Search Results (775)

Urban wildlife conservation is emerging as a critical component of sustainable city ecosystems. Rather than simply increasing tree abundance or species richness, conservation management should focus on key species. In this research, Xishan Forest Park in Beijing was chosen as a case study. Our aim was to identify keystone taxa critical for avian foraging and nesting during the breeding season. We performed a network analysis linking bird species, their diets, and nest plants. Dietary components were detected using DNA metabarcoding conducted with avian fecal samples. Nest plants were identified via transect surveys. Two indices of the network, degree and weighted mean degree, were calculated to evaluate the importance of the dietary and nest plant species. We identified 13 bird host species from 107 fecal samples and 14 bird species from 107 nest observations. Based on the degree indices, fruit trees Morus and Prunus were detected as key food sources, exhibiting both the highest degree (degree = 9, 9) and weighted mean degree (lnwMD = 5.21, 4.63). Robinia pseudoacacia provided predominant nesting sites, with a predominant degree of 7. A few taxa, such as Styphnolobium japonicum and Rhamnus parvifolia, served dual ecological significance as both essential food sources and nesting substrates. Scrublands, as a unique habitat type, provided nesting sites and food for small-bodied birds. Therefore, targeted management interventions are recommended to sustain or enhance these keystone resource species and to maintain the multi-layered vertical vegetation structure to preserve the diverse habitats of birds. Full article

Background/Objectives: Recent studies linked a diet rich in ultra-processed foods (UPFs) with depression and diabetes. Although common risk factors, such as aging, are defined for both diseases, how UPFs are associated with the bidirectional relationship between them is not known. This study aimed to investigate whether UPF intake modifies the association between depression and diabetes within the Brazilian adult population. Methods: This cross-sectional analysis utilized data from the 2019 Brazilian National Health Survey, involving over 87,000 adults (aged 18–92 years). Participants provided self-reported data on diabetes and depression diagnoses, dietary habits (assessed by qualitative FFQ), as well as demographic, and socioeconomic variables. Multivariate logistic regression models were used to evaluate the associations, employing two classification methods—UPF1 and UPF2—based on different thresholds of weekly consumption, for high/low UPF intake. Analyses were stratified by age groups to identify variations in associations. Results: There was a significant association between depression and diabetes, especially among participants with high UPF consumption. Models adjusted by demographic characteristics, as well as meat and vegetable consumptions, demonstrated elevated odds ratios (ORs) for diabetes among individuals with depression consuming high levels of UPF, compared to those with a low UPF intake (OR: 1.258; 95% CI: 1.064–1.489 for UPF1 and OR: 1.251; 95% CI: 1.059–1.478 for UPF2). Stratified analysis by age further amplified these findings, with younger individuals showing notably stronger associations (non-old adult group OR: 1.596; 95% CI: 1.127–2.260 for UPF1, and OR: 6.726; 95% CI: 2.625–17.233 for UPF2). Conclusions: These findings suggest that high UPF intake may influence the relationship between depression and diabetes, especially in younger adults. Future longitudinal studies are warranted to establish causality, investigate underlying biological mechanisms, and examine whether improving overall nutrient intake through dietary interventions can reduce the co-occurrence of depression and diabetes. Full article

The Atlantic Diet (AD) is based on traditional dietary patterns in Galicia (northwestern Spain) and northern Portugal and is known for its health benefits. The AD focuses on fresh, local, and seasonal foods, especially fish, seafood, vegetables, legumes, whole grains, fruit, olive oil, and a moderate consumption of wine. However, it has received less attention from researchers than other dietary patterns. The present study had two main objectives: (i) to evaluate the dietary habits of a Galician population in relation to the AD and (ii) to create a numerical index to measure adherence to the AD. In 2022, a validated food frequency questionnaire was administered to 500 healthy adults living in Galicia. The data on participants’ dietary habits showed notable deviations from the ideal AD, especially regarding consumption of fruits, grains, and seafood. However, an adequate intake of legumes and nuts was observed, along with a reduction in the consumption of processed foods (except among younger participants) relative to that revealed in previous surveys. To assess adherence to the diet, statistical and chemometric analyses were applied, leading to the development of a new index: the Atlantic Diet Scale (ADS). The ADS was compared with three existing tools and proved to be a simple, flexible, and effective method for assessing dietary adherence based on optimal intake levels across food groups. When applied to dietary data, the ADS yielded adherence levels similar to two of the three traditional methods, with some differences relative to the third. These findings highlight the need for standardized evaluation tools, including clear definitions of food groups and consistent scoring systems, to better assess and promote adherence to the Atlantic Diet. Full article

The S100B protein, known for its role in the central and enteric nervous systems, has recently been identified in dietary sources such as milk, dairy products, fruits, and vegetables. Given its potential interaction with the gut microbiota, this study explores the relationship between dietary intake of S100B and microbiota biodiversity across different diets. A comprehensive study was conducted, estimating S100B concentrations in 13 dietary patterns recommended in different countries. This is the first study to provide a comparative estimation of S100B exposure from the diet and to explore its potential ecological and epidemiological relevance. The association between S100B levels and microbiota biodiversity was statistically analyzed, showing a direct correlation. Microbial diversity was assessed using the Shannon index, based on data extracted from studies reporting microbiota composition across dietary patterns. Additionally, the relative risk of Crohn’s disease was assessed in different populations to examine potential links between dietary patterns, S100B, and chronic disease prevention. A moderate positive correlation (R² = 0.537) was found between S100B concentration and Shannon index, suggesting that diets higher in S100B (e.g., Mediterranean diet) were associated with higher microbial alpha-diversity. Furthermore, Western-style diets, with the lowest S100B levels, exhibited a higher relative risk for Crohn’s disease (R² = 0.780). These findings highlight the potential role of dietary S100B content in modulating gut microbiota diversity and reducing chronic disease risk. Full article

Background: Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is very widespread in countries with a Western-style diet, representing one of the major causes of morbidity. Genetic factors, obesity, diabetes, dyslipidemia, smoking, and ageing are risk factors for CVD outcomes. From a pathogenic point of view, the condition of low-grade inflammation of the arteries leads to endothelial damage and atherosclerosis development. Nowadays, a broad range of drugs is available to treat CVD, but many of them are associated with side effects. Therefore, alternative therapeutic remedies need to be discovered in combination with conventional drugs. A balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables, e.g., the Mediterranean diet, has been shown to lower the incidence of CVD. Plant-derived polyphenols are ingested in food, and these compounds can exert beneficial effects on human health, such as antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities. Objective: In the present review, the cellular and molecular bases of the beneficial effects of polyphenols in the prevention and treatment of CVD will be pointed out. Methods: This review has been conducted on the basis of a literature review spanning mainly the last two decades. Results: We found that an increased dietary intake of polyphenols is associated with a parallel decrease in chronic disease incidence, including CVD. Conclusion: Despite a plethora of preclinical studies, more clinical trials are needed for a more appropriate treatment of CVD with polyphenols. Full article

Objective: Eating habits established during adolescence play a crucial role in shaping both current and future health status. However, adolescents today appear to be increasingly adopting poorer dietary and lifestyle habits. This study aims to investigate eating behaviors and supplement use among adolescent students who participated in the EduALI nutrition education project. Methods: The project included first-year students from six sports-oriented scientific high schools in Florence. The students participated in six nutrition sessions, completing the International Physical Activity Questionnaire to assess physical activity performance, a questionnaire on dietary supplement use, and, to assess eating habits a Food Frequency Questionnaire (FFQ), as well as the Medi-Lite questionnaire to specifically assess adherence to the Mediterranean diet (MD). The data from the FFQ were compared with national dietary guidelines. Results: The study sample consisted of 83 students (69.9% male; average age: 13.8 ± 0.4 y). The results showed that 61.4% of participants had used supplements in the past year, most commonly mineral salts (56.6%) and vitamins (54.2%), followed by botanical products (22%), sports drinks (16%), proteins/amino acids (8%), and creatine (2%). Alarmingly, 27.7% used supplements without medical supervision. Students involved in individual sports had higher supplement consumption than those in team sports, especially creatine use. Eating habits revealed poor adherence to both the MD and Italian dietary guidelines, with deficiencies in fruits, vegetables, olive oil, fish, and legumes, and excessive intake of cheese, meat, especially red and processed meats. Conclusions: A high prevalence of supplement use among adolescents was observed, along with poor adherence to dietary guidelines and MD. These findings underscore the need for targeted, school- and sport-based interventions to enhance adolescents’ nutritional awareness and responsible supplement use. Full article

Background: Childhood obesity is a global health concern. Early development of fundamental movement skills (FMS) and adherence to the Mediterranean diet (MD) are key modifiable factors for prevention. This study assessed the effectiveness of a multidisciplinary, school-based intervention for childhood obesity prevention. Methods: Children aged 3–5 years from a preschool in Messina, Italy, participated in a 9-month intervention integrating nutritional education and physical activity. FMS were evaluated using the MOBAK test. Anthropometric measurements and MD adherence (through the Kid-Med questionnaire) were collected. Caregivers completed an online survey reporting lifestyle changes. Results: Significant improvements were observed in FMS: object control (score 1) increased from 2.67 ± 1.78 to 4.28 ± 1.82, locomotor skills (score 2) from 4.69 ± 1.96 to 5.83, 5.83 ± 1.70, and total MOBAK score (score 3) from 7.35 ± 3.09 to 10.11± 2.94. (p < 0.001 for all). Kid-Med scores significantly improved from (3.79 ± 2.31 vs. 5.03 ± 2.69) (p = 0.0027), indicating enhanced MD adherence. Post-intervention, adherence was classified as poor (27.4%), moderate (53.2%), and optimal (19.4%). Although only a minority of parents reported lifestyle changes, over 50% noted increased fruit and vegetable intake in their children. Males showed higher FMS scores and waist circumference compared to females. Conclusions: A school-based multidisciplinary intervention significantly improved motor competence and dietary habits in preschool children. These findings underscore the importance of early, integrated strategies involving families and educators to support healthy development and prevent childhood obesity. Full article

Vegetable intake among military Service Members (SMs) is well below public health guidelines, with only 12.9% meeting the Dietary Guidelines for Americans (DGAs). Low vegetable consumption negatively impacts diet quality as measured by the Healthy Eating Index (HEI), and poses risks to health and performance. Given the high physical and mental demands of military life, improving diet quality, including through increased vegetable intake, is crucial for optimizing health and readiness. Providing meal kits may help improve vegetable intake by reducing access-related barriers for SMs living or working on a military base. Furthermore, the addition of spices and herbs is a readily modifiable accompanying approach to address taste-related barriers and increase intake that has shown promise in other populations with poor diet quality. Background/Objectives: This study aimed to evaluate whether heat-and-serve meal kits with spices and herbs could increase vegetable intake and liking among active-duty SM by simultaneously targeting barriers to healthy eating and modifiable sensory factors. Methods: Conducted at Naval Support Activity Bethesda, the study randomly distributed heat-and-serve meal kits (n = 400) featuring either spiced (n = 200) or plain versions (n = 200) of four vegetables (broccoli, carrots, cauliflower, and kale). Each kit contained a quick response (QR) code for participants to upload post-consumption photos and rate vegetable liking on a nine-point Likert scale. Food photography (SmartIntake^®) was used to estimate vegetable consumption. Paired t-tests were used to determine differences between the intake of plain and spiced vegetables. Results: Intake of the heat-and-serve vegetables was very high for both the spiced and plain preparations (1.73 out of 2 cups, 87%). There was minimal difference (p = 0.87) between the consumption of spiced (1.75 cups) and plain (1.725 cups) vegetables, suggesting that both were well accepted. Overall, convenient and accessible meal options, alongside sensory-driven strategies, appear to improve some barriers to vegetable consumption in SM populations. Conclusions: Future studies should explore long-term outcomes and adaptability across different military environments, while considering additional factors, including convenience and time constraints, that influence dietary choices in the military. Full article

Background: Sociodemographic status, dietary intake, and physical activity have been linked to body mass index (BMI) among adolescents. However, there is a scarcity of research investigating these factors in relation to BMI standard deviation score (BMI_SDS) in Saudi Arabia. Therefore, we examined the roles of sociodemographic status, dietary habits, and physical activity in relation to body mass index among Saudi female adolescents aged 11–18 years attending public and private schools in the city of Jeddah. Methods: This school-based cross-sectional study was performed between February and April 2019 in Jeddah. A total of 920 female adolescent students were recruited from both public and private schools. Data was collected using questionnaires conducted via interview as well as anthropometric measurements. Results: About 37.4% (n = 344) of the participants were overweight or obese. The majority of the participants (61.6%, n = 567) had a healthy dietary intake score. More than half of the participants (52.6%, n = 484) had a low physical activity and screen time score, with 36.5% (n = 336) never engaging in ≥60 min of physical activity per day and 61.4% (n = 565) reporting a daily screen time of >4 h. Multivariate logistic regression analysis revealed that students aged over 16 years were less likely to have overweight/obesity compared to those aged <14 years (adjusted odds ratio “aOR” = 0.53; 95% CI: 0.35–0.79, p = 0.002). Participants enrolled in private schools were at higher risk of being overweight/obese compared to those enrolled in public schools (aOR = 1.55; 95% CI: 1.16–2.08, p = 0.003). Adolescent females with daily vegetable intake were less likely than those who never consumed vegetables to be overweight or obese (aOR = 0.47; 95% CI: 0.29–0.77, p = 0.002). However, no associations were found with the other sociodemographic, dietary intake, physical activity, and screen time exposure variables. Conclusions: This study shows a trend of elevated obesity prevalence among Saudi female adolescents in Jeddah, highlighting the need for gender-sensitive, school- and community-based interventions targeting diet, physical activity, and sedentary behavior. To obtain a more comprehensive understanding, studies involving nationally representative samples, encompassing all cities across Saudi Arabia and exploring broader aspects of nutrition and physical activity, are essential. Full article

Background/Objectives: Metabolic syndrome (Mets) risk is influenced by both parents’ preconception lifestyle, yet most interventions target individuals rather than couples. True couples-based interventions that engage both partners equally remain rare. This study aimed to assess the feasibility and adherence of a 10-week lifestyle intervention delivered to heterosexual couples in the preconception period. Methods: This was a pre-post mixed-methods study involving eight nulliparous, cohabiting couples (N = 16 participants) planning a pregnancy within three years. Couples received tailored dietary and physical activity advice via remote sessions. Qualitative data were collected through post-intervention dyadic interviews and thematically analysed to explore participants’ experiences and perspectives on feasibility and adherence. Quantitative data on anthropometry, dietary intake (serves from five food groups), and sedentary behaviour were descriptively analysed. Wilcoxon signed-rank tests were used to assess changes in paired outcomes. Results: qualitative findings highlighted shared motivation, mutual accountability, cultural barriers, and the practicality of the intervention structure. All couples completed the intervention (100% retention). Among participants who required change, improvements were observed in all eight individuals for body mass index and in five out of seven individuals for waist-to-hip ratio. Statistically significant improvements were found in BMI (p = 0.027) and grain intake (p = 0.002), while other dietary and anthropometric changes were not significant. Dietary improvements were noted in 43 out of 80 observations across vegetables, fruits, grains, protein, and dairy intake. Sedentary hours were reduced in 12 of 16 participants, though increases in physical activity intensity were limited. Conclusions: A true-couples-based lifestyle intervention is feasible and acceptable in the preconception period. The approach shows potential for improving diet and reducing sedentary behaviour. Future research with a larger sample and longer duration is recommended to assess long-term effectiveness and broader applicability. Full article

Adequate and diverse diets are essential for children’s physical and cognitive development, yet food insecurity and malnutrition continue to threaten this fundamental right, which remains a pressing concern in many resource-poor settings. This study investigated food and nutrition security in Early Childhood Development (ECD) centres in Makhanda, South Africa, through a community-based participatory research approach. Using a mixed-methods approach combining questionnaire interviews, focus group discussions, direct observations, and community asset mapping across eight ECD centres enrolling 307 children aged 0–5 years, the study engaged ECD facilitators and analysed dietary practices across these centres. Results indicated that financial constraints severely affect the quality and diversity of food provided at the centres, thus undermining the ability to provide nutritionally adequate meals. The average amount spent on food per child per month at the centres was R90 ± R25 (South African Rand). Although three meals were generally offered daily, cost-driven dietary substitutions with cheaper, less diverse alternatives, often at the expense of nutritional value, were common. Despite guidance from Department of Health dieticians, financial limitations contributed to suboptimal feeding practices, with diets dominated by grains and starchy foods, with limited access to and rare consumption of protein-rich foods, dairy, and vitamin A-rich fruits and vegetables. ECD facilitators noted insufficient parental contributions and low engagement in supporting centre operations and child nutrition provision, indicating a gap in awareness and limited nutrition knowledge regarding optimal infant and young child feeding (IYCF) practices. The findings emphasise the need for sustainable, multi-level and community-led interventions, including food gardening, creating ECD centre food banks, parental nutrition education programmes, and enhanced financial literacy among ECD facilitators. Strengthening local food systems and establishing collaborative partnerships with communities and policymakers are essential to improve the nutritional environment in ECD settings. Similarly, enhanced government support mechanisms and policy-level reforms are critical to ensure that children in resource-poor areas receive adequate nutrition. Future research should focus on scalable, locally anchored models for sustainable child nutrition interventions that are contextually grounded, community-driven, and should strengthen the resilience of ECD centres in South Africa. Full article

Background/Objectives: This study aimed to examine the association between ultra-processed food (UPF) consumption and obesity in Korean adults. Methods: Data from the 2019 to 2021 Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey were analyzed. Dietary intake and UPF consumption were assessed using the NOVA food classification based on 24 h recall data from 9662 participants (aged 19–64 years). The participants were divided into three groups based on the tertile of UPF intake. Obesity was defined as a body mass index of ≥25 kg/m². Multivariable logistic regression was used to estimate the adjusted odds ratios (AORs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) after controlling for potential confounders. Results: Of the participants, 50.2% were men and 49.8% were women. Men consumed more UPFs daily (401.3 g) than women (260.1 g; p < 0.0001). Among the various categories of ultra-processed foods, ‘soft drinks, fruit and vegetable drinks’ were the most frequently consumed by both men and women, with men showing a notably higher intake than women. Compared to the lowest quartile of UPF intake, the highest tertile was significantly associated with obesity in men (AOR: 1.28; 95% CI: 1.05–1.55; p for trend = 0.0003). Conclusions: This study suggests that a high intake of UPFs is associated with increased odds of obesity in men. Further research is needed to elucidate the specific negative health effects of UPFs in different populations, and targeted efforts should promote healthy diets for both men and women. Full article

(1) Background: Exposure to pesticide residues through food remains a critical issue in public health, especially given their potential cumulative neurotoxic effects. (2) Methods: This study investigated the presence of pesticide residues in commonly consumed vegetables, fruits, and cereals based on official laboratory reports and evaluated the intestinal microbiome profiles of individuals whose diets consisted of over 50% plant-based foods. (3) Results: Analytical results from accredited laboratories in Romania demonstrated that all tested food samples were compliant with European regulations (Regulation (EC) 396/2005), with either undetectable or below-quantification-limit pesticide residues. However, organophosphates such as chlorpyrifos and diazinon were frequently tested, indicating persistent regulatory concern due to their known neurotoxic potential. A parallel analysis of stool samples revealed significant imbalances in neuroactive gut bacteria, including consistently low levels of Bifidobacterium and Lactobacillus species, and elevated levels of Oscillibacter and Alistipes, which are implicated in modulating GABA and serotonin pathways. Markers of proinflammatory activity, such as LPS-positive bacteria and histamine producers, were also elevated. (4) Conclusions: These findings suggest that even in diets rich in plant-based foods, microbial dysbiosis with neuroactive relevance can occur, potentially linked to environmental or dietary factors. The study underscores the need for a comprehensive evaluation of food safety and microbiome function as interconnected determinants of neurological health. Full article

Background/Objectives: Recent decades have seen a remarkable westernization of diets and a decline in adherence to the Mediterranean diet (MD). This study examined the eating habits of a representative sample of Italian university students to identify the determinants of adherence to the MD and the most relevant actions to improve their well-being. Methods: The Mediterranean Diet Quality Index for Children and Adolescents (KIDMED) and Sustainable Healthy Diet (SHED) index questionnaires were used to explore MD adherence as the primary outcome, and dietary behavior sustainability, respectively. Sociodemographic, anthropometric, and lifestyle information was also collected. Results: The final sample included 1434 subjects (18–24; 60% female). The median (IQR) KIDMED score was 6.0 (4.0–8.0) and 33% showed a high adherence to the MD. Having breakfast, eating fruit and vegetables at least once a day, consuming pasta or other grains almost daily, and using olive oil at home were among the most common positive aspects of students’ diets. However, regular consumption of fish, nuts, legumes, dairy products, and a second serving of fruit and vegetables was less prevalent. Having an active lifestyle, eating more plant products, and having more sustainable dietary behaviors in terms of the SHED index, were the main determinants of a high KIDMED score. Likewise, graduate students, daily consumers of plant-based meat alternatives, and students attending university canteens daily were more likely to adopt healthier diets. Conclusions: Future actions are crucial to create a food environment that facilitates healthy and sustainable dietary choices among young adults, such as improving the nutritional quality of processed products and regulating their promotion, as well as implementing initiatives to improve university food services and encourage the use of campus dining facilities. Full article

Background/Objectives: Child undernutrition remains a critical public health issue in Nepal, especially in the rural district of Solukhumbu. This study aimed to assess the prevalence and clinical characteristics of undernutrition, dietary patterns, and related health indicators in school-aged children from the Shree Saraswoti Basic School in Phuleli. Methods: A descriptive, cross-sectional study was conducted between July and August 2022. Fifty-four children (51.8% boys; mean age 9.4 ± 2.1 years) were evaluated using anthropometry, clinical examination, hemoglobin measurement, and three-day 24 h dietary recall. Data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics. Results: BMI z-scores indicated that 39% of children were at risk of acute undernutrition, and 2% were at risk of moderate acute undernutrition. After adjusting for altitude, 87% were classified as anemic. Diets were dominated by cereals and vegetables, with a very low intake of fruits and proteins and no dairy consumption. Dental caries affected 59% of participants. Girls presented slightly higher subcutaneous fat percentages; however, 14.8% of the children exceeded the recommended thresholds. A dietary assessment revealed poor eating habits, including excessive intake of simple carbohydrates and insufficient nutrient diversity. Although socioeconomic data were not directly collected, the findings reflect the typical context of the vulnerability of isolated mountain communities. Undernutrition indicators (BMI, clinical signs, anemia) were associated with poorer health outcomes. An unexpected moderate inverse correlation was found between BMI and both systolic (r = −0.601) and diastolic (r = −0.550) blood pressure. Conclusions: The findings reveal a high burden of undernutrition and anemia among children in Solukhumbu, linked to poor diet and structural vulnerability. Urgent, community-based interventions—including nutrition education, agricultural diversification, and improved healthcare access—are needed. Longitudinal monitoring is essential to track progress and design sustainable, multisectoral solutions. Full article