 2026 Mar · PMID 41910429 · Publisher ↗

A -derived ingredient exhibiting a high superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity (TSOD) has previously been shown to act as a cellular health promoter, activating cellular antioxidant and anti-inflammatory mechanisms, and pro... A -derived ingredient exhibiting a high superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity (TSOD) has previously been shown to act as a cellular health promoter, activating cellular antioxidant and anti-inflammatory mechanisms, and protecting DNA from damage, among other bioactivities. To date, the potential of TSOD to protect telomeric DNA from shortening has not been studied. In this study, potential protective effects of TSOD on telomere length were evaluated in neonatal human fibroblasts both under standard and oxidative conditions induced by HO. Based on cytotoxicity tests, three different dilutions of a phosphate-buffered saline extract of TSOD (TSOD_A: 1/160, TSOD_B: 1/320, TSOD_C: 1/640) were assessed after four and eight weeks of treatment using the proprietary telomere analysis technology. Under standard culture conditions, no significant differences in telomere-related variables were observed between control and treated cells after 4 weeks. However, by week 8, cells treated with TSOD_A exhibited a higher 20 percentile compared to the untreated control. Under oxidative stress conditions, both TSOD_A and TSOD_C significantly increased both median telomere length and 20 percentile, and reduced critically short telomeres (< 3 kbp) and the telomere shortening rate. Notably, TSOD_A maintained these significant differences also after 8 weeks of exposure. Taken together, these results demonstrated a protective effect of TSOD on telomere length in human cells, supporting the potential of TSOD to combat the deleterious effects of telomere shortening, thus promoting healthy ageing and longevity.

The experiences and perceptions of males using testosterone booster supplements - An exploratory cross-sectional survey.

Everett J, Minehan M, Praet S … +1 more , McKune A

Nutr Health · 2026 Mar · PMID 41873568 · Publisher ↗

Circulating testosterone levels decrease as males age and this is associated with changes in muscle mass, bone density, libido and general wellbeing. Testosterone booster (TB) supplements are purported to increase testos... Circulating testosterone levels decrease as males age and this is associated with changes in muscle mass, bone density, libido and general wellbeing. Testosterone booster (TB) supplements are purported to increase testosterone and mitigate some of the physical and psychological symptoms of ageing. These supplements are popular in young and middle-aged males yet there is limited assessment of the beliefs, perceptions and experiences of males who use TB supplements. This cross-sectional, online survey explored the motivations, experiences and viewpoints of a sample of 182 males with experience of using TB supplements. Approximately two thirds of survey respondents perceived they had gained expected benefits from TB supplements despite concomitant use of other dietary supplements, instigation of lifestyle change and lack of objective measurement of effects. Perceived benefits included positive body composition alterations and improvements to energy and libido. One quarter of respondents reported mild side-effects from TB supplements. As such, caution is advised when taking TB supplements, and monitoring of adverse events is recommended.

Diet quality and functional nutritional assessment in children and adolescents with cancer.

Goretti PF, Barbosa RM, Bergmann A … +3 more , Almeida LB, Defilipo ÉC, Chagas PSC

Nutr Health · 2026 Mar · PMID 41873560 · Publisher ↗

IntroductionMalnutrition and changes in body composition are common in pediatric cancer patients and are often underestimated during outpatient care. Simple anthropometric tools and functional assessments may enhance nut... IntroductionMalnutrition and changes in body composition are common in pediatric cancer patients and are often underestimated during outpatient care. Simple anthropometric tools and functional assessments may enhance nutritional screening and clinical monitoring in this population. This study aims to investigate the relationship between anthropometric indicators, handgrip strength (HGS), and dietary intake in children and adolescents undergoing cancer treatment, compared to healthy peers.MethodsA cross-sectional study was conducted with 45 participants (15 cancer patients and 30 age- and sex-matched controls). Assessments included arm and calf circumferences, tricipital skinfold, arm muscle circumference, HGS via dynamometry, and a 3-day dietary record classified using the NOVA system.ResultsThe cancer group reported significantly lower consumption of ultra-processed foods compared to controls ( = 0.039). Anthropometric indicators and HGS were significantly lower in the cancer group ( < 0.05). A strong positive correlation was found between HGS and calf circumference (r > 0.80). In the total sample, 42.2% were eutrophic, while 51.1% were classified as overweight or obese.ConclusionHGS and basic anthropometric measurements may serve as supportive tools for early identification of nutritional risk. Integrating these indicators into routine outpatient care may support targeted interventions and promote dietary quality in children with chronic illnesses.

Acute hemodynamic and autonomic modulation following beetroot and grapefruit juice consumption, alone and in combination, in adults with hypertension: A randomized crossover pilot study.

Sai A, Shetty P, Shetty GB

Nutr Health · 2026 Mar · PMID 41873556 · Publisher ↗

BackgroundDietary strategies such as beetroot juice and grapefruit juice have been proposed to acutely influence blood pressure and autonomic regulation through nitrate and polyphenol-related pathways. However, evidence... BackgroundDietary strategies such as beetroot juice and grapefruit juice have been proposed to acutely influence blood pressure and autonomic regulation through nitrate and polyphenol-related pathways. However, evidence comparing their individual and combined acute effects in hypertensive adults remains limited.ObjectiveTo investigate the acute effects of beetroot juice, grapefruit juice, and their combined ingestion on blood pressure and heart rate variability (HRV) in adults with hypertension.MethodsIn a randomized crossover pilot study, 15 adults with hypertension consumed beetroot juice, grapefruit juice, and a combined beetroot-grapefruit juice intervention in randomized order, with appropriate washout between visits. Systolic (SBP) and diastolic blood pressure (DBP) and HRV indices were assessed at baseline and at multiple time points up to 4.5 h post-ingestion. Data were analysed using repeated-measures models testing the effects of condition, time, and their interaction. Inferential conclusions were based on between-condition analyses.ResultsSignificant main effects of time were observed for SBP ( = 0.002), DBP ( = 0.006), heart rate ( = 0.004), and selected HRV indices, including the standard deviation of NN intervals ( = 0.034), the square root of the mean of the sum of the squares of differences between adjacent NN intervals ( = 0.028), and the proportion derived by dividing NN50 by the total number of NN intervals ( = 0.049). However, no significant main effects of condition or condition × time interactions were detected for any outcome, indicating that temporal physiological responses did not differ significantly between beetroot juice, grapefruit juice, and their combination.ConclusionAcute time-dependent changes in haemodynamic and autonomic parameters were observed following juice ingestion in hypertensive adults, with no clear differential effects between interventions. These findings are hypothesis-generating and highlight the need for larger, placebo-controlled trials incorporating biochemical validation to clarify potential dietary influences on cardiovascular regulation.

Water is K'é: A multi-level intervention to promote healthy beverage choices among Navajo families: Trial rationale and study protocol.

George C, John B, Yazzie AS … +15 more , Jones K, Aspaas M, Folz A, Hecht C, Hecht K, Trevisi L, Zhang Z, Egge M, Benally L, Bitah K, Bennett E, Halwood-Goldtooth R, Lameman J, Nelson N, Shin S

Nutr Health · 2026 Mar · PMID 41873553 · Full text

BackgroundFamily-level interventions can promote early child health. Partnering with community stakeholders, we co-developed Water is K'é, a culturally grounded family intervention delivered in early childhood education... BackgroundFamily-level interventions can promote early child health. Partnering with community stakeholders, we co-developed Water is K'é, a culturally grounded family intervention delivered in early childhood education settings to promote healthy beverage choices and wellbeing among Navajo. (Diné) children ages two to seven. This manuscript describes the rationale, design, and methods of the study.AimTo evaluate the impact of Water is K'é on beverage behaviors among children and families, and on family cohesion and cultural connectedness.MethodsDiné and non-Diné researchers and community advisors developed the intervention and study design using community engagement methods. In this cluster-randomized crossover trial, early childhood education sites on Navajo Nation will be enrolled and randomly assigned to begin the intervention in year one or serve as a waitlist control until year two. Child-caregiver dyads will be enrolled at the start of the school year, with optional participation from other family members. The intervention strengthens the cultural connection to water, encourages behavior change, and addresses water access through 4 monthly lesson plans, social media content, and tailored strategies to increase children's access to drinking water throughout the day. Primary endpoints include beverage habits and family cohesion. Collected data includes surveys, optional health measures, and qualitative interviews.SummaryWater is K'é is a multilevel, community-designed intervention emphasizing Navajo language and culture. Innovative features include participant choice of health measures and family member enrollment. If successful, the program could be scaled across Navajo Nation and adapted for other early childhood programs.

Ultra-processed food intake and Mediterranean diet adherence in relation to fertility status in U.S. women: Findings from NHANES 2013-2018.

Baric A, Flannagan L, Martinez-Steele E … +2 more , Bauer A, Christoforou A

Nutr Health · 2026 Mar · PMID 41854359 · Publisher ↗

BackgroundDietary quality is a critical determinant of reproductive health, yet little is known about how distinct dietary patterns and food processing affect fertility outcomes in the general population.AimTo examine th... BackgroundDietary quality is a critical determinant of reproductive health, yet little is known about how distinct dietary patterns and food processing affect fertility outcomes in the general population.AimTo examine the associations between ultra-processed food (UPF) intake and Mediterranean diet (MD) adherence and self-reported fertility among American women of reproductive age.MethodsWe analyzed data from 2582 women aged 20-45 years participating in the 2013-2018 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey. Fertility status was defined based on self-reported attempts to conceive for ≥12 months. Dietary data collected by two 24-h dietary recalls was used to classify UPFs according to the Nova classification and UPF intake was defined as % grams per day. MD adherence was assessed using a modified 8-point score. Multivariable logistic regression models were used to examine associations, adjusting for sociodemographic and health covariates, including obesity.SummaryThe mean UPF intake was 27.15% of daily intake (g/day) and the mean MD score was 3.35 out of 8. Women reporting infertility had significantly higher UPF intake and lower MD scores compared to fertile women. Higher UPF intake was significantly associated with lower odds of fertility in the fully adjusted model (OR = 0.32; 95% CI: 0.14, 0.75). MD adherence was initially associated with higher odds of fertility (OR = 1.16; 95% CI: 1.00, 1.33), though this association was no longer significant when adjusted for obesity. These findings underscore the need for dietary guidance targeting women of reproductive age.
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