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Nutritional Screening and Assessment of Different Populations

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A special issue of Nutrients (ISSN 2072-6643). This special issue belongs to the section "Nutrition Methodology & Assessment".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: closed (5 September 2024) | Viewed by 21710

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Special Issue Editors

Prof. Dr. Aránzazu Aparicio Vizuete

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Guest Editor

VALORNUT Research Group, Department of Nutrition and Food Science, Faculty of Pharmacy, Complutense University of Madrid, 28040 Madrid, Spain
Interests: nutrition; diet; public health; dietary habits; food; nutritional status; nutritional education; elderly; children; athletes
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals

Dr. Mª del Carmen Lozano Estevan

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Co-Guest Editor

VALORNUT Research Group, Department of Nutrition and Food Science, Faculty of Pharmacy, Complutense University of Madrid, 28040 Madrid, Spain
Interests: nutritional coaching; nutrition; diet; public health; dietary habits; food; nutritional status; nutritional education; elderly; children; athletes
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

Nutritional screening and assessment in diverse populations is of great relevance to both scientific research and public health. This approach is essential for the generation of rigorous scientific evidence and the development of more accurate and effective intervention strategies in the field of nutrition.

First, it provides valuable information on the specific nutritional needs of varied demographic groups, considering factors such as age, gender, health status and cultural characteristics. This information is essential for tailoring dietary recommendations and nutritional care in a personalised manner, thereby optimising the health and well-being of the population.

In addition, knowledge of nutritional disparities between populations facilitates the identification of specific risk factors related to diseases such as malnutrition, obesity, diabetes and other diet-related conditions. This, in turn, allows for the formulation of more precise public health policies and the implementation of targeted prevention and treatment programmes.

In scientific terms, nutritional screening and assessment in diverse populations promote research. These joint efforts enrich the knowledge base and scientific evidence in the field of nutrition, resulting in significant advances in understanding specific nutritional needs and optimising healthcare.

This Special Issue will incorporate research from all perspectives, focusing on nutritional assessment in various population groups as well as its potential health implications.

All types of manuscripts are encouraged, from rigorous randomised clinical trials to pragmatic community-based designs. Therefore, interventions related to diet, dietary habits and their relationship with the nutritional status of a population, and nutritional status assessment are welcome. Original research papers as well as systematic reviews and meta-analyses will be accepted.

Prof. Dr. Aránzazu Aparicio Vizuete
Dr. Mª del Carmen Lozano Estevan
Guest Editors

Manuscript Submission Information

Manuscripts should be submitted online at www.mdpi.com by registering and logging in to this website. Once you are registered, click here to go to the submission form. Manuscripts can be submitted until the deadline. All submissions that pass pre-check are peer-reviewed. Accepted papers will be published continuously in the journal (as soon as accepted) and will be listed together on the special issue website. Research articles, review articles as well as short communications are invited. For planned papers, a title and short abstract (about 100 words) can be sent to the Editorial Office for announcement on this website.

Submitted manuscripts should not have been published previously, nor be under consideration for publication elsewhere (except conference proceedings papers). All manuscripts are thoroughly refereed through a single-blind peer-review process. A guide for authors and other relevant information for submission of manuscripts is available on the Instructions for Authors page. Nutrients is an international peer-reviewed open access semimonthly journal published by MDPI.

Please visit the Instructions for Authors page before submitting a manuscript. The Article Processing Charge (APC) for publication in this open access journal is 2900 CHF (Swiss Francs). Submitted papers should be well formatted and use good English. Authors may use MDPI's English editing service prior to publication or during author revisions.

Keywords

nutrition
diet
dietary habits
food
nutritional status
nutritional education
nutritional assessment
nutritional screening
elderly
children
athletes
nutritional coaching

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Published Papers (9 papers)

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Editorial

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4 pages, 152 KiB

Open AccessEditorial

Nutritional Screening and Assessment in Different Populations

by Aránzazu Aparicio and Mᵃ del Carmen Lozano-Estevan

Nutrients 2025, 17(9), 1525; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu17091525 - 30 Apr 2025

Abstract

Nutritional assessment in different populations is a key strategy in both clinical practice and public health, and systematic nutritional screening helps detect early indicators of malnutrition, which may include undernutrition, obesity, or specific micronutrient deficiencies [...] Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nutritional Screening and Assessment of Different Populations)

Research

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12 pages, 1143 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Development of Spanish Nutrition Screening Tool for Hispanic Preschoolers

by Denisse Arias, Elaine Lemmon, Marc-Aurel Martial, Mariana Penaranda, Sandra Aguayo and Sarah Gunnell Bellini

Nutrients 2024, 16(18), 3058; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu16183058 - 11 Sep 2024

Viewed by 1149

Abstract

Nutrition screening tools may facilitate early nutrition interventions specifically with Hispanic populations that are already at higher risk. There is a paucity of culturally competent and validated nutrition screening tools for 3–5-year-old Hispanic children. The purpose of this study was to develop a Spanish nutrition screening tool for 3–5-year-old children to be used by Spanish-speaking parents in community settings to appropriately address malnutrition risk factors with cultural sensitivity. All phases of the study were conducted in Spanish with native Spanish speakers. Face and content validity were established using focus groups, expert reviews, and pilot testing of the tool with Spanish-speaking parents. Parents of children 3–5 years old whose primary language was Spanish (n = 39) completed the nutrition screening, and a nutritionist completed an in-depth nutrition assessment of these children. Criterion validity was measured by comparing the results of the nutrition screening tool with the in-depth nutrition assessment. The nutrition screening tool had a sensitivity of 91.67% and a specificity of 81.48%. The negative predictive value was 69%, and the positive predictive value was 96%. The nutrition screening tool may be used to identify malnutrition in Hispanic children and needs further validation in larger samples. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nutritional Screening and Assessment of Different Populations)

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26 pages, 3351 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Impact of Iron Intake and Reserves on Cognitive Function in Young University Students

by Carmen Dimas-Benedicto, José Luis Albasanz, Laura M. Bermejo, Lucía Castro-Vázquez, Alejandro Sánchez-Melgar, Mairena Martín and Rosa M. Martínez-García

Nutrients 2024, 16(16), 2808; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu16162808 - 22 Aug 2024

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2672

Abstract

Iron is a key nutrient for cognitive function. During periods of high academic demand, brain and cognitive activity increase, potentially affecting iron intake and reserves. The present study aimed to investigate the impact of iron levels on cognitive function in a university sample, considering the influence of gender. A cross-sectional study was conducted with 132 university students (18–29 years) from the University of Castilla-La Mancha (Spain). A dietary record was formed through a questionnaire to analyze iron consumption, and blood and anthropometric parameters were measured. The Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale-IV was used to determine the Intelligence Quotient (IQ), as well as the Verbal Comprehension Index (VCI), Working Memory Index (WMI), Processing Speed Index (PSI), and Perceptual Reasoning Index (PRI), to assess cognitive abilities. Among women, the prevalence of iron deficiency (ID) and iron deficiency anemia (IDA) was 21% and 4.2%, respectively. No ID or IDA was found in men. The impact of iron intake on IQ and cognitive abilities was mainly associated with the female population, where a positive association between iron intake, serum ferritin, and total IQ was revealed. In conclusion, low iron intake is related to poorer intellectual ability, suggesting that an iron-rich diet is necessary to maintain the academic level of university students. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nutritional Screening and Assessment of Different Populations)

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12 pages, 1132 KiB

Open AccessArticle

C-Reactive Protein-to-Prealbumin and C-Reactive Protein-to-Albumin Ratios as Nutritional and Prognostic Markers in Hospitalized Patients—An Observational Study

by Rosa M. García-Moreno, Laura Mola Reyes, Bricia López-Plaza and Samara Palma Milla

Nutrients 2024, 16(16), 2610; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu16162610 - 8 Aug 2024

Viewed by 1460

Abstract

This study aimed to evaluate the role of the C-reactive protein-to-prealbumin (CP) ratio and the C-reactive protein-to-albumin (CA) ratio as nutritional and prognostic markers. A retrospective study was conducted on hospitalized patients who underwent a nutritional assessment and the measurement of C-reactive protein, prealbumin, and albumin (n = 274). Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis was used. The area under the curve (AUC) of the CP ratio for predicting mortality was 0.644, 95%CI (0.571 to 0.717), and the CA ratio had an AUC of 0.593, 95%CI (0.518 to 0.669). The AUC of the CP ratio for the differential diagnosis between severe and moderate disease-related malnutrition (DRM) was 0.643, 95%CI (0.564 to 0.722), and the CA ratio had an AUC of 0.650, 95%CI (0.572 to 0.728). The CP and CA ratios showed greater accuracy in predicting mortality compared to C-reactive protein as an isolated marker (p = 0.011 and p = 0.006, respectively). Both ratios also improved the ability of prealbumin and albumin to identify severe DRM (p = 0.002 and p = 0.044, respectively). In conclusion, these results suggest that the CP and CA ratios may have a limited role in predicting mortality and identifying severe DRM by outperforming isolated protein markers. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nutritional Screening and Assessment of Different Populations)

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15 pages, 913 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Nutritional Issues among Children with Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy—Incidence of Deficiency and Excess Body Mass

by Edyta Wernio, Eliza Wasilewska, Sylwia Czaja-Stolc, Karolina Śledzińska, Jolanta Wierzba, Agnieszka Szlagatys-Sidorkiewicz and Sylwia Małgorzewicz

Nutrients 2024, 16(13), 2143; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu16132143 - 4 Jul 2024

Viewed by 2111

Abstract

The progression of Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD)requires the assessment of nutritional disturbances at each stage of the disease. The purpose of this study was to assess the nutritional status in various ages of boys with DMD using screening and in-depth evaluation methods. Body composition by Dual X-ray Absorptiometry (DXA), basal metabolic rate (BMR) by indirect calorimetry, a questionnaire of nutritional status—Pediatric Nutrition Screening Tool (PNST)—and laboratory parameters were performed. In the cohort of 93 boys aged 8.54 (5.9–12.6 years), inappropriate nutritional status occurred in 41.8% of boys (underweight 11.8%, overweight 16.0%, and obesity 14.0%). In the 10–13 age group, the occurrence of overweight and underweight was the highest. Based on PNST, 15.1% of patients were at nutritional risk (≥2 points)—the most in the 14–17 age group (29%). A negative correlation was identified between PNST and z-scores of body weight, BMI, and FFMI (r Spearman = −0.49, −0.46, and −0.48, respectively; p < 0.05). There were no differences between BMR results from indirect calorimetry and calculations from the Schofield formula for any age group. In obese boys, the caloric requirement in indirect calorimetry was significantly lower than that indicated by the calculations according to the Schofield formula (p < 0.028). Inappropriate nutritional status occurred in almost half of the children with DMD. The age group in which nutritional disorders were most frequently identified was 10–13 years old. PNST could be considered a tool for screening malnutrition after testing a larger group of DMD patients. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nutritional Screening and Assessment of Different Populations)

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14 pages, 578 KiB

Open AccessArticle

High-Protein Processed Foods: Impact on Diet, Nutritional Status, and Possible Effects on Health

by Rosa M. Ortega, Nerea Arribas-López, María Dolores Salas-González, Aránzazu Aparicio, Liliana Guadalupe González-Rodríguez, Laura M. Bermejo, María Del Carmen Lozano-Estevan, Esther Cuadrado-Soto, Ana M. López-Sobaler and Viviana Loria-Kohen

Nutrients 2024, 16(11), 1697; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu16111697 - 30 May 2024

Viewed by 4021

Abstract

Proteins are macronutrients with multiple health benefits, but excessive consumption can negatively affect health. This study aimed to evaluate the characteristics of a sample of high-protein processed foods (HPPFs), describe how their consumption affects dietary balance, and acquire knowledge of the consumption patterns of these products in a Spanish population. A sample of HPPFs available in supermarkets and on websites was collected. The contribution to recommended protein intakes was calculated using national and international references and considering the single consumption of the HPPFs and the product plus 150 g of meat. Furthermore, an online survey was conducted among a convenience sample. A total of 36 enriched protein products were evaluated. The percentage of proteins in these products ranges from 10 to 88%. The contribution of the protein recommended intake was within a range of 87.4–306.6% and 66.4–232.8% (women and men, respectively), only considering the additional proteins from 150 g of meat. One hundred thirty-nine participants completed the survey; 67.6% affirmed that they had consumed HPPFs, and half consumed them without following any consumption control. Since these products are accessible to everyone in supermarkets and protein intake is generally higher than the recommended limits, regulating the mass sale of HPPFs is essential to ensure they do not lead to protein overconsumption. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nutritional Screening and Assessment of Different Populations)

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18 pages, 306 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The sDOR.2-6y™ Is a Valid Measure of Nutrition Risk Independent of BMI-for-Age z-Score and Household Food Security Status in Preschool Aged-Children

by Elizabeth H. Ruder and Barbara Lohse

Nutrients 2024, 16(6), 767; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu16060767 - 7 Mar 2024

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2692

Abstract

Parents’ feeding practices are a function of child eating behaviors, health, and other factors. Adherence to the Satter Division of Responsibility in Feeding (sDOR) model has not been examined relating to child BMI, household food security, or child eating behavior. This study evaluates the adherence to sDOR in relation to child eating behavior, nutrition risk, BMI-for-age, dietary intake, and food security. Ninety-one parent–child (3 to <6 years) dyads completed a cross-sectional asymmetric survey in August–November 2019; n = 69 parents from the original sample completed additional and retrospective questions in June 2021. Main outcomes included sDOR adherence (sDOR.2-6y™), a Child Eating Behavior Questionnaire (CEBQ), nutrition risk (NutriSTEP^®), the USDA 6-item screener, the Block Kids Food Screener, and eating competence (ecSI 2.0™). The children’s weight and height were investigator-measured. Associations were tested with Pearson’s r and Chi Square for continuous and categorical variables, independent sample t-test, one-way ANOVA, or Mann–Whitney U compared means. The dietary comparisons used Spearman’s rho correlation coefficient. sDOR adherence was associated with a lower nutrition risk (r = 0.26, p = 0.03) and showed convergent validation with child eating behavior for three child eating behavior (CEBQ) constructs. sDOR.2-6y™ was not related to the child BMI-for-age z-score (r = 0.11, p = 0.39, n = 69). NutriSTEP^® was associated with dietary quality and higher ecSI 2.0TM (r = 0.32, p = 0.008, n = 69). No associations between sDOR.2-6y™ and food security or dietary intake were noted. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nutritional Screening and Assessment of Different Populations)

18 pages, 1446 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Stunting and Underweight among Adolescent Girls of Indigenous Communities in Telangana, India: A Cross-Sectional Study

by Padmaja Ravula, Kavitha Kasala, Soumitra Pramanik and Aravazhi Selvaraj

Nutrients 2024, 16(5), 731; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu16050731 - 3 Mar 2024

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 4407

Abstract

India’s indigenous groups remain vulnerable to malnutrition, despite economic progress, reflecting the reliance on traditional agriculture and the problems of poverty and inadequate education and sanitation. This mixed-methods study analyzed the incidence, causes and determinants of chronic malnutrition, measured through stunting, thinness and underweight among adolescent indigenous girls in Telangana. Using 2017 data on 695 girls aged 11–18 years from 2542 households, the analysis showed that 13% had normal nutritional status, while 87% were stunted, underweight or thin. Early adolescents (11–14 years) had higher underweight prevalence (24.4%), while late adolescents (15–18 years) showed greater stunting (30%). Regressions identified key influencing factors. Higher education levels of heads of households and the girls themselves alongside household toilet access significantly improved nutritional status and reduced stunting and underweight. The sociocultural emphasis on starchy staple-based diets and early marriage also impacted outcomes. Tackling this crisis requires mainstreaming nutrition across development agendas via comprehensive policies, education, communication and community participation. Further research can guide context-specific solutions. But, evidence-based investments in indigenous education, livelihoods, sanitation and women’s empowerment are the first steps. Nutrition-sensitive development is indispensable for indigenous groups to fully participate in and benefit from India’s progress. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nutritional Screening and Assessment of Different Populations)

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Review

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17 pages, 1059 KiB

Open AccessReview

Methods of Determining Energy Expenditure in Individuals with Prader-Willi Syndrome: A Systematic Literature Review

by Anela Halilagic, Danielle K. Longmore, Heather Gilbertson and George Moschonis

Nutrients 2024, 16(13), 2161; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu16132161 - 7 Jul 2024

Viewed by 2102

Abstract

Prader-Willi syndrome (PWS) is a rare disorder characterised by varying nutritional phases that occur throughout the lifespan, ranging from failure to thrive to hyperphagia. If uncontrolled, the imbalance between energy intake and expenditure results in obesity development and increased morbidity and mortality risk. Although measures of energy requirements for accurate nutrition assessment are vital, the evidence appears sparse and heterogeneous; hence, the aim of this review was to examine the available literature on energy expenditure predicted or measured using various methods in individuals with PWS. Studies were sought that presented methods and results on resting energy expenditure or basal metabolic rate. A narrative synthesis was completed to present the study characteristics and results. Methods of determining energy requirements included predictive equations and indirect calorimetry. Differences amongst ages, growth hormone therapy, fasting status, and measures in which results were presented were limitations to appropriately summarising and identifying trends in energy expenditure. Indirect calorimetry was identified as the most accurate method; however, it is not widely available in all settings. Further research is encouraged to support the development of valid and reliable predictive equations that will better inform and improve the efficiency of clinical practice in supporting people with PWS. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nutritional Screening and Assessment of Different Populations)

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