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Primary epiploic appendagitis (PEA) is a rare cause of abdominal acute or subacute complaints. Diagnosis of PEA is made when computed tomography (CT) reveals a characteristic lesion. We report on contrast-enhanced CT images of a patient with PEA and regression of inflammation and the reduction in size of the inflamed appendage over the time period of 4 months. Patients with PEA usually recover without medication or surgical treatment within a few weeks. However, due to continuing bloating and irregular bowel movements we investigated carbohydrate malabsorption and diagnosed a fructose malabsorption. Bloating and irregular bowel movements in this patient with PEA were correlated to carbohydrate malabsorption and were treated successfully with a diet free of culprit carbohydrates. European Journal of Clinical Nutrition (2014) 68, 1359-1361; doi: 10.1038/ejcn.2014.109; published online 18 June 2014, INTRODUCTION Primary epiploic appendagitis (PEA) is an uncommon, benign inflammatory process of epiploic appendages, which are adipose structures protruding from the colon. Owing to a lack of pathognomonic clinical features [...]

KEY POINTS * In Australia, the number of cancer survivors has been estimated at 267000 and is increasing. Cancer survivors are at increased risk of other health problems after a [...]

Abstract Aim: Obesity following renal transplantation is common and may be associated with cardiovascular disease. We sought to investigate the prevalence of central obesity in renal transplant recipients (RTR) and [...]

KEY POINTS * Most population epidemiological studies have shown an inverse association between estimated protein intake and blood pressure. Total and plant proteins are consistently associated with lower blood pressure. [...]

KEY POINTS * There are an increasing number of elderly people with a wide range of body weights, chronic diseases, disabilities and food preferences. * The elderly are the largest [...]

KEY POINTS * Lean Australian red meat cuts are low in fat and have a ratio of cholesterol-raising saturated fatty acids (SFA) to cis-monounsaturated fatty acids (MUFA) to cis-polyunsaturated fatty [...]

KEY POINTS * There are now sufficient studies of the relationship between red meat consumption and cancer of the colon and rectum, using the preferred cohort design, to make meta-analysis [...]

KEY POINTS * Dietary protein is more satiating than carbohydrate or fat and has been shown to reduce food intake after controlled liquid preloads and meals. * High-protein, low-energy weight-loss [...]

KEY POINTS * Optimal nutrition during the first years of life is crucial for optimal growth and development and, possibly, the prevention of chronic disease of adulthood. * Iron-deficiency anaemia [...]

KEY POINTS * Newly introduced Nutrient Reference Values indicate that most Australians need to increase their dietary intake of the long chain omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (LC omega-3 PUFA), viz. [...]

KEY POINTS * Iron is required for the transport of oxygen and numerous metabolic functions, including the production of energy. * Dietary iron exists in two forms: haem iron is [...]

KEY POINTS * Subclinical vitamin B12 deficiency (low serum vitamin B12, and/or raised methylmalonate) occurs in 10% or more of older people, in Australia and other developed countries. Causes include [...]

KEY POINTS * Human ancestral diets changed substantially approximately four to five million years ago with major climatic changes creating open grassland environments. * We developed a larger brain balanced [...]

KEY POINTS * Zinc is an essential nutrient, required for numerous metabolic functions, including gene expression, growth and immunity. * Manifestations of zinc deficiency include growth retardation, high rates of [...]

Abstract Aim: To determine the prevalence of malnutrition in Queensland public acute and residential aged care facilities, and explore effects of variables associated with malnutrition in these populations. Methods: A [...]

Abstract Predictive equations are a quick and non-invasive way to estimate a patient's energy requirements, and can be a useful tool when used appropriately. However, as with any tool, the [...]

Abstract Aim: The objectives of the present study are to examine prevalence of overweight, underweight, and overfat and underfat in Japanese college women and to determine if and how living [...]

Abstract Aim: To determine the inter-rater reliability of the Mini Nutritional Assessment (MNA) and relationship with body composition and nutritional biochemistry among older Australians undergoing rehabilitation. Methods: Thirty-eight adults aged [...]

Abstract This case study aims to describe how general parenting principles can be used as part of parent-led, family-focused child weight management that is in line with current Australian Clinical [...]

Abstract The role of dietary cholesterol in raising plasma cholesterol levels has been debated over the past 25 years. Consequently, eggs, as a food high in dietary cholesterol, have been [...]

Abstract Objective: The purpose of the study was to examine the general food and nutrition-related beliefs and knowledge of nursing professionals attending post-partum women. Design: Data were collected by self-administered [...]

Abstract Objective: To assess the implications of new recommendations for essential fatty acids, vitamin D and vitamin E on the classification of margarines and vegetable oils as 'extras' in the [...]

Abstract Objective: To describe the development and reproducibility of a self-report instrument, for use with children in years 4-6, to identify sources of food eaten during the day, and type [...]

Abstract The objective of the present study is to determine the knowledge, attitudes and beliefs regarding breastfeeding of final-year nutrition and dietetic students. A cross-sectional survey of final-year nutrition and [...]

Abstract The aim of this study was to examine women's views on the usefulness of various types of information and practical sessions on weight control, their preferences for program delivery, [...]

Continuing education and the APD program This quiz is an ideal activity for APD members to include in your CPD log, where it relates to personal learning goals. Record the [...]

Abstract Depression is a serious illness, affecting more than one million Australians each year. It causes significant morbidity and is a major risk factor for deliberate self-harm and suicide. Depression [...]

Abstract Measurement of serum vitamin D levels in population samples has revealed unexpectedly high prevalence of vitamin D deficiency among children, adults, the elderly and other vulnerable groups in Australia [...]

Abstract Objective: To determine prevalence of dietary supplement use in New Zealand and to describe types of supplements used. Design: Secondary data analysis of two cross-sectional national surveys. Subjects: In [...]

Abstract Background: Carnitine is an integral component of fatty acid transfer into the mitochondria, and also buffers excess intramitochondrial acyl-CoA. It has previously been suggested that athletes may be at [...]

Abstract Objective: Childhood obesity is a significant and increasing public health issue. We present results from two cross-sectional surveys from Melbourne and Sydney that sought to estimate the level of [...]

Abstract Objective: Australia and New Zealand are currently preparing a new food standard code, which will allow the use of health claims on food products and in associated advertising. The [...]

Abstract Objective: (i) To describe sub-Saharan African (SSA) post-migration food habits and eating patterns; and (ii) to examine how the food habits of SSA households in Victoria reflect post-migration acculturation. [...]

Abstract Objective: To determine whether analysis of food intake data using different food group classification systems changes the apparent contribution of defined food groups to total daily fat intake. Design: [...]

Abstract Objective and design: The aim of the present study is to review literature associated with the nutritional aspect of the treatment of non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH). Subjects and setting: The [...]

Abstract Objective: To document the breastfeeding practices of Aboriginal mothers delivering in Perth. Design and methods: A cohort of mothers was followed from the time of delivery for six months [...]

Abstract Objective: To determine the acute and chronic effects of low doses of long chain (LC) n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) on plasma LC n-3 PUFA levels. Design: In the [...]

Abstract Objectives: To determine the reliability and relative construct validity of the Modified Constipation Assessment Scale (MCAS) and use it to assess bowel function in oncology outpatients receiving radiotherapy. Design: [...]

Abstract Objective: To examine the health and nutrition beliefs and perceptions of Brisbane adolescents. Design and methods: Adolescents completed individual, semi-structured, face-to-face qualitative interviews that were transcribed verbatim and analysed [...]

To assess and monitor the dietary status of Americans, the U.S. Department of Agriculture's Center for Nutrition Policy and Promotion developed the Healthy Eating Index (HEI). The HEI consists of 10 components, each representing a different aspect of a healthful diet. This article presents the most recent HEI for people 2 years old and over and subgroups of the population. Data from the 1999-2000 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey are used. Ten percent of the population had a good diet, 16 percent had a poor diet, and the remainder had a diet that needs improvement. Americans need especially to improve their consumption of fruit and milk products. Males age 15 to 18, non-Hispanic Blacks, low-income groups, and those with a high school diploma or less education had lower quality diets. The diets of Americans have not changed since 1996, but they have improved since 1989., Healthful eating is essential for human development and well-being. In the United States today, some dietary patterns are associated with 4 of the 10 leading causes of death (coronary heart [...]

Objective: The aim of this study was to develop a tool for use by nutrition professionals to evaluate popular diet books. Design: A questionnaire was developed incorporating quantified criteria based on current authoritative nutrition guidelines. It included 22 questions relating to nutritional adequacy, daily energy allowance, recommended rate of weight loss, flexibility and sustainability, physical activity advice, use of supplements, claims, authors' credentials, and scientific evidence. The questionnaire was used to rate 35 diets in 20 popular diet books sold in Australia in 2001, and the practicality, validity and sensitivity of the tool were evaluated. A dietary analysis of three days of menus from each book was used to assess the validity of the questions assessing nutritional adequacy. Main outcome measures: Assessment scores for each book and correlation with dietary analyses. Statistical analysis: Spearman rank correlation was used to compare the nutritional adequacy of the diets assessed by the dietary assessment scores from the questionnaire and the numbers of nutrients likely to be provided at < 70% RDI or < 100% RDI. One-way ANOVA was used to compare the mean scores of books written by those with nutrition qualifications, medical qualifications, and others. Results: The scoring of the questionnaire was found to correlate well with the nutrient analysis of the diets. Overall scores for the 20 books tested ranged from 32 to 97 out of a possible 100. Only five of the books were found to have scores over 80, the assessment criteria deemed compatible with current dietary and public health guidelines. Three diets provided less than 4200 kJ per day, while five books advertised weight loss results of greater than 1 kg per week and promoted or used 'fast' weight loss as a selling point. The majority of books relied on testimonials rather than supporting their results with data published in peer reviewed journals. Books by people with nutrition qualifications rated highest. Conclusion: The questionnaire provides a useful standardised tool for nutrition professionals to rank the nutritional adequacy of advice in popular diets books and to evaluate their approach to weight loss. Key words: weight loss, fad diets, obesity, Introduction The incidence of obesity is increasing worldwide (1). In 1999-2000 the AusDiab study estimated that 60% of Australians aged 25 years or more were overweight or obese, with significant [...]

Objective: The Dietitians Association of Australia (DAA) is endeavouring to support best practice for dietetic management of overweight and obesity in Australia. The aims of this member survey were to describe current dietetic services and intervention strategies in obesity management and to compare current practice with that reported previously. Method: All members of DAA were sent a questionnaire, with 287 surveys returned (response rate 14%). The questionnaire was informed by a literature review of evidence-based practice and was pre-tested. Self-reported dietetic management strategies were evaluated against best practice guidelines. Results: The majority of dietetic treatment consultations were individual (45%). Both dietitian (6%) and multidisciplinary (11%) group programs were offered, with 15% care-planning within general practice. Only 13% of respondents reported the adoption of clinical guidelines for obesity management. Factors that supported or prevented dietetic involvement in obesity management were reported consistently as time, funding, staffing, management support and resources. Gaps in skills and areas identified for continuing professional development included counselling for behaviour change and strategies for implementation of best practice guidelines in a variety of settings. Future research questions included evaluation of models of dietetic care to ensure long-term lifestyle changes and improve clinical outcomes. Conclusion: This survey indicates that there is a need for the development and dissemination of best practice guidelines for the management of overweight and obesity in Australian adults and children. DAA is well placed to facilitate uptake of current evidence-based treatment recommendations through the ratification and implementation of clinical guidelines that support best practice. Key words: obesity, weight management, dietetic, clinical guidelines, best practice, Introduction Overweight and obesity are serious health issues affecting over 50% of Australian adults and up to 25% of Australian children (1-3). Obesity contributes to over four percent of the [...]

Objective: To estimate the dietary intakes of total, added and natural sugars (monosaccharides and disaccharides) for both adults and children, and to characterise differences between low, moderate and high consumers of these sugars. Design: The 1995 National Nutrition Survey is a cross-sectional study using 24-hour dietary recall methodology. Subjects: 3441 children aged two to 18 years; 10 417 adults aged 19 years and over (weighted sample count). Setting: Australian population sampled nationally. Main outcome measures: Intakes of total, added and natural sugars; food sources of each type of sugar; tertiles of intake density (%E) of each sugar; characterisation of respondents in each sugars tertile in relation to food and nutrient density (per 1000 kJ), percentage of children and adults with intakes below 70% of the RDI; differences in BMI, blood pressure, exercise, and self-reported health status. Statistical analyses: Linear regression analyses were conducted separately for boys, girls, men and women to test for differences in nutrient and food intake densities across the tertiles. Associations between sugars intakes and BMI were investigated with linear and logistic regressions after adjusting for age, exercise level, total energy intake and whether of not individuals were on a weight-reducing diet or classified as an under-reporter. Similar regressions were performed with systolic and diastolic blood pressures, exercise and self-reported health status. Results: Total, added and natural sugars contributed 22%, 11.2% and 10.5% respectively to total energy intake for the whole population. Non-alcoholic beverages were the major sources of total and added sugars; and milk and fruit products of natural sugars. The only consistent evidence of nutrient dilution (zinc, iron, magnesium) with higher intakes of sugar was observed for women when intakes were in the upper tertiles (27%E from total and 17%E from added sugars). No significant associations were found between sugars intakes and health variables. Conclusion: Women consuming very high sugar diets may be increasing their risk of inadequate intakes of some nutrients that are already marginal. Children and men appeared to be at less risk. Intakes of sugars appeared to be poor predictors of health variables. Key words: sugar consumption, added sugars, natural sugars, dietary intakes, National Nutrition Survey, nutrition status, Australia, Introduction Sugars have been a part of our diet for thousands of years, being present in fruits, milk products, vegetables, grains and honey. Sugars are well appreciated for providing sweetness [...]

Objective: The Mediterranean diet is now a well known concept with Mediterranean dishes and foods widely consumed. It was postulated that one way by which the concept, dishes and foods arrived in Australia was via articles in women's magazines that emphasise food preparation at the domestic level. Design: Descriptive study of two of the longest running Australian women's magazines that emphasise cookery. Methods: All back issues of Australian Women's Weekly from 1933 and of New Idea from 1934 to the end of 1995 were searched for Mediterranean recipes. These were then classified by country of origin (there are 18 Mediterranean countries) and by degree of authenticity. Results: The number of Mediterranean recipes of the different types that appeared each year are presented. These recipes started to appear in the 1960s and increased through the 1990s. Italian recipes were the most frequent, followed by Greek, French, Spanish and Lebanese. Conclusions: Mediterranean recipes were introduced to Australian women from the 1960s by magazines, long before recent conferences on the Mediterranean diet. Nearly all of the recipes in these magazines have been from countries on the northern side of the Mediterranean Sea. Key words: Australian Women's Weekly, New Idea, women's magazines, Mediterranean diet, Mediterranean recipes, Introduction As part of our research on food habits (1), we have focussed on Mediterranean diet(s) in Australia. We collected information on food habits from different individual immigrants from 17 [...]

Mitochondrial disorders are degenerative diseases characterized by a decrease in the ability of mitochondria to supply cellular energy requirements. Substantial progress has been made in defining the specific biochemical defects and underlying molecular mechanisms, but limited information is available about the development and evaluation of effective treatment approaches. The goal of nutritional cofactor therapy is to increase mitochondrial adenosine 5'-triphosphate production and slow or arrest the progression of clinical symptoms. Accumulation of toxic metabolites and reduction of electron transfer activity have prompted the use of antioxidants, electron transfer mediators (which bypass the defective site), and enzyme cofactors. Metabolic therapies that have been reported to produce a positive effect include Coenzyme [Q.sub.10] (ubiquinone); other antioxidants such as ascorbic acid, vitamin E, and lipoic acid; riboflavin; thiamin; niacin; vitamin K (phylloquinone and menadione); creatine; and carnitine. A literature review of the use of these supplements in mitochondrial disorders is presented. J Am Diet Assoc. 2003;103: 1029-1038., Mitochondrial disorders result from a progressive decrease in the ability of mitochondria to meet cellular demands for adenosine 5'-triphosphate (ATP). Oxidative phosphorylation (OXPHOS) is carried out by 5 mitochondrial enzyme [...]

Objective This study characterizes whole grain consumption among a nationally representative sample of US children and adolescents. Design Data used in this study were collected as part of the 1994-1996 US Department of Agriculture Continuing Survey of Food Intakes by Individuals (CSFII). Subjects/setting CSFII was designed to obtain a nationally representative sample of noninstitutionalized persons of all ages residing in the United States. Analyses reported in this article are limited to participants aged 2 to 18 years with two days of dietary recall data (n=4,802). Foods reported in the survey were quantified in servings as defined by the Food Guide Pyramid using the US Department of Agriculture Pyramid Servings Database, which contains reference data for each food reported in CSFII in servings per 100 g for 30 Pyramid food groups, including whole grain and total grain. Statistical analyses Means, frequencies, and logistic regression analyses were conducted as appropriate. Results Average whole grain intake ranged from 0.8 servings per day for preschool-aged children to 1.0 servings per day for adolescents. Ready-to-eat cereals, corn and other chips, and yeast breads were found to be the major food sources of whole grains accounting for 30.9%, 21.7%, and 18.1% of whole grain intake respectively among those aged two to 18 years. Applications/conclusions Given the apparent low level of whole grain intake among most children and adolescents in the United States, interventions are needed to increase intake of whole-grain foods. J Am Diet Assoc. 2003;103: 1015-1019., Epidemiologic evidence indicates whole-grain foods may reduce the risk for certain cancers (1-3), coronary heart disease (4-6), type 2 diabetes (7,8), and all-cause mortality (1,3). In addition, experimental studies indicate [...]

This study examined sociocultural and familial factors related to the prevention of childhood obesity. Primary caregivers of 6- tol0-year-old children representing several ethnic populations in Saipan participated in 4 focus groups (N=32). Trained moderators used semi-structured interviews and qualitative methods were used in data analysis. A central theme with several related factors emerged. The theme was a conflict expressed by the primary caregiver between sociocultural values, family expectations, traditional dietary beliefs and attitudes, and knowledge about food and disease. These findings have important implications for designing culturally sensitive interventions for prevention of childhood obesity. J Am Diet Assoc. 2003;103:1042-1045., Childhood obesity, a risk factor for adult obesity, is an increasing global concern (1-5). Studies show that both genetic and environmental factors, including familial and sociocultural factors, contribute to childhood [...]

Objective To examine the adequacy of dietary intake of calcium; folate; and vitamins C, D, E, B-6, and B-12 in premenopausal US women of differing ethnicity. Design Analyses of single and duplicate 24-hour recalls were conducted to determine dietary intake during the Third National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey. Subjects Three thousand five hundred eighty-five randomly selected women aged 20 to 50 years from across the United States who were not pregnant or lactating were examined between 1988 and 1994. Statistical analyses Usual nutrient intake distributions were estimated using the Iowa State University method for adjustment of the distribution. The Estimated Average Requirement cut-point method was used to determine the proportion of women with inadequate intake for each nutrient in each ethnic group. Results More than 75% of women irrespective of ethnic group had usual intakes of calcium lower than the new Adequate Intake. More than 90% of the women had inadequate intakes of folate and vitamin E from food sources alone. More than half of smokers had inadequate intakes of vitamin C. Intakes of vitamins B-6 and B-12 were low in less than 10% of these women. Applications/Conclusions This article provides evidence that a high proportion of premenopausal US women are underconsuming a variety of nutrients. Dietary intakes alone are not currently adequate to meet the new recommended intakes. Nutritional supplement use is widespread and effective, but does not eliminate the concerns for at-risk populations. Awareness of the general inadequacies in intakes of vitamin E and folic acid at large, and in many women vitamin C as well, can help direct individual dietary recommendations and place the emphasis in group counseling on nutrients that are of widespread concern. In addition, foods rich in vitamins B-6 and of general nutritional benefit should be emphasized among African American women in the United States as a substantial proportion of this group is still showing inadequate intakes from foods. JAm Diet Assoc. 2003;103: 1008-1014., Due to the risk of adverse pregnancy outcomes and evidence that exposures early in life affect risk for osteoporosis, cardiovascular disease, and cancer, premenopausal women are an important demographic to [...]

It is the position of the American Dietetic Association that all children and adolescents, regardless of age; gender; socioeconomic status; racial, ethnic, or linguistic diversity; or health status should have access to food and nutrition programs that ensure the availability of a safe and adequate food supply that promotes optimal physical, cognitive, and social growth and development. Appropriate food and nutrition programs include food assistance and meal programs, nutrition education initiatives, nutrition screening and assessment followed by appropriate nutrition intervention, and anticipatory guidance to promote optimal nutrition status. Malnutrition has been linked to delayed physical, psychosocial, and cognitive development and is now recognized as a major contributor to the growing problem of overweight and obesity in the child and adolescent population. Food and nutrition programs create a safety net that ensures that children and adolescents at risk for poor nutritional intakes have access to a saf e, adequate, and nutritious food supply and nutrition screening, assessment evaluation, and intervention. It is important that continued funding be provided for these programs, which have been consistently shown to have a positive impact on child and adolescent well-being. Food and nutrition programs will continue to serve not only as a means to combat hunger and food insecurity but also as a vehicle for nutrition education and promotion of physical activity designed to combat overweight and prevent chronic disease. It is the role of the credentialed dietetics professional to support permanent, adequate funding to food and nutrition programs, universal health-care reimbursement for nutrition services, and the use of research and surveillance programs to justify, evaluate, and improve these programs. In addition, the dietetics professional is responsible for serving as a nutrition resource to all groups and individuals working with children and adolescents, acting as an advocate for the establishment of child- care, school, and community settings conducive to the development of good nutrition habits. J Am Diet Assoc. 2008;103:887-893., The health of children and adolescents is dependent upon food intake that provides sufficient energy and nutrients to promote optimal physical, social, and cognitive growth and development. Children and adolescents [...]

The objectives of this study were to determine changes in fat and energy intakes in the United States between 1989-199 1 and 1994-1996, and to examine the implications of expressing fat intake in grams vs as a percent of total energy intake. The source of data was the Continuing Survey of Food Intake by Individuals. The results suggest that intake of energy rose between the 2 time periods, primarily due to higher carbohydrate intake. There was also a modest increase in fat intake. However fat intake, as a percent of total energy, declined. The higher energy intakes were primarily from beverages, especially soft drinks, food mixtures, grain snacks, and pastries. The primary sources of higher fat intakes were meat mixtures, vegetables, and some categories of the grain group. Similar trends in the Food Supply Series suggested that the changes observed were not entirely due to changes in survey methodology. Because the increase in fat intake was masked by the increase in energy intake, we conclude that assessing trends in fat intake as a percent of energy consumption can be misleading, unless information on total energy and fat intake, in grams, is also provided. These preliminary findings should be interpreted cautiously until they are confirmed by formal secular trend analyses. JAm Diet Assoc. 2003;103:867-872., In 1990 the Dietary Guidelines for Americans, the Federal government's statement of policy that provide Americans with advice on the most important aspects of healthful eating, specifically recommended an intake [...]