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A special issue of Nutrients (ISSN 2072-6643). This special issue belongs to the section "Nutrition and Public Health".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: closed (5 July 2025) | Viewed by 11055

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Dr. Sabina Lachowicz-Wiśniewska

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Guest Editor

Faculty of Health Sciences, Department Food and Nutrition, Calisia University, 4 Nowy Świat Street, 62-800 Kalisz, Poland
Interests: nutraceuticals and functional foods; medicinal plants; bioactive compounds; HPLC; LC-MS; nutrition; antioxidant agent; prebiotics; probiotics; symbiotics; bioavailability in vitro
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals

Dr. Agata Kotowska

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Guest Editor Assistant

Department of Social Policy, Institute of Sociological Sciences, College of Social Sciences, University of Rzeszow, Rzeszow, Poland
Interests: public health; media and social communication; sociology

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

It is our pleasure to present this Special Issue of Nutrients entitled “Public Health, Nutritional Behavior and Nutritional Status”. The World Health Organization has proposed healthy dietary patterns that impact all dimensions of individual and public health and wellbeing. As a result, consumer awareness about the important role of high-quality products rich in bioactive compounds for human nutrition and health and for prevention against diseases has increased. So, why is the health of the population deteriorating? The objective of this Special Issue is to demonstrate the importance of dietary behavior and nutritional status in the context of public health. The challenges for scientists lie in the monitoring of changes in nutritional behavior and nutritional status in the context of public health, which will provide healthcare professionals and dietitians with clear and updated evidence concerning dietary behaviors and the best ways to counteract changes that worsen health. We, therefore, encourage you to publish research that highlights the latest news, insights, and advances in the fields of public health, nutritional behavior, and nutritional status and their implications for health. This will attract considerable interest from a large group of readers from different disciplines and research fields.

Dr. Sabina Lachowicz-Wiśniewska
Guest Editor

Dr. Agata Kotowska
Guest Editor Asisstant

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Keywords

public health
community health
social health
functional food
bioactive compounds
bioavailability
pro-health properties
dietary supplements
nutrition and dietetics

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Published Papers (9 papers)

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Research

19 pages, 879 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Differences in the Perception of Snacks and Beverages Portion Sizes Depending on Body Mass Index

by Anna Celina Durma, Maja Sosnowska, Adam Daniel Durma, Adam Śmiałowski and Leszek Czupryniak

Nutrients 2025, 17(13), 2123; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu17132123 - 26 Jun 2025

Viewed by 362

Abstract

Introduction: The major cause of obesity is excessive calorie intake. Inappropriate dietary habits, like increased meal frequency, portion sizes, or amount of snacks consumed contribute to obesity development. Potential differences in the perception of snacks by people with different BMIs may be one of the causes of obesity. Assessment of the perception of snacks by people with excessive and normal body weight will allow us to check whether this parameter actually has an impact on the development of obesity. Materials and Methods: A survey study was conducted to check differences in assessing different snacks and beverages by individuals with varied BMIs. Participants analyzed snacks on presented photographs and assessed portion sizes, estimated caloric content, assessed whether the meal was healthy, and determined whether the indicated portion would be sufficient to satisfy their hunger. The study population was divided according to body mass index (BMI) into individuals with normal weight, overweight, and obesity. Additionally, the study group was divided according to gender and age. Results: There were no statistically significant differences in the majority of the studied parameters concerning BMI; however, the study revealed relatively low education level regarding caloric assessment. Conclusions: BMI seems not to have an influence on calorie and portion size perception of snacks. The majority of the population wrongly assessed the calorific value of snacks, which might contribute to obesity development. People have a tendency to overestimate the caloric value of snacks. Women assess the portion size of highly processed snacks as larger than men do. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Public Health, Nutritional Behavior and Nutritional Status—2nd Edition)

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13 pages, 372 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Undernutrition and Increased Healthcare Demand: Evidence from a Community-Based Longitudinal Panel Study in Singapore

by Lixia Ge and Chun Wei Yap

Nutrients 2025, 17(11), 1781; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu17111781 - 24 May 2025

Viewed by 403

Abstract

Background/Introduction: Undernutrition’s impact on healthcare utilisation across age groups and care settings remains underexplored, particularly in Asian contexts. This study investigated the dynamic association between nutritional status and healthcare utilisation among community-dwelling adults in Singapore and assessed whether age modified this relationship. Methods: The study sampled 1703 adults enrolled in the Population Health Index study. Nutritional status was assessed annually using the Mini Nutritional Assessment, and healthcare utilisation data—across primary care, specialist outpatient clinics (SOCs), emergency departments (EDs), day surgeries, and inpatient admissions—were extracted from administrative databases. Negative binomial regressions with interaction terms using longitudinal panel data were conducted to examine age-modified effects. Results: At baseline, 9.7% of participants were classified as undernourished, with a higher prevalence in older adults (15.0%). Key risk factors for undernutrition included female sex, unemployment, financial inadequacy, currently smoking, lack of formal education, and multimorbidity. Undernutrition was associated with increased ED visits (IRR 1.41, AME: 0.35) and inpatient admissions (IRR 1.52, AME: 0.42). Among older adults, undernutrition was associated with less primary and specialist care (IRR: 0.72 and 0.57), while younger undernourished adults had more SOC visits (AME: 0.46). Older undernourished adults had 0.46 more ED visits and 0.47 more inpatient admissions on average in one year, though these increases did not differ from younger adults (interaction p > 0.05). Conclusions: Undernutrition is associated with increased ED visits and inpatient admissions, especially in older adults. Integrating nutritional screening and targeted interventions into community and primary care may help reduce preventable hospitalisations in high-risk populations. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Public Health, Nutritional Behavior and Nutritional Status—2nd Edition)

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22 pages, 1375 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Network Approach to Evaluate the Effect of Diet on Stroke or Myocardial Infarction Using Gaussian Graphical Model

by Jaca Maison Lailo, Jiae Shin, Giulia Menichetti and Sang-Ah Lee

Nutrients 2025, 17(10), 1605; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu17101605 - 8 May 2025

Viewed by 656

Abstract

Background/Objectives/Methods: Current research on the link between diet and stroke or myocardial infarction primarily focuses on individual food items. However, people’s eating habits involve complex combinations of various foods. By employing an innovative approach known as the Gaussian graphical model to identify dietary patterns along with the Cox proportional model, the study aimed to identify dietary networks and explore their relationship with the incidence of stroke and/or myocardial infarction in the Korean population. The research utilized data from 84,729 participants in the Korean Genome and Epidemiological Study (KoGES), including the HEXA cohort (61,140 participants), CAVAS cohort (15,419 participants), and Ansan-Ansung cohort (8170 participants). Results: The network identified five dietary patterns or communities consisting of different food groups, while nine food groups did not belong to any community. The High-Protein and Green Tea Community consistently reduced the risk of stroke and myocardial infarction (MI), particularly among females. In most communities, no significant associations with stroke risk were noted in males, and the Rice and High-Calorie Beverages Community was linked to an increased risk of MI in both the total population and females. Conclusions: Dietary patterns derived from network analysis revealed distinct dietary habits in the Korean population, offering new insights into the relationship between diet and the risk of stroke and MI. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Public Health, Nutritional Behavior and Nutritional Status—2nd Edition)

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23 pages, 630 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Estimation of Intake of Fat, Saturated Fatty Acids, and Trans Fatty Acids from Sweet and Salty Snacks Among Children and Adolescents

by Ewa Malczyk, Katarzyna Weronika Walkiewicz, Małgorzata Muc-Wierzgoń and Sylwia Dzięgielewska-Gęsiak

Nutrients 2025, 17(9), 1572; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu17091572 - 2 May 2025

Viewed by 633

Abstract

Objectives: The study aimed to assess the intake of total fat, saturated fatty acids (SFAs), and trans fatty acids (TFAs) from sweet and salty snacks among Polish schoolchildren and to evaluate differences by age, gender, and nutritional status. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 362 pupils aged 10–15 years. Snack consumption was assessed using a validated food frequency questionnaire. Fat content was estimated based on product labels and databases, and the Estimated Daily Intake (EDI) of fats was calculated. Intake levels were compared to dietary recommendations and analyzed by gender, age, and BMI category. Results: The mean fat intake from snacks was 34.5 g/day, covering nearly 47% of the recommended daily intake. Over 12% of students exceeded total fat recommendations, 20% exceeded SFA limits, and more than 30% surpassed the TFA intake threshold. The highest intake of fats was observed among 10-year-olds. Over 60% of students in this age group exceeded the TFA’s upper intake level. Girls showed slightly higher intakes of total fat and SFAs than boys, although the differences were not statistically significant. Fat intake was highest among children with overweight or obesity. Conclusions: Snacks are a major contributor to unhealthy fat intake among school-aged children, particularly in the youngest age group and those with excess body weight. Early, targeted nutrition education and regulatory strategies are needed to promote healthier snacking habits and reduce the long-term risk of diet-related non-communicable diseases. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Public Health, Nutritional Behavior and Nutritional Status—2nd Edition)

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19 pages, 1127 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Gender, Adverse Changes in Social Engagement and Risk of Unhealthy Eating: A Prospective Cohort Study of the Canadian Longitudinal Study on Aging (2011–2021)

by Sanaz Mehranfar, Gilciane Ceolin, Rana Madani Civi, Heather Keller, Rachel A. Murphy, Tamara R. Cohen and Annalijn I. Conklin

Nutrients 2025, 17(6), 1005; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu17061005 - 13 Mar 2025

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Abstract

Background: Social isolation is linked to survival and health. However, dietary effects of social activities, and gender differences, over time are unknown. Methods: A prospective study of adults (45+y) reporting daily fruit or vegetable (F/V) intake (at wave 1) from the Canadian Longitudinal Study on Aging (CLSA). Multivariable mixed logistic regression assessed changes in social isolation or breadth of social participation (wave 1 to 2) in relation to adverse changes in F/V (non-daily intake) at wave 3 in women and men. Results: Women who remained socially isolated between waves 1 and 2 had 85% higher odds of non-daily vegetable intake (OR 1.85 [95% CI: 1.32, 2.59]) and over twofold higher odds of non-daily fruit intake (2.23 [1.58, 3.14]), compared to reference (not isolated at waves 1 and 2). Higher odds of non-daily F/V intake were also observed for women who changed from isolated at wave 1 to not isolated at wave 2. Women and men who had less diverse social participation at waves 1 and 2 had 28–64% higher odds of non-daily F/V intake, compared to their counterparts with diverse social participation at both waves. Higher odds of non-daily fruit were also seen for women who had diverse social participation at wave 1 but reduced their diversity at wave 2 (1.35 [1.12, 1.62]). Conclusions: Results showed persistent social isolation impacted changes in F/V among women only, while limited breadth of social participation affected F/V intake in both genders. Further longitudinal research on the complexities of social engagement and eating behavior is warranted. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Public Health, Nutritional Behavior and Nutritional Status—2nd Edition)

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19 pages, 1035 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Relationship Between Metabolic Age Determined by Bioimpedance and Insulin Resistance Risk Scales in Spanish Workers

by Ignacio Ramírez-Gallegos, Pedro Juan Tárraga López, Hernán Paublini Oliveira, Ángel Arturo López-González, Cristina Martorell Sánchez, Emilio Martínez-Almoyna-Rifá and José Ignacio Ramírez-Manent

Nutrients 2025, 17(6), 945; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu17060945 - 8 Mar 2025

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1437

Abstract

Introduction: Metabolic age (MA) is the difference between an individual’s actual age and the age of their body based on physiological and biological factors. It is an indicator that reflects a person’s physical and biological state, regardless of chronological age. Insulin resistance (IR) is a health disorder in which tissues exhibit a reduced response to the circulating glucose uptake stimulated by insulin. Objective: The aim of this study is to evaluate the association between MA, determined through bioelectrical impedance analysis, and the risk of IR, assessed using validated scales, in a cohort of Spanish workers. Methodology: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted on 8590 Spanish workers to assess the association between MA and a set of sociodemographic variables, health habits, and IR risk scales such as the Triglyceride–Glucose Index (TyG Index), Metabolic Score for Insulin Resistance (METS-IR), and Single Point Insulin Sensitivity Estimator (SPISE). Results: All analyzed variables were associated with MA values, with the strongest associations observed for IR risk scale values (OR 4.88 [95% CI 4.12–5.65] for METS-IR, 4.42 [95% CI 3.70–5.15] for SPISE, and 3.42 [95% CI 2.97–3.87] for the TyG Index) and physical activity. Conclusions: Metabolic age is influenced by sociodemographic variables such as age, sex, and social class; health habits such as smoking, physical activity, and adherence to the Mediterranean diet; and by IR risk scale values. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Public Health, Nutritional Behavior and Nutritional Status—2nd Edition)

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16 pages, 1739 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Dietary Behavioural Preferences of Spanish and German Adults and Their Translation to the Dietary Recommendations of a Personalised Nutrition App in the Framework of the Stance4Health Project

by Daniel Hinojosa-Nogueira, Beatriz Navajas-Porras, Silvia Pastoriza, Adriana Delgado-Osorio, Ángela Toledano-Marín, Sascha Rohn, José Ángel Rufián-Henares and José Javier Quesada-Granados

Nutrients 2025, 17(5), 912; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu17050912 - 6 Mar 2025

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1432

Abstract

Background/Objectives: The influence of individual differences in the selection of food portions can have a deep effect on recommendations for personalised nutrition. In addition to typical aspects such us energy density and nutrient composition, portion size is important for dietary recommendations. This study examined the dietary behaviours and portion size selection of 224 subjects in Spain and Germany to use such information to improve dietary adherence to a personalised nutrition app. Methods: An online questionnaire administered to adults in Spain and Germany collected sociodemographic data and dietary habits. The measurement of portion sizes was derived from a classification ranging from XXS to XL across 22 food groups, with assistance from a photographic atlas. Results: Significant differences across dimensions were found. Dietary habits showed that omnivores were the majority in both countries, with significant differences in the consumption of bread, desserts, and beverages. The Mediterranean diet was significantly followed by the Spanish group, reflecting cultural differences. Body mass index (BMI) was slightly higher among Germans, although both populations fell within the normal ranges. Portion size comparisons revealed statistically significant differences in the consumption of various food items between the two countries. Spaniards consumed higher amounts of rice, meat, and legumes, while Germans consumed larger portions of stews, lasagne, and pizza. These variations highlight differing dietary habits influenced by cultural preferences and dietary guidelines. Conclusions: The findings support the development of novel personalised nutrition apps that consider user preferences and enhance dietary adherence, thereby contributing to improved dietary recommendations and health outcomes. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Public Health, Nutritional Behavior and Nutritional Status—2nd Edition)

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20 pages, 744 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Association Between Mediterranean Diet and Other Healthy Habits and Sociodemographic Variables with the Values of Vascular and Heart Age in Spanish Workers

by Natalia Montero Muñoz, Pedro Juan Tárraga López, Ángel Arturo López-González, Hernán Paublini, Cristina Martorell Sánchez, Emilio Marínez-Almoyna Rifá and José Ignacio Ramírez-Manent

Nutrients 2025, 17(5), 903; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu17050903 - 5 Mar 2025

Viewed by 1012

Abstract

Introduction: The assessment of cardiovascular risk has traditionally relied on validated scales designed to estimate the likelihood of experiencing a cardiovascular event within a specific timeframe. In recent years, novel methodologies have emerged, offering a more objective evaluation of this risk through indicators such as vascular age (VA) and heart age (HA). Objective: This study aimed to investigate the relationship between sociodemographic factors, lifestyle behaviors, and their impact on VA and HA. Materials and Methods: A dual study design, encompassing both cross-sectional and longitudinal retrospective approaches, was conducted among a cohort of employees. The variables assessed included sociodemographic characteristics (age, sex, and socioeconomic status) and health-related habits (smoking, physical activity, adherence to the Mediterranean diet, and alcohol consumption). Results: The findings revealed that all analyzed variables were significantly associated with elevated VA and HA values. Among these, age demonstrated the strongest association, with odds ratios (OR) of 114.91 (95% CI: 100.45–131.43) for high HA and 34.48 (95% CI: 31.41–37.56) for high VA. Conclusions: The profile of individuals most at risk for elevated VA and HA encompasses males of advanced age, characterized by low socioeconomic status, a sedentary lifestyle, poor adherence to the Mediterranean diet, and regular alcohol consumption. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Public Health, Nutritional Behavior and Nutritional Status—2nd Edition)

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19 pages, 1299 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Dietary Habits of Young Poles and Their Selected Determinants: A Review and Implications for Public Health

by Agata Kotowska, Klaudia Sochacka, Rafał Wiśniewski and Sabina Lachowicz-Wiśniewska

Nutrients 2024, 16(20), 3561; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu16203561 - 21 Oct 2024

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 3089

Abstract

Background/Objectives: This study investigates the dietary patterns, health behaviors, and related determinants among young people in Poland, amid increasing lifestyle-related health concerns like obesity and poor nutrition. Understanding the factors influencing these behaviors is crucial for crafting effective public health strategies. The objective was to analyze young Poles’ eating habits, their perceptions of health, and the role of various determinants in shaping these behaviors. Methods: A survey was conducted among a representative sample of young Poles, gathering data on eating habits, health perceptions, and lifestyle choices. The survey focused on the respondents’ understanding of healthy eating, sources of nutrition knowledge, and the influence of family, social media, and public health campaigns. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, and correlations between health behaviors and socio-demographic factors were examined. Results: The study revealed that 88% of young respondents prioritize health, with 73% acknowledging a link between nutrition and health. While most participants accurately described healthy eating and reported adherence to dietary guidelines, 43% engaged in emotional eating, which often led to compulsive behaviors associated with obesity. Social media, internet articles, and family were primary sources of nutrition knowledge. Despite their knowledge, fruit and vegetable consumption was below recommended levels, and physical activity levels were insufficient in nearly half of the respondents. Only 36% regularly read food labels, with many choosing products containing additives. Appearance-related stress was prevalent among 52% of respondents, while sleep deficits and lack of sufficient physical activity were common. Conclusions: The findings suggest that while young Poles possess a high level of awareness regarding healthy eating, gaps remain in the application of this knowledge, particularly concerning emotional eating and inadequate fruit and vegetable consumption. Public health campaigns should be more effectively targeted to address these gaps and promote sustainable health behaviors from early childhood. Addressing emotional eating, enhancing physical activity, and improving nutrition education through effective channels like social media are key to improving public health outcomes. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Public Health, Nutritional Behavior and Nutritional Status—2nd Edition)

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