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This study aimed to determine energy availability (EA) and within-day energy balance (WDEB) in female soccer players during preseason and also explored eating disorder risk and athlete food choice. We hypothesized commonly used indicators of low energy availability (LEA) risk would correlate with measured EA and WDEB variables, and that food choice determinants would differ according to EA. Eleven National Premier League female soccer players participated in this observational cross-sectional study over 3 weeks. Assessment of resting metabolic rate and physique traits, including bone mineral density, was conducted during Weeks 1 or 3. During Week 2, dietary intake, energy expenditure, and continuous monitor-derived glucose were measured for 5 days. EA was calculated daily and WDEB calculated hourly with deficits/surpluses carried continuously. Questionnaires were administered throughout the 3 weeks, including the Athlete Food Choice Questionnaire, the Eating Disorders Screen for Athletes, and the Low Energy Availability in Females Questionnaire. Resting metabolic rate ratio, bone mineral density, Low Energy Availability in Females Questionnaire, and Eating Disorders Screen for Athletes scores were used as indicators of LEA risk. EA averaged 30.7 ± 7.5 kcals·kg fat-free mass−1·day−1. Approximately one-third (36%) of athletes were at risk of an eating disorder, while approximately half (45%) were identified at risk of the female athlete triad via Low Energy Availability in Females Questionnaire, compared with approximately one-third (36%) of athletes identified with EA < 30 kcal·kg fat-free mass−1·day−1. No athlete achieved EA >45 kcal·kg fat-free mass−1·day−1, and no indicator of LEA risk was associated with calculated EA or WDEB. However, overnight glycemic variability was positively correlated with measured EA (r =.722, p =.012). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Several studies have revealed the positive healthy impacts of branched-chain fatty acids (BCFAs). However, most of these studies evaluated the serum BCFAs in humans, or treatment with exogenous BCFAs in animal or in-vitro models and the health impacts of dietary BCFAs have not yet been studied. Due to positive effects of BCFAs in sport, in the current study, we aimed to investigate the association between dietary BCFAs and metabolic and inflammatory parameters among elite and subelite soccer players. Methods: A cross-sectional study was carried out among 335 elite and subelite soccer players (196 male), aged between 20 and 45 years old. Soccer players were enrolled from 32 teams under the directive of The Chinese Football Association. Demographic, anthropometric, and dietary assessments were performed and laboratory measurement including serum lipids, glycemic markers, and high-sensitivity C-reactive protein was measured. Results: Those with the highest dietary BCFAs consumption had higher appetite (p =.009). Also, high consumption of dietary BCFAs was associated with lower diastolic blood pressure (odds ratio: 0.958; confidence interval: 0.918–0.999; p =.046) and low high-sensitivity C-reactive protein concentrations in the third tertile of dietary BCFAs (odds ratio: 0.431; confidence interval: 0.300–0.618; p <.001). No other association between biochemical variables and dietary BCFAs was found. Conclusion: As shown in the current study, higher dietary BCFAs consumption was associated with lower diastolic blood pressure and inflammation. Due to very limited number of studies, further studies are needed to have a better perspective of these associations and their underlying mechanisms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To describe serum irisin and fibroblast growth factor-21 (FGF-21) concentrations in healthy female adolescents with different training activity patterns and their associations with bone mineral properties and metabolic markers. Methods: A total of 62 adolescent girls aged 14–18 years were recruited: 22 rhythmic gymnasts, 20 swimmers, and 20 untrained controls. Bone mineral characteristics by dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry, daily energy intake by dietary recall, serum irisin, FGF-21, undercarboxylated osteocalcin, and C-terminal telopeptide of type I collagen were measured in all girls. Results: Whole body and lumbar spine areal bone mineral density and lumbar spine bone mineral content were higher in the rhythmic gymnasts group compared with swimmers and untrained controls groups (P <.05). Serum irisin, FGF-21, undercarboxylated osteocalcin, and C-terminal telopeptide of type I collagen levels were not significantly different between the groups. In the rhythmic gymnasts group, serum FGF-21 concentration was positively correlated with lumbar spine areal bone mineral density independently of confounding factors (r =.51; P =.027). Conclusions: Serum irisin and FGF-21 levels were not different between adolescent eumenorrheic girls with different training activity patterns. FGF-21 was positively associated with lumbar spine areal bone mineral density, which predominantly consists of trabecular bone in adolescent rhythmic gymnasts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Prior research documents deleterious consequences of the annual clock change to daylight saving time in many contexts, but little is known about the effect the policy has on consumer behavior. While policy debates around ending seasonal clock changes continue, millions of consumers worldwide are potentially adversely affected by the time change. Drawing on the notions of sleepiness and self-control, the authors propose a framework of how the onset of daylight saving time increases unhealthy behavior. The hypotheses are tested via two studies cast in the difference-in-differences modeling framework capturing consumption before and after the time change and across consumers who experience the transition versus those who do not. Results of the first study suggest that the onset of daylight saving time increases calorie consumption from packaged snacks that are largely unhealthy, specifically in the evening and on cloudy days. The effect of the end of daylight saving time is not significant, suggesting an overall asymmetric effect of the time change on unhealthy behavior. Study 2 reveals that the onset of daylight saving time decreases fitness center visits, particularly for consumers without healthy consumption habits and with high transaction costs. Analysis of social media data suggests that consumers find the time change disruptive. Overall, the findings imply that public policy makers and businesses should find ways to support consumers around the onset of daylight saving time. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Continuous glucose monitors (CGMs) are becoming increasingly popular among endurance athletes despite unconfirmed accuracy. We assessed the concurrent validity of the FreeStyle Libre 2 worn on 2 different sites at rest, during steady-state running, and postprandial. Methods: Thirteen nondiabetic, well-trained recreational runners (age = 40 [8] y, maximal aerobic oxygen consumption = 46.1 [6.4] mL·kg–1·min–1) wore a CGM on the upper arm and chest while treadmill running for 30, 60, and 90 minutes at intensities corresponding to 50%, 60%, and 70% of maximal aerobic oxygen consumption, respectively. Glucose was measured by manually scanning CGMs and obtaining a finger-prick capillary blood glucose sample. Mean absolute relative difference, time in range, and continuous glucose Clarke error grid analysis were used to compare paired CGM and blood glucose readings. Results: Across all intensities of steady-state running, we found a mean absolute relative difference of 13.8 (10.9) for the arm and 11.4 (9.0) for the chest. The coefficient of variation exceeded 70%. Approximately 47% of arm and 50% of chest paired glucose measurements had an absolute difference ≤10%. Continuous glucose Clarke error grid analysis indicated 99.8% (arm) and 99.6% (chest) CGM data fell in clinically acceptable zones A and B. Time-in-range analysis showed reduced accuracy at lower glucose levels. However, CGMs accurately detected trends in mean glucose readings over time. Conclusions: CGMs are not valid for point glucose monitoring but appear to be valid for monitoring glucose trends during steady-state exercise. Accuracy is similar for arm and chest. Further research is needed to determine whether CGMs can detect important events such as hypoglycemia during exercise. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: We aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of the combination of protein supplementation and resistance training (RT), compared with RT alone or combined with a placebo, in improving gait speed. Methods: We searched PubMed, Web of Science, Cochrane Library, and SPORTDiscus databases, and 18 randomized controlled trials with 1,147 older participants were included for meta-analysis. Data were pooled as the effect sizes (Hedges' g) with 95% confidence interval (CI) of the gait speed (in meters per second). The random-effect meta-analysis, subgroup analyses, meta-regression, and sensitivity analysis were conducted. Results: The combination of protein supplementation and RT significantly improved gait speed (Hedges' g: 0.52 m/s, 95% confidence interval [0.17, 0.86], p =.005; I2 = 86.5%) compared with the RT alone. The subgroup analyses revealed that the significant improvement in gait speed postprotein intervention plus RT was observed only in participants who consumed protein after RT (Hedges' g: 0.90 m/s, 95% confidence interval [0.46, 1.33], p =.001; I2 = 79.6%). The pooled result did not significantly change after excluding any single study at one time or excluding smaller studies with large effect sizes. Conclusions: Protein supplementation combined with RT could significantly improve the gait speed of older adults compared with RT alone. This positive effect is more pronounced in people who consume protein after RT. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to determine whether caffeine gum influenced perceptual-cognitive and physical performance during the extra-time period of simulated soccer match-play. Semiprofessional male soccer players (n = 12, age: 22 ± 3 years, stature: 1.78 ± 0.06 m, mass: 75 ± 9 kg) performed 120-min soccer-specific exercise on two occasions. In a triple-blind, randomized, crossover design, players chewed caffeinated (200 mg; caffeine) or control (0 mg; placebo) gum for 5 min following 90 min of soccer-specific exercise. Perceptual-cognitive skills (i.e., passing accuracy, reaction time, composure, and adaptability) were assessed using a soccer-specific virtual reality simulator, collected pre- and posttrial. Neuromuscular performance (reactive-strength index, vertical jump height, absolute and relative peak power output, and negative vertical displacement) and sprint performance (15 and 30 m) were measured at pretrial, half-time, 90 min, and posttrial. Caffeine gum attenuated declines in reaction time (pre: 90.8 ± 0.8 AU to post: 90.7 ± 0.8 AU) by a further 4.2% than placebo (pre: 92.1 ± 0.8 AU to post: 88.2 ± 0.8 AU; p <.01). Caffeine gum reduced composure by 4.7% (pre: 69.1 ± 0.8 AU to post: 65.9 ± 0.8 AU) versus placebo (pre: 68.8 ± 0.8 AU to post: 68.3 ± 0.8 AU; p <.01). Caffeine gum did not influence any other variables (p >.05). Where caffeine gum is consumed by players prior to extra-time, reaction time increases but composure may be compromised, and neuromuscular and sprint performance remain unchanged. Future work should assess caffeine gum mixes with substances like L-theanine that promote a relaxed state under stressful conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Despite the increased popularity of female elite road cycling, research to inform the fueling requirements of these endurance athletes is lacking. In this case study, we report for the first time the energetics of a female world-tour cyclist competing in the 2023 Tour de France Femmes, an 8-day race of the Union Cycliste Internationale. The 29-year-old athlete presented with oligomenorrhea and low T3 before the race. Total daily energy expenditure assessed with the doubly labeled water technique was 7,572 kcal/day (∼4.3 physical activity levels), among the highest reported in the literature to date for a female. Crank-based mean maximal power was consistent with female world-tour cyclists (5 min, mean 342 W, 4.8 W/kg; 20 min 289 W, 4.1 W/kg). The average daily energy intake measured with the remote food photography method (Stage Days 1–7) was 5,246 kcal and carbohydrate intake was 13.7 g/kg (range 9.7–15.9 g/kg), and 84 g/hr during stages, and an average fat intake of 15% of daily energy intake. An estimated 2,326 kcal/day energy deficit was evidenced in a 2.2 kg decrease in body mass. Notwithstanding the high carbohydrate intake, the athlete was unable to match the energy requirements of the competition. Despite signs of energy deficiency preexisting (oligomenorrhea and low T3), and other further developing during the race (weight loss), performance was in line with that of other world-tour cyclists and a best personal performance was recorded for the last stage. This case study emphasizes the need for further research to inform energy requirements for female athletes' optimal performance and health. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Context: Blood flow restriction resistance exercise studies often require caffeine abstinence to avoid cardiovascular effects that could change the blood flow restriction stimulus. However, effects may be attenuated for habituated users. Objective: To compare cardiovascular responses to blood flow restriction resistance exercise when habituated users consume or abstain from caffeine. Design: Thirty participants completed a 3-visit within-subject study beginning with familiarization and caffeine intake questionnaire. Methods: Visits 2 and 3 consisted of blood flow restriction resistance exercise (3 sets bicep curls to failure, 30% 1-repetition max, 40% arterial occlusion pressure [AOP]), following participants' normal caffeine consumption (CAFF) or abstaining (ABS). AOP, systolic (SBP) and diastolic (DBP) blood pressure, and heart rate were measured preexercise and postexercise. Prevalues and preexercise to postexercise change scores for SBP, DBP, AOP (all millimeters of mercury), heart rate (in beats per minute), and repetitions were compared between conditions. Results are represented as mean (SD). Results: Preexercise AOP was similar for CAFF (137.8 [14.4]) and ABS (137.1 [14.9], BF10 = 0.2), although pre-SBP was higher for CAFF (115.4 [9.8]) than ABS (112.3 [9.4], BF10 = 1.9). Pre-DBP was similar between conditions. The exercise-induced change in AOP was greater for CAFF (18.4 [11.2]) than ABS (13.2 [14.9]), though evidence was anecdotal (BF10 = 0.7). Exercise-induced changes in SBP, DBP, and heart rate were similar between conditions (all BF10 ≤ 0.40). More repetitions were completed for CAFF (63 [26]) than ABS (57 [17], BF10 = 2.1). Conclusions: The findings of this study suggest that for habituated users, maintaining daily caffeine habits will not have substantial effects on common cardiovascular variables relevant to blood flow restriction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The premise of research in human physiology is to explore a multifaceted system whilst identifying one or a few outcomes of interest. Therefore, the control of potentially confounding variables requires careful thought regarding the extent of control and complexity of standardisation. One common factor to control prior to testing is diet, as food and fluid provision may deviate from participants' habitual diets, yet a self-report and replication method can be flawed by under-reporting. Researchers may also need to consider standardisation of physical activity, whether it be through familiarisation trials, wash-out periods, or guidance on levels of physical activity to be achieved before trials. In terms of pharmacological agents, the ethical implications of standardisation require researchers to carefully consider how medications, caffeine consumption and oral contraceptive prescriptions may affect the study. For research in females, it should be considered whether standardisation between- or within-participants in regards to menstrual cycle phase is most relevant. The timing of measurements relative to various other daily events is relevant to all physiological research and so it can be important to standardise when measurements are made. This review summarises the areas of standardisation which we hope will be considered useful to anyone involved in human physiology research, including when and how one can apply standardisation to various contexts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Relative energy deficiency in sport (REDs) is a condition that is associated with negative health and performance outcomes in athletes. Insufficient energy intake relative to exercise energy expenditure, resulting in low energy availability, is the underlying cause, which triggers numerous adverse physiological consequences including several associated with musculoskeletal (MSK) health and neuromuscular performance. Purpose: This commentary aims to (1) discuss the health and performance implications of REDs on the skeletal and neuromuscular systems and (2) examine the role that MSK training (ie, strength and plyometric training) during treatment and return to performance following REDs might have on health and performance in athletes, with practical guidelines provided. Conclusions: REDs is associated with decreases in markers of bone health, lean body mass, maximal and explosive strength, and muscle work capacity. Restoration of optimal energy availability, mainly through an increase in energy intake, is the primary goal during the initial treatment of REDs with a return to performance managed by a multidisciplinary team of specialists. MSK training is an effective nonpharmacological component of treatment for REDs, which offers multiple long-term health and performance benefits, assuming the energy needs of athletes are met as part of their recovery. Supervised, prescribed, and gradually progressive MSK training should include a combination of resistance training and high-impact plyometric-based exercise to promote MSK adaptations, with an initial focus on achieving movement competency. Progressing MSK training exercises to higher intensities will have the greatest effects on bone health and strength performance in the long term. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A comprehensive recent study by Trommelen et al. demonstrated that muscle tissue exhibits a greater capacity to incorporate exogenous exogenous protein-derived amino acids into bound muscle protein than was previously appreciated, at least when measured in "anabolically sensitive," recreationally active (but not resistance-trained), young men following resistance exercise. Moreover, this study demonstrated that the duration of the postprandial period is modulated by the dose of ingested protein contained within a meal, that is, the postexercise muscle protein synthesis response to protein ingestion was more prolonged in 100PRO than 25PRO. Both observations represent important scientific advances in the field of protein metabolism. However, we respectfully caution that the practical implications of these findings may have been misinterpreted, at least in terms of dismissing the concept of protein meal distribution as an important factor in optimizing muscle tissue anabolism and/or metabolic health. Moreover, based on emerging evidence, this idea that the anabolic response to protein ingestion has no upper limit does not appear to translate to resistance-trained young women. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Childhood obesity is a major problem worldwide and a key contributor to adult obesity. This research explores caregivers' lay beliefs and food parenting practices, and their long-term, intergenerational effects on their children's food consumption and physiology. First, a cross-cultural survey reveals the link between parents' belief that tasty food is unhealthy and the use of extrinsic rewards to encourage their children to eat healthily, with adverse downstream consequences for the children's body mass indices. Next, two studies demonstrate the mechanism by which this strategy backfires, as providing extrinsic rewards ironically increases children's unhealthy food consumption, which in turn leads to an increase in their body mass indices. The final two studies demonstrate potential solutions for public policy and health practitioners, either by manipulating "unhealthy = tasty" beliefs directly or by breaking the association between these food beliefs and the use of extrinsic rewards through an intervention. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Analysis of actual transactions in a grocery store shows that households enrolled in the U.S. government's Supplemental Nutritional Assistance Program (SNAP) purchase more unhealthy hedonic food, compared with households that do not receive SNAP benefits. SNAP households purchased more unhealthy hedonic food regardless of whether they used government funds or cash to pay for their purchases. Three follow-up simulated grocery shopping studies were designed to understand the mechanisms underlying this food consumption pattern by SNAP households. SNAP households, compared with households that do not receive SNAP benefits, reported stronger food craving. Stronger food craving was associated with lower unhealthiness perception of hedonic food. Overall, the results suggest that food cravings can reduce perceptions of unhealthiness and thus increase unhealthy food purchases. Interventions that reduce the effect of food cravings on shopping decisions might reduce unhealthy consumption. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present randomized study investigated the effect of acute supplementation of 800 mg/kg of ketone monoester ingestion (KE) or placebo (PL) and 210 mg/kg of NaHCO3 co-ingestion on cycling performance of WorldTour cyclists during a road cycling stage simulation. Twenty-eight cyclists participated in the study (27.46 ± 4.32 years; 1.80 ± 0.06 m; 69.74 ± 6.36 kg). Performance, physiological, biochemical, and metabolism outcomes, gut discomfort, and effort perceived were assessed during a road cycling simulation composed of an 8-min time-trial (TT) performance + 30-s TT + 4.5 hr of outdoor cycling + a second 8-min TT + a second 30-s TT. Greater absolute and relative mean power during the first 8-min TT (F = 5.067, p =.033, η p 2 =.163 , F = 5.339, p =.029, η p 2 =.170 , respectively) was observed after KE than after PL (KE: 389 ± 34, PL: 378 ± 44 W, p =.002, d = 0.294 and KE: 5.60 ± 0.42, PL: 5.41 ± 0.44 W/kg, p =.001, d = 0.442). Additionally, greater concentration of β-hydroxybutyrate blood concentration (F = 42.195, p <.001, η p 2 =.619) was observed after KE than after PL during the first steps of the stage (e.g., after warm-up KE: 1.223 ± 0.642, PL: 0.044 ± 0.058 mM, p <.001, d = 2.589), although the concentrations returned to near baseline after 4.5 hr of outdoor cycling. Moreover, higher values of anion gap were observed (F = 2.333, p =.026, η p 2 =.080) after KE than after PL ingestion, after the warm-up and after the first 8-min and 30-s TT. Additionally, lower concentrations of HCO 3 − were reported in the KE condition after warm-up and after the first 8-min and 30-s TT. During the initial phase of the stage simulation, acute supplementation with KE + NaHCO3 co-ingestion enhanced 8-min TT cycling performance (3.1%) in WorldTour cyclists with a concomitant hyperketonaemia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Resting metabolic rate (RMR) is an important component of total daily energy expenditure; however, it is currently not understood how it varies across a typical competitive match week in professional soccer players. For the first time, we aimed to assess RMR throughout an in-season competitive week in professional soccer players. Additionally, we aimed to assess energy and carbohydrate intake across the same week. Twenty-four professional soccer players from an English Premier League club (age: 18 ± 1.6 years) completed the study. RMR was assessed each morning of a typical competitive match week (match day [MD] −3, −2, −1, +1, +2, and + 3), and dietary intake (including MD) was assessed daily via the remote food photography method and 24-hr recall. Daily training load was quantified using Global Positioning System, daily muscle soreness ratings were recorded, and body composition was assessed via dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry. There was a significant (p =.0004) increase in mean RMR of ∼261 kcal/day on MD + 1, compared with MD − 1. Additionally, volume of oxygen consumed significantly increased at MD + 1 (p =.0002) versus MD − 1. There were no significant differences in daily energy or carbohydrate intake across the competitive week (p >.05), with inadequate carbohydrate intakes on MD − 1 (∼3.9 g/kg body mass), MD (∼4.2 g/kg body mass), and MD + 1 (∼3.6 g/kg body mass) in relation to current recommendations. We report, for the first time, that RMR is significantly increased following a competitive match in professional soccer players. In addition, we confirm previous findings to reinforce that players exhibit inadequate nutrition periodization practices, which may impair physical performance and recovery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Continuous multiday ultramarathon competitions are increasingly popular and impose extreme energetic and nutritional demands on competitors. However, few data have been published on energy expenditure during these events. Here, we report doubly labeled water-derived measures of total energy expenditure (in kilocalories per day) and estimated physical activity level (PAL: total energy expenditure/basal metabolic rate) collected from five elite and subelite finishers (four males and one female, age 34.6 ± 4.9 years)—and nutritional intake data from the winner—of the Cocodona 250, a ∼402-km race in Arizona, and from a fastest-known-time record (one male, age 30 years) on the ∼1,315-km Arizona Trail. PAL during these events exceeded four times basal metabolic rate (Cocodona range: 4.34–6.94; Arizona Trail: 5.63). Combining the results with other doubly labeled water-derived total energy expenditure data from ultraendurance events show a strong inverse relationship between event duration and PAL (r2 =.68, p <.0001). Cocodona race duration was inversely, though not significantly, associated with PAL (r2 =.70, p =.08). Water turnover varied widely between athletes and was not explained by PAL or body mass. The Cocodona race winner met ∼53% of energy demand via dietary intake, 85.6% of which was carbohydrate, while ∼47% of energy demand was met via catabolism of body energy stores. Together, these results illustrate the energetic deficits incurred during competitive continuous multiday ultramarathon efforts and implicate macronutrient absorption and/or storage as key factors in ultramarathon performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Food supply chains hold significant embodied carbon emissions that need to be mitigated and neutralized. This study aimed to explore the historical Greenhouse Gas (GHG) emissions associated with household food consumption at a local scale i.e. across the eight English regions and the four nations that comprise the United Kingdom (UK). UK EatWell guidelines were used to explore the potential change in emissions and food costs in a scenario of transitions to healthier diets across the study areas. These emissions were calculated based on food consumption data before the advent of the Covid-pandemic i.e. between the years 2001 and 2018. Spatial data analysis was used to explore if the study areas had any significant correlations with respect to the emissions during the study period. The results displayed a potential reduction in GHG emissions for all study areas in the explored scenario. Further impacts include a reduction in household food costs across a majority of the areas during the study period. However, a consistent trend of significant correlations among the study areas was absent. This study concludes that local or regional policymaking should take precedence over national regulations to achieve healthier diets that are both carbon-neutral and affordable for the households. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Maize (Zea mays) was a fundamental part of the diet for the Classic period Maya (ca. 250–900 CE) and other Mesoamerican societies. Nixtamalization, the process whereby maize is cooked in an alkaline solution, is important as it enhances the nutritional value of maize, among other reasons. However, documenting this process in the archaeological record is not straightforward. A microbotanical study of residues collected from ceramic vessels and grinding stones from Late Classic (ca. 600–900 CE) contexts at the Lowland Maya site of La Corona (Peten, Guatemala), revealed the presence of starch spherulites. Their authenticity was confirmed by polarized microscopy and Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM) imaging combined with iodine staining. We argue that nixtamalization as a cooking technique was occurring at La Corona during the 7th and 8th centuries CE. We present evidence from ceremonial contexts, specifically burial and feasting/commensal events. This is the earliest evidence of lime-treated maize in the Maya area recovered directly from ceramic vessels linked to preparation and/or consumption of food. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Circadian eating patterns and chrono-nutrition may influence obesity and disease incidence. Thus, this study aimed to assess the mediating role of obesity in the relationship between meal-specific dietary patterns (DPs), chrono-nutritional components, and cardiometabolic risk using structural equation modeling (SEM). Methods: A cross-sectional study involving 825 Iranian adults was conducted. Dietary intake was recorded using three 24-h dietary recalls. The morning-evening questionnaire was completed. Meal timing, frequency of eating occasions, and irregular energy scores were derived from dietary recalls. Principal component analysis identified DPs for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Anthropometric measurements, blood pressure, and laboratory investigations, including fasting glucose levels, lipid profiles, and insulin levels, were performed. Insulin resistance was assessed using the homeostatic model, and triglyceride and glucose indices were calculated. Results: The final SEM showed, that the "oil, egg, and cereals" DPs at breakfast were directly associated with lipids [β (95% CI); 0.105 (0.007–0.203)]. The "oil, dairy, potato, and egg" DPs at lunch were indirectly linked to increased lipids [0.156 (0.040–0.271), BP (0.338 (0.226–0.449)], and insulin indices [0.208 (0.188–0.277)]. At dinner, the "cereal, oil, poultry, and legume" DPs was directly related to lower BP [− 0.095 (− 0.179 to − 0.012)]. The frequency of eating was directly related to lipid levels (− 0.101 (− 0.193 to − 0.008)]. An irregular energy score was not related to outcomes. Conclusion: More frequent meals and healthier DPs, especially at dinner, were linked to better cardiometabolic outcomes, with obesity mediating some effects. Longitudinal studies are needed to clarify causal relationships. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The ever-changing nature of consumers' understanding of local food highlights the need for in-depth research. This study explores how Gen-Z consumers define, perceive and experience local food. Through the analysis, we extend the existing conceptualization of local food by differentiating three aspects of proximity: geographical, value, and relational proximity. We contribute novel insights into the differentiation of proximity to the established understanding for this specific consumer group. Methodologically, we use a free association game played with Gen-Z consumers in Hungary. Theoretical frameworks, including social representation, central core and proximity theories, are used to uncover implicit knowledge about local food. The results reveal a consumer understanding that associates health, freshness, taste, quality and trustworthiness as the central core of the local food concept. Surprisingly, value and relational proximity gain importance, while geographical proximity takes a peripheral role. This study facilitates a re-evaluation of the local food concept in light of evolving consumer understanding, while also establishing a link between proximity theories and social representation theory. The findings provide practical implications that distinguish different aspects of proximity that are relevant to farmers and policy makers in light of evolving consumer understandings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Diets are the major sources of selenium (Se) and biomonitoring Se is used for the assessment of Se status. The present study explored the association between Se intake and blood Se concentration from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey 2011–2018 data for optimizing Se reference intakes among American adults and interpreted the data in the context of exposure guidance values. Weighted linear regression models were conducted to evaluate the association between Se intake and blood Se concentration. Restricted cubic spline models were employed to explore the dose–response association between total Se intake and blood Se concentration. Blood Se concentrations were compared to biomonitoring equivalents established for exposure guidance values. For gender, race, educational status, poverty income ratio, body mass index, smoking status, dietary Se intake, and total Se intake, significant differences were observed among quartiles of blood Se concentration. There was no significant difference for age and alcohol use. There was a positive association between dietary Se intake and blood Se concentration although the association was not statistically significant following the adjustments for covariates. When the associations between total Se intake and blood Se concentration were assessed, no statistically significant relationship was found. The restricted cubic spline supported a significant nonlinear association between total Se intake and blood Se concentration with/without the adjustments of covariates. The present work displayed a baseline for Se exposure among American adults. Considering the sex difference in dietary Se and blood Se concentration, it is necessary to establish gender‐based Se reference intakes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BackgroundMethodsResultsConclusionThe COVID-19 pandemic in 2020 changed the daily lives of families, including their food environments. We tested a conceptual model of potential influences on children’s dietary intake under these conditions.310 (51% fathers) parents with children ages 5–12 were recruited for an online study. Parents completed questionnaires to measure fear of COVID-19, family communication patterns, parental controlling feeding practices, and child’s healthy and unhealthy food intake. Structural equation modeling was conducted, including a path analysis and a multi-group analysis to compare mothers and fathers.Parental fear of COVID-19 was related to more conversation and conformity-oriented family communication patterns, which were associated with more parental controlling feeding practices. Conversation-oriented communication was related to less, while conformity-oriented communication was related to more unhealthy food intake by children.Family communication patterns play an important role in children’s dietary intake. Therefore, it may be useful to help parents adopt positive parenting approaches to influence their children’s healthy development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Colorectal cancer in Brazil is among the main public health concern. The burden of disease can be related to unhealthy lifestyle behavior and inequality in access to health services. The aim of this study was to identify the main factors associated with colorectal cancer mortality in Brazil. This is an ecological study that had the Brazilian Federal Units as the primary units of analysis. Colorectal cancer mortality data (ICD C18-C21) were obtained from Brazilian national mortality system to the year 2020. Prevalence of overweight, food consumption (fiber, whole grains and red meat), physical inactivity, smoke, alcohol consumption, the median of household income, years of study, rates of cancer treatment units and oncologist by Brazilian Federal Units were considered as factor associated to the colorectal cancer mortality. Quasipoisson Generalized Linear Models were used to associate CRC mortality and variables related to dietary intake, risk behavior, and access to health services. In 2020, there were 21,501 deaths by colorectal cancer (51% among women). Prevalence of overweight (men: IRR 1.03; CI: 1.01–1.04; women IRR 1.05; CI 1.02–1.08) and the density of oncologist (men: IRR 1.02; CI: 1.01–1.03; women IRR 1.02; CI 1.01–1.03) were the main factors associated with colorectal cancer mortality. Sociodemographic and food consumption characteristics were not statistically associated with CRC. Prevalence of overweight was the strongest factor associated with mortality from colorectal cancer in Brazil in 2020. Therefore, current public policies to reduce overweight and obesity should be prioritized and strengthened in Brazil. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Health outcomes are influenced by social and environmental determinants of health. As places where people work, live, meet and consume, high street retail environments are influential in shaping health. In recent decades, high streets have been in decline, prompting policies to revitalise retail environments and support local businesses, particularly in European and North American countries. The aim of this scoping review was to systematically map evidence on retail environment interventions, to gain a deeper understanding of the current evidence base assessing their possible health and wellbeing impacts. The objectives were to identify different types of interventions and the outcomes they address; and the mechanism through which interventions are theorised to influence health and equity. Peer-reviewed studies were identified through academic databases (MEDLINE, Embase, EconLit, Web of Science and Social Policy and Practice) using relevant search terms. Additional (grey) literature was identified using citation scanning and online searches. Studies were eligible if they evaluated interventions with a significant focus on supporting the retail environment, reported on at least one health and wellbeing outcome and were written in English. Relevant data were extracted and presented descriptively. An interpretive approach was taken to analyse theories of change. The searches identified 53 peer-reviewed studies and nine grey literature reports. Interventions were categorised as follows: area-based initiatives, business improvement districts, business incentives, and demand-side incentives. Studies predominantly evaluated impacts on social and environmental determinants of health. Some studies measured impacts on self-rated (mental) health, physical activity and food consumption and purchasing. Studies reported evidence of both improved and worsening outcomes. Theories of change were often under-specified and reductionist, lacking a clear understanding of the complex systems in which interventions take place. Future interventions could benefit from more comprehensive theories of change that meaningfully integrate economic, and health and wellbeing outcomes. This requires intersectoral collaboration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Anemia is one of the most common nutritional deficiency disorders affecting pregnant women; its prevalence in developed countries is 14% and in developing countries 51%. It is therefore important to understand the prevalence and associated factors of anemia in our study area. This will encourage antenatal caregivers to identify and treat anemia early in pregnancy. Objective: Therefore, the study's goal was to determine the prevalence of anemia and its contributing factors among pregnant women receiving prenatal care. Methods: Between April 2021 and May 2021, 295 pregnant women attending prenatal care participated in a cross‐sectional facility‐based study. Epidata software was used to enter the data, which were then exported to SPSS software for Windows version 23 for analysis. To determine the factors contributing to anemia in pregnant women, descriptive statistics collected with the study were performed together with bivariable logistic regression and the log‐binomial model. Results: Among the 295 study participants, 24.7% were anemic. Out of these, most were mild types 78.1%. Illiterate pregnant women (ARR 2.89; 95% CI: 1.76–6.43, p value = 0.037), with no iron‐containing food intake per day (ARR 1.74; 95% CI: 1.59–1.95, p value = 0.01), and infected with malaria (ARR 1.58; 95% CI: 1.76–2.53, p value = 0.03) had higher odds of being anemic, compared to their counterpart. Gestational age of the first (ARR 0.21; 95% CI: 0.03–0.98, p value = 0.01), and second (ARR 0.8; 95% CI: 0.43–0.96, p value = 0.013) trimester has lower odds of being anemic compared to their counterpart. Conclusion: Anemia in pregnant women is found to be a moderate public health issue in the research location. It is strongly and independently impacted by malaria infection and iron‐containing meal consumption. Reducing the prevalence of anemia is made possible by improved iron‐containing meal consumption. In addition, it is strongly advised that pregnant women receive education and should take iron supplements during pregnancy visits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ABSTRACT Objective Method Results Discussion Avoidant/restrictive food intake disorder (ARFID) is an eating disorder characterized by a severely restrictive diet leading to significant physical and/or psychosocial sequelae. Largely owing to the phenotypic heterogeneity, the underlying pathophysiological mechanisms are relatively unknown. Recently, the communication between microorganisms within the gastrointestinal tract and the brain—the so‐called microbiota‐gut‐brain axis—has been implicated in the pathophysiology of eating disorders. This Spotlight review sought to investigate and conceptualize the possible ways that the microbiota‐gut‐brain axis is involved in ARFID to drive future research in this area.By relating core symptoms of ARFID to gut microbiota and its signaling pathways to the brain, we evaluated how the gut microbiota is potentially involved in the pathophysiology of ARFID.We hypothesized that the restricted type and amount of food intake characteristic of ARFID diminishes gut microbial diversity, including beneficial bacteria and their metabolites capable of signaling to the brain, to modulate biopsychological pathways relevant to ARFID: homeostatic signaling, food reward, interoception, sensory sensitivity, disgust, perseveration, fear‐based learning, and mood. Candidate signaling mechanisms include microbial‐induced effects on inflammation, cortisol, and neurotransmitters such as dopamine and serotonin.Through reviewing the extant evidence, we conceptualized a new theoretical framework of ARFID with an emphasis on microbiota‐gut‐brain axis signaling to inform future research. Although more research is necessary to evaluate this theoretical model, the tentative evidence suggests that therapeutics specifically targeting the gut microbiota for the treatment of ARFID symptomatology warrants more investigation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Edible insect products contain high-quality protein and other nutrients, including minerals and fatty acids. The consumption of insect food products is considered a future trend and a potential strategy that could greatly contribute to meeting food needs worldwide. However, insect proteins have the potential to be allergenic to insect consumers. In this review, the nutritional value and allergy risk of insect-derived foods, and the immune responses elicited by insect allergens are summarized and discussed. Tropomyosin and arginine kinase are the most important and widely known insect allergens, which induce Th2-biased immune responses and reduced the activity of CD4+T regulatory cells. Besides, food processing methods have been effectively improving the nutrients and characteristics of insect products. However, limited reviews systematically address the immune reactions to allergens present in edible insect proteins following treatment with food processing technologies. The conventional/novel food processing techniques and recent advances in reducing the allergenicity of insect proteins are discussed in this review, focusing on the structural changes of allergens and immune regulation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

AbstractIntroductionObjectiveMethodsResultsConclusionAsthma is common, affecting up to 8% of adults in the United States. Several studies have shown an association between poorer diet and asthma. Despite the prevalence of fast-food consumption in the Western diet, research examining fast food consumption and asthma is limited.This study aimed to examine the association between fast food consumption and asthma-related emergency room visits among adults with asthma in California from 2011-2016.This cross-sectional study focused on 11,561 adults with asthma in California. Publicly available data from the California Health Interview Survey was used. The independent variable included fast food consumption, and the dependent variable was emergency room visits due to asthma. This study used logistic regression models and controlled for sex, race, self-reported overall health, BMI, and current smoking status. Survey weights were applied to ensure the analysis represented the general population.Consumption of fast food ≥3 times per week was associated with increased odds of emergency room visits for asthma among adults with asthma in California (unadjusted model: OR = 1.64 CI: 1.13-2.40, p = 0.01; adjusted model: ORadj =1.53, CI: 1.03-2.26, p = 0.03).Our findings suggest that high consumption of fast food among adults with asthma may result in higher odds of asthma-related emergency room visits. Thus, decreasing fast food consumption may benefit adults with asthma by reducing emergency room visits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Intermittent sucrose/fasting protocol led to overeating behavior. • Animals with loss-control eating also showed depressive-like behavior. • Fasting itself did not induce depressive-like or sucrose overeating behavior. • Activity of monoamine oxidases was disrupted in overeating mice. • Sucrose-exposed mice tend to exhibit increased risk behavior after 20 h-fasting. Binge eating disorder is the most prevalent eating disorder, affecting both sexes but more commonly found in women. Given the frequent co-occurrence of psychiatric disorders, this study aimed to establish a standardized experimental intermittent protocol to investigate overeating associated with depression. A 10-day protocol induced uncontrolled eating behavior in C57BL/6J female mice. The first experiment included the following groups: naive group (chow ad libitum), control group (chow and sucrose solution ad libitum), and fasting groups (16 and 20 h) exposed to an intermittent sucrose solution (10 %) and chow regimen. Subsequently, the feeding test, open field test, elevated plus maze test, tail suspension test, and light/dark conflict test were conducted. Furthermore, monoamine oxidase (MAO) A and B activities in brain structures and plasma corticosterone levels were assessed. Food overconsumption and depressive-like behavior were observed in both sucrose fasting groups, while risk-taking behaviors were specifically observed in the 20-hour fasting sucrose group. While both fasting sucrose groups caused reduced hippocampal MAO-A activity, only the F20 sucrose group inhibited MAO-B in the cortex and hypothalamus. Moreover, both fasting sucrose groups exhibited elevated corticosterone levels. In a separate design (Experiment 2), groups with 16 and 20 h of fasting alone (without sucrose) did not show the same behavioral results as the intermittent fasting sucrose groups, thus avoiding fasting bias. Based on these results, the 20-hour sucrose fasting group was chosen as the ideal protocol for mimicking overeating behavior associated with depression to investigate future therapeutic approaches for this comorbidity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Patients with heart failure (HF) often experience iron deficiency. Intravenous iron supplementation has been widely used in clinical practice to facilitate the treatment of HF. However, the association between dietary iron intake and HF still needs to be elucidated. This study aimed to evaluate the impact of dietary iron intake on HF in American adults. The data were extracted from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) 2009–2018. Iron dietary intake data were obtained from two 24-h dietary recall interviews. We examined baseline data and HF prevalence in different quartile groups of dietary iron intake (Q1–Q4). Two logistic regression models were established to evaluate the impact of Q4 (highest iron consumption) on the risk of HF. The study included 20,853 American adults (age ≥ 20 years). The participants with the highest iron intake (Q4) had the lowest prevalence of HF (Q1: 3.25%, Q2: 2.18%, Q3: 1.92%, Q4: 1.72%; P < 0.001). After adjusting for possible confounding factors, the highest iron intake (Q4) was significantly associated with a reduced risk of HF compared with that of Q1 (odds ratio 0.58, 95% confidence interval 0.41–0.82; P = 0.003). This association remained stable in subgroups of women, current smokers, and Hispanics other than Mexican Americans. This study revealed that the dietary intake of iron was negatively associated with HF in adults without exceeding the tolerable maximum daily intake of 45 mg/day. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: A causal relationship exists between salt intake and hypertension, stroke, and kidney disease. However, whether or not reduced salt intake slows progression of renal diseases has been intensely debated. Methods: In this prospective, open-label, randomized controlled trial, we examined the impact of a low salt diet on renal function, blood pressure, and other metabolic parameters. Herein, 194 patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) stages 1 to 3 were randomized in low salt (intervention) and control groups. The intervention group was provided a low salt diet (1.5 g/day) for 3 months. The control group consumed their usual diet, and daily food intake was recorded in the control group. Renal function tests, 24-h urinary sodium excretion, urinary protein, serum calcium, phosphorus, and electrolyte levels were recorded monthly. Results: After 3 months, the mean reduction in estimated glomerular filtration rate was significantly higher in the control group (mean reduction in eGFR, −3.011 mL/min/1.73 m2; 95% confidence interval (CI) = −5.367, −0.656, P =.013). Blood pressure (BP) decreased significantly in both groups; systolic and diastolic BP reduction at 3 months was significantly greater in the intervention group (systolic BP mean reduction −6.57/−4.29 mmHg; 95% CI = −10.24, −2.89) and diastolic BP mean reduction −6.95, −1.64 mmHg) compared with the control group (systolic BP mean reduction −0.58/−2.63 mmHg; 95%, CI = −4.33, 3.17 and diastolic BP mean reduction −5.34, −0.08 mmHg). The mean reduction in 24-h urine sodium excretion was greater in the intervention group, reaching a significant level at month 2 (−14.45 mmol/day; 95% CI = −27.63, −1.22). Conclusion: Overall, salt restriction can help slow the progression of renal insufficiency and results in statistically significant and clinically important reductions in BP among patients with CKD. ClinicalTrials.Gov Identifier: NCT05716386 on 28/01/2023. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: This longitudinal case study describes the efforts and impacts of community-controlled service organisations on the Anangu Pitjantjatjara Yankunytjatjara (APY) Lands in Central Australia to tackle food security since the 1980s, with a focus on the last decade, particularly during a year of concerted action from mid-2018. Methods: The co-designed study comprised an interrupted time series with controls. Availability, affordability, accessibility and sales of foods in the community retail stores on the APY Lands were monitored regularly from 2014 to mid-2022, including by local research teams. Store nutrition policy was updated early 2018. For a year from mid-2018, of the eight communities with stores: (i) two were the focus for concerted intervention, including support from a locally based project officer to help implement the policy and action 105 community requests for nutrition activities (ii) three received usual support to implement the policy; and (iii) three were subject to 'business as usual'. From mid-2019, all communities/stores received usual service, from 2020 with some restrictions related to the COVID-19 pandemic. Results were compared over time, across different community/store groups and with controls. Results: In the 12 months from mid-2018, all food security metrics improved most in the two focus communities. Impacts were less marked in the communities without additional support to implement the revised nutrition policy, and even less apparent, although more varied, in the other three communities/stores. Dietary intake improved only in the two focus communities. In all communities from early 2020 most gains eroded due to impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic and other external stressors. Food security metrics, including price of healthy food, appeared more resilient in the focus communities, although diet quality worsened. At all times assessed, healthy diets were unaffordable for welfare-dependant households. Conclusions: This co-designed study demonstrates the effectiveness of community-led approaches, confirming that it is possible to improve food security and diet in remote Aboriginal communities. However, sustained action and monitoring, dedicated resources and employment of local people are critical for success. Results also highlight that low incomes are a major barrier to food security. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Circadian desynchrony induced by shiftwork or jet lag is detrimental to metabolic health, but how synchronous or desynchronous signals are transmitted among tissues is unknown. We report that liver molecular clock dysfunction is signaled to the brain through the hepatic vagal afferent nerve (HVAN), leading to altered food intake patterns that are corrected by ablation of the HVAN. Hepatic branch vagotomy also prevents food intake disruptions induced by high-fat diet feeding and reduces body weight gain. Our findings reveal a homeostatic feedback signal that relies on communication between the liver and the brain to control circadian food intake patterns. This identifies the hepatic vagus nerve as a potential therapeutic target for obesity in the setting of chronodisruption. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Much attention has been paid to evaluating the policy effects of pension programs, but few studies have focused on possible inefficiencies stemming from their implementation. Drawing on a quasi-natural experiment associated with the adoption of China’s New Rural Pension Scheme (NRPS), this study explores the impact of the NRPS on food consumption among rural residents. A difference-in-differences (DID) analysis is performed using panel data from the 2009 and 2013 National Rural Fixed Observation survey. Results show that participation in the NRPS improves residents’ dietary quality by increasing the consumption of recommended foods and decreasing the consumption of non-recommended foods. However, the results also show that the NRPS is associated with increased consumption of addictive and unhealthy products, especially in households with lower average levels of education, poorer self-reported health, and older adults over age 60. Findings suggest that when examining the possible health effects of new pension policies, it is essential to account for potential increases in the intake of unhealthy and addictive products, such as cigarettes and alcohol. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ABSTRACT Objective Method Results Discussion Fear of Aversive Consequences (FOAC), such as choking or vomiting, is an important associated feature of Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder (ARFID). However, the manifestation of FOAC in young children is poorly understood. This study aimed to describe the fears of children with ARFID symptoms and examine the concordance between parent and child ratings of fear.Child‐reported FOAC was assessed using an interview designed for children between 6 and 10 years old, the Gustatory Avoidance and Gastrointestinal Stress Symptoms (GAGSS). Parents were administered a semi‐structured diagnostic interview regarding their child's symptoms, the Pica, ARFID, and Rumination Interview.Among 68 children with ARFID diagnoses or symptoms (41.2% female, 85.3% White, mean age = 8.2 years, SD = 1.1 years; range 5.2–9.9 years), 91.2% of children endorsed at least one fear relative to 26.5% of parents. Among parent–child dyads, 36.8% disagreed about the child's fear of stomach pain (κ = 0.12) and 48.5% disagreed about the child's fear of vomiting, (κ = 0.08), both indicating low inter‐rater reliability. On average, children endorsed 4.3 (SD = 2.3) fears out of 9 options. The most frequently endorsed fears were that food will “taste bad,” (n = 43, 63.2%), “make you gag” (n = 37, 54.4%), and “look disgusting” (n = 36, 52.9%).Findings highlight ways in which fear may manifest in children with ARFID that are not easily discernable by adults. Greater precision in depicting childhood fears may facilitate the earlier detection of problematic eating behaviors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ABSTRACT Objective Method Results Discussion Individuals with anorexia nervosa persistently restrict their food intake while often severely underweight. This maladaptive food choice behavior and related decision‐making processes have mainly been investigated in adults. It is unknown whether the same decision‐making processes drive food choices in adolescents, given their more favorable treatment outcomes. This study investigated maladaptive food choice behavior in adolescents with AN and examined whether they display the same decision‐making processes as adults.Adolescents with AN (n = 42) and age‐matched controls (n = 42) completed a computer‐based food choice task, rating food images for healthiness and tastiness before choosing between two food items.Adolescents with AN chose high‐fat foods less frequently than controls, with food choices more influenced by their perceived “healthiness” and less by their “tastiness” than they did among controls. Relative to controls, adolescents with AN also reported lower overall tastiness ratings and greater habit strength of restrictive eating, which was, however, not related to food choices.Adolescents with AN display the same maladaptive food choice behavior as adults, namely the persistent restriction of high‐fat food choices. Their choices were more strongly influenced by the perceived healthiness of a food item, compared to the choices of controls. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The hypothalamus is the primary center of the brain that regulates energy homeostasis. The ventromedial hypothalamus (VMH) plays a central role in maintaining energy balance by regulating food intake, energy expenditure, and glucose levels. However, the cellular and molecular mechanisms underlying its functions are still poorly understood. Cholecystokinin (CCK) is one of many genes expressed in this hypothalamic nucleus. Peripheral CCK regulates food intake, body weight, and glucose homeostasis. However, current research does not explain the function of CCK neurons in specific nuclei of the hypothalamus and their likely roles in network dynamics related to energy balance and food intake. This study uses genetic and pharmacological methods to examine the role of CCK-expressing neurons in the VMH (CCKVMH). Namely, using a previously generated BAC transgenic line expressing Cre recombinase under the CCK promoter, we performed targeted manipulations of CCKVMH neurons. Histological and transcriptomic database analysis revealed extensive distribution of these neurons in the VMH, with significant heterogeneity in gene expression related to energy balance, including co-expression with PACAP and somatostatin. Pharmacogenetic acute inhibition via Designer Receptors Exclusively Activated by Designer Drugs (DREADDs) resulted in increased food intake and altered meal patterns, characterized by higher meal frequency and shorter intermeal intervals. Furthermore, diphtheria toxin-mediated ablation of CCKVMH neurons led to significant weight gain and hyperphagia over time, increasing meal size and duration. These mice also exhibited impaired glucose tolerance, indicative of disrupted glucose homeostasis. Our findings underscore the integral role of CCKVMH neurons in modulating feeding behavior, energy homeostasis, and glucose regulation. This study enhances our understanding of the neurohormonal mechanisms underlying obesity and metabolic disorders, providing potential targets for therapeutic interventions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: The lack of trust in eco-labels is a significant reason for the slow growth in demand for sustainable food, and reducing the information gap between relevant parties is a crucial means to improve consumer trust in eco-labels. Methods: In order to investigate the influence and driving pathways of consumers' information acquisition abilities on their trust in eco-labels, a total of 1,072 urban and rural consumers in Inner Mongolia, China were surveyed in this study, with an analysis conducted using the structural equation model. Results: It was found that information acquisition ability, institutional trust, and label knowledge have significant direct impacts on eco-label trust, with impact effects of 0.270, 0.351, and 0.357, respectively. Additionally, information acquisition ability has indirect effect of 0.085 and 0.127 on label trust through institutional trust and label knowledge. Furthermore, information discernment awareness has a significant negative moderating effect between information acquisition ability and label trust. Discussion: Therefore, when publicizing the certification system and label knowledge, cultivating consumers' information acquisition ability effectively enhances eco-label trust. Moreover, strengthening media supervision to ensure the authenticity and objectivity of information transmission is an important measure to protect trust in eco-labels. This study enriches relevant research in the field of food sustainability and provides valuable recommendations to promote sustainable food consumption. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) study examined resting-state (RS) connectivity in adolescent and adult patients with anorexia nervosa (AN) using symptom provocation paradigms. Differential food reward mechanisms were investigated through separate assessments of responses to food images and low-caloric/high-caloric food consumption. Thirteen young (≤ 21 years) and seventeen adult (> 21 years) patients with AN and age-matched controls underwent two stimulus-driven fMRI sessions involving RS scans before and after the presentation of food-related stimuli and food consumption. Graph theory and machine learning were used for analyzing the fMRI and clinical data. Healthy controls (HCs) showed widespread developmental changes, while young participants with AN exhibited cerebellum differences for high-calorie food. Young individuals with AN displayed increased connectivity during the consumption of potato chips compared to zucchini, with no differences in adults with AN. Multiparametric machine learning accurately distinguished young individuals with AN from healthy controls based on RS connectivity following food visual stimulation ("anticipatory") and consumption ("consummatory"). This study highlights the differential food reward mechanisms and minimal developmental changes in RS connectivity from youth to adulthood in individuals with AN compared to healthy controls. Young individuals with AN demonstrated heightened reactivity to high-caloric foods, while adults showed decreased responsiveness, potentially due to desensitization. These findings shed light on aberrant eating behaviors in individuals with AN and contribute to our understanding of the chronicity of the disease. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study of consumption behavior on green food plays an important role in promoting agricultural environmental protection and eco‐agricultural production. Based on the practical investigation, this paper makes an empirical study on the consumption behavior of green food by using binary logistic regression model. It is found that consumer's education level has a significant positive effect on green food consumption. Consumer income level does not pass the test on consumption behavior, but the change direction is opposite. Consumer age and premium of green food are negatively correlated with consumption motivation and behavior, while green food reliability and satisfaction are positively correlated with consumption motivation and behavior. Consumer gender, marital status, and information channels have no significant impact on consumption motivation and behavior. According to the research results, the production and marketing of green food should pay attention to the product quality and the actual feedback from consumers, and should increase the market propaganda to improve the attention and recognition ability on green food, and should take effective measures to develop the older consumer's market. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Despite recommendations to reduce sweet-tasting foods and beverage consumption, there is limited understanding of our ability to adapt to a less sweet diet and the optimal method for doing so. Thus, we conducted two parallel, double-blind, randomized controlled trials in the USA and Mexico to investigate whether different methods of reducing sweetness could change sweetness preferences. Over 6 months, habitual consumers of full-sugar sweetened (FSS-CSD) or low-calorie sweetened carbonated soft drinks (LCS-CSD) consumed a full sweetness CSD (Control), CSD with gradually decreasing sweetness levels (StepR), and a reduced sweetness test CSD (DirR). The StepR and DirR methods were similarly effective in helping the USA FSS-CSD cohort maintain their preference for reduced-sweetness CSD, without affecting sweetness intensity perception. However, neither method significantly impacted the sweetness intensity perception or preference of the USA LCS-CSD cohort, and the FSS-CSD and LCS-CSD cohorts in Mexico. Nevertheless, participants from both sweetness reduction groups in all cohorts were more willing to purchase reduced sweetness CSD compared to Control, underscoring the potential for consumer acceptance of less sweet beverages regardless of adaptation strategies. This trial was registered at www.clinicaltrials.gov as NCT04609657 and NCT05010408. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ectopic pregnancy affects ~ 2% of pregnancies annually in the United States, with no current treatments allowing for the continuation of the pregnancy. Thus, this study sought to initiate an investigation into the potential design of a surgical technique, in an animal model, that could serve as a foundation for future research into the potential of relocating an ectopic embryo into the uterus at the human level. Female Long-Evans rats were randomly assigned to one of two groups: Embryo Relocation (ER; n = 12; underwent embryo relocation surgery) and Normal Pregnancy (NP; n = 12; carried a normal pregnancy; no surgery). Eight rats/group were allowed to carry their pregnancy to term and deliver, while four had their uteri collected at the end of gestation. Briefly, for the ER group, a uterine horn containing 1–2 embryos was translocated to the contralateral horn, which had been incised and cleared of its contents, prior to being wrapped around the relocated horn. Rat weight, food consumption and vaginal impedance of the mothers were measured throughout the experiment. Ultrasounds were performed and fetal heart rates measured on day 20–21 of gestation. Additionally, rat weight of all offspring was measured at adulthood. Our findings indicate that, in the ER group, 15/15 (100%) of the relocated embryos had detectable heart rates at the end of gestation (within the normal range), 14/15 (93%) were delivered vaginally, and 12/14 (86%) survived until adulthood. A significant decrease in rat weight and food consumption was observed only on the day following surgery. Fertility, as measured by vaginal impedance, was minimally impacted by surgery. Moreover, there was no significant difference between groups in average body weight of offspring at adulthood. Histological analysis indicated a thicker placenta in the ER group, attributable to the fetal part of the placenta, potentially indicating compensatory mechanisms. Our findings reflect a successful transuterine embryo relocation followed by vaginal birth and survival of offspring to adulthood, in a rat model. Such findings lay the foundation for future preclinical research in higher animals, with potential implications on a procedure relevant to human ectopic embryo relocation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Endometriosis is a common cause of female reproductive problems, and vitamin intake may affect its incidence. Therefore, we further explored the association between multivitamin intake and endometriosis in a large population-based study. Methods: This study included 3351 participants from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) 1999–2006. The dietary intake of eight vitamins was calculated as the average of two 24-h recall interviews, and information on endometriosis was obtained through questionnaires that included gynecological history. Multiple logistic regression analysis was used to explore the relationship between multivitamin intake and endometriosis. Smoothed curve fitting analysis was employed to assess the dose–response relationship between vitamins and endometriosis. Finally, subgroup analysis and interaction tests were conducted to determine the association of covariates between vitamins and endometriosis. Results: In this large-scale cross-sectional study, multiple logistic regression analysis showed that the intake of vitamins A, B1, B2, B6, C and folate was negatively associated with the occurrence of endometriosis. The odds ratios associated with a per-SD increase were 0.836 (95%CI: 0.702, 0.997), 0.817 (95%CI: 0.702, 0.951), 0.860 (95%CI: 0.746, 0.991), 0.784 (95%CI: 0.669, 0.919), 0.845 (95%CI: 0.718, 0.994), and 0.772 (95%CI: 0.660, 0.903), respectively. Smoothed curve fitting analysis revealed that the intake of vitamins A, B1, B2, B6, C, and folate was negatively associated with the risk of endometriosis (P < 0.05). Vitamin E showed a saturating effect, with an optimal cutoff point at 13.18. Below this cutoff, the intake of vitamin E was negatively correlated with the risk of endometriosis (OR = 0.947, 95% CI: 0.906, 0.989), whereas above the cutoff, there was no significant correlation between vitamin E intake and the risk of endometriosis (OR = 1.001, 95% CI: 0.997, 1.005). Conclusions: The results of this study indicate a significant linear negative correlation between the intake of vitamins A, B1, B2, B6, C, and folate, and the risk of endometriosis, and reveal a threshold effect for vitamin E intake on the risk of endometriosis. These findings could inform clinical dietary interventions and may support the development of preventive strategies for endometriosis, potentially aiding in its reduction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The relationship between dietary flavonoid intake and mortality in the diabetic kidney disease (DKD) population is unknown. So this study is aimed at investigating the association of total dietary flavonoid intake and their subclasses with all‐cause and cardiovascular disease (CVD) mortality. Data of this cohort study were extracted from the NHANES (2007–2010 and 2017–2018). The survival status of participants was determined by linking to the National Death Index through the end of 2019. Flavonoid intake was measured using two 24‐h dietary recall interviews. The Kaplan–Meier curves and weighted Cox proportional hazard regression models were used to assess the effect of dietary flavonoid intake on CVD and all‐cause mortality, with adjustments for multiple covariates. A total of 1155 participants were included for analysis. After a median follow‐up of 76.36 (S.E: 3.24) months, 409 participants died of all‐cause mortality, of which 138 died of CVD. In the fully adjusted model, higher total dietary flavonoids intake (HR = 0.69, 95% CI: 0.52–0.92) was associated with lower all‐cause mortality and subclasses of higher flavones (HR = 0.60, 95% CI: 0.35–0.85) was also with lower all‐cause mortality. In subclasses of flavonoids, higher intake of both anthocyanidins (HR = 0.54, 95% CI: 0.28 to 0.87) and flavones (HR = 0.50, 95% CI: 0.28–0.87) were associated with lower odds of CVD mortality. Higher flavonoid intake was associated with a reduced risk of CVD and all‐cause mortality in DKD. Higher flavonoid intake provides a potential opportunity to improve the prognosis of DKD. And future research into the mechanisms between flavonoids and mortality is needed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Anthocyanins, as a type of polyphenolic compound, have been discovered to offer multiple health benefits to humans, including anti-aging and anti-inflammatory properties. This prospective cohort study aims to examine the relationship of dietary intake of anthocyanin with all-cause mortality and cardiovascular diseases mortality in the US. The aim of this research was to explore the possible correlation between anthocyanin consumption and the mortality rate from all causes as well as from cardiovascular disease. Based on the Public Access NHANES-linked National Death Index files up to December 31, 2019, we identified mortality status and heart disease-specific causes of death. A multivariate Cox regression analysis was employed to evaluate the effects of anthocyanin intake on mortality outcomes, generating hazard ratios and 95% confidence intervals, adjusting for various demographic characteristics, lifestyle factors, and comorbid conditions. Additionally, we utilized Kaplan-Meier survival curves, subgroup analyses. In different scenarios, dietary anthocyanin intake was assessed using restricted cubic spline models. A total of 11,959 participants completed the final cohort, averaging 47.12 years of age (SD ± 0.35). Following adjustments for multiple variables, an inverse relationship was identified between anthocyanin intake in the highest quartile and all causes mortality, yielding a hazard ratio (HR) of 0.68 (95% CI: 0.52–0.89). Similarly, elevated anthocyanin consumption was linked to a reduction in heart disease mortality, with HR of 0.61 (95% CI: 0.38–0.97). Additionally, dose–response curve revealed a consistent decrease in both all-cause and cardiovascular mortality with increasing anthocyanin intake. Further subgroup analyses revealed that elevated intake of anthocyanins was linked to decreased all-cause mortality in White individuals and males. Moreover, high anthocyanin intake was significantly correlated with reduced all-cause mortality irrespective of hypertension or hyperlipidemia status. Our research indicates that an appropriate dietary intake of anthocyanins is associated with a reduction in overall mortality rates. Furthermore, the findings reveal a substantial association between anthocyanin intake and decreased mortality from cardiovascular diseases, suggesting that anthocyanins may effectively lower the risk of cardiovascular-related deaths. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ABSTRACT Cadmium (Cd) contamination in agricultural soil brings severe health risks through the dietary intake of Cd‐polluted crops. The comprehensive role of pectin in lowering Cd accumulation is investigated through low Cd accumulated (L) and high Cd accumulated (H) cultivars of L. sativa. The significantly different Cd contents in the edible parts of two L. sativa cultivars are accomplished by different Cd transportations. The pectin is the dominant responsive cell wall component according to significantly increased uronic acid contents and the differential Cd absorption between unmodified and modified cell wall. The chemical structure characterization revealed the decreased methyl esterification in pectin under Cd treatment compared with control. Significantly brighter LM19 relative fluorescence density and 40.82% decreased methanol in the root pectin of L cultivar under Cd treatment (p < 0.05) supported that the de‐methyl esterification of root pectin is more significant in L cultivar than in H cultivar. The pectin de‐methyl esterification of L cultivar is achieved by the upregulation of pectin esterases and the downregulation of pectin esterase inhibitors under Cd treatments, which has facilitated the higher Cd‐binding of pectin. Our findings provide deep insight into the differential Cd accumulation of L. sativa cultivars and contribute to the understanding the pollutant behaviors in plants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]