Journal Description
Dietetics
Dietetics
is an international, peer-reviewed, open access journal on all aspects of human dietetics published quarterly online by MDPI.
- Open Access— free for readers, with article processing charges (APC) paid by authors or their institutions.
- High Visibility: indexed within ESCI (Web of Science), EBSCO and other databases.
- Rapid Publication: manuscripts are peer-reviewed and a first decision is provided to authors approximately 26.5 days after submission; acceptance to publication is undertaken in 9.8 days (median values for papers published in this journal in the first half of 2025).
- Recognition of Reviewers: APC discount vouchers, optional signed peer review, and reviewer names published annually in the journal.
- Dietetics is a companion journal of Nutrients.
- Journal Cluster of Food, Nutrition, and Health Science: Beverages, Dietetics, Foods, Nutraceuticals, Nutrients and Obesities.
Latest Articles
Gluten Contamination in Household Kitchen Appliances: Risks and Cleaning Solutions
Dietetics 2025, 4(3), 41; https://doi.org/10.3390/dietetics4030041 (registering DOI) - 12 Sep 2025
Abstract
Strict adherence to a gluten-free diet (GFD) is the cornerstone of treatment in coeliac disease, yet gluten cross-contamination in household settings poses a persistent challenge. Guidance from dieticians and patient organizations is often not evidence-based. This study quantified gluten contamination risks associated with
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Strict adherence to a gluten-free diet (GFD) is the cornerstone of treatment in coeliac disease, yet gluten cross-contamination in household settings poses a persistent challenge. Guidance from dieticians and patient organizations is often not evidence-based. This study quantified gluten contamination risks associated with common kitchen appliances and evaluated the effectiveness of various cleaning methods in typical Dutch households. We performed a two-phase analysis of 417 samples of 275 chopping boards, 34 toasters/sandwich makers, and 108 deep-fat fryers/air fryers. Gluten levels were assessed on appliances and food items under different cleaning protocols, with Bayesian modeling used to estimate contamination probabilities. Plastic chopping boards showed the highest risks, with probabilities up to 0.868 when rinsed with cold water, compared with 0.147 after dishwasher cleaning. Glass and wooden boards cleaned in dishwashers had the lowest probabilities (0.0102 and 0.0194). Toasters and sandwich makers tested positive in 1 of 34 samples; at the 20 ppm threshold, contamination probability was 0.00001. In fryers, probabilities were 0.125 for deep-fat fryers and 0.070 for air fryers at the 5 ppm threshold, decreasing to 0.0405 and 0.0326 at 20 ppm. Across all appliances, gluten levels seldom exceeded the clinically relevant threshold of 20 ppm. This study highlights the importance of dedicated cleaning protocols and appliance-specific recommendations to mitigate gluten exposure. While complete elimination of gluten is challenging, adopting rigorous practices can substantially mitigate exposure for coeliac patients, enhancing safety and quality of life.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Nutritional Implications and Future Prospects of Gluten-Free Diets Beyond Celiac Disease)
Open AccessArticle
Nutritional Intake in Hospitalized Patients Receiving Texture-Modified Diets: Preliminary Results from an Observational Study
by
Pauline Celine Raoul, Marco Cintoni, Chiara De Rossi, Elena Leonardi, Eleonora Ribaudi, Emanuele Rinninella, Antonio Giaquinto, Carmen Nuzzo, Antonio Gasbarrini and Maria Cristina Mele
Dietetics 2025, 4(3), 40; https://doi.org/10.3390/dietetics4030040 - 12 Sep 2025
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Background: Hospitalized patients often experience reduced dietary intake, leading to malnutrition and worsening clinical outcomes. This study evaluated their dietary intake and its associated factors, focusing on three diets provided by the hospital’s kitchen. Methods: An observational study was conducted from October 2024
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Background: Hospitalized patients often experience reduced dietary intake, leading to malnutrition and worsening clinical outcomes. This study evaluated their dietary intake and its associated factors, focusing on three diets provided by the hospital’s kitchen. Methods: An observational study was conducted from October 2024 to January 2025 at the Fondazione Policlinico Agostino Gemelli in Rome. Standard, minced, and soft diets were considered. A visual 5-point scale estimation method was used by trained dietitians to measure dietary intake. Face-to-face interviews also assessed food service quality. Results: A total of 631 patients were enrolled. The average calorie and protein intake were, respectively, 473.4 kcal and 30.9 g at lunch, regardless of diet type. Over 40% of the patients did not meet the minimum nutritional requirements in terms of meal calories and proteins consumed, regardless of diet type. Correlation analysis showed significant positive associations between dietary intake, breakfast palatability for all diets, and breakfast quantity for standard and soft diets (ORs > 2, p < 0.05). Other food service quality factors showed no significant associations with dietary intake. Conclusions: These preliminary findings highlight the need for regular dietary assessments to identify barriers to optimal meal consumption. Educating and assisting patients during mealtime could also promote awareness and diet acceptance.
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Open AccessReview
Interactions of Astaxanthin and Omega-3 Fat in Health and Disease
by
Mi-Jeong Lee
Dietetics 2025, 4(3), 39; https://doi.org/10.3390/dietetics4030039 - 8 Sep 2025
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Elevated oxidative stress and chronic inflammation are major pathological factors underlying numerous diseases, including cardiovascular and neurodegenerative diseases. Astaxanthin, an antioxidant carotenoid, and very long-chain omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids, such as eicosapentaenoic acid and docosahexaenoic acid, are commonly found in seafood and exhibit
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Elevated oxidative stress and chronic inflammation are major pathological factors underlying numerous diseases, including cardiovascular and neurodegenerative diseases. Astaxanthin, an antioxidant carotenoid, and very long-chain omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids, such as eicosapentaenoic acid and docosahexaenoic acid, are commonly found in seafood and exhibit beneficial effects on a myriad of diseases. The two powerful nutrients often work together, and this interaction is particularly beneficial for various aspects of health, primarily due to their complementary antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. The current understanding of the molecular and cellular mechanisms by which powerful duos exhibit protective effects, and their potential interactive effects on cardiometabolic and neurodegenerative diseases, is discussed.
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Open AccessSystematic Review
Cooking Skills in Health Professionals: A Systematic Review
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Letícia M. Conceição and Sara S. P. Rodrigues
Dietetics 2025, 4(3), 38; https://doi.org/10.3390/dietetics4030038 - 2 Sep 2025
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Cooking skills (CSs) encompass both physical and behavioral abilities, and their transmission has evolved due to social changes and the rise of fast food as a convenient but unhealthy option. Studies show that patients are more likely to follow dietary plans when the
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Cooking skills (CSs) encompass both physical and behavioral abilities, and their transmission has evolved due to social changes and the rise of fast food as a convenient but unhealthy option. Studies show that patients are more likely to follow dietary plans when the advice includes healthy, simple, and practical cooking tips. Intervention programs supporting this approach have been shown to improve CSs and encourage balanced diets in the community. CSs of health professionals, and their ability to teach and impart, can thus play a key role in these strategies. This systematic review aimed to identify studies that have already discussed CSs among health professionals. PRISMA guidelines were followed, and Scielo, Pubmed, Scoppus, and Web of Science databases were searched in January 2024. From the identified 527 potentially relevant studies, 9 met the inclusion criteria. The studies analyzed address topics such as the suitability of CS as a professional competency, professionals’ viewpoints regarding culinary aptitude, integrating CSs into training, and assessment of their impact on enhancing professionals’ competencies. Results suggest that developing CSs can improve professionals’ confidence, potentially benefiting community eating behaviors. Despite available validated tools, a clearer CS definition is needed for consistent evaluation and a better understanding of its role among health professionals.
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Open AccessArticle
The Evidence-Based Instrument for the Nutritional Assessment of Individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder
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Cristiane Vasconcelos, Kamila Castro and Rudimar dos Santos Riesgo
Dietetics 2025, 4(3), 37; https://doi.org/10.3390/dietetics4030037 - 1 Sep 2025
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Background: Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) presents diverse challenges that significantly impact feeding, nutrition, growth, and development. The heterogeneity of ASD manifestations adds complexity to assessments due to the broad range of factors to be considered. Moreover, the literature lacks a comprehensive tool specifically
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Background: Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) presents diverse challenges that significantly impact feeding, nutrition, growth, and development. The heterogeneity of ASD manifestations adds complexity to assessments due to the broad range of factors to be considered. Moreover, the literature lacks a comprehensive tool specifically addressing nutritional aspects in ASD. Methods: Conducted in two steps, this study first involved researchers selecting evidence-based elements related to ASD and nutrition to develop a preliminary tool. Content validation was subsequently undertaken using a modified Delphi method, whereby expert consensus was sought from 30 dietitians with experience in ASD, who evaluated the tool through a digital questionnaire. Four quality criteria were evaluated: functionality, organization, language and comprehensibility, and comprehensiveness. Results: Levels of strong agreement with the quality criteria ranged from 63.3% to 80%, specifically functionality (76.7%), organization (73.3%), language and comprehensibility (80%), and comprehensiveness (63.3%). Thematic analysis highlighted six key areas for improvement. The instrument assesses nutritional aspects across seven domains: life history, food-related aspects, feeding behavior, dietary intake, daily routines, clinical aspects, and anthropometry. Conclusions: This is the first known tool to comprehensively address the nutritional needs of individuals with ASD, offering a detailed framework for clinical application. It supports initial assessments, ongoing monitoring, and targeted interventions, supporting dietitians worldwide in clinical decision-making.
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Open AccessArticle
Evaluation of Lipid Profiles and Glycemic Control in Diabetic Patients in the Northwest of Spain: A Population Study
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Fernando Blanco-Gomez, Nerea Nogueira-Rio, Veronica Mendez-Vilabrille, Jose Manuel Miranda, Julia María Cabo del Riego and Aroa Lopez-Santamarina
Dietetics 2025, 4(3), 36; https://doi.org/10.3390/dietetics4030036 - 21 Aug 2025
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Type 2 Diabetes (T2D) is a prevalent metabolic disease with a strong association with cardiovascular complications. This study evaluated glycemic control and lipid profiles (total cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, high-density lipoprotein cholesterol, and triglycerides) in patients with T2D, based on glycated hemoglobin and
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Type 2 Diabetes (T2D) is a prevalent metabolic disease with a strong association with cardiovascular complications. This study evaluated glycemic control and lipid profiles (total cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, high-density lipoprotein cholesterol, and triglycerides) in patients with T2D, based on glycated hemoglobin and fasting glucose levels, through a cross-sectional analysis of 4814 individuals (mean age: 66.2 ± 16.07 years with normal distribution; 51.5% male) from the Hospital Universitario Lucus Augusti in Northwest Spain. The aim was to assess the metabolic differences and potential influences of age, sex, and geographic setting. We observed that patients with T2D had lower low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, but higher triglycerides and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels compared to patients without T2D. A positive correlation was found between age and fasting glucose levels (r = 0.182; p < 0.05), with the highest glucose concentrations occurring in postmenopausal women. No significant differences were observed between rural and urban participants. These findings support the integration of targeted nutritional strategies and education programs in the clinical management of T2D, particularly in older adults.
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Open AccessArticle
Protein Source and Micronutrient Adequacy in Australian Adult Diets with Higher Diet Quality Score and Lower Environmental Impacts
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Bradley Ridoutt, Danielle Baird and Gilly A. Hendrie
Dietetics 2025, 4(3), 35; https://doi.org/10.3390/dietetics4030035 - 11 Aug 2025
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Protein-rich foods, such as meats, eggs, nuts, legumes, and dairy foods, can be important sources of micronutrients, especially those micronutrients that tend to be widely under-consumed. The source of dietary protein, animal or plant origin, is therefore a relevant consideration in the transition
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Protein-rich foods, such as meats, eggs, nuts, legumes, and dairy foods, can be important sources of micronutrients, especially those micronutrients that tend to be widely under-consumed. The source of dietary protein, animal or plant origin, is therefore a relevant consideration in the transition to healthier and sustainable diets. In this study, 1589 Australian adult diets with higher diet quality and lower environmental impact were isolated from Australian Health Survey data. These diets were primarily differentiated by lower intake of energy-dense/nutrient-poor discretionary foods. These diets were grouped according to the proportion of total protein obtained from animal and plant sources. On average, 55% of protein was from animal sources and 45% was plant derived. As the proportion of animal protein increased, total dietary protein intake also increased, and total energy intake decreased. Diets with between 60 and 80% of protein from animal sources met the greatest number of Estimated Average Requirements (EARs). Furthermore, diets with this ratio of animal protein were closest to benchmarks when assessed as a proportion of EAR met. That said, across all identified “sustainable healthy diets”, calcium, vitamins B6 and A, zinc, and magnesium were at risk of inadequate intake. This evidence suggests that a diet with around 60–80% of total protein coming from animal sources can reduce the risks of inadequate intake of micronutrients in a sustainable diet.
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Open AccessArticle
Functional Goat Milk Yogurt Dessert Enriched with Antioxidant Extract from Spent Coffee Grounds: Sensory and Consumer Insights
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Ioannis Maisoglou, Michalis Koureas, Lamprini Dimitriou, Ermioni Meleti, Maria Alexandraki, Vasiliki Kossyva, Anastasia Tzereme, Mariastela Vrontaki, Vasileios Manouras, Athanasios Manouras and Eleni Malisisova
Dietetics 2025, 4(3), 34; https://doi.org/10.3390/dietetics4030034 - 11 Aug 2025
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The growing demand for health-promoting and eco-friendly foods has driven interest in biofunctional dairy products. Goat milk yogurt, though nutritionally beneficial, faces sensory challenges, while antioxidant-rich spent coffee grounds (SCGs), a coffee by-product, offer sustainable enhancement potential. This study assessed the consumer acceptance
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The growing demand for health-promoting and eco-friendly foods has driven interest in biofunctional dairy products. Goat milk yogurt, though nutritionally beneficial, faces sensory challenges, while antioxidant-rich spent coffee grounds (SCGs), a coffee by-product, offer sustainable enhancement potential. This study assessed the consumer acceptance of goat milk yogurt enriched with 2% and 3% SCG extract. A total of 137 untrained consumers evaluated six sensory attributes—appearance, aroma, taste, texture, coffee–yogurt balance, and aftertaste—on a five-point hedonic scale. Due to non-normal data, Wilcoxon rank-sum tests and Spearman correlations were applied. No significant differences emerged between formulations (p > 0.05). Taste, aftertaste, and aroma were strongly correlated (r > 0.65). All attributes significantly predicted purchase intent (p < 0.01), with taste as the strongest driver (OR = 2.24). Consumers aged 26–35, usually presenting health or environmental concerns, showed greater acceptance. The addition of SCG extract did not compromise sensory quality, supporting its viability as a sustainable functional ingredient. These findings present high acceptance of a newly developed eco-friendly and nutritionally beneficial product, responding to consumers’ current qualitative demands related to the food they consume.
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Open AccessArticle
Association Between Low-Carbohydrate Diet Scores and Incidence of Hypertension Among the Middle-Aged Japanese Population: The Toon Health Study
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Aziz Shoaib, Saori Miyazaki, Koutatsu Maruyama, Kiyohide Tomooka, Takeshi Tanigawa, Ryoichi Kawamura, Yasunori Takata, Haruhiko Osawa and Isao Saito
Dietetics 2025, 4(3), 33; https://doi.org/10.3390/dietetics4030033 - 8 Aug 2025
Abstract
This study investigates the association between Low-Carbohydrate Diet (LCD) score and the incidence of hypertension in the Japanese population. This cohort study was conducted in an ongoing longitudinal study, the Toon Health Study. Hypertension was defined by measured blood pressure levels and self-reported
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This study investigates the association between Low-Carbohydrate Diet (LCD) score and the incidence of hypertension in the Japanese population. This cohort study was conducted in an ongoing longitudinal study, the Toon Health Study. Hypertension was defined by measured blood pressure levels and self-reported treatment information, and dietary intake was measured through a validated food frequency questionnaire. Total, animal and plant-based LCD scores were calculated. Participants were divided into sex-specific tertiles of LCD scores. A multivariable-adjusted logistic regression model was used to calculate odds ratio (OR) and 95% confidence interval (95% CI) of incidence of hypertension. Total and plant-based LCD scores showed a borderline negative association with incidence of hypertension. The ORs (95% CI) for the highest versus lowest tertile of the total LCD score were 0.61(0.37–1.03, p for trend = 0.07) and 0.65(0.39–1.10, p for trend = 0.09) for the plant-based LCD score. Stratified analysis by drinking status showed significant negative association among alcohol drinkers, multivariable ORs (95% CI) for the highest versus lowest tertile of total LCD score was 0.38 (0.17–0.83, p for trend = 0.01) and for the plant-based LCD score was 0.39 (0.17–0.90, p for trend = 0.01). No significant association observed in non-drinkers. In conclusion, an increased LCD score was associated with the lower incidence of hypertension, especially in the drinking population.
Full article
Open AccessArticle
Branched-Chain Amino Acids Combined with Exercise Improves Physical Function and Quality of Life in Older Adults: Results from a Pilot Randomized Controlled Trial
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Ronna Robbins, Jason C. O’Connor, Tiffany M. Cortes and Monica C. Serra
Dietetics 2025, 4(3), 32; https://doi.org/10.3390/dietetics4030032 - 1 Aug 2025
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This pilot, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial investigated the effects of branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs)—provided in a 2:1:1 ratio of leucine:isoleucine:valine—combined with exercise on fatigue, physical performance, and quality of life in older adults. Twenty participants (63% female; BMI: 35 ± 2 kg/m2
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This pilot, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial investigated the effects of branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs)—provided in a 2:1:1 ratio of leucine:isoleucine:valine—combined with exercise on fatigue, physical performance, and quality of life in older adults. Twenty participants (63% female; BMI: 35 ± 2 kg/m2; age: 70.5 ± 1.2 years) were randomized to 8 weeks of either exercise + BCAAs (100 mg/kg body weight/d) or exercise + placebo. The program included moderate aerobic and resistance training three times weekly. Physical function was assessed using handgrip strength, chair stands, gait speed, VO2 max, and a 400 m walk. Psychological health was evaluated using the CES-D, Fatigue Assessment Scale (FAS), Insomnia Severity Index (ISI), and global pain, fatigue, and quality of life using a visual analog scale (VAS). Significant group x time interactions were found for handgrip strength (p = 0.03), chair stands (p < 0.01), and 400 m walk time (p < 0.01). Compared to exercise + placebo, exercise + BCAAs showed greater improvements in strength, mobility, and endurance, along with reductions in fatigue (−45% vs. +92%) and depressive symptoms (−29% vs. +5%). Time effects were also observed for ISI (−30%), FAS (−21%), and VAS quality of life (16%) following exercise + BCAA supplementation. These preliminary results suggest that BCAAs combined with exercise may be an effective way to improve physical performance and reduce fatigue and depressive symptoms in older adults.
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Open AccessArticle
Gluten-Free Diet, Symptom Burden, and Autoimmune Comorbidities: Insights from the Hellenic Celiac Disease Population
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Emmanuel Psylinakis, Nikolaos Thalassinos, Alexios Manidis, Maria Togia, Vasileia Kounelaki, Anastasia G. Markaki and Aspasia Spyridaki
Dietetics 2025, 4(3), 31; https://doi.org/10.3390/dietetics4030031 - 1 Aug 2025
Abstract
Introduction: Living with coeliac disease (CD) requires lifelong adherence to a strict gluten-free diet (GFD). This study assessed GFD adherence, symptom burden, autoimmune comorbidities, and dietetic support among Hellenic CD patients. Methods: A cross-sectional survey was completed by 272 adults with CD. Adherence
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Introduction: Living with coeliac disease (CD) requires lifelong adherence to a strict gluten-free diet (GFD). This study assessed GFD adherence, symptom burden, autoimmune comorbidities, and dietetic support among Hellenic CD patients. Methods: A cross-sectional survey was completed by 272 adults with CD. Adherence was measured using the Hellenic version of the Celiac Dietary Adherence Test (H-CDAT). Results: The mean H-CDAT score was 13.5 ± 3.5. Good adherence was observed in 44.9% of participants, while 14.3% showed poor adherence. Symptom burden was high: 39.3% reported partial symptom resolution and 3.7% had ongoing symptoms. Among patients, 25.0% had multiple autoimmune conditions, ranging from two to four. Dietetic support was limited: 61.5% were not referred to a dietitian at diagnosis, and 75.4% had no regular follow-up. Higher H-CDAT scores, indicating poorer adherence, were significantly associated with younger age (p = 0.014), earlier diagnosis (p = 0.01), and ongoing symptoms (p < 0.01). Age at diagnosis was also positively associated with autoimmune comorbidity count. Conclusions: These findings highlight the need for earlier diagnosis, improved access to structured dietetic support, and individualized care to optimize GFD adherence and improve outcomes in patients with CD.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Nutritional Implications and Future Prospects of Gluten-Free Diets Beyond Celiac Disease)
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Open AccessReview
Nutrition and DNA Methylation: How Dietary Methyl Donors Affect Reproduction and Aging
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Fanny Cecília Dusa, Tibor Vellai and Miklós Sipos
Dietetics 2025, 4(3), 30; https://doi.org/10.3390/dietetics4030030 - 14 Jul 2025
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Methylation is a biochemical process involving the addition of methyl groups to proteins, lipids, and nucleic acids (both DNA and RNA). DNA methylation predominantly occurs on cytosine and adenine nucleobases, and the resulting products—most frequently 5-methylcytosine and N6-methyladenine epigenetic marks—can significantly
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Methylation is a biochemical process involving the addition of methyl groups to proteins, lipids, and nucleic acids (both DNA and RNA). DNA methylation predominantly occurs on cytosine and adenine nucleobases, and the resulting products—most frequently 5-methylcytosine and N6-methyladenine epigenetic marks—can significantly influence gene activity at the affected genomic sites without modifying the DNA sequence called nucleotide order. Various environmental factors can alter the DNA methylation pattern. Among these, methyl donor micronutrients, such as specific amino acids, choline, and several B vitamins (including folate, pyridoxine, thiamine, riboflavin, niacin, and cobalamin), primarily regulate one-carbon metabolism. This molecular pathway stimulates glutathione synthesis and recycles intracellular methionine. Glutathione plays a pivotal role during oocyte activation by protecting against oxidative stress, whereas methionine is crucial for the production of S-adenosyl-L-methionine, which serves as the universal direct methyl donor for cellular methylation reactions. Because local DNA methylation patterns at genes regulating fertility can be inherited by progeny for multiple generations even in the absence of the original disrupting factors to which the parent was exposed, and DNA methylation levels at specific genomic sites highly correlate with age and can also be passed to offspring, nutrition can influence reproduction and life span in a transgenerational manner.
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Open AccessArticle
Determining Patient Satisfaction, Nutrition, and Environmental Impacts of Inpatient Food at a Tertiary Care Hospital in Canada: A Prospective Cohort Study
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Annie Lalande, Stephanie Alexis, Penelope M. A. Brasher, Neha Gadhari, Jiaying Zhao and Andrea J. MacNeill
Dietetics 2025, 4(3), 29; https://doi.org/10.3390/dietetics4030029 - 10 Jul 2025
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While hospital meals are designed to meet the nutritional requirements associated with illness or surgery, competing priorities often take precedence over food quality, contributing to poor patient satisfaction, in-hospital malnutrition, and high food waste. The environmental impacts of hospital food services are a
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While hospital meals are designed to meet the nutritional requirements associated with illness or surgery, competing priorities often take precedence over food quality, contributing to poor patient satisfaction, in-hospital malnutrition, and high food waste. The environmental impacts of hospital food services are a less well-characterized dimension of this complex problem. A prospective cohort study of patients admitted for select abdominal surgeries between June and October 2021 was conducted at a tertiary care hospital in Canada. Greenhouse gas emissions and land-use impacts associated with all food items served were estimated, and patient food waste was weighed for each meal. Patients’ experience of hospital food was measured at discharge. Nutrition was assessed by comparing measured oral intake to minimum caloric and protein requirements. On average, food served in hospital resulted in 3.75 kg CO2e/patient/day and 6.44 m2/patient/day. Average food waste was 0.88–1.39 kg/patient/day (37.5–58.9% of food served). Patients met their caloric and protein requirements on 9.8% and 14.8% of days in hospital, respectively. For patient satisfaction, 75% of overall scores were lower than the industry benchmark, and food quality scores were inversely correlated with quantities of food wasted. Redesigning inpatient food offerings to feature high-quality, low-emissions meals could lessen their environmental impacts while improving patient nutritional status and experience.
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Open AccessArticle
Rating One’s Diet Quality: Qualitative Study Results
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Tameka I. Walls, Alicia S. Landry, Nichole A. Espineli and Jessica L. Thomson
Dietetics 2025, 4(3), 28; https://doi.org/10.3390/dietetics4030028 - 7 Jul 2025
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American adults struggle with accurately assessing the quality of their diet, with the majority overrating their diet quality. Thus, the objective of the study was to explore what individuals think about when asked to rate their diet quality. Virtual focus groups were conducted
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American adults struggle with accurately assessing the quality of their diet, with the majority overrating their diet quality. Thus, the objective of the study was to explore what individuals think about when asked to rate their diet quality. Virtual focus groups were conducted from October 2023 to April 2024, using a semi-structured interview with open-ended questions. Convenience samples of small-scale farmers, school food service directors, health clinic patients, and university students and staff in Mississippi and Arkansas participated (N = 27). Themes and subthemes from NVivo-transcribed discussions were identified and coded inductively. Four subthemes emerged for description of diet: balance, consideration for others, convenience, and location. Four subthemes emerged for quality of diet: availability/access, culture/tradition, health considerations, and making better choices. Three subthemes emerged for healthy food: composition/preparation, nourishing benefits, and taste/flavor. Three subthemes emerged for unhealthy food: addicting/overconsumption, composition/preparation, and undesirable effects. Three subthemes emerged for nutrition knowledge: audience specific, general knowledge, and ambivalence. Three subthemes emerged for food shopping: food types, family influence/preference, and planning. Factors shaping how individuals perceive their diet quality are complex with intertwining components. Understanding the complexity involved in self-perceptions of diet quality will help us better quantify perceptions and link them to measurable outcomes.
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Open AccessArticle
The Implications of the Sugar Tax on Sugar-Sweetened Beverage Consumption Habits Among Rural-Based South African University Students
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Zelda Luvha, Vhuhwavho Tshipota, Selekane Ananias Motadi, Lavhelesani Negondeni and Hlekani Vanessa Mbhatsani
Dietetics 2025, 4(3), 27; https://doi.org/10.3390/dietetics4030027 - 1 Jul 2025
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In April 2018, South Africa became the first African country to implement a Health Promotion Levy (HPL) on sugar-sweetened beverages (SSBs). This study assessed sugar tax awareness among rural-based university students and involved 342 participants, with an additional 10% to account for attrition.
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In April 2018, South Africa became the first African country to implement a Health Promotion Levy (HPL) on sugar-sweetened beverages (SSBs). This study assessed sugar tax awareness among rural-based university students and involved 342 participants, with an additional 10% to account for attrition. However, only 257 students, randomly selected from six university residences at the University of Venda, reported consuming SSBs. Systematic sampling determined the room selection, and the data was collected through an interviewer-administered questionnaire (8–28 October 2022). A knowledge questionnaire assessed the students’ understanding of the sugar tax. The results showed that 65.8% purchased SSBs five to six times a week, while 41.2% spent over R200 monthly on these beverages. The results showed that students had limited awareness and little perception of the sugar tax, reflecting a broader knowledge gap. Their negative behaviors toward sugar-sweetened beverages indicated that changing their consumption patterns would be challenging. Raising public awareness through taxation is widely recognized as an effective obesity prevention strategy, but misinformation, negative perceptions, and pessimistic attitudes may contribute to continued high consumption.
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(This article belongs to the Topic Personalized and Sustainable Nutrition for Children and Adolescents: An Important Step for the 2030 Agenda)
Open AccessArticle
Exploring Dietary Patterns and Their Associations with Obesity in School-Aged Children in Croatia: A Cross-Sectional CroCOSI Study
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Jasmina Hasanović, Helena Križan, Zvonimir Šatalić and Sanja Musić Milanović
Dietetics 2025, 4(3), 26; https://doi.org/10.3390/dietetics4030026 - 1 Jul 2025
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Background: While previous research on children’s diets has primarily focused on individual nutrients or foods, recent years have seen increasing attention to the analysis of dietary patterns. In school-aged children enrolled in the CroCOSI study, this research focused on identifying the dietary patterns
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Background: While previous research on children’s diets has primarily focused on individual nutrients or foods, recent years have seen increasing attention to the analysis of dietary patterns. In school-aged children enrolled in the CroCOSI study, this research focused on identifying the dietary patterns and examining their potential links with childhood obesity. Methods: Data were collected from a nationally representative sample comprising 5608 children aged 7–10 years and their parents in this cross-sectional study. To evaluate the nutritional status of the children, BMI-for-age was assessed using z-score values. Results: A factor analysis using data from the FFQ revealed three dietary patterns: Western, Healthy, and Breakfast. Children who scored high for consumption of fruits, vegetables, fish, cheese, dairy products, and 100% fruit juice were categorized into the Healthy dietary pattern, whereas those with high scores for cereals and milk were assigned to the Breakfast dietary pattern. Conclusions: The Western dietary pattern did not show a significant relationship with obesity among school-aged children (OR = 1.00, 95% CI: 0.98–1.00; p = 0.11). The risk of obesity was lower among children following the Healthy (OR = 0.98, 95% CI: 0.98–0.99; p = 0.045) and Breakfast (OR = 0.96, 95% CI: 0.95–0.99; p = 0.001) dietary patterns.The results can help in creating food policies with the aim of reducing childhood obesity in Croatia.
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(This article belongs to the Topic The Link Between Dietary Patterns and Health Outcomes)
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Nutrition Literacy and Food Practices of Preschool Teachers in Greece
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Charistoula Chatzinikola, Vasileios Papavasileiou, Nikolaos Andreadakis and Antonios E. Koutelidakis
Dietetics 2025, 4(3), 25; https://doi.org/10.3390/dietetics4030025 - 20 Jun 2025
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Background: Nutrition literacy, defined as “the skills to comprehend and implement nutrition information into everyday practice”, is a new area of study. Preschool teachers affect children’s perception of nutrition and health and contribute to their nutrition literacy skills. Objective: This cross-sectional study aimed
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Background: Nutrition literacy, defined as “the skills to comprehend and implement nutrition information into everyday practice”, is a new area of study. Preschool teachers affect children’s perception of nutrition and health and contribute to their nutrition literacy skills. Objective: This cross-sectional study aimed to assess the level of nutrition literacy (NLS-Gr) of preschool teachers. Methods: The research included two stages of cluster sampling in a sample of kindergarten teachers in Greece (Rhodes Island). Nutrition literacy was assessed with the NLS-Gr, the Greek version of the NLS, and adherence to a Mediterranean diet with the MedDiet score. Results: The mean NLS-Gr score was 25.87 (SD ± 2.2) and is considered adequate. The correct answers range from 65.1% to 100%. The MedDiet score was calculated at 33.94 (SD ± 3.8), and no correlation was found between the MedDiet score and the NLS-Gr. The NLS-Gr score of kindergarten teachers was adequate, higher than that of previous research on different populations. Conclusions: The study concluded that adherence to the Mediterranean diet requires improvement, and food waste needs to be reduced. Educators should be empowered through targeted educational interventions to improve their dietary habits and, therefore, enhance students’ health and nutritional behaviors. Further research is needed to contribute to formulating nutrition strategies and policies in kindergarten.
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(This article belongs to the Topic Transforming Childhood Nutrition: New Perspectives on Food Literacy and Healthy Diets: 2nd Edition)
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Chrononutrition Patterns in People Who Attempted Weight Loss in the Past Year: A Descriptive Analysis of the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) 2017–2020 Pre-Pandemic
by
Namhyun Kim, Hajin Jang and Marquis Hawkins
Dietetics 2025, 4(2), 24; https://doi.org/10.3390/dietetics4020024 - 3 Jun 2025
Abstract
Introduction: Obesity is associated with cardiometabolic diseases, and chrononutrition has become a novel weight loss strategy. However, few have characterized chrononutrition patterns among people attempting weight loss. This study characterizes chrononutrition patterns in a nationally representative sample of U.S. adults who attempted weight
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Introduction: Obesity is associated with cardiometabolic diseases, and chrononutrition has become a novel weight loss strategy. However, few have characterized chrononutrition patterns among people attempting weight loss. This study characterizes chrononutrition patterns in a nationally representative sample of U.S. adults who attempted weight loss in the past year through dietary modifications by weight change and adiposity. Methods: This cross-sectional analysis utilizes NHANES 2017–2020 data. Chrononutrition patterns were assessed using 24 h dietary recalls. Participants self-reported weight loss attempts in the past year and if they tried using diet modification. Weight change (loss, maintenance, and gain) was defined based on differences in current weight and weight one year prior. We used latent profile analysis and descriptive statistics. Results: The sample included 2107 participants who attempted weight loss in the past year through diet modification (median age 47; 58% women and 62% white). Individuals who gained weight (vs. loss) had longer hours between waketime and the first eating (1.78 vs. 1.62 h, p = 0.024), consumed a lower proportion of calories later in the day (43% vs. 52%, p < 0.001), and ate less frequently (5.20 vs. 5.43 episodes, p = 0.008). Participants with obesity had the shortest eating window (11.77 vs. 12.22 h, p = 0.02) despite a longer delay between waketime and the first eating (1.80 vs. 1.29 h, p < 0.001) and lower eating frequency (5.16 vs. 5.97, p < 0.001). Conclusions: Variations in eating timing, eating episodes, and caloric distribution suggest that chrononutrition may play a role in personalized weight management strategies.
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Public Policies on Healthy Diet: Analyzing the Portuguese Experience
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Bruno Almeida Marques, Alexandre Morais Nunes and João Ricardo Catarino
Dietetics 2025, 4(2), 23; https://doi.org/10.3390/dietetics4020023 - 3 Jun 2025
Abstract
In Portugal, public policies promoting a healthy diet have gained prominence in recent years, reflecting a growing concern with the population’s health status and its individual, social, economic, and political impact. These policies aim to mitigate the impact of inadequate eating habits as
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In Portugal, public policies promoting a healthy diet have gained prominence in recent years, reflecting a growing concern with the population’s health status and its individual, social, economic, and political impact. These policies aim to mitigate the impact of inadequate eating habits as a determinant of health and the population’s disease burden. Based on a document analysis, the main objective of this article is to explore public healthy diet policies in Portugal following the 2017 implementation of the Estratégia Integrada para a Promoção da Alimentação Saudável (Integrated Strategy for the Promotion of a Healthy Diet), which is the primary guiding instrument for these policies. Among the most impactful legislative measures found in this sector, we highlight the reformulation of food products, food taxation, food marketing regulation, food incentives, and food labeling. Despite significant progress in promoting healthy diets, some challenges still remain, particularly the growing prevalence of behavior-related chronic non-communicable diseases, like obesity, such as the maintenance of a set of health determinants related to inadequate nutrition. Thus, the continuity and deepening of such policies, combined with continuous impact assessments, are crucial to ensuring a healthier future.
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Open AccessArticle
The Perceived Impact of Eating Pleasure on Healthy Eating: Development and Validation of a Questionnaire for the French-Speaking Québec Adult Population
by
Alexandra Bédard, Camille Pitre, Lucie-Maude Grégoire, Julia Lévy-Ndejuru, Sophie Desroches, Véronique Provencher, Ariane Bélanger-Gravel, Catherine Bégin and Simone Lemieux
Dietetics 2025, 4(2), 22; https://doi.org/10.3390/dietetics4020022 - 3 Jun 2025
Abstract
The present research aimed to develop and validate a questionnaire examining French-speaking Québec adults’ perceptions of how the various dimensions of eating pleasure influence healthy eating habits. Items were developed based on dimensions of eating pleasure, identified through a literature review. Content validity
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The present research aimed to develop and validate a questionnaire examining French-speaking Québec adults’ perceptions of how the various dimensions of eating pleasure influence healthy eating habits. Items were developed based on dimensions of eating pleasure, identified through a literature review. Content validity was evaluated by an expert committee, followed by a pre-test among 30 participants to assess face validity. The questionnaire was then administered twice (2–4 weeks apart) to 298 participants. Exploratory factor analysis identified a six-factor structure reflecting the multidimensional nature of eating pleasure in relation to healthy eating: (1) emotional/situational eating and reward (eight items), (2) sensory experiences (six items), (3) ideologies/interest in food (eight items), (4) autonomy, freedom, and individual preferences (seven items), (5) social experiences (five items), and (6) mindful eating (three items). The results showed an adequate internal consistency, a good test–retest reliability, and a good construct validity. Participants perceived all factors except Factor 1, “emotional/situational eating and reward”, as supporting healthy eating. Overall, these findings indicate that the questionnaire assessing the perceived impact of eating pleasure on healthy eating is a suitable instrument for use among French-speaking adults of the province of Québec, in Canada.
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