Search Results (10,723)

Background: Thallium is a metal that is ubiquitous in our natural environment. Despite its potential for high toxicity, thallium is understudied and not regulated in food. The California Department of Public Health was alerted to a household cluster of elevated urine thallium levels noted among a mother (peak 5.6 µg/g creatinine; adult reference: ≤0.4 µg/g creatinine) and her three young children (peak 10.5 µg/g creatinine; child reference: ≤0.8 µg/g creatinine). Objectives: This case report identifies questions raised after a public health investigation linked a household’s thallium exposure to a commercially available food product. We provide an overview of the public health investigation. We then explore concerns, such as gaps in toxicological data and limited surveillance of thallium in the food supply, which make management of individual and population exposure risks challenging. Methods: We highlight findings from a cross-agency investigation, including a household exposure survey, sampling of possible environmental and dietary exposures (ICP-MS analysis measured thallium in kale chips at 1.98 mg/kg and 2.15 mg/kg), and monitoring of symptoms and urine thallium levels after the source was removed. We use regulatory and research findings to describe the challenges and opportunities in characterizing the scale of thallium in our food supply and effects of dietary exposures on health. Discussion: Thallium can bioaccumulate in our food system, particularly in brassica vegetables like kale. Thallium concentration in foods can also be affected by manufacturing processes, such as dehydration. We have limited surveillance data nationally regarding this metal in our food supply. Dietary reviews internationally show increased thallium intake in toddlers. Limited information is available about low-dose or chronic exposures, particularly among children, although emerging evidence shows that there might be risks associated at lower levels than previously thought. Improved toxicological studies are needed to guide reference doses and food safety standards. Promising action towards enhanced monitoring of thallium is being pursued by food safety agencies internationally, and research is underway to deepen our understanding of thallium toxicity. Full article

The market for plant-based alternatives to animal foods has increased rapidly in the past decade, mainly due to consumer demand. Little evidence is available regarding nutritional impacts, drivers, and barriers to using these products as substitutes for animal foods in real-life conditions. This pilot study followed 16 Danish adults (30 ± 11 years old; 11 females) for 4 weeks with substituting milk, cheese, and yogurt with plant-based analogues to dairy (PBADs) and assessed their drivers and barriers to applying the intervention with a mixed-method approach. PBADs are constantly compared to their animal counterparts, both regarding product characteristics, such as price and sensory properties, as well as cultural roles and subjective memories. The mixed methods showed dairy attachment, price, and taste were the main barriers to consuming PBAD, while changes in life and social circles were drivers (qualitative data). As for the liking of PBADs, plant-based yoghurt was the preferred intervention product (73.5/100, p < 0.05), followed by plant-based drinks (65.9/100), while plant-based cheese was the lowest rated (47.9/100, p < 0.05). As for dietary changes, a lower average intake of sugars, saturated fatty acids, cholesterol, calcium, phosphorus, and zinc was observed after the intervention. Additionally, this study describes the attachment of the study population to milk and dairy products. It shows that choosing dairy is beyond nourishment but is connected to tradition, culture, pleasure, memories, and a sense of belonging. In contrast, there is no history or attachment to PBADs. Full article

Background: Androgenetic alopecia (AGA) and alopecia areata (AA) impose significant psychosocial burdens. While pharmacological and surgical treatments exist, the role of dietary factors remains underexplored due to methodological limitations in observational studies. This Mendelian randomization (MR) study investigates causal relationships between 187 dietary exposures and hair loss, leveraging genetic variants to address confounding biases. Methods: Genome-wide association study (GWAS) data from 161,625 UK Biobank participants were analyzed, focusing on food preferences and intake patterns. Genetic instruments for each of the 187 dietary exposures were selected at a genome-wide significance threshold (p < 5 × 10⁻⁸), with rigorous sensitivity analyses (MR-Egger, MR-PRESSO) to validate causality. Outcomes included AA and AGA datasets from the FinnGen consortium. Results: MR analysis identified 18 specific dietary exposures significantly associated with non-scarring hair loss (FDR < 0.05). Protective effects emerged for antioxidant-rich dietary exposures, represented by higher preferences for melon, onions, and tea. Elevated risks were observed for certain exposures, including croissants, goat cheese, and whole milk. Alcohol consumption exhibited the strongest risk associations. Our extensive analysis of alcohol intake, combining data from multiple studies, consistently identified it as a significant risk factor for both alopecia areata and androgenetic alopecia. Conclusions: These findings imply modifiable dietary patterns in hair loss pathophysiology. A dual strategy is proposed: prioritizing polyphenol-rich plant foods while minimizing pro-inflammatory triggers like processed carbohydrates and alcohol. Clinically, tailored dietary adjustments—reducing ultra-processed foods and alcohol—may complement existing therapies for hair loss management. Full article

(1) Background: Dioxins and dioxin-like polychlorinated biphenyls (dl-PCBs) are persistent organic pollutants (POPs), characterized by high toxicity and strong lipophilicity, which promote their bioaccumulation in human tissues. Their detection in breast milk raises concerns about early-life exposure during lactation. Although dietary intake is the primary route of maternal exposure, environmental pathways—including inhalation, dermal absorption, and residential proximity to contaminated sites—may also significantly contribute to the maternal body burden. (2) Methods: This narrative review examined peer-reviewed studies investigating maternal and environmental determinants of dioxin and dl-PCB concentrations in human breast milk. A comprehensive literature search was conducted in PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science (2000–2024), identifying a total of 325 records. Following eligibility screening and full-text assessment, 20 studies met the inclusion criteria. (3) Results: The included studies consistently identified key exposure determinants, such as high consumption of animal-based foods (e.g., meat, fish, dairy), living near industrial facilities or waste sites, and maternal characteristics including age, parity, and body mass index (BMI). Substantial geographic variability was observed, with higher concentrations reported in regions affected by industrial activity, military pollution, or inadequate waste management. One longitudinal study from Japan demonstrated a declining trend in dioxin levels in breast milk, suggesting the potential effectiveness of regulatory interventions. (4) Conclusions: These findings highlight that maternal exposure to dioxins is influenced by identifiable environmental and behavioral factors, which can be mitigated through public health policies, targeted dietary guidance, and environmental remediation. Breast milk remains a critical bioindicator of human exposure. Harmonized, long-term research is needed to clarify health implications and minimize contaminant transfer to infants, particularly among vulnerable populations. Full article

With the growth of the plant-based food sector, increasing amounts of by-products are generated. Sea buckthorn pomace (SBP), a by-product of juice and other manufacturing products, is rich in bioactive compounds such as phenolics, oligosaccharides, proteins, and dietary fiber. The aim of the study was to evaluate the impact of modification methods, such as enzymatic hydrolysis and supercritical carbon dioxide extraction (SFE-CO₂), on the chemical composition and technological properties of SBP. SBP and SBP obtained after SFE-CO₂ (SBP-CO₂) were enzymatically modified using Pectinex^® Ultra Tropical, Viscozyme^® L, and Celluclast^® 1.5 L (Novozyme A/S, Bagsværd, Denmark). The SBP’s main constituent was insoluble dietary fiber (IDF), followed by crude proteins and lipids (respectively, 58.7, 21.1 and 12.6 g/100 in d.m.). SFE-CO₂ reduced the lipid content (by 85.7%) in the pomace while increasing protein and TDF content. Enzymatic hydrolysis decreased the content of both soluble dietary fiber (SDF) and IDF, and increased the content of mono- and oligosaccharides as well as free phenolics, depending on the commercial enzyme preparation used in SBP and SBP-CO₂ samples. Celluclast^® 1.5 L was the most effective in hydrolyzing IDF, while Viscozyme^® L and Pectinex^® Ultra Tropical were the most effective in degrading SDF. Enzymatic treatment improved water swelling capacity, water retention capacity, water solubility index, oil retention capacity of SBP and SBP-CO₂; however, it did not have a significant effect on the stability of the emulsions. Modification of SBP by SFE-CO₂ effectively increased WSC and WSI, however it reduced WRC. These findings highlight the potential of targeted modifications to enhance the nutritional and technological properties of SBP for functional food applications. Full article

Background/Objectives: Previous studies assessing dietary intake have used self-report methods, prone to misreporting. Using researcher-conducted weighed food records, we assessed rural and urban mothers’ energy and nutrient intakes of concern and compared them to recommended nutrient intakes (RNIs). Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted in rural (Asaase Kokoo) and urban (University of Ghana Staff Village) communities. Dietary data were collected from fifty-four mothers (26 rural, 28 urban) on 2 weekdays and 1 weekend day, analyzed with software, and programmed with West African, FNDDS, Kenyan, Ugandan, and USDA food composition databases. Results: Mean (SD) ages (years) were 35.8 (11.6) and 44.4 (7.6), and mean energy intakes (kcal) were 2026 (461) and 1669 (385) for rural and urban mothers, respectively. Mean percentage contributions of macronutrients to energy intake were within recommended ranges for rural and urban mothers. All participants met or exceeded vitamin A RNI, irrespective of location. While all rural mothers met or exceeded iron RNI, some urban mothers (14.3%) did not. Few rural (7.7%) and urban mothers (10.7%) did not meet zinc RNI. About half of rural (46.2%) and urban mothers (53.6%) did not meet folate RNI. Most rural (96.1%) and urban mothers (92.8%) met or exceeded fiber RNI. Conclusions: Overall, rural mothers had higher energy and nutrient intakes than urban mothers. While most met RNIs, there were some micronutrient inadequacies, particularly folate, where almost half of rural and urban mothers consumed below RNI. Our findings indicate the need for tailored interventions to prevent nutrient deficiencies or excesses in Ghanaian mothers. Full article

The food consumption stage, the final step in the food supply chain (FSC), where food has already undergone resource-intensive processes, plays a central role in the transition to a sustainable food system. Consumers’ food choices and consumption practices directly influence food demand, production methods, and resource use across the FSC. These factors affect global challenges such as overconsumption, malnutrition, hunger, and food waste (FW)—issues integral to the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Therefore, this study aims to identify key aspects of the food consumption stage that influence the shift toward sustainability and to develop a conceptual framework to guide this transition. To achieve this, an integrative literature review (ILR), supported by bibliometric analysis and narrative review elements, was conducted to strengthen the conceptual foundation. The results reveal four central aspects: FW and its reduction, the need for dietary shifts, changes in consumer behaviour, and policy reform, highlighting the consumer and their behaviour as the central connecting element. Based on the findings, a framework was developed linking the identified problems with targeted solutions, which can be implemented through various tools that also act as drivers of change, enhancing sustainable food consumption, food system sustainability, and the achievement of global SDGs. Full article

Background: The relationship between sports participation and food preferences in adults, as well as the influence of gender, is still unclear. Objective: The objective of this study was to investigate the association between sports participation and individual food preferences and to explore potential gender differences among sports participants in a large group of Italian adults. Methods: This cross-sectional study involved 2665 adults (aged ≥ 18 years) who lead normal lives and underwent a routine lifestyle and dietary assessment at a clinical centre specialising in nutrition, metabolic health, and lifestyle counselling in Rome. Participants completed an online questionnaire on food preferences (19 foods) and sports practice. Multivariate logistic regression models, adjusted for age, sex, and smoking, were used to assess associations. Results: Sports participation was defined as engaging in structured physical activity at least once per week and was reported by 53.5% of subjects (men: 60.1%; women: 49.0%; p < 0.0001). After adjustment, active individuals were significantly more likely to prefer plant-based drinks, low-fat yoghurt, fish, cooked and raw vegetables, fruit, whole grains, tofu, and dark chocolate (all p < 0.05) and less likely to prefer cow’s milk (p = 0.018). Among sport participants, males were more likely to prefer meat (general, white, red, processed) and eggs, while females preferred plant-based drinks. No significant gender differences were observed for dairy products, legumes, or fish. Differences in food preferences were also observed according to the type of sport, with bodybuilders showing higher preference for tofu and dark chocolate. The strongest associations were found in the 25–44 age group. Conclusions: Sports participation is independently associated with specific food preferences, characterised by greater preference for plant-based and fibre-rich foods, and gender differences in food choices persist even among active adults. These findings highlight the need to consider both sports participation and gender when designing nutritional interventions. Full article

Avocado (Persea americana), originally from Mesoamerica, has emerged as a focus of intense scientific and industrial interest due to its unique combination of nutritional richness, bioactive potential, and technological versatility. Its pulp, widely consumed across the globe, is notably abundant in monounsaturated fatty acids, especially oleic acid, which can comprise over two-thirds of its lipid content. In addition, it provides significant levels of dietary fiber, fat-soluble vitamins such as A, D, E and K, carotenoids, tocopherols, and phytosterols like β-sitosterol. These constituents are consistently associated with antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, glycemic regulatory, and cardioprotective effects, supported by a growing body of experimental and clinical evidence. This review offers a comprehensive and critical synthesis of the chemical composition and functional properties of avocado, with particular emphasis on its lipid profile, phenolic compounds, and phytosterols. It also explores recent advances in environmentally sustainable extraction techniques, including ultrasound-assisted and microwave-assisted processes, as well as the application of natural deep eutectic solvents. These technologies have demonstrated improved efficiency in recovering bioactives while aligning with the principles of green chemistry. The use of avocado-derived ingredients in nanostructured delivery systems and their incorporation into functional foods, cosmetics, and health-promoting formulations is discussed in detail. Additionally, the potential of native cultivars and the application of precision nutrition strategies are identified as promising avenues for future innovation. Taken together, the findings underscore the avocado’s relevance as a high-value matrix for sustainable development. Future research should focus on optimizing extraction protocols, clarifying pharmacokinetic behavior, and ensuring long-term safety in diverse applications. Full article

Background: Spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) is a neuromuscular disorder that frequently affects bulbar function, including feeding and swallowing. Although disease-modifying therapies have improved motor outcomes, little is known about the persistence of oromotor difficulties, particularly with regard to solid food intake. Objective: This study aimed to evaluate mastication and swallowing performance in children with SMA undergoing treatment, and to investigate the association between tongue strength and feeding efficiency. Methods: Twenty-two children with SMA types 1–3 were assessed using the Test of Masticating and Swallowing Solids in Children (TOMASS-C) and the Iowa Oral Performance Instrument (IOPI). Key TOMASS-C outcomes included the number of bites, chewing cycles, swallows, and total eating time. Tongue strength was measured in kilopascals. Results: Most participants showed deviations from age-specific normative values in at least one TOMASS-C parameter. Tongue strength was significantly lower than reference values in 86% of participants and correlated negatively with all TOMASS-C outcomes (p < 0.001). Children with weaker tongue pressure required more swallows, more chewing cycles, and longer eating times. Conclusions: Despite pharmacological treatment, children with SMA experience persistent difficulties in eating solid foods. Tongue strength may serve as a non-invasive biomarker for bulbar dysfunction and support dietary decision-making and therapeutic planning. Full article

Background/Objectives: Studies have reported that female athletes often exhibit low levels of nutritional knowledge and inadequate dietary intake to meet their nutritional needs. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of a nutritional education intervention on nutrition knowledge, dietary intake, and body composition in female handball players (n = 45; age, 17.6 ± 2.1 years). Methods: A quasi-experimental intervention design was implemented, consisting of a 3-week educational program delivered through six in-person sessions led by a registered dietitian. Nutrition knowledge, dietary intake, adherence to the Mediterranean diet, and anthropometric and body composition measurements were assessed. Results: Nutrition knowledge levels were significantly higher both immediately post-intervention and three months later compared to baseline (p < 0.05, ES > 0.8). A total of 36 participants completed a 3-day dietary record at baseline and at follow-up. Initial assessments revealed insufficient energy (31 kcal/kg/day) and carbohydrate intake (3.0 g/kg/day) and a high intake of total fats (1.4 g/kg/day). During follow-up, a significant decrease in the consumption of foods rich in sugar was observed (p = 0.0272). A total of 82.2% of the players needed to improve their adherence to the Mediterranean diet. No significant changes were found in Mediterranean diet adherence or body composition following the intervention. Conclusions: The nutritional education intervention significantly improved athletes’ nutritional knowledge and significantly decreased their consumption of sugary foods; however, further studies are needed to evaluate its impact on dietary intake and body composition, considering the study’s limitations. Full article

Background/Objectives: Military Service Members (SMs) require optimal nutrition to support health, readiness, and job performance. However, they often fall short of meeting nutrition guidelines. This study aimed to determine the impact and feasibility of implementing the U.S. Marine Corps (USMC) “Fueled to Fight^®” (F2F) nutrition program in non-appropriated fund (NAF) food venues. Objectives included evaluating changes in Military Nutrition Environment Assessment Tool (mNEAT) scores, feasibility of implementing and maintaining F2F strategies, and influence on customer purchasing patterns. Methods: Researchers conducted a pre-post interventional study from January to December 2024 at three NAF food venues across two USMC bases. F2F strategies, including identifying items using a stoplight color coding system (Green = healthy, Yellow = less healthy, Red = least healthy), menu revisions, food placement, promotion, and marketing, were implemented. Data included mNEAT assessments, sales reports, and stakeholder focus groups. Generalized Estimating Equations models were used to analyze sales data. Results: mNEAT scores increased across all venues post-intervention. Availability and sales of Green items increased, while sales of Red items decreased in some venues. Profit increased at all three food venues. Focus groups revealed feasibility and provided insights for future interventions. Conclusions: F2F interventions in NAF food venues are feasible and can positively impact the food environment and customer purchasing patterns without negatively affecting profit. This study highlights the importance of integrating nutrition programs into all military food venues, not just government-funded dining facilities, to support the nutritional fitness and readiness of SMs. Full article

Objectives: This study aimed to evaluate the effect of nutritional education on nutritional knowledge, nutritional status, and quality of life in patients with liver cirrhosis. Methods: Thirty patients participated. At baseline, assessments were conducted to collect data on demographics, physical activity, anthropometric and biochemical measures, dietary habits, 24 h food intake, nutritional status, quality of life, and nutritional knowledge. Participants received a 30 min face-to-face nutritional education session by a registered dietitian, repeated after one month. A follow-up phone call was conducted one month later to reinforce the education. Final evaluations were completed one month after the call. Results: A significant upward trend was detected in nutritional knowledge scores after the intervention period (from 7.4 ± 2.76 to 9.2 ± 3.45). The physical component of quality of life improved, while the mental component showed a slight decline. Dietary changes included reduced energy and protein intake among females and increased protein intake in males. In both genders, fat intake increased and carbohydrate intake decreased. Biochemical improvements were observed, including significant reductions in gamma-glutamyl transferase, aspartate aminotransferase, alanine aminotransferase, and triglycerides in females and alanine aminotransferase and gamma-glutamyl transferase in males. Conclusions: Structured nutritional education may improve nutritional knowledge, dietary behavior, and biochemical markers in cirrhosis patients. Longer follow-up durations may further enhance these improvements. Full article

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is frequently accompanied by gastrointestinal disturbances, dietary selectivity, and altered stress responses, with growing evidence pointing to gut–brain axis involvement. While intestinal microbiota has been extensively studied, the role of the oral microbiota remains underexplored. This study investigates the associations between oral microbiota composition and behavioral, gastrointestinal, dietary, and neuroendocrine parameters in children with ASD. A total of 45 children aged 2–18 years comprised the study group. Data collection included oral swabs for 16S rRNA gene sequencing, salivary cortisol sampling, dietary records, and standardized behavioral assessments using the Vineland Adaptive Behavior Scale. A total of 363 microbial species across 11 phyla were identified. Significant correlations were observed between specific bacterial taxa and functional gastrointestinal disorders (FGIDs), dietary patterns, salivary cortisol rhythms, and functioning. Children with FGIDs, food selectivity, or macronutrient imbalances exhibited enriched pro-inflammatory taxa (e.g., Selenomonas, Megasphaera), whereas those with typical cortisol secretion or higher adaptive functioning showed greater microbial diversity and abundance of health-associated genera (e.g., Bifidobacterium dentium). These findings suggest that oral microbiota profiles may reflect systemic physiological and neurobehavioral traits in children with ASD. Further longitudinal studies are needed to clarify causal relationships and support the development of microbiota-targeted interventions. Full article

Background/Objectives: Dietary patterns have changed over time, characterising a process of nutritional transition that reflects socioeconomic and demographic inequalities among different populations. This study assessed changes in dietary consumption patterns and the associated social determinants, comparing two time periods in a sample of individuals from a state in the Northeast Region of Brazil. Methods: Data from the 2008–2009 and 2017–2018 Household Budget Survey for the state of Paraíba were analysed, totalling 951 and 1456 individuals, respectively. Foods were categorised according to the NOVA classification and compared based on sociodemographic and economic variables. To determine the factors that most strongly explain the contribution of each NOVA food group to the diet, beta regression analysis was conducted. Results: Differences were observed between the two periods regarding the dietary contribution of the NOVA food groups, with a decrease in consumption of unprocessed foods and an increase in ultra-processed foods. Living in urban areas, being an adolescent, and having an income above the minimum wage were associated with reduced intake of unprocessed foods in both periods. Additionally, being an adolescent and having more than eight years of schooling were associated with higher consumption of ultra-processed foods. Conclusions: The population under study showed changes in food consumption, reflecting a transition process that is occurring unevenly across socioeconomic and demographic groups, thereby reinforcing social inequalities. These findings can guide priorities in food and nutrition policies, highlighting the need for intervention studies to evaluate the effectiveness of such actions. Full article