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Search Results (822)

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19 pages, 371 KiB  
Review
Human Breast Milk as a Biological Matrix for Assessing Maternal and Environmental Exposure to Dioxins and Dioxin-like Polychlorinated Biphenyls: A Narrative Review of Determinants
by Artemisia Kokkinari, Evangelia Antoniou, Kleanthi Gourounti, Maria Dagla, Aikaterini Lykeridou, Stefanos Zervoudis, Eirini Tomara and Georgios Iatrakis
Pollutants 2025, 5(3), 25; https://doi.org/10.3390/pollutants5030025 (registering DOI) - 7 Aug 2025
Abstract
(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 [...] Read more.
(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
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15 pages, 788 KiB  
Article
Energy and Nutrient Intakes of Public Health Concern by Rural and Urban Ghanaian Mothers Assessed by Weighed Food Compared to Recommended Intakes
by Prince K. Osei, Megan A. McCrory, Matilda Steiner-Asiedu, Edward Sazonov, Mingui Sun, Wenyan Jia, Tom Baranowski, Gary Frost, Benny Lo, Christabel A. Domfe and Alex K. Anderson
Nutrients 2025, 17(15), 2567; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu17152567 - 7 Aug 2025
Abstract
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 [...] Read more.
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
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Diet, Maternal Nutrition and Reproductive Health)
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19 pages, 618 KiB  
Article
Effect of a Nutritional Education Intervention on Sports Nutrition Knowledge, Dietary Intake, and Body Composition in Female Athletes: A Pilot Study
by Macarena Veloso-Pulgar and Andreu Farran-Codina
Nutrients 2025, 17(15), 2560; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu17152560 - 5 Aug 2025
Abstract
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, [...] Read more.
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
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Food Habits, Nutritional Knowledge, and Nutrition Education)
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37 pages, 5366 KiB  
Article
Oral Microbiota Composition and Its Association with Gastrointestinal and Developmental Abnormalities in Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder
by Zuzanna Lewandowska-Pietruszka, Magdalena Figlerowicz and Katarzyna Mazur-Melewska
Microorganisms 2025, 13(8), 1822; https://doi.org/10.3390/microorganisms13081822 - 4 Aug 2025
Viewed by 213
Abstract
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 [...] Read more.
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
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Focus on Pediatric Infectious Diseases)
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15 pages, 524 KiB  
Systematic Review
Association Between Maternal Diet and Frequency of Micronuclei in Mothers and Newborns: A Systematic Review
by Anny Cristine de Araújo, Priscila Kelly da Silva Bezerra do Nascimento, Marília Cristina Santos de Medeiros, Raul Hernandes Bortolin, Ricardo Ney Cobucci and Adriana Augusto de Rezende
Nutrients 2025, 17(15), 2535; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu17152535 - 1 Aug 2025
Viewed by 224
Abstract
Background/Objectives: The effect of diet on maternal and infant genetic levels has been reported in the literature. Diet-associated DNA damage, such as the presence of micronuclei (MN), may be related to an increased risk of developing chronic diseases such as cancer. There is [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: The effect of diet on maternal and infant genetic levels has been reported in the literature. Diet-associated DNA damage, such as the presence of micronuclei (MN), may be related to an increased risk of developing chronic diseases such as cancer. There is particular concern regarding this damage during pregnancy, as it may affect the newborn (NB). Thus, this review aims to summarize the primary evidence of the impact of diet on the frequency of MN in the mother–infant population. Methods: Five databases (PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, Scopus, and ScienceDirect) were used to search for observational studies. Google Scholar and manual searching were required to perform the “gray literature” search. Results: The search strategy retrieved 1418 records. Of these, 13 were read in full and 5 were included in the review. Most studies were of the cohort type (n = 4) and were carried out in the European region. A total of 875 pregnant women and 238 newborns were evaluated. Despite insufficient evidence to confirm that diet changes the frequency of MN, the included studies found possible effects from the consumption of fried red meat and processed meats and the adequate consumption of vegetables and polyunsaturated fats. Conclusions: Future research is needed in order to understand the effects of diet on genetic stability and to obtain evidence to help plan public policies on food and nutrition or reinforce protective dietary patterns for this and future generations. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Nutrition in Women)
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12 pages, 783 KiB  
Article
Decreased Memory Suppression Ability in Restrained Eaters on Food Information—Evidence from ERP Experiment
by Qi Qi, Ke Cui, Li Luo, Yong Liu and Jia Zhao
Nutrients 2025, 17(15), 2523; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu17152523 - 31 Jul 2025
Viewed by 224
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Food-related memory influences appetite regulation, with memory inhibition potentially reducing cravings. While obesity is linked to inhibitory deficits, how restrained eating affects memory suppression in healthy-weight individuals remains unclear. This study examined the cognitive and neural mechanisms of food-memory suppression in young [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Food-related memory influences appetite regulation, with memory inhibition potentially reducing cravings. While obesity is linked to inhibitory deficits, how restrained eating affects memory suppression in healthy-weight individuals remains unclear. This study examined the cognitive and neural mechanisms of food-memory suppression in young women. Methods: Forty-two female participants completed a think/no-think task with high-/low-calorie food cues while an EEG was recorded. Event-related potentials (ERPs) were assessed and time–frequency analyses (theta/beta oscillations) were performed. Results: Restrained eaters showed reduced memory control for both food types. The ERP analysis revealed significant N200 amplitude differences between think/no-think conditions (p = 0.03) and a significant interaction between food calories and think/no-think conditions (p = 0.032). Theta oscillations differed by group, food calories, and conditions (p = 0.038), while beta oscillations reflected food-cue processing variations. Conclusions: In conclusion, restrained eaters exhibit distinct neural processing and attenuated food-memory suppression. These results elucidate the neurocognitive mechanisms underlying dietary behavior, suggesting that targeted interventions for maladaptive eating could strengthen memory inhibition. Full article
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24 pages, 1508 KiB  
Article
Genomic Prediction of Adaptation in Common Bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) × Tepary Bean (P. acutifolius A. Gray) Hybrids
by Felipe López-Hernández, Diego F. Villanueva-Mejía, Adriana Patricia Tofiño-Rivera and Andrés J. Cortés
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2025, 26(15), 7370; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms26157370 - 30 Jul 2025
Viewed by 302
Abstract
Climate change is jeopardizing global food security, with at least 713 million people facing hunger. To face this challenge, legumes as common beans could offer a nature-based solution, sourcing nutrients and dietary fiber, especially for rural communities in Latin America and Africa. However, [...] Read more.
Climate change is jeopardizing global food security, with at least 713 million people facing hunger. To face this challenge, legumes as common beans could offer a nature-based solution, sourcing nutrients and dietary fiber, especially for rural communities in Latin America and Africa. However, since common beans are generally heat and drought susceptible, it is imperative to speed up their molecular introgressive adaptive breeding so that they can be cultivated in regions affected by extreme weather. Therefore, this study aimed to couple an advanced panel of common bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) × tolerant Tepary bean (P. acutifolius A. Gray) interspecific lines with Bayesian regression algorithms to forecast adaptation to the humid and dry sub-regions at the Caribbean coast of Colombia, where the common bean typically exhibits maladaptation to extreme heat waves. A total of 87 advanced lines with hybrid ancestries were successfully bred, surpassing the interspecific incompatibilities. This hybrid panel was genotyped by sequencing (GBS), leading to the discovery of 15,645 single-nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) markers. Three yield components (yield per plant, and number of seeds and pods) and two biomass variables (vegetative and seed biomass) were recorded for each genotype and inputted in several Bayesian regression models to identify the top genotypes with the best genetic breeding values across three localities on the Colombian coast. We comparatively analyzed several regression approaches, and the model with the best performance for all traits and localities was BayesC. Also, we compared the utilization of all markers and only those determined as associated by a priori genome-wide association studies (GWAS) models. Better prediction ability with the complete SNP set was indicative of missing heritability as part of GWAS reconstructions. Furthermore, optimal SNP sets per trait and locality were determined as per the top 500 most explicative markers according to their β regression effects. These 500 SNPs, on average, overlapped in 5.24% across localities, which reinforced the locality-dependent nature of polygenic adaptation. Finally, we retrieved the genomic estimated breeding values (GEBVs) and selected the top 10 genotypes for each trait and locality as part of a recommendation scheme targeting narrow adaption in the Caribbean. After validation in field conditions and for screening stability, candidate genotypes and SNPs may be used in further introgressive breeding cycles for adaptation. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Plant Breeding and Genetics: New Findings and Perspectives)
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22 pages, 1129 KiB  
Article
Randomised Trial Shows Readymade Oral Nutritional Supplements in Older Malnourished People in the Community Improve Total Nutrient Intakes and Meet More Dietary Reference Values Without Reducing Intake from the Diet
by Marinos Elia, Trevor R. Smith, Abbie L. Cawood, Emily R. Walters and Rebecca J. Stratton
Nutrients 2025, 17(15), 2474; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu17152474 - 29 Jul 2025
Viewed by 374
Abstract
Background: There is little information about the effectiveness of oral nutritional supplements (ONS) in combatting nutrient inadequacies in primary care, where most malnutrition exists. Aim: To examine the extent to which readymade ONS add or displace the nutrients consumed in the diet and [...] Read more.
Background: There is little information about the effectiveness of oral nutritional supplements (ONS) in combatting nutrient inadequacies in primary care, where most malnutrition exists. Aim: To examine the extent to which readymade ONS add or displace the nutrients consumed in the diet and their impact on combatting dietary inadequacies. Methods: 308 free-living people >50 years with medium + high risk of malnutrition (Malnutrition Universal Screening Tool) were randomised to receive readymade low volume (2.4 kcal/mL), liquid ONS plus dietary advice (ONS + DA) or dietary advice alone (DA). Intake was assessed at baseline (24 h recall) and 4-weekly for 12 weeks (3-day diet record). Total nutrient intake was benchmarked against UK and European dietary reference values (DRVs). The proportion of energy and nutrients from the ONS that added or displaced those from the diet (net addition/displacement) was calculated. Results: ONS + DA led to significantly greater total energy and nutritional intakes, with 25/29 nutrient intakes significantly higher than with DA alone. There were no significant differences in dietary energy and nutrient intakes from food between the groups. There was little or no displacement of nutrients from the diet, with over 90% of the energy and nutrients consumed in the ONS additive to the diet. ONS + DA more than halved the number of people with nutrient intakes that failed to meet DRVs and the number of nutrients per person that did not meet DRVs compared to DA alone. Conclusions: Supplementation with readymade, low volume (2.4 kcal/mL) liquid ONS overcomes most nutrient intake inadequacies in malnourished older people in primary care without significantly reducing intake from the diet. This makes ONS an effective way to improve nutritional intakes above dietary advice alone to improve the outcomes for the management of older people at risk of malnutrition. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Geriatric Nutrition)
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15 pages, 2026 KiB  
Article
Behavioral Effects of Food-Based and Olfactory Enrichment in Zoo-Housed Binturongs: An Exploratory Study
by Courtney Archer, Joselyn Hoyt, Emma Loy, Emma Marthaler, Abigail Richardson, Katie Hall, Madison Bacon and Rielle Perttu
J. Zool. Bot. Gard. 2025, 6(3), 38; https://doi.org/10.3390/jzbg6030038 - 29 Jul 2025
Viewed by 238
Abstract
Environmental enrichment is essential for promoting species-specific behaviors and enhancing the welfare of zoo-housed animals. This study examined the behavioral responses of two juvenile male binturongs (Arctictis binturong) at the Minnesota Zoo to three enrichment stimuli: lavender oil (olfactory), thawed fish [...] Read more.
Environmental enrichment is essential for promoting species-specific behaviors and enhancing the welfare of zoo-housed animals. This study examined the behavioral responses of two juvenile male binturongs (Arctictis binturong) at the Minnesota Zoo to three enrichment stimuli: lavender oil (olfactory), thawed fish (olfactory and dietary), and hard-boiled egg (olfactory and dietary). Their behaviors were recorded using scan sampling before and after enrichment exposure, focusing on locomotion, foraging, resting, and visitor visibility. Food-based enrichments, particularly the hard-boiled egg, significantly increased foraging behavior, while lavender oil and thawed fish produced minimal behavioral changes. Locomotion and visibility remained stable across the conditions, although a slight increase in resting was observed with lavender oil. No evidence of scent-marking disruption was noted, and individual differences appeared to influence inactivity levels. These findings highlight the potential of biologically relevant, food-based enrichment to stimulate natural behaviors in binturongs and emphasize the importance of species-specific enrichment strategies. Future research should explore a broader range of olfactory cues, assess long-term behavioral responses, and incorporate physiological measures to further evaluate enrichment impacts on binturong welfare. Full article
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14 pages, 244 KiB  
Article
Evaluation of the Relationship Between Job Stress Level, Adherence to the Mediterranean Diet, and Phytochemical Index
by Bengi Çetiner Bingül and Murat Baş
Nutrients 2025, 17(15), 2469; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu17152469 - 29 Jul 2025
Viewed by 170
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Job stress negatively affects physical and psychological health and can lead to behavioral changes such as unhealthy eating. This study aimed to evaluate the relationship between job stress levels, adherence to the Mediterranean diet, and the phytochemical index (PI). Methods: The study [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Job stress negatively affects physical and psychological health and can lead to behavioral changes such as unhealthy eating. This study aimed to evaluate the relationship between job stress levels, adherence to the Mediterranean diet, and the phytochemical index (PI). Methods: The study included 200 healthy individuals aged 18–50 working at the Tuzla Gum Factory. Data were collected through demographic and dietary questionnaires, two-day 24-h food records, PI values, and anthropometric measurements. Job stress was assessed using the Job Stress Scale, and Mediterranean diet adherence was assessed with the Mediterranean Diet Adherence Questionnaire. Results: Waist and hip circumference, waist/hip ratio, and BMI were significantly higher in individuals with high levels of job stress (p < 0.01). Unskilled workers reported higher stress than professionals (p < 0.01). Significant differences were found in carbohydrate and fiber intake among males and in energy, protein, carbohydrate, and vitamin A intake among females with varying stress levels (p < 0.01). No significant difference in Mediterranean diet adherence was observed between medium and high stress groups. However, women had higher adherence and PI scores than men (p < 0.01). Diet adherence was better among managers than service-sales and technical staff (p < 0.01). PI scores were higher in medium stress than high stress individuals (p < 0.05) and in those with a higher BMI compared to a normal BMI (p < 0.01). Conclusions: Job stress influences both anthropometric parameters and dietary habits. Effective stress management may improve adherence to the Mediterranean diet and phytochemical intake. Workplace strategies supporting healthy eating behaviors are recommended. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Clinical Nutrition)
29 pages, 1814 KiB  
Article
Comparative Evaluation of Nutritional Quality and In Vitro Protein Digestibility in Selected Vegetable Soybean Genotypes at R6 and R8 Maturity
by Kanneboina Soujanya, T. Supraja, Aparna Kuna, Ramakrishnan M. Nair, S. Triveni and Kalenahalli Yogendra
Foods 2025, 14(14), 2549; https://doi.org/10.3390/foods14142549 - 21 Jul 2025
Viewed by 371
Abstract
The nutritional and quality characteristics of improved vegetable soybean genotypes were evaluated and compared with those of a grain-type soybean at the R6 (green maturity) and R8 (physiological maturity) stages. Significant variation (p < 0.05) was observed among genotypes for all measured [...] Read more.
The nutritional and quality characteristics of improved vegetable soybean genotypes were evaluated and compared with those of a grain-type soybean at the R6 (green maturity) and R8 (physiological maturity) stages. Significant variation (p < 0.05) was observed among genotypes for all measured traits. The overall quality parameters increased from the R6 (green maturity) stage to the R8 (physiological maturity) stage. Among the R6-stage genotypes, AVSB2001 recorded the highest contents of protein (15.30 ± 0.57 g/100 g), ash (2.31 ± 0.06 g/100 g), fat (8.05 ± 0.17 g/100 g), and calcium (140.78 ± 0.97 mg/100 g). The genotype Karune exhibited significantly higher levels of total sugars, non-reducing sugars, iron, and magnesium than the other entries. At the R8 stage, Swarna Vasundhara showed the highest protein content (39.23%), while AGS 447 recorded the highest values for fat, total sugars, in vitro protein digestibility, iron, copper, magnesium, and manganese. Notably, in vitro protein digestibility was lower across all genotypes at the R8 stage compared to the R6 stage. These findings suggest that selected vegetable soybean genotypes possess substantial nutritional value and can contribute meaningfully to meeting the recommended dietary allowance (RDA) across different age and occupational groups, underscoring this research’s potential public health impact. Based on stage-specific quality profiles, R6-stage genotypes may be better suited for fresh vegetables, whereas R8-stage genotypes can be utilized similarly to grain-type soybean for processing into products such as dhal, oil, flour, and other value-added foods. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Food Nutrition)
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15 pages, 1325 KiB  
Article
The OMNIVEG Study: Effects of Transitioning from a Traditional to a Vegan Mediterranean Diet on Fat Oxidation During Exercise
by Miguel López-Moreno, Ujué Fresán, Juan Del Coso, Alejandro Muñoz, Millán Aguilar-Navarro, María Teresa Iglesias-López, Francisco J. Amaro-Gahete and Jorge Gutiérrez-Hellín
Nutrients 2025, 17(14), 2274; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu17142274 - 9 Jul 2025
Viewed by 622
Abstract
Background: This study aimed to evaluate the changes in fat utilization associated with transitioning from a traditional to a vegan Mediterranean diet in healthy, physically active men during a ramp exercise test. Methods: In a controlled crossover design, fourteen healthy, physically active men [...] Read more.
Background: This study aimed to evaluate the changes in fat utilization associated with transitioning from a traditional to a vegan Mediterranean diet in healthy, physically active men during a ramp exercise test. Methods: In a controlled crossover design, fourteen healthy, physically active men followed a traditional Mediterranean diet for three weeks (baseline). Then, participants transitioned to a four-week isocaloric vegan version of the Mediterranean diet, matched for macronutrient distribution but excluding all animal foods. Immediately after each dietary intervention, participants completed an incremental exercise test (from 30% to 70% of VO2peak) on a cycle ergometer in a fasted state to determine peak fat oxidation (PFO) and its associated exercise intensity (Fatmax). Exercise heart rate and the rating of perceived exertion were also recorded at each exercise intensity. Results: The traditional and vegan Mediterranean diets provided comparable amounts of energy (2599.6 ± 180.8 and 2634.9 ± 148.3 kcal/day, p = 0.140) and total fat (97.0 ± 17.8 and 99.0 ± 13.2 g/day; p = 0.620). However, the vegan Mediterranean diet contained a lower proportion of saturated fat (25.2 ± 6.8 vs. 13.6 ± 4.4% of total fat, p < 0.010). Still, the dietary transition was not associated with modifications in PFO (0.323 ± 0.153 and 0.347 ± 0.147 g/min; p = 0.678) or Fatmax (40.51 ± 7.30 and 40.51 ± 10.71%VO2peak; p = 1.000) during exercise. Moreover, the dietary transition did not significantly change the response curves across exercise intensities for fat oxidation (p = 0.553), heart rate (p = 0.280), or the rating of perceived exertion (p = 0.433). Conclusions: Switching from a traditional to a vegan Mediterranean diet did not affect fat oxidation, exercise intensity at peak fat oxidation, or perceptual responses during exercise in healthy, active men. These findings suggest that physically active individuals can adopt a vegan version of the Mediterranean diet without compromising fat utilization during submaximal aerobic exercise. Clinical Trial Registry: NCT06008886. Date of registration: 28 July 2023. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Reducing the Burden of Chronic Diseases Through Plant-Based Diets)
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16 pages, 272 KiB  
Article
Nurturing Healthy Smiles: Brazilian Immigrant Parents’ Perceptions and Parenting Practices of Healthy Eating to Promote Oral Health in Preschool-Aged Children: A Qualitative Study
by Ana Cristina Lindsay, Maria Gabriela Miranda Fontenele, Adriana Bento, Steven A. Cohen, Mary L. Greaney and Denise Lima Nogueira
Children 2025, 12(7), 896; https://doi.org/10.3390/children12070896 - 7 Jul 2025
Viewed by 354
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Oral health (OH) in early childhood is a key determinant of long-term well-being, shaped by parenting-related dietary and hygiene habits. While these influences are well-documented, they remain underexplored among Brazilian immigrant families in the United States (U.S.). Therefore, this study was designed [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Oral health (OH) in early childhood is a key determinant of long-term well-being, shaped by parenting-related dietary and hygiene habits. While these influences are well-documented, they remain underexplored among Brazilian immigrant families in the United States (U.S.). Therefore, this study was designed to examine how Brazilian immigrant parents’ perceptions and practices regarding diet and oral hygiene affect their preschool-aged children’s OH. Methods: This qualitative study consisted of in-depth interviews with Brazilian immigrant parents of preschool-aged children (ages 2–5) living in the U.S. Individual, in-depth interviews were conducted via Zoom, recorded, and transcribed in Brazilian Portuguese. Two native Brazilian researchers experienced in qualitative methods conducted a thematic analysis of the transcripts in Brazilian Portuguese using MAXQDA, a qualitative data analysis software. The analysis focused on identifying key perceptions, parenting practices, and barriers related to children’s diet and OH. Results: Parents strongly associated sugary foods with poor OH, identifying sugar as a major contributor to dental issues. Both mothers and fathers reported limiting sugar intake and encouraging good oral hygiene practices. While parents prioritized educating their children on healthy habits, barriers such as time constraints, reliance on external childcare, and economic limitations affected the consistent implementation of strategies. Conclusions: Brazilian immigrant parents understand the importance of diet and oral hygiene in in supporting their children’s early OH but face barriers in broader social contexts, such as daycare, preschools, and communities. Interventions should aim to support parents in their caregiving roles while simultaneously addressing systemic and environmental obstacles. Public health efforts should account for cultural, economic, and contextual factors to more effectively support Brazilian immigrant families in promoting their children’s OH. Full article
15 pages, 1972 KiB  
Article
Intraspecific Trait Variation in Body Sizes Is Associated with Diet and Habitat Use: Evidence from Atherinella brasiliensis in a Tropical Estuary
by Emanuelle Bezerra Maciel, Maria Luísa de Araújo Albuquerque and André Luiz Machado Pessanha
Coasts 2025, 5(3), 22; https://doi.org/10.3390/coasts5030022 - 3 Jul 2025
Viewed by 259
Abstract
Intraspecific variations in the morphological traits of juveniles and adults of the Brazilian silverside, Atherinella brasiliensis, from three estuarine habitats were studied to understanding whether their morphology interacts with their dietary composition and habitat structure. For each individual, fourteen morphological measurements and eight [...] Read more.
Intraspecific variations in the morphological traits of juveniles and adults of the Brazilian silverside, Atherinella brasiliensis, from three estuarine habitats were studied to understanding whether their morphology interacts with their dietary composition and habitat structure. For each individual, fourteen morphological measurements and eight functional traits were recorded related to food acquisition and locomotion. The highest abundance of A. brasiliensis was recorded in mudflats, which were often associated with a greater number of juveniles. Overall, 392 A. brasiliensis stomachs were examined, and their diet comprised mainly zooplankton organisms, followed by insects and benthic crustaceans. Among the morphological measures, our data revealed that in vegetated habitats (seagrass and riparian vegetation), individuals showed a higher oral gape surface and caudal peduncle and fed predominately on epibiotic or benthic fauna, while for individuals that had bigger eyes in unvegetated habitats (mudflat), this facilitated the ingestion of zooplankton and diatoms. Furthermore, a greater relative body height recorded in unvegetated habitats enhanced swimming performance and was linked to the effects of the lowest habitat structure. The results highlight the significant effects of morphological variation on juvenile and adult food acquisition and swimming ability. Full article
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12 pages, 911 KiB  
Article
Estimation of Milk Casein Content Using Machine Learning Models and Feeding Simulations
by Bence Tarr, János Tőzsér, István Szabó and András Revoly
Dairy 2025, 6(4), 35; https://doi.org/10.3390/dairy6040035 - 3 Jul 2025
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 376
Abstract
Milk quality has a growing importance for farmers as component-based pricing becomes more widespread. Food quality and precision manufacturing techniques demand consistent milk composition. Udder health, general cow condition, environmental factors, and especially feed composition all influence milk quality. The large volume of [...] Read more.
Milk quality has a growing importance for farmers as component-based pricing becomes more widespread. Food quality and precision manufacturing techniques demand consistent milk composition. Udder health, general cow condition, environmental factors, and especially feed composition all influence milk quality. The large volume of routinely collected milk data can be used to build prediction models that estimate valuable constituents from other measured parameters. In this study, casein was chosen as the target variable because of its high economic value. We developed a multiple linear-regression model and a feed-forward neural network model to estimate casein content from twelve commonly recorded milk traits. Evaluated on an independent test set, the regression model achieved R2 = 0.86 and RMSE = 0.018%, with mean bias = +0.003% and slope bias = −0.10, whereas the neural network improved performance to R2 = 0.924 and RMSE = 0.084%. In silico microgreen inclusion from 0% to 100% of dietary dry matter raised the predicted casein concentration from 2.662% to 3.398%, a relative increase of 27.6%. To extend practical applicability, a simulation module was created to explore how microgreen supplementation might modify milk casein levels, enabling virtual testing of dietary strategies before in vivo trials. Together, the predictive models and the microgreen simulation form a cost-effective, non-invasive decision-support tool that can accelerate diet optimization and improve casein management in precision dairy production. Full article
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