The British Journal Of Nutrition[JOURNAL]
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200 papers
Rural Diets Under Pressure: Food Environments and their Influence on Diets in South Asia.
Chauhan A, Scott S, Joe W … +3 more , Maharjan NK, Menon P, Chakrabarti S
Br J Nutr · 2026 Jul · PMID 42393505 · Publisher ↗
Unhealthy food consumption is rising in rural South Asia, yet food environments in the region remain understudied. To address this gap, we characterised rural food environments and assessed how food affordability, access...
Unhealthy food consumption is rising in rural South Asia, yet food environments in the region remain understudied. To address this gap, we characterised rural food environments and assessed how food affordability, accessibility, availability, and desirability are associated with dietary patterns and quality in Bangladesh, India, and Nepal. We used household (N=9711) and markets (N=1646) data from the Transforming Agrifood Systems in South Asia (TAFSSA) survey conducted in five rural districts in 2023: Nalanda (India), Surkhet and Banke (Nepal), and Rangpur and Rajshahi (Bangladesh). Participants included adult women, men, and adolescents. Primary outcomes included weekly consumption of 25 food items and Global Diet Quality Scores (GDQS): GDQS-plus (0-32) and GDQS-minus (0-17). Predictors included proximity to markets, food prices, vendor density, food availability, and exposure to advertising or nutrition messaging. Multivariate regressions were used to assess associations and were adjusted for sociodemographic and household characteristics. Diets in these settings were characterised by low healthy food intake (GDQS-plus scores ranged from 6.6 to 7.7), and high unhealthy food intake (GDQS-minus scores from 9.3 to 11.7). Ultra-processed food vendors were present in >80% of villages. Snacking was the strongest predictor of both higher healthy (+1.11 GDQS-plus) and unhealthy (-0.67 GDQS-minus) food intake (P<0.001), indicating that snacking increases overall dietary intake. Key predictors of suboptimal diets include low affordability of nutritious foods, alongside the widespread availability and desirability of inexpensive ultra-processed products. These findings highlight structural and behavioural drivers of rural dietary transitions and provide evidence to guide food system interventions aimed at improving nutrition in underserved populations.
Methodological challenges in translating nutrition evidence into the Australian Dietary Guidelines.
Melaku YA, Hyppönen E
Br J Nutr · 2026 Jul · PMID 42393504 · Publisher ↗
Dietary guidelines shape public health by translating nutritional evidence into recommendations that support healthier eating and reduce chronic disease risk. The current revision of the Australian Dietary Guidelines (AD...
Dietary guidelines shape public health by translating nutritional evidence into recommendations that support healthier eating and reduce chronic disease risk. The current revision of the Australian Dietary Guidelines (ADG) presents an opportunity to integrate emerging scientific evidence and address contemporary dietary challenges, including rising burdens of obesity, type 2 diabetes, and poor diet quality. However, translating evidence from nutritional epidemiology into policy remains methodologically complex. Much of the available evidence is derived from observational studies, often synthesised in systematic reviews and meta-analyses that may obscure contextual variation, residual confounding, and heterogeneity in dietary assessment methods. Australia's cultural diversity, unique food systems, and the distinct dietary practices of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples underscore the need for high-quality, context-specific research to inform recommendations. Challenges also arise from treating diet as a dynamic, multidimensional exposure, the variability of global evidence, and inconsistencies in definitions such as dietary patterns and ultra-processed foods. While the ADG revision incorporates methodological improvements and prioritises key areas such as dietary patterns and UPFs, the strength and relevance of guidance ultimately depend on the quality of underlying data. Strengthening investment in robust, culturally inclusive Australian nutrition research is essential to ensure credible and contextually relevant recommendations.
Beyond current fibre recommendations: associations of high dietary fibre intake with inflammation and lipid profile in US adults (NHANES 2015-2018).
de Morais Junior AC, Schincaglia RM, Martinez Steele E … +3 more , Prado CM, Walter J, Mota JF
Br J Nutr · 2026 Jul · PMID 42387949 · Publisher ↗
Current fibre recommendations are based on historical data and may underestimate the intake required for optimal cardiometabolic protection. We examined whether fibre intakes exceeding current guidelines are associated w...
Current fibre recommendations are based on historical data and may underestimate the intake required for optimal cardiometabolic protection. We examined whether fibre intakes exceeding current guidelines are associated with additional improvements in inflammation and lipid metabolism. We analysed data from 7,008 adults (≥20 years) from the NHANES 2015-2018 with 24-h dietary recall and biomarker data (CRP, total cholesterol [TC], LDL, HDL, triglycerides [TG]). Fibre intake was expressed relative to recommendations from the Institute of Medicine (IOM) and the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics (AND), and associations with biomarkers were assessed using multivariable regression models. Higher fibre intake was consistently associated with lower CRP concentrations, with the greatest reductions observed at intakes >150% of the IOM recommendation (>55.7 g/day; 95% CI: 48.6-56.7). Among men, both TC and LDL cholesterol decreased significantly at intakes >150% of IOM values (>69.8 g/day; 95% CI: 64.2-75.4). Triglycerides were significantly lower when fibre intake exceeded AND recommendations (>41.0 g/day; 95% CI: 32.6-49.5). No clear associations were observed for HDL cholesterol. The associations found in this study make us consider the possibility that the benefits of fibre on systemic inflammation and lipid profile may extend beyond current recommended levels. Public health guidelines may need to reconsider fibre targets to better reflect condition-specific benefits rather than minimum thresholds for adequacy should this hypothesis be duly proven by future longitudinal studies.
Changes in food patterns over a 10-year period in the UK adult population; findings from the National Diet and Nutrition Survey.
Papagiannaki M, Kerr MA
Br J Nutr · 2026 Jul · PMID 42387948 · Publisher ↗
The prevalence of overweight and obesity in adults is increasing worldwide. Food portion size (PS) is an important environmental determinant of energy intake (EI) and may contribute to the obesity epidemic. However, UK e...
The prevalence of overweight and obesity in adults is increasing worldwide. Food portion size (PS) is an important environmental determinant of energy intake (EI) and may contribute to the obesity epidemic. However, UK evidence on the typical PS of commonly consumed foods in adults and how these may have changed over time is limited. Using combined data from Years 1-4 (2008/9-2011/12) and Years 9-11 (2016/17-2018/19) of the National Diet and Nutrition Survey (NDNS), this study examined trends in the PS of commonly consumed food groups over the last decade among UK adults. Significant increases in both consumption frequency and PS were observed for pasta, rice & pizza, eggs, oils & spreads, vegetables, fruits, nuts & seeds, and low-calorie carbonated/soft drinks (all p≤0.005). In contrast, bread, potato & potato products, condiments, and fruit juice & smoothies showed significant decreases in both frequency and PS (all p≤0.032). Divergent patterns were also evident: red meat showed increased frequency but reduced PS, while white meat and fish increased in frequency without significant changes in PS. Changes in PS alone were identified for milk and milk products, processed meat, alcoholic drinks, and total beverages.Although fibre intake increased, recommendations are still not being met. There was no clear evidence that overweight or obese individuals consumed greater PS than those with normal weight. These findings highlight changes in food patterns among UK adults over the past decade and the importance of continued monitoring.
Gut Microbiome and Environmental Enteric Dysfunction Are Unchanged by 18 Months of Small-Quantity Lipid-Based Nutrient Supplementation among Young Children in Lusaka, Zambia.
Lauer JM, Leng Y, Chembe M … +7 more , Henderson S, Parkerson D, Chibesa K, Moono A, Fink G, Rockers PC, Locks LM
Br J Nutr · 2026 Jun · PMID 42324602 · Publisher ↗
Small-quantity lipid-based nutrient supplements (SQ-LNS) have been shown to improve growth, development, and survival among young children in low-resource settings. One hypothesized pathway is through improvements in int...
Small-quantity lipid-based nutrient supplements (SQ-LNS) have been shown to improve growth, development, and survival among young children in low-resource settings. One hypothesized pathway is through improvements in intestinal health, including modulation of the gut microbiome and reductions in environmental enteric dysfunction (EED). This study examined the effects of SQ-LNS on the gut microbiome and markers of EED and systemic inflammation among young children in Lusaka, Zambia. We conducted intention-to-treat analyses of 302 children aged 27-35 months in a 2x2 cluster-randomized trial. Serum biomarkers of EED (soluble CD14, intestinal fatty acid binding protein) and inflammation (alpha-1-acid glycoprotein, C-reactive protein) were assessed in 240 children via the Multiple-Micronutrient and Environmental Enteric Dysfunction Assessment Tool (MEEDAT). Differences by SQ-LNS assignment were assessed using unadjusted and adjusted ordinary least squares regression models. Rectal swab samples from 299 children underwent 16S rRNA gene sequencing. Taxonomic profiles were visualized using stacked bar plots, alpha diversity was quantified using Shannon diversity indices, and beta diversity was assessed using non-metric multidimensional scaling based on Bray-Curtis dissimilarity matrices. We found that SQ-LNS had no significant effect on EED or inflammation biomarkers and was not associated with differences in gut microbiome alpha diversity, beta diversity, or overall microbial community composition. In exploratory analyses, abundance was lower among children receiving SQ-LNS. Overall, 18 months of SQ-LNS supplementation was not associated with broad changes in intestinal health among young Lusakan children. These findings suggest that the benefits of SQ-LNS operate through pathways other than intestinal health, such as improved nutrient availability.
The Effect of Asparagus Stem Consumption on Health Outcomes in Adults: A Systematic Review.
Davies A, Lamport D, Homma K … +2 more , Takanari J, Hepsomali P
Br J Nutr · 2026 Jun · PMID 42311153 · Publisher ↗
Asparagus (Asparagus officinalis) contains bioactive compounds such as polyphenols and saponins, which have been shown to influence cognition, mood, sleep, stress, and related biomarkers. However, the evidence from human...
Asparagus (Asparagus officinalis) contains bioactive compounds such as polyphenols and saponins, which have been shown to influence cognition, mood, sleep, stress, and related biomarkers. However, the evidence from human studies has not been systematically synthesised. To address this, we conducted a systematic review evaluating the effects of asparagus-based products on cognitive, affective, sleep outcomes, and related biomarkers in adults. A systematic search of PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, PsycINFO, Google Scholar, and Amino Up Ltd's website (up to April 2025) identified studies assessing asparagus supplementation in adults, following PRISMA guidelines (PROSPERO registration number: CRD42025636834). Human studies that employed randomised controlled trials (RCTs) or quasi-experimental designs and assessed the effects of orally administered asparagus-based products on cognition, mood, sleep, or relevant biomarkers were included. Eighteen studies (thirteen RCTs and three pre-post studies; 503 participants) were included. Cognitive improvements were observed in reaction time, accuracy, and mental fatigue, while mood and stress-related outcomes showed reductions in anxiety and depressive symptoms. Sleep outcomes consistently demonstrated improvements in sleep quality and duration, while biomarker data showed effects on cortisol levels. Asparagus supplementation may offer modest benefits for cognition, mood, and stress-related physiology, with particularly consistent effects on sleep quality. However, the magnitude of benefits varies by population, dose, and duration, and the heterogeneity of interventions, small sample sizes, and limited studies may constrain the generalizability of findings. Well-powered, long-term clinical trials are needed to determine optimal dosage, clarify mechanisms, and assess efficacy across diverse populations.
Adherence to a Healthy Plant-Based Diet is Associated with Adiposity Indicators in Costa Rican Adults.
Al-Hinai M, Aljahdali A, Campos H … +1 more , Baylin A
Br J Nutr · 2026 Jun · PMID 42299773 · Full text
Plant-based diets have been associated with favourable health outcomes; however, not all plant-based diets are of the same quality. This study aimed to investigate the associations between three plant-based diet indices:...
Plant-based diets have been associated with favourable health outcomes; however, not all plant-based diets are of the same quality. This study aimed to investigate the associations between three plant-based diet indices: overall plant-based diet index (PDI), healthy plant-based diet index (hPDI), and unhealthy plant-based diet index (uPDI); and measures of adiposity: wrist circumference, waist circumference, waist-to-hip ratio, and BMI. This study used data from 2,027 controls in the Costa Rica Heart Study, a case-control study. A validated food frequency questionnaire was used to create the plant-based diet indices. Multivariable linear regression was used to examine associations between quintiles of the plant-based diet indices and adiposity indicators. Higher hPDI scores were associated with lower adiposity, with waist circumference showing the strongest association. Participants in the highest hPDI quintile had a β= -1.90 cm (95% CI: -3.32, -0.49) lower waist circumference and a β= -0.72 kg/m (95% CI: -1.33, -0.10) lower BMI compared to participants in the lowest quintile. Significant linear trends were observed with waist circumference (P-trend=0.0037), waist-to-hip ratio (P-trend=0.0064), and BMI (P-trend=0.0171). Subjects in the 5 quintile of the overall PDI had significantly lower waist circumference (β= -1.75 cm (95% CI: -3.14, -0.36)), waist-to-hip ratio (β= -0.010 (95% CI: -0.019, -0.001)), and BMI (β= -0.62 kg/m (95% CI: -1.22, -0.02)). In general, uPDI showed no significant associations with adiposity indicators. Among Costa Rican adults, adherence to hPDI is associated with lower adiposity, whereas uPDI showed no association, indicating the quality of plant-based diets plays a role in body composition.
The Relationship between Food Literacy and Dietary Intake and Diet Quality in Adults: A Cross-Sectional Study.
Kabalı S, Ünal G, Ertaş Öztürk Y … +2 more , Uzdil Z, Açar Kuru Y
Br J Nutr · 2026 Jun · PMID 42299742 · Publisher ↗
Food literacy is important for understanding the factors that determine food choices, eating behaviors, and diet quality. However, few studies have examined the relationship between food literacy, diet quality, and food...
Food literacy is important for understanding the factors that determine food choices, eating behaviors, and diet quality. However, few studies have examined the relationship between food literacy, diet quality, and food consumption. The present study aimed to examine this relationship in an adult population. This cross-sectional study included 639 adults (50.2% female; age range: 19-65 years) at Ondokuz Mayıs University in Samsun, Türkiye. Participants completed the Short Form of Food Literacy (SFLQ). Anthropometric measurements and 24-h food recall were recorded. Diet quality was assessed using the Healthy Eating Index (HEI)-2015. Total scores for vegetables and seafood and plant proteins (HEI-2015 components) were higher in the adequate-excellent food literacy group (2.9±2.25 vs 2.5±1.85, p=0.041 and 12.8±12.51 vs 11.0±10.58, p= 0.040). Conversely, the refined grain scores were higher in the inadequate-limited food literacy group (3.6±5.77 vs 4.5±5.67, p=0.041). In the regression model, the SFLQ score was positively associated with HEI-2015 scores (β=0.364, p=0.026) and total vegetable consumption (β=0.029, p=0.015). For each 1-point increase in the SFLQ score, the HEI-2015 score increased by 0.364 points on average (β = 0.364, p=0.026). Furthermore, SFLQ scores were negatively associated with refined grain scores (β= -0.107, p=0.001) and added sugar scores (β= -0.021, p=0.042). Food literacy is an important factor associated with diet quality. Enhancing nutrition knowledge, skills, and attitudes in adults may contribute to healthier eating behaviors.
Diet quality and risk of using medication for hypertension up to 11 years after delivery: Testing the predictive validity of a proposed revision of the Nutri-Score and the current Nutri-Score in the NewTools project.
Amberntsson A, Abel MH, Paulsen MM … +4 more , Andersen LF, Øyen J, Rosendahl-Riise H, Brantsæter AL
Br J Nutr · 2026 Jun · PMID 42298961 · Publisher ↗
The aim of this study was to investigate the predictive validity of a proposed revision of the Nutri-Score and the current Nutri-Score by investigating associations between the diet quality scores measured in mid-pregnan...
The aim of this study was to investigate the predictive validity of a proposed revision of the Nutri-Score and the current Nutri-Score by investigating associations between the diet quality scores measured in mid-pregnancy and the risk of dispended prescription of medications for hypertension up to 11 years following delivery, and blood pressure mid-pregnancy. The study population (N=70,730) were participants in the Norwegian Mother, Father and Child Cohort Study. Food intake was assessed mid-pregnancy using a food frequency questionnaire. Nutritional scores for each food item were calculated based on content of energy, sugars, saturated fat, salt, fibre, protein, fruit, vegetables, and legumes. Diet quality scores were derived using energy-weighted means of nutritional scores. Anti-hypertensive medications were registered in the national prescription database. We estimated hazard ratios (HR) with 95% confidence intervals (95% CI) using Cox regression models. During a mean follow-up of 6 years, 4,736 (6.7%) women got dispended prescription of medications for hypertension. There was a non-linear association between diet quality and hypertension medication. Compared with the median diet quality score, poorer diet quality (90 percentile of the score) was associated with higher risk of medications for hypertension (HR=1.08, 95% CI 1.02-1.14) and cross-sectional high diastolic blood pressure (odds ratio=1.18, 95% CI 1.03-1.32). Both diet quality scores yielded similar results overall. Poorer diet quality during pregnancy, assessed with a proposed version, and the current Nutri-Score, were associated with a higher risk of medications for hypertension, indicating its usefulness as a valuable tool for guiding consumers and improving public health.
Within- and Between-Day Reliability of Laboratory-Based Body Composition Assessment Methods.
Velasquez CM, Florez CM, Rodriguez C … +6 more , Siedler MR, Stratton MT, Harty PS, Way AE, Sullivan MH, Tinsley GM
Br J Nutr · 2026 Jun · PMID 42298959 · Publisher ↗
This study examined the within- and between-day reliability of commonly employed laboratory-based body composition assessment methods. Eighteen healthy adults reported to the laboratory on two occasions, separated by 1-2...
This study examined the within- and between-day reliability of commonly employed laboratory-based body composition assessment methods. Eighteen healthy adults reported to the laboratory on two occasions, separated by 1-2 days, and were assessed with multiple methods under standardized conditions. These included two dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) scanners with manual or automated regions of interest, air displacement plethysmography (ADP) with measured or estimated thoracic gas volume, two multi-frequency bioelectrical impedance analyzers (MFBIA), single-frequency BIA (SFBIA), and bioimpedance spectroscopy. Within-day reliability was established via immediate test-retest assessments at the first visit (technical error), and between-day reliability by repeating assessments at the second visit (technical plus biological error). Within- and between-day measures were evaluated using technical error of the measurement (TEM) and intraclass correlation coefficients (ICCs). For body fat percentage, within-day TEMs ranged from 0.03-0.70%, with ICCs of 0.993-1.000, while between-day ranged from 0.37-1.24%, with ICCs of 0.965-0.998. For fat and fat-free mass (FM and FFM), within-day TEMs ranged from 0.02-0.53 kg, with ICCs of 0.998-1.000 for FFM and 0.992-1.000 for FM. Between-day TEMs ranged from 0.26-0.90 kg for FM and FFM, with ICCs of 0.995-0.999 for FFM and 0.955-0.998 for FM. Across metrics, DXA demonstrated the best reliability, followed by one MFBIA analyzer and ADP with predicted thoracic gas volume. Overall, laboratory-based body composition devices provide excellent within- and between-day reliability under standardized conditions, though observed differences in error may influence method selection when tracking small body composition changes.
The association of last meal timing and the quality of dinner with sleep quality: a cross-sectional study on Iranian adults.
Rafiei F, Norouziasl R, Ghaemi S … +4 more , Jabbarzadeh Ganjeh B, Bafkar N, Djafarian K, Shab-Bidar S
Br J Nutr · 2026 Jun · PMID 42290514 · Publisher ↗
This study aimed to investigate the association between the timing and quality of the last meal and sleep quality among Iranian adults. In this cross-sectional study, healthy Iranian adults were included. Dietary intake...
This study aimed to investigate the association between the timing and quality of the last meal and sleep quality among Iranian adults. In this cross-sectional study, healthy Iranian adults were included. Dietary intake and meal timing were assessed using three non-consecutive 24-h dietary recalls to calculate the interval between the last meal and bedtime. Dinner quality was evaluated using the NRF9·3 index, and sleep quality was measured using the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index. Multivariable logistic and ordinal regressions assessed associations of meal timing and dinner quality with sleep outcomes, adjusting for confounders. The study included 450 adults (mean age: 38·1 (sd 9·7) years), of whom 55·8 % had good sleep quality. The mean interval between the last meal and sleep was 2·38 (sd 1·08) h. A longer interval between the last meal and bedtime was associated with higher odds of poor global sleep quality (OR = 2·03, 95 % CI: 1·24, 3·32; = 0·005). Longer intervals were significantly associated with better subjective sleep quality, shorter sleep latency, longer sleep duration and higher habitual sleep efficiency. Dinner quality demonstrated a mixed pattern of association with sleep quality, showing higher odds of poor sleep in the second tertile (OR = 1·66, 95 % CI: 1·01, 2·73), whereas this association was not observed in the highest tertile (OR = 1·24, 95 % CI: 0·75, 2·04). In conclusion, longer dinner-to-bedtime intervals may improve specific sleep quality aspects, though results remain inconsistent. Further research is essential to clarify these associations and determine optimal meal timing.
Jaboticaba (), a typical Brazilian fruit, as a strategy to modulate inflammation, oxidative stress and gut dysbiosis in patients with chronic kidney disease: study protocol for a randomised, controlled dietary crossover trial.
Brito JS, Lima LS, Coelho EB … +2 more , Berretta A, Mafra D
Br J Nutr · 2026 May · PMID 42290511 · Publisher ↗
Jaboticaba, [Mart.] () is a native Brazilian fruit high in bioactive compounds with potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. We present the first protocol (randomised crossover with a washout period) for a...
Jaboticaba, [Mart.] () is a native Brazilian fruit high in bioactive compounds with potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. We present the first protocol (randomised crossover with a washout period) for a clinical trial investigating the effects of consuming jaboticaba peel extract on inflammation, oxidative stress and gut dysbiosis in patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) undergoing haemodialysis. Thirty eligible patients will be randomly assigned to the intervention group (3·3 g/d of jaboticaba peel extract, providing 650 mg/d of phenolic compounds) or to the placebo group (corn starch). The total daily dose will be administered as four capsules, divided into two doses per day, for 2 months. Following the washout period (2 months), patients will continue the supplementation in a crossover design for the same duration. Blood and fecal samples, food intake data and anthropometric measurements will be evaluated. Inflammatory markers and antioxidant enzymes will be assessed using real-time protein chain reaction, cytokine plasma levels will be measured by Luminex, and uremic toxin plasma levels will be analysed using high-performance LC. The fecal microbiome will be evaluated through high-throughput sequencing of the 16S rRNA gene amplicons. Conducting a rigorously designed trial using jaboticaba will provide essential information and generate new evidence to support nutritional strategies that utilise typical Brazilian fruits for patients with CKD.
An extract from amazonian fruit, camu-camu (), attenuates DSS-induced gut-liver axis alterations by improving intestinal morphology and barrier-related gene expression and reducing hepatic histological damage and oxidative stress ().
Pereira SMS, de São José VPB, Huang MY … +3 more , Abrantes LCS, Mattos Della Lucia C, Tako E
Br J Nutr · 2026 Jun · PMID 42290501 · Publisher ↗
The gut-liver axis represents a bidirectional communication network for maintaining metabolic and immunological homeostasis. Alterations in this axis allow bacterial products to reach the liver via the portal vein, promo...
The gut-liver axis represents a bidirectional communication network for maintaining metabolic and immunological homeostasis. Alterations in this axis allow bacterial products to reach the liver via the portal vein, promoting inflammation, oxidative stress, and lipid accumulation. In this scenario, the consumption of bioactive compounds has become prominent due to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. This study aimed to investigate the effects of camu-camu () extract, an Amazonian fruit rich in phenolic compounds, on intestinal morphology, barrier-related gene expression, and hepatic outcomes of chicken () embryos exposed to dextran sulfate sodium (DSS). Fertile eggs were divided into three groups (n = 20/group): Water (control), DSS (1.5%), and Camu-camu (10%) + DSS (1.5%). On the 17 day of embryonic development, treatments were injected into the amniotic fluid, and samples were collected at hatching (21 day). Results showed that camu-camu was associated with changes in intestinal histomorphology, increasing villus height, surface area, and the number of goblet cells, along with increased expression of selected barrier-related genes (MUC2, CLDN-1, and ZO-2). In the liver, camu-camu significantly reduced NF-κB expression compared to the DSS and water-treated groups, consistent with modulation of inflammatory-related gene expression. Furthermore, the decreased expression of iNOS, CAT, and SOD-1 indicates modulation of oxidative stress-related gene expression markers. Histological analysis indicated alterations in hepatic morphology, including reduced lipid droplets and inflammatory infiltrates. These findings indicate that camu-camu is associated with changes in intestinal histomorphology, selected barrier-related gene expressions, hepatic histology, and inflammatory- and oxidative stress-related gene expression markers.
High hemoglobin concentrations across pregnancy and risks of preterm birth and low birth weight: A retrospective cohort study.
Li J, Zhao Y, Zhao C … +10 more , Tenzin T, Jin Y, Lyu X, Wu H, Lei J, Cheng Z, Wang S, Yang H, Zou X, Yang Y
Br J Nutr · 2026 Jun · PMID 42244479 · Publisher ↗
To identify associations between hemoglobin (Hb) concentration in different trimesters, Hb changes and Hb trajectories during pregnancy with risk of preterm birth (PTB) and low birth weight (LBW). A retrospective cohort...
To identify associations between hemoglobin (Hb) concentration in different trimesters, Hb changes and Hb trajectories during pregnancy with risk of preterm birth (PTB) and low birth weight (LBW). A retrospective cohort study was conducted based on 18,980 participants from Haidian District Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital between January 2018 and December 2021. Maternal Hb concentrations were measured at first (0-12weeks), second (13-27weeks), and third trimesters (≥28weeks). Hb was categorized into four groups (<110, 110-119, 120-129, and ≥130 g/L), and Hb changes across different trimesters were calculated. The Latent class growth mixed model was employed to estimate Hb trajectories. Association assessment and dose-response relationship were estimated using multivariate logistic regression and restricted cubic spline. Compared with Hb 110-119 g/L, women with Hb ≥130 g/L significantly increased odds of PTB(OR:1.74,95%CI:1.29,2.31) and LBW(OR:2.31,95%CI:1.65,3.20) during the second trimester. In the third trimester, women with Hb 120-129 g/L showed 26% (OR:1.26,95%CI:1.04,1.51) increased odds of PTB and 72%(OR:1.72,95%CI:1.36, 2.17) increased odds of LBW, while the OR of Hb ≥130 g/L for PTB and LBW were 1.45(95%CI:1.12,1.86) and 2.60(95%CI:1.96,3.43), respectively. Furthermore, Hb changes across different trimesters exhibited a linear increase in odds of PTB and LBW. Women with a decline-sharp-rise trajectory during pregnancy had a 1.48-fold odds of PTB(OR:1.48,95%CI:1.26,1.75), compared to those with a decline-gradual-rise trajectory. In conclusion, elevated Hb (≥120 g/L) in mid-to-late gestation as well as insufficient Hb decline or abnormal Hb trajectory, were associated with increased odds of PTB and LBW. These findings underscore the importance of monitoring Hb during pregnancy.
Association of lifestyle behaviours and socio-economic disparities with overweight and obesity among school-aged children and adolescents: a population-based cross-sectional study.
Tanveer M, Alsabih AO, Cai Y … +9 more , Alsharidah AS, Badicu G, Asghar E, Tanveer U, Roy N, Albaridi NA, Alsharari ZD, Saraiva A, Raposo A
Br J Nutr · 2026 Jun · PMID 42244362 · Publisher ↗
This population-based cross-sectional study investigated the associations of sleep, nutrition and physical activity with overweight and obesity among 4108 school-aged children and adolescents (9-17 years) in Punjab, Paki...
This population-based cross-sectional study investigated the associations of sleep, nutrition and physical activity with overweight and obesity among 4108 school-aged children and adolescents (9-17 years) in Punjab, Pakistan, alongside 3371 parental responses. BMI was calculated using anthropometric measurements, and weight status was classified according to the 2007 WHO growth reference. Socio-economic status was determined through parental education, occupation and household income, while lifestyle behaviours were assessed via validated questionnaires. Multivariate logistic regression analyses were conducted, adjusting for sex, grade and socio-economic variables. The prevalence of overweight and obesity was 19·4 % and 10·7 %, respectively. Girls had a higher obesity prevalence than boys (12·3 % . 8·9 %), whereas boys showed a higher combined prevalence of overweight and obesity. Among boys, obesity was significantly associated with urban residence (adjusted OR (aOR) 1·37; 95 % CI 1·13, 1·83), being an only child (aOR 2·74; 95 % CI 1·92, 3·92), frequent fast-food consumption (≥ 3 times/week; aOR 1·56; 95 % CI 1·23, 1·97) and lower parental education (aOR 1·22; 95 % CI 1·05, 1·41). Among girls, long weekend sleep duration increased obesity risk (aOR 1·38; 95 % CI 1·14, 1·67), while being an only child (aOR 0·36; 95 % CI 0·25, 0·52), frequent fast-food consumption (aOR 0·64; 95 % CI 0·50, 0·80) and lower parental education (aOR 0·81; 95 % CI 0·70, 0·94) were linked to lower odds. Physical activity and soft drink intake were not significant after adjustment. These findings underscore complex, gender-specific relationships between lifestyle and socio-economic factors, highlighting the need for targeted interventions promoting healthy sleep, nutrition and equity-focused strategies.
Modification and Validation of the European Prospective Investigation into Cancer and Nutrition (EPIC)- Norfolk Food Frequency Questionnaire to Assess Dietary Intake in Black African Women in the UK.
Olaoye I, Myrissa K, Brown N … +8 more , Tsofliou F, Abraham S, Amoutzopoulos B, Page P, Ajatta M, Adekanmbi T, Ekong A, Kelaiditi E
Br J Nutr · 2026 Jun · PMID 42244359 · Publisher ↗
Black African women face disproportionately high rates of obesity, with prevalence reaching 37% in the UK. These elevated rates significantly contribute to chronic non-communicable disease burdens, yet comprehensive diet...
Black African women face disproportionately high rates of obesity, with prevalence reaching 37% in the UK. These elevated rates significantly contribute to chronic non-communicable disease burdens, yet comprehensive dietary data for this group in the UK remain limited. Accurate dietary assessment is essential for identifying nutritional risks and guiding interventions, especially in ethnically diverse populations. Standard tools, including the EPIC food frequency questionnaire (FFQ), often lack cultural specificity and have not been adapted or validated for Black African populations in the UK. This study aimed to modify and validate a culturally tailored EPIC FFQ for dietary assessment among Black African adults in the UK. A cross-sectional study with 112 Black African women (BMI >25 kg/m) was conducted. The EPIC FFQ was adapted by including culturally relevant African foods, identified via literature review and three non-consecutive 24-hour recalls using Intake24. Participants completed the modified FFQ, and nutrient intakes from both methods were compared using correlation analyses, adjusted for within-person variation. Bland-Altman plots and energy-adjusted correlations assessed agreement. The modified FFQ expanded to 141 food items and showed significant correlations with 24-hour recalls for various nutrients. Crude correlation coefficients ranged from 0.21 (fibre) to 0.87 (protein); energy-adjusted values ranged from 0.19 to 0.86. De-attenuated correlations improved further. Bland-Altman plots showed systematic overestimation of intake, particularly protein and fibre, but good overall agreement. The adapted EPIC FFQ is a valid tool for dietary assessment in Black African adults, though overestimation occurred. Further validation using dietary biomarkers is recommended.
Accuracy in Percent Body Fat from Skinfold Prediction Equations Vary Among Young, Middle-Age, and Older Male and Female Caucasians.
Escamilla RF, Yamashiro K, Asuncion R … +3 more , MacLean D, Thompson IS, McKeough M
Br J Nutr · 2026 Jun · PMID 42233218 · Publisher ↗
Skinfold prediction equations (SF-PE) are used to estimate percent body fat (%BF), but it's unclear which SF-PE are most accurate among different age/sex groups. The purpose was to assess accuracy of estimating %BF from...
Skinfold prediction equations (SF-PE) are used to estimate percent body fat (%BF), but it's unclear which SF-PE are most accurate among different age/sex groups. The purpose was to assess accuracy of estimating %BF from SF-PE in young, middle-age, and older male and female adults, and compare %BF from SF-PE to Inbody770 (IB770), a selected bioelectrical-impedance criterion reference. Two hundred two healthy males (n=96) and females (n=106) had %BF assessed from 12 SF-PE for females, 13 SF-PE for males, and IB770. Repeated measures 1-way ANOVAs (p < 0.01) were employed for three age groups for both males and females, and Bland-Altman plots were employed to evaluate the agreement between IB770 and SF-PE. Based both on statistical assessment and the Bland-Altman plots, similarity, agreement, and accuracy observed in %BF between IB770 and SF-PE were determined. From these assessments and plots, the following SF-PE are recommended to estimate %BF in young males (YM), middle-age males (MM), older males (OM), young females (YF), middle-age females (MF), and older females (OF) (%BF between IB770 and SF-PE shown): 1) YM: IB770 = 16.2%; Durnin 1974 (DW) = 16.3%; Williams 1992 (W) = 16.2%; Lean 1996 (L) = 16.6% ; 2) MM: IB770 = 19.7%; W = 19.7%; DW = 22.3%; 3) OM: IB770 = 24.4%; DW = 25.3%; W = 22.4%; 4) YF: IB770 = 24.9%; Jackson 1985 (JP3b) = 23.8%; 5) MF: IB770 = 25.2%; Jackson 1980 = 25.0%; JP3b = 26.1%; and 6) OF: IB770 = 36.6%; Peterson 2003 = 36.2%. Given that SF-PE either underestimated, overestimated, or accurately estimated %BF compared to IB770, this emphasizes the importance of using SF-PE that are appropriate for different age/sex groups and provide as accurate as possible estimates of %BF. Assessing %BF accurately is important given excessive %BF increases cardiometabolic disease risk.
Micronutrient deficiencies and CVD: a binational analysis of National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) and China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study (CHARLS).
Lin Z, Yu C, Wei Z … +3 more , Geng J, Ge P, Liu H
Br J Nutr · 2026 Jun · PMID 42230332 · Publisher ↗
Micronutrient deficiencies are modifiable risk factors for CVD, yet their relative importance and combined effects across populations require further characterisation. We performed a binational analysis integrating cross...
Micronutrient deficiencies are modifiable risk factors for CVD, yet their relative importance and combined effects across populations require further characterisation. We performed a binational analysis integrating cross-sectional data from the US National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES, 2007-2018; 3848) and prospective data from the China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study (CHARLS, 2011-2018; 11 391). Associations of specific micronutrient biomarkers (vitamin D, folate, vitamin B, Ca and Fe) and dietary patterns with CVD were assessed using multivariable-adjusted logistic regression, Cox proportional hazards models and restricted cubic splines. A composite micronutrient deficiency score evaluated cumulative risk. In NHANES, Fe deficiency was independently associated with prevalent CVD after full adjustment (OR 1·49, 95 % CI: 1·09, 2·01), with a population prevalence of 23·4 %. Although most prevalent (33·1 %), vitamin D deficiency showed no independent association. Nonlinear analyses revealed a U-shaped relationship for Fe (-nonlinearity = 0·003) and an inverse association for vitamin D (-nonlinearity < 0·001). A dose-response relationship was observed for cumulative deficiencies; participants with ≥ 2 deficiencies had 91 % higher CVD odds (OR 1·91, 95 % CI: 1·20, 2·99). In CHARLS, frequent consumption of fruits/vegetables (adjusted hazard ratio (aHR) 0·81, 95 % CI: 0·70, 0·93), nuts (aHR 0·82, 0·71, 0·95) and fish (aHR 0·85, 0·74, 0·98) was associated with reduced incident CVD risk. Fe deficiency is an underrecognised independent risk factor for CVD, and multiple concurrent deficiencies synergistically increase risk. Plant-based dietary patterns are consistently protective. Findings advocate for Fe status screening in cardiovascular risk assessment and emphasise holistic nutritional approaches.
Metabolic Vulnerability, Genetic Susceptibility and Risk of Hypertension: UK Biobank Cohort Analysis.
Ding G, Liu X, Yang W … +5 more , Zhao Y, He Y, Li Y, Chen N, Cui J
Br J Nutr · 2026 Jun · PMID 42226540 · Publisher ↗
Multidimensional metabolic dysregulation is implicated in hypertension development, but the utility of comprehensive metabolic vulnerability indices for assessing hypertension risk associations remains unclear. This pros...
Multidimensional metabolic dysregulation is implicated in hypertension development, but the utility of comprehensive metabolic vulnerability indices for assessing hypertension risk associations remains unclear. This prospective cohort study analyzed 150,591 participants from the UK Biobank. The Metabolic Vulnerability Index and its components-IVX and MMX-were calculated from six metabolites (GlycA, small HDL particles, leucine, valine, isoleucine, and citrate) measured by NMR spectroscopy. Cox proportional hazards models assessed associations with incident hypertension, adjusting for demographic, lifestyle, and clinical factors. Restricted cubic spline analyses examined dose-response relationships, and subgroup analyses explored effect modifications by polygenic risk score (PRS), BMI, and C-reactive protein levels. During follow-up, 32,198 participants developed hypertension. After comprehensive adjustment, IVX and MVX showed significant positive associations with hypertension risk (highest vs lowest quartile: HR=1.25 [95%CI: 1.20-1.31] and HR=1.19 [95%CI: 1.15-1.24], respectively <0.001). Each standard deviation increase in IVX and MVX was associated with 9% and 7% higher hypertension risk, respectively. Conversely, MMX demonstrated a slight protective effect (HR=0.96 [95%CI: 0.92-0.99], =0.016) and exhibited a U-shaped relationship with hypertension risk. Notably, associations between IVX/MVX and hypertension were significantly stronger in non-obese individuals (BMI<30) compared to obese participants (BMI≥30) (p-interaction<0.001 and =0.007, respectively). Results remained robust in sensitivity analyses excluding extreme values and early hypertension cases. Metabolic vulnerability, particularly its inflammatory component, is independently associated with hypertension risk beyond traditional risk factors. These findings highlight the potential utility of comprehensive metabolomic profiling for early identification of individuals at elevated hypertension risk.
Longitudinal associations of diet quality with serum biomarkers of lipid and amino acid metabolism from childhood to adolescence: the PANIC study - CORRIGENDUM.
Laamanen SE, Heinonen S, Haapala EA … +5 more , Schwab U, Soininen S, Sallinen T, Eloranta AM, Lakka TA
Br J Nutr · 2026 May · PMID 42206695 · Publisher ↗
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