Nutr Health
· 2026 Mar · PMID 41004357
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BackgroundIn previous research, probiotics have shown to be beneficial in preventing and limiting the progress of upper respiratory infections. Their effectiveness in relation to coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has b...BackgroundIn previous research, probiotics have shown to be beneficial in preventing and limiting the progress of upper respiratory infections. Their effectiveness in relation to coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has been investigated mainly in hospitalized patients, and less so among outpatients who constitute majority of COVID-19 cases.AimThis systematic review evaluates the available evidence regarding the effectiveness of probiotic use on prevention and treatment of COVID-19 among patients with mild symptoms in outpatient settings.MethodsPubMed, Embase and Cochrane Library were searched for studies from their inception to May 2024, restricting to randomized controlled trials and before-and-after studies. The primary outcomes were infection incidence and complete remission rate. Cochrane risk-of-bias tool (RoB 2.0) and risk of bias in non-randomized studies of interventions tool (ROBINS-I) were used to assess the risk of bias. The Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development, and Evaluations approach was performed to assess the certainty of the evidence.ResultsEight randomized controlled trials and one pre-post study on 1235 participants were included. Four studies had low risk of bias. Probiotics were effective in reducing the incidence of COVID-19 upon exposure and accelerating the symptomatic remission of mild COVID-19 with less systemic symptoms. Overall, the certainty of evidence on both primary outcomes was moderate. Comorbidities and old ages were found to be significant confounders. Probiotics demonstrated significant immunomodulatory and humoral effects in the nasopharyngeal cavity.ConclusionThese results suggest that probiotics are effective at preventing COVID-19 and support faster recovery from mild COVID-19 among individuals seeking for outpatient care. People with comorbidities, that is, metabolic disorder and elderly benefit the most from probiotics supplements.
The university period is critical for establishing positive lifestyle habits that can reduce long-term risk for chronic diseases. To analyze the associations between dietary patterns, lifestyle factors, and body mass in...The university period is critical for establishing positive lifestyle habits that can reduce long-term risk for chronic diseases. To analyze the associations between dietary patterns, lifestyle factors, and body mass index (BMI) among female university students enrolled in the Nutrition and Dietetics program at the University of Antioquia. A cross-sectional analysis was conducted with 251 female students (22.0 ± 2.8 years) selected via proportion-based random sampling. Sociodemographic, anthropometric, lifestyle, and food frequency data were collected using standardized questionnaires administered by trained nutritionists. A Dietary Index (DI) was calculated from 35 food groups to assess diet quality. Kendall's Tau-C test was used to evaluate associations between specific food groups and BMI. Additionally, Classification and Regression Tree (CART) analysis was applied to identify the variables most strongly associated with BMI, modeled both as categorical and continuous outcomes. Students with higher food spending ( = 0.013), a healthy DI ( = 0.015), and enrollment in the contributory health system ( = 0.027) were more likely to have a normal BMI. CART analysis revealed that better DI scores and reduced screen time were associated with lower BMI, with the DI emerging as the primary discriminating variable. Individual food group analysis showed significant associations between BMI and frequent consumption of high-sodium sauces ( = 0.005; = 0.142), canned foods ( = 0.034; = -0.111), and sugar-sweetened beverages ( = 0.003; = -0.113), though these correlations were weak. University settings should prioritize interventions such as healthy food services, nutrition education workshops, and accessible recreational facilities to promote healthy lifestyles among students. These strategies may help reduce the risk of overweight and obesity and support long-term health.
BackgroundAstaxanthin is a carotenoid phytochemical primarily found in , , and various algae and crustaceans.Aims/objectivesThis study aimed to evaluate astaxanthin's in vivo antioxidant properties and investigate its ef...BackgroundAstaxanthin is a carotenoid phytochemical primarily found in , , and various algae and crustaceans.Aims/objectivesThis study aimed to evaluate astaxanthin's in vivo antioxidant properties and investigate its effectiveness in mitigating oxidative stress induced by cadmium exposure.Methods/methodologyEighty experimental rats were divided into four groups ( = 20 each): an untreated control group (Group 1), an astaxanthin-treated group (Group 2), a cadmium-exposed group (Group 3), and a cadmium-astaxanthin group (Group 4). Rats in Group 2 received daily oral doses of astaxanthin at 50 mg/kg body weight, and those in Group 3 were given an aqueous solution of cadmium chloride at a final concentration of 5 mg/kg b.w. per day. Rats in Group 4 were treated with both astaxanthin and cadmium chloride. Hematological and biochemical assays were conducted to achieve the study's objectives.Results/findingsThe hematological and biochemical profiles of the cadmium-exposed rats (Group 3) showed significant alterations compared to the untreated control. In the biochemical assessments (serum profile), the astaxanthin-treated animals (Group 2) exhibited no significant changes compared to the untreated control. Conversely, rats in Group 4 (exposed to cadmium and treated with astaxanthin) showed increased levels of total proteins and significant increases in antioxidant markers, including total thiols, glutathione, total antioxidant capacity, superoxide dismutase, glutathione peroxidase, and catalase. Additionally, this group demonstrated significant decreases in blood cadmium levels, alkaline phosphatase, alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase, creatinine, blood urea nitrogen, urea, bilirubin, and oxidative markers and malondialdehyde compared to the cadmium-only group (Group 3). Tissue homogenates from the liver and kidneys of Group 3 exhibited similar results to those revealed by serum biochemical analyses.ConclusionThe study concluded that astaxanthin possesses effective antioxidant properties that significantly help reduce the oxidative stress induced by cadmium exposure.
Nutr Health
· 2025 Sep · PMID 40971562
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Rural populations in the US experience a higher prevalence of chronic diseases compared with urban populations. Consumption of healthy foods in rural areas can be limited by factors such as reduced access and availabilit...Rural populations in the US experience a higher prevalence of chronic diseases compared with urban populations. Consumption of healthy foods in rural areas can be limited by factors such as reduced access and availability. Limited intake of fruits and vegetables is a common risk factor for chronic disease, but differences in intake by sociodemographic characteristics among rural populations are inadequately characterized. We described the prevalence of consuming fruits and vegetables at least once per day by sociodemographic subgroups among US adults in rural counties. We conducted a pooled, cross-sectional study of 218,905 US adults aged ≥18 years in rural counties (non-metropolitan and non-core counties defined by the National Center for Health Statistics) using 2019 and 2021 Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System data. Sociodemographic factors included age, sex, race or ethnicity, education, employment, income, healthcare access, US Census division, and state. The two primary outcomes were self-reported consumption of fruits and of vegetables at least once per day. Weighted prevalence estimates were calculated using predictive margins derived from adjusted logistic regression models. The prevalence of consuming fruits at least once per day was 57.6% (95% confidence interval (CI): [57.1-58.0]) and for vegetables was 80.0% (95% CI: [79.6-80.4]). For both fruits and vegetables, prevalence was generally higher among rural adults who were older; female; reported higher education, higher income, greater healthcare access; or resided in states in New England. Fruit and vegetable consumption is inadequate across the population with some groups more likely to have lower consumption, such as younger adults, men, and adults of lower socioeconomic status. Interventions that address both population-level contextual factors and individual-level barriers for those most at risk for lower consumption may increase fruit and vegetable consumption.
Nutr Health
· 2026 Jan · PMID 40961265
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BackgroundLifestyle factors, including dietary fasting and structured eating habits, may influence neurodegenerative processes in Huntington's disease (HD), yet little is known about dietary behaviors in this population....BackgroundLifestyle factors, including dietary fasting and structured eating habits, may influence neurodegenerative processes in Huntington's disease (HD), yet little is known about dietary behaviors in this population.AimEvaluate the frequency of fasting habits, identify meal timing characteristics, and explore dietary composition choices in individuals with or at-risk for HD.MethodsAn electronic survey was distributed within the HD community. Responses were collected for one year and statistically analyzed.ResultsAmong 116 respondents, 42% reported practicing a fasting protocol, with 36% sustaining it for over a year and 40% applying it as a weight loss strategy. The most common type was daily 16:8 fasting. Mediterranean, low-carbohydrate, and vegetarian diets were the most frequently adopted structured dietary patterns.ConclusionsFasting and structured eating habits are common in the HD community, suggesting dietary interventions may be feasible and relevant. Future studies are needed to evaluate their safety and effects in HD.
Braun A, Hosseininasab D, Corcoran S
… +5 more, Godsey T, Lucas E, McCann M, Koehler G, Emerson SR
Nutr Health
· 2026 Jan · PMID 40961261
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Despite a long-standing appreciation for the benefits of dietary fiber consumption, there is a lack of interventions focused exclusively on improving dietary fiber intake. The aim of this study is to determine the effec...Despite a long-standing appreciation for the benefits of dietary fiber consumption, there is a lack of interventions focused exclusively on improving dietary fiber intake. The aim of this study is to determine the effects of an intervention focused singularly on improving dietary fiber on weight, eating behavior, and markers of cardiometabolic risk. This pilot study will employ a three-arm, factorial design to examine effects of a novel dietary fiber-focused intervention: Fiber for Improvement of Behavior, Eating, and Risk (FIBER), compared to standard weight loss education alone or in combination with FIBER. FIBER is 3 months long, including group-based educational sessions and remote counseling using motivational interviewing. Intervention content is focused on dietary fiber. This includes what dietary fiber is, where to find it, why to consume it, and how to consume it via theory-driven behavior change techniques and strategies (e.g. observational learning). Adults consuming ≤25 g of dietary fiber/day and a body mass index ≥30 kg/m will be recruited using online advertisements. Participants will complete in-person data collection visits at baseline and 1 and 2 years post-FIBER to measure body mass (primary outcome), blood lipids, dietary fiber intake, behavior and cognitive measures, stool samples, and body composition (secondary outcomes). One remote data collection session will occur directly after FIBER to assess dietary fiber intake and behavior and cognitive measures. This study will provide data regarding effects of a dietary fiber-focused intervention on diet and eating-related behavior, body weight, and cardiometabolic risk factors in adults with obesity.
The pre-gestational, gestational, and postpartum periods are marked by physiological, hormonal, and emotional changes that can significantly impact women's eating habits and behaviors. In this context, mindful eating and...The pre-gestational, gestational, and postpartum periods are marked by physiological, hormonal, and emotional changes that can significantly impact women's eating habits and behaviors. In this context, mindful eating and intuitive eating have emerged as promising strategies to promote a healthier relationship with food throughout these stages. To investigate the practice of mindful eating and intuitive eating during the pre-gestational, gestational, and postpartum periods. This longitudinal study was conducted with pregnant women receiving care in both the public and private healthcare systems in Lavras, Minas Gerais, Brazil. Data related to the pre-pregnancy period (retrospective) and pregnancy were collected in person between July 2019 and February 2020. Postpartum data were collected through telephone interviews from March 2020 to May 2021, due to social distancing measures imposed by the COVID-19 pandemic. Eating behavior was assessed using self-administered versions of the Mindful Eating Questionnaire (MEQ) and the Intuitive Eating Scale (IES. The MEQ was used to analyze mindful eating, and the IES was used to assess intuitive eating. Analysis of covariance was employed to compare the mean scores of eating behaviors across the different periods, followed by Bonferroni post hoc tests to identify significant differences. Data are presented as means and standard deviations. The sample consisted of 103 participants (mean age 28.50 ± 6.11 years). During pregnancy, women showed higher mean scores for intuitive eating (3.43 ± 0.51) and mindful eating (2.69 ± 0.35) compared to the pre-pregnancy period (3.36 ± 0.55 and 2.59 ± 0.34, respectively; = 0.038 and < 0.001). However, when comparing pregnancy to the postpartum period, a higher mean score for mindful eating was observed in the postpartum period (2.75 ± 0.31; < 0.001). Women showed greater engagement in intuitive and mindful eating during pregnancy compared to the pre-gestational period, and mindful eating behaviors were maintained postpartum. These findings suggest that maternal nutritional interventions can be enhanced by incorporating these approaches, fostering the development of self-regulation in eating and mind-body connection, which supports healthier and more sustainable food choices throughout the perinatal period.
Nutr Health
· 2026 Jan · PMID 40956908
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Diet quality has been implicated in the development of abdominal obesity. Yet, the molecular components involved in this relationship remain largely unknown. This pilot study examined whether syndecan-4 (SDC4) may serve...Diet quality has been implicated in the development of abdominal obesity. Yet, the molecular components involved in this relationship remain largely unknown. This pilot study examined whether syndecan-4 (SDC4) may serve as a molecular link between diet quality and abdominal obesity. Serum SDC4 levels were measured in 41 women (aged 21-45) who self-identified as African American or European American. Diet quality was assessed using the healthy eating index (HEI) score derived from a food frequency questionnaire, while android percent fat was measured using dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry. Regression and mediation analyses were performed to examine the data. Significant ( < 0.05) negative correlations were observed between HEI scores and both body mass index (BMI) and android percent fat. SDC4 emerged as a significant predictor of HEI and mediated the negative associations of HEI with BMI and android percent fat, independent of race and age. Our findings suggest that SDC4 may play a key mechanistic role in linking adherence to dietary recommendations with reductions in android adiposity.
Campos CM, Gallo Ruelas M, Silva GHD
… +2 more, Lima FR, Holanda DF
Nutr Health
· 2026 Mar · PMID 40956687
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Background and purposeOverweight and obesity are critical public health issues linked to chronic diseases such as type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular conditions. Moro orange juice extract has emerged as an alternative for...Background and purposeOverweight and obesity are critical public health issues linked to chronic diseases such as type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular conditions. Moro orange juice extract has emerged as an alternative for promoting weight loss and improving body composition among overweight adults. Therefore, we conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis to evaluate its effectiveness and potential role in obesity management.AimTo evaluate the effectiveness of Moro orange juice extract supplementation on weight-related outcomes in overweight and obese adults.MethodsWe systematically searched PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) comparing Moro orange juice extract with placebo in overweight adults. Our primary outcomes were changes in body weight and body mass index (BMI). Secondary outcomes included waist circumference, fat mass, and lean mass.ResultsThree RCTs involving 252 participants were included in our analysis. The extract significantly reduced body weight (mean difference (MD) -2.08 kg; 95% confidence interval (CI) -3.50, -0.67; = 0%; < 0.01) and fat mass (MD -1.53 kg; 95% CI -2.92, -0.15; = 0%; = 0.03), the pooled analysis of waist circumference presented heterogeneous point estimates (MD -3.25 kg; 95% CI -6.44, -0.07; = 99%; = 0.05). No significant effects were observed on lean mass.ConclusionMoro orange juice extract may result in weight and fat mass reduction in overweight and obese adults. However, additional research is needed to determine the optimal dosage, duration of supplementation, and underlying mechanisms.
BackgroundConsumption of mercury during pregnancy is detrimental to life and results in neurodevelopmental delays, foetal development, premature birth, low birth weight, and spontaneous miscarriages. Socio-cultural norms...BackgroundConsumption of mercury during pregnancy is detrimental to life and results in neurodevelopmental delays, foetal development, premature birth, low birth weight, and spontaneous miscarriages. Socio-cultural norms and practices play a critical role in shaping dietary habits and food choices among pregnant women.AimTo assess the prevalence of mercury consumption, its socio-cultural drivers, and its nutritional implications among pregnant women in urban Mafeteng District, Lesotho.MethodUsing a cross-sectional design, quantitative and qualitative approaches, the study sampled 72 participants (50 pregnant women and 22 traditional healers), drawn from an estimated population of 16,682 using Epi Info software. Data was analyzed using SPSS version 20.ResultsThe mean age of pregnant women was 25 years (± 4.7 SD), more than 60% had a high school education, and more than 62% were not married. 48% reported obtaining mercury from the local chemist, with over 60% consuming it for more than 2 months. Mercury was consumed by 36% to reduce pain during childbirth, 24% to protect their unborn child against witchcraft, 28% a cultural practice. Among traditional healers, 95% were males, with a mean age of 34 years (± 12.4 SD). Of these 38% administered mercury to counter witchcraft, 53% to reduce labor pain, and ensure safe and timely delivery.ConclusionA high prevalence of mercury consumption among pregnant women existed and was largely influenced by socio-cultural norms and beliefs. Duration of exposure to mercury could affect early fetal development. Furthermore, side effects like nausea and vomiting may compromise maternal nutrition, adding to health risks during pregnancy. Need for urgent public health interventions to address these cultural practices and prevent mercury exposure.
BackgroundThe rapid adoption of artificial intelligence-powered tools like ChatGPT has introduced new avenues for patients to access health information independently. Understanding how patients perceive and engage with s...BackgroundThe rapid adoption of artificial intelligence-powered tools like ChatGPT has introduced new avenues for patients to access health information independently. Understanding how patients perceive and engage with such tools is essential to evaluating their trustworthiness, usability, and potential impact on health decision-making.AimThe purpose of this study is to investigate the facilitators and barriers of using ChatGPT as a health information resource for patients' health management.MethodsA qualitative research design was adopted in this study. The participants included outpatients at a public hospital. Participants interacted with ChatGPT (version 3.5) for at least 15 min daily over 2 weeks to explore health-related topics before participating in semi-structured interviews. A total of 28 outpatients participated in the interviews.ResultsThe findings from this study have indicated both positive and negative aspects of ChatGPT as a health information resource. Among the 28 participants, the most frequently reported facilitators included improved health literacy (reported by 26 participants, 92.9%), effectiveness and efficiency (24 participants, 85.7%), cost-effectiveness (23 participants, 82.1%), accessibility (17 participants, 60.7%), empowerment (13 participants, 46.4%), and anonymity (11 participants, 39.3%). Reported barriers included lack of personalized information (15 participants, 53.6%), limited reliability (9 participants, 32.1%), restricted diagnostic capability (6 participants, 21.4%), lack of human interaction (14 participants, 50%), privacy concerns (4 participants, 14.3%), legal and ethical issues (9 participants, 32.1%), and lack of emotional support (3 participants, 10.7%).ConclusionAlthough ChatGPT has significant benefits of being used as a health information resource, to arrive at specific conclusions, there is a need to extend these kinds of studies across the regions to assess the impact of ChatGPT on different populations for promoting health literacy.
BackgroundBreastfeeding positively influences glucose regulation in postpartum women with diabetes.AimThis study aimed to describe breastfeeding barriers and facilitators in postpartum women with type 2 diabetes mellitus...BackgroundBreastfeeding positively influences glucose regulation in postpartum women with diabetes.AimThis study aimed to describe breastfeeding barriers and facilitators in postpartum women with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM).MethodsThis qualitative analysis utilized data from a parent study with a convergent parallel mixed-methods design. We interviewed postpartum women with T2DM and extracted fasting plasma glucose levels from medical records taken at 4 to 6 weeks after childbirth.ResultsEight postpartum women with T2DM participated. Those who exclusively breastfed had normal fasting plasma glucose levels. Six themes emerged as breastfeeding barriers and facilitators across individual, interpersonal, and societal levels. Individual barriers included low milk production, dietary cravings, and emotional challenges of first-time motherhood. Interpersonal barriers involved lactation issues, baby conditions, and mother-baby separation post-birth. Societal barriers included short maternal leave, workplace difficulties with pumping, baby's location, and healthcare costs. Individual facilitators included breastfeeding intention and dietary practices to boost milk. Interpersonal facilitators were understanding baby cues and family support. Societal facilitators were involved in Thai postpartum traditions, health literacy, and lactation rooms in hospitals.ConclusionsOur findings highlighted the importance of identifying women's barriers and facilitators in breastfeeding, addressing physical and emotional challenges, and conducting lactation assessments. The study emphasized the need for increased workplace support for ongoing breastfeeding and individualized support that considers cultural beliefs and hospital practices.
The fruit of has high nutritional value, including carotenoids and unsaturated fatty acids, in its pulp. To evaluate the effects of ata pulp oil as a source of vitamin A in animals with deficiency. Male Wistar rats, 2...The fruit of has high nutritional value, including carotenoids and unsaturated fatty acids, in its pulp. To evaluate the effects of ata pulp oil as a source of vitamin A in animals with deficiency. Male Wistar rats, 21days old (∼60 g) were divided into three groups: Control Group(C): received AIN-93G diet for 75 days; oil group (AO): received AIN-93G diet without vitamin-A for 45 days followed by a diet containing oil for 30 days, β-carotene (BC) group: received AIN-93G diet without vitamin-A for 45 days followed by a diet containing synthetic β-carotene for 30 days. β-carotene concentration (308.1 µg/mL) and fatty acid profile (48.59% of oleic acid) were quantified in oil by high-performance liquid chromatography. Groups AO and BC had a corneal tissue weight 92% higher than the C. The conjunctival weight was 89% higher in the AO group and 98% higher in the BC group versus the C group. Urea levels were 17% higher in the AO group compared to the BC group. The concentration of carbonyl proteins in the liver of the AO group was 233% higher than that of the C group. The BC group showed levels of carbonylated proteins lower than the AO group and equal to the controls. pulp oil may be an effective source of β-carotene for recovering animals with vitamin A deficiency; nonetheless, recovery with oil was not sufficient to improve the oxidative damage caused by 45 days of nutritional insult.
Nutr Health
· 2026 Mar · PMID 40938874
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BackgroundAdolescents in Pakistan, comprising 22% of the population, face increasing risks of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) due to unhealthy lifestyles, with low physical activity and poor dietary habits being prevale...BackgroundAdolescents in Pakistan, comprising 22% of the population, face increasing risks of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) due to unhealthy lifestyles, with low physical activity and poor dietary habits being prevalent. Given the rising burden of metabolic syndrome and lifestyle-related illnesses, targeted interventions are crucial to promoting healthier behaviors and preventing long-term health complications.AimThe study aims to assess a structured nutrition education intervention, grounded in the social-ecological model (SEM), improves dietary behaviors among school adolescents. The hypothesis suggests that implementing SEM-based interventions will lead to measurable improvements in students' dietary choices.MethodsA pre-post experimental study will be conducted over 8 to 10 months. A total of 180 students from grades 6 to 8 will be recruited. The intervention includes teacher training, parental engagement, student counseling, and digital support. Dietary behaviors will be assessed using the diet quality questionnaire (DQQ) before and after the intervention. Statistical analyses, including paired -tests and regression models, will evaluate changes in dietary choices.SummaryThe study is expected to demonstrate significant improvements in students' dietary habits and knowledge. Findings will provide evidence for integrating nutrition education into school curricula, informing policy recommendations for both public and private institutions. This research aims to offer an evidence-based model for school-based nutrition interventions, contributing to long-term adolescent health and policy development.
BackgroundCoronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) has led to dramatic changes including social distancing, closure of schools, travel bans, and issues of stay-at-home orders. The health-care field has been transformed with e...BackgroundCoronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) has led to dramatic changes including social distancing, closure of schools, travel bans, and issues of stay-at-home orders. The health-care field has been transformed with elective procedures and on-site visits being deferred. Telemedicine has emerged as a novel mechanism to continue to provide care. However, there remains a paucity of data regarding its efficacy in nutrition support, especially in patients with chronic intestinal failure (CIF).ObjectiveDescribe the utilization of telehealth in the routine management of CIF, particularly in the initiation and training of home parenteral nutrition (HPN).MethodsA case series presenting our experience with the use of telemedicine to provide training for HPN for three patients. The manuscript describes the utility of telehealth in providing remote and adequate training for patients commenced on HPN during COVID-19 pandemic.ResultsSince the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, we have successfully provided virtual training to three patients, including two who were noted to be severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) positive and one patient who could not be transferred to our facility for training. For SARS-CoV-2 positive patients, the risk of transmission to nursing staff with 8-10 h of face-to-face training in two cases was felt to be too significant for in-person training. We determined that the best option would be to stabilize parenteral nutrition in the hospital and perform virtual training. Although virtual training was successfully performed, it was felt that training in this manner took much longer, required frequent adjustment of the tablet device to ensure patient remained in field of view, and made it difficult to connect with the patient emotionally.ConclusionsTelemedicine has significantly improved care provided during COVID-19 as a modality for effective training on HPN, while in-person communication was significantly limited due to the pandemic. However, when possible, it should be used in a manner that complements but does not supplant standard care.
Healthy plant-based diets, such as vegan and vegetarian diets, as well as planetary health diets, meet the recommendations of sustainable dietary patterns and are healthier for both the planet and humans. The adoption of...Healthy plant-based diets, such as vegan and vegetarian diets, as well as planetary health diets, meet the recommendations of sustainable dietary patterns and are healthier for both the planet and humans. The adoption of these dietary patterns may depend on socio-demographic factors and individual motivations. This study aimed to analyse the association between socio-demographic factors and knowledge and attitudes towards vegan and vegetarian diets amongst university students. This anonymous survey included 241 students from a university in rural Poland. The association between respondents' socio-demographic factors and the investigated categorical variables was analysed. Only three respondents followed a vegan or vegetarian diet during the study. In general, the respondents were unwilling to reduce their meat consumption (55.9%). The willingness to do so was significantly higher amongst women than men (39.4% vs. 15.1%; = 0.0002), meat avoiders than omnivorous respondents (68.4% vs. 25.0%; < 0.0001) and health discipline students than non-medical students (47.7% vs. 23.0%; = 0.0004). Higher awareness of the benefits of plant-based diets was confirmed amongst women, health discipline students and those who avoided meat. Vegan and vegetarian diets were perceived amongst the total number of respondents as more expensive (56.9%) and more difficult to follow compared to omnivore diets (74.7%); in turn, substitutes for animal products were as easily accessible (61.8%). The term 'planetary health diet' was used by only 13.7% of the students surveyed. Promoting the benefits of plant-based diets is important, especially in small, traditional communities, where previously acquired patterns mostly determine dietary choices. The inclusion of issues involving planetary health and sustainable diets into curricula and non-medical fields will enable their promotion amongst young adults in general.
Nutr Health
· 2026 Mar · PMID 40920354
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Artificial intelligence (AI) is increasingly applied in nutrition science to support clinical decision-making, prevent diet-related diseases such as obesity and type 2 diabetes, and improve nutrition care in both prevent...Artificial intelligence (AI) is increasingly applied in nutrition science to support clinical decision-making, prevent diet-related diseases such as obesity and type 2 diabetes, and improve nutrition care in both preventive and therapeutic settings. By analyzing diverse datasets, AI systems can support highly individualized nutritional guidance. We focus on machine learning applications and image recognition tools for dietary assessment and meal planning, highlighting their potential to enhance patient engagement and adherence through mobile apps and real-time feedback. Despite these advantages, challenges persist. AI-driven recommendations depend heavily on data quality and algorithm transparency, and biases may arise from unbalanced datasets that underrepresent certain populations or dietary patterns. These challenges can be mitigated through validated data sources, explainable AI systems, and mandatory professional oversight. We emphasize an approach that integrates AI responsibly within nutritional practice. It underscores the importance of ethical standards, interdisciplinary collaboration, and equitable access to ensure safe and effective implementation.
BackgroundAlarm fatigue is a growing concern in critical care units (CCUs), where frequent non-actionable alarms contribute to nurse desensitization, stress, and compromised patient safety. In Saudi Arabia's rapidly evol...BackgroundAlarm fatigue is a growing concern in critical care units (CCUs), where frequent non-actionable alarms contribute to nurse desensitization, stress, and compromised patient safety. In Saudi Arabia's rapidly evolving healthcare system, understanding these dynamics is crucial for improving care quality and staff well-being.AimThis study aimed to assess the prevalence of alarm fatigue and perceived stress among critical care nurses in Saudi hospitals, explore their interrelationship, and evaluate their impact on perceptions of patient safety.MethodsA descriptive correlational cross-sectional research design was adopted. Using a convenient sampling approach composed of 190 CCU nurses across seven Saudi hospitals. Three validated instruments including the Alarm Fatigue Scale, Perceived Stress Scale, and Safety Attitudes Questionnaire were used in this study. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, t-tests, analysis of variance, and Pearson's correlations.ResultsFindings revealed moderate alarm fatigue (mean = 24.34, SD = 8.56) and stress (mean = 16.75, SD = 9.43). Alarm fatigue correlated with stress ( = 0.286, < 0.01) and negatively with safety climate ( = 0.377) and teamwork climate ( = 0.402).ConclusionAlarm fatigue significantly influences stress levels and safety perceptions among critical care nurses, underscoring the need for targeted, context-specific interventions. Standardized alarm management protocols, culturally relevant staff training, and the adoption of intelligent alarm filtering systems are recommended to reduce cognitive overload, enhance nurse well-being, and strengthen patient safety culture in Saudi CCUs.
Reliable tools to assess breakfast habits are essential, as breakfast quality is linked to health and development in youth. However, validated instruments for Spanish children and adolescents are scarce. To assess the r...Reliable tools to assess breakfast habits are essential, as breakfast quality is linked to health and development in youth. However, validated instruments for Spanish children and adolescents are scarce. To assess the reliability of the Spanish Youth Breakfast Consumption Questionnaire (SYBC-Q) in a sample of Spanish children and adolescents. A total of 248 young people participated in the study: 77 children (46.8% girls; 10.7 ± 0.7 years) and 171 adolescents (50.3% girls; 14.1 ± 1.7 years). They completed the questionnaire twice, 14 days apart, on the same days of the week and schedule. The tool includes 21 items grouped into seven food categories and two breakfast quality scores. Test-retest reliability was analyzed using the kappa coefficient (κ) and Spearman's correlation (Rho). Analyses were performed separately by age group and gender. Children showed an acceptable to good level of agreement and a moderate to high correlation between test and retest (κ: 0.23-0.71; Rho: 0.37-0.76). However, low agreement and poor correlation were found for 'Take Cheese' and 'Take Milk dessert' in girls (both, κ < 0.20; Rho < 0.30). Adolescents presented an acceptable to perfect level of agreement and a low to high correlation between test and retest (κ: 0.24-0.82; Rho: 0.24-0.82), but a low level of agreement in the items 'Take pâte' in girls and 'Take dried fruits' in boys (both, κ: < 0.20; Rho: < 0.30). Overall, the SYBC-Q is a reliable tool for assessing the breakfast consumption and quality in Spanish children and adolescents.