The role of nutrition in the prevention of coronary heart disease in women of the developed world
Author:Christine M Greene PhDand Maria Luz Fernandez PhD
Keywords: coronary heart disease, primary risk factors, nutrition, women, lifestyle, developed countries
Abstract:Cardiovascular disease claims more than 500,000 women per year, making this disease the number one killer of
women. Coronary heart disease in developed countries can be used as a representative classification when discussing cardiovascular disease management. Within the last 10 years research has illuminated the contributing
risk factors and disease progression as they uniquely relate to women. Yet, current approaches to the prevention
of primary risk factors in the development of cardiovascular disease fail to reach the potential described in scientific literature. Traditional prescriptions relied on hormone therapy or pharmacologic intervention to manage
coronary heart diseases ignoring the non-hormonal aspects of cardiovascular health. Recent trends have begun
to emphasize diet as a tool for the prevention of heart disease in women. This review attempts to highlight nutrition as a prescription that can be utilized to reduce the significant risk factors that women, who live in developed nations, face throughout their lifetime.
Asia Pac J Clin Nutr. 2007;16(1):1-9.doi:
>>Abstract
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Adiponectin represents an independent risk factor for hypertension in middle aged Korean women
Author:Hyun-Sook Lee PhD, Myoungsook Lee PhD and Hyojee
Keywords: adiponectin, hypertension, blood pressure, middle-aged Korean women
Abstract:Adiponectin, which is secreted specifically by adipose tissue, has been shown to act as an anti-atherosclerotic
protein. Several studies have shown that adiponectin levels are lower in individuals with obesity, diabetes and
cardiovascular disease. The present study investigated relationships between serum adiponectin levels and body
mass index (BMI), waist-to-hip ratio (WHR), blood pressure (BP) and lipid profiles in 300 middle-aged Korean
women (mean age 50.6 ±6.2; BMI 25.8 ±3.68 kg/m
2
). The serum adiponectin level was positively associated
with high density lipoprotein (HDL)-cholesterol (r = 0.29) and negatively associated with BMI, WHR, percent
body fat, triglyceride (TG), systolic BP, and diastolic BP. Multivariable logistic regression analysis revealed
that increasing concentrations of adiponectin were associated with lower risk of hypertension. In overall odds
ratios (95% CIs) for hypertension, those in the second, third, and fourth (versus the first) quartile of adiponectin
after adjustment for age were 0.59 (0.30 – 1.19), 0.47 (0.24 – 0.94), and 0.32 (0.16 – 0.65), respectively. Regardless of BMI, WHR and percent body fat, higher adiponectin was independently associated with a lower risk
of hypertension. These findings suggest that the serum adiponectin level is decreased with atherogenic lipid
phenotype including hypertriglyceridemia and low HDL-cholesterol. Furthermore, low serum adiponectin concentration may be an independent risk factor for hypertension in middle-aged Korean women.
Asia Pac J Clin Nutr. 2007;16(1):10-15.doi:
>>Abstract
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Supplementation of a high-carbohydrate breakfast with barley β-glucan improves postprandial glycaemic response for meals but not beverages
Author:Sally D Poppitt PhD, Jenneke DE van Drunen MSc, An
Keywords:soluble fibre, barley β-glucan, carbohydrate, glucose, insulin
Abstract:There is growing support for the protective role of soluble fibre in type II diabetes. Soluble fibre
β-glucan found in cereal products including oats and barley may be the active component. There is
evidence of postprandial blunting of blood glucose and insulin responses to dietary carbohydrates
when oat soluble fibre is supplemented into the diet but few trials have been carried out using natural barley or enriched barley β-glucan products. The aim of this trial was to investigate the postprandial effect of a highly enriched barley β-glucan product on blood glucose, insulin and lipids when
given with a high-carbohydrate (CHO) food and a high-CHO drink. 18 lean, healthy men completed
a 4 treatment intervention trial comprising (i) high-CHOfood control, (ii) high-CHO
food+fibre
, (iii)
high-CHOdrink control, (iv) high-CHO
drink+fibrewhere a 10g dose of barley β-glucan fibre supplement
(Cerogen) containing 6.31g β-glucan was added to food and drink controls. There was an increase of
glucose and insulin following all 4 treatments. Addition of the β-glucan supplement significantly
blunted the glycaemic and insulinaemic responses on the food (p<0.05) but not drink (p>0.05)
treatments when compared to controls. The high-CHO breakfasts decreased total, LDL- and
HDL-cholesterol from baseline to 60mins postprandially but there were no differential effects of
β-glucan treatment on circulating lipids. We conclude that a high dose barley β-glucan supplement
can improve glucose control when added to a high-CHO starchy food, probably due to increased
gastro-intestinal viscosity, but not when added to a high-CHO beverage where rapid absorption
combined with decreased β-glucan concentration and viscositymay obviate this mechanism.
Asia Pac J Clin Nutr. 2007;16(1):16-24.doi:
>>Abstract
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Reduction of adipose tissue and body weight: effect of water soluble calcium hydroxycitrate in Garcinia atroviridis on the short term treatment of obese women in Thailand
Author:Chulaporn Roongpisuthipong MD, Rungthiwa Kantawan
Keywords:adipose tissue, obese women, Garcinia atroviridis
Abstract:Fifty obese women with a body mass index (BMI) over 25 kg/m
2
were randomly allocated into two groups, 25
in each. Group 1, with a mean (±SEM) age of 40.0±2 years, received water soluble calcium hydroxycitrate
(HCA) as Garcinia atroviridis. Group 2, with a mean age of 35.6±1.8 years, received placebo. All subjects
were recommended a similar diet with1000 Kcal/day. The trial lasted for 2 months. At baseline the means BMI
of Group 1 and Group 2 were 27.5±0.2 kg.m
-2
and 26.7±0.5 kg.m
-2
, respectively. Group 1 lost significantly
more weight (2.8 vs. 1.4 kg,p<0.05) and at a greater rate than Group 2 throughout the study. The decrease in
their body weight was due to a loss of fat storage as evidenced by a significant decrease in the triceps skin fold
thickness. On a short-term basis, HCA in Garcinia atroviridiswas an effective for weight management.
Asia Pac J Clin Nutr. 2007;16(1):25-29.doi:
>>Abstract
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Anti-cancer activities of pure curry feeding in cancer cell-transplanted mouse
Author:Ki-Moon Park PhD, Kyung-Mi Kim MSc, Young-Seo Park
Keywords:pure curry, lipid peroxide, cytochrome P-450, glutathione peroxidase, superoxide dismutase
Abstract:To confirm the cytotoxic effect of instant curry containing combined spices on cancer cells in vivo, cancer was
induced by transplanting cancer cells to mice, and the development of cancer upon feeding pure curry were examined. The concentration of lipid peroxide in the groupstransplanted with cancer cells which were fed with
normal feed was 19.6 nM, and it was increased as the amount of pure curry was increased. The concentration of
cytochrome P-450 was decreased in the group transplanted with cancer cells which were fed with pure curry
and the group without the transplant which were fed with pure curry when compared with the groups which
were fed with normal feed. The activity of cytochrome P-450 was decreased as the concentration of cytochrome
P-450 was decreased in the groups transplanted with cancer cells. However, it was increased in the groups
without cancer cell transplant when over 2% of pure curry was fed. The amount of glutathione was increased in
the groups transplanted with cancer cells when over 2%of pure curry was fed. The activities of glutathione
peroxidase and glutathione S-transferase were decreased in the groupstransplanted with cancer cells which
were fed with over 1% of pure curry, and were restoredto the level of the group without cancer cell transplant
which were fed with normal feed. The superoxide dismutase activity in the groups transplanted with cancer
cells was restored to the level of the group without cancer cell transplant which was fed with normal feed when
over 1% of pure curry was fed.
Asia Pac J Clin Nutr. 2007;16(1):30-39.doi:
>>Abstract
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Effects of phytosterols in diacylglycerol as part of diet therapy on hyperlipidemia in children
Author:Takeshi Matsuyama PhD, MD, Kentaro Shoji MS, Hidet
Keywords: diacylglycerol, phytosterols, cholesterol, lipoprotein(a), children
Abstract:Background: The incidence of hyperlipidemia in children is increasing in Japan, but drug therapy for such children is limited. The ingestion of4% phytosterols-containing diacylglycerol (PS/DAG) decreases serum total
cholesterol and low density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) concentrations in adults. In the present study, we
examined the effect of PS/DAG as part of a diet therapy in pediatric patients with hyperlipidemia. Methods:
Pediatric patients with hyperlipidemia with ≥5.18mmol/L (200 mg/dL) serum total cholesterol and/or
≥1.70mmol/L (150 mg/dL) triglycerides (N = 22) ingested bread containing PS/DAG (total daily intake, 10g)
for 6 months. Blood chemistry was examined prior to and 2, 4, 6 months after the initiation of ingestion, and 4
months after the ingestion period. Results: No significant differences in energy intake or cholesterol intake
during the study period were found. After 4 months of ingestion of PS/DAG, LDL-C, lipoprotein(a) [Lp(a)],
free fatty acids and total ketone bodiesdecreased significantly. In seven patients with familial hypercholesterolemia, total cholesterol and remnant-like lipoprotein particles (RLP)–cholesterol also significantly decreased in addition to LDL-C and Lp(a). Conclusions: PS/DAG improves serum lipid metabolism in pediatric
patients with hyperlipidemia for whom drug therapy is limited, suggesting that PS/DAG may reduce the risk of
developing various diseases induced by hyperlipidemia.
Asia Pac J Clin Nutr. 2007;16(1):40-48.doi:
>>Abstract
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Anthropometric indices and life style practices of the indigenous Orang Asli adults in Lembah Belum, Grik of Peninsular Malaysia
Author:Hayati Mohd Yusof MSc, Ting Siew ChingBSc, Roshita
Keywords:anthropometry, Aborigines, adult, lifestyle, Malaysia
Abstract:A nutritional status survey of Orang Asli (Aboriginal) adults in Lembah Belum, Grik, has been conducted involving a total of 138 subjects. Jahai (58.7%) was the main ethnic group as compared to
that of Temiar (41.3%). Based on the Body Mass Index (BMI) characteristics, the majority (63.2%)
of the respondents were normal, 26.7% underweight and 10.1% were either overweight or obese.
However, by using two different indices of waist circumference and waist-to-hip ratio, 1.6% and
10.8% of the total respondents revealed abdominal obesity, respectively. Measurement of mid upper
arm muscle circumference (MUAMC) indicated that about 40% showed nutritional insufficiency
whereas 0.8% showed over-nutrition. Body fat classification revealed that 53.4% of the
respondents were thin, 45.8% at normal level and only 0.8% were obese. Student’s t-test revealed a
significant difference in anthropometric indices of body weight, height, MUAMC, triceps, biceps,
MUAC, sub-scapular, supra-iliac and body fat according to gender. Meanwhile, analysis of variance
showed significant differences in body weight, waist circumference, WHR and body fat according
to different age categories. It was also found that those who smoked had lower BMI compared with
non-smokers. Alcohol consumption was associated with higher BMI and WHR among the respondents. Pearson correlation test between anthropometric measurements and socio-economic and
demographic factors showed that ethnic group was the strongest variable.
Asia Pac J Clin Nutr. 2007;16(1):49-55.doi:
>>Abstract
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Change in diet and body mass index in Taiwanese women with length of residence in Australia
Author:Wan-Ping Lee MHSc, Jennifer Lingard PhDand Margare
Keywords:body mass index, diet, anthropometry, obesity, Chinese, Taiwanese immigrants in Australia
Abstract:The purpose of this cross-sectional study was to examine and compare anthropometric measurements and dietary intake of Taiwanese Chinese females living in Taiwan and Australia, including any effect of length of Australian residence. Height, weight, waist and hip circumference and percent total body fat were measured and
dietary intake estimated using a 7-day record. Participants were Taiwanese females without systemic disease
(100 from Sydney metropolitan area, Australia, 97 from Ping-Tung County, Taiwan). Subjects in Australia had
similar body mass index (weight-kg/height-m
2
) and percent total body fat but higher waist and hip circumference than those in Taiwan (22.9±3.0 vs. 22.8±3.1 kg/m
2
, p >0.05; 31.4±5.8 vs. 31.0±6.2 %, p>0.05; 76.2±7.5
vs. 72.1±7.3 cm, p= 0.0001; 97.3±6.2 vs. 93.3±6.2 cm, p= 0.0001, respectively), significance unaffected by
age adjustment. Total energy intakewas higher in Australia (2367±574 vs. 1878±575 Kcal) as was the caloric
adjusted intake of carbohydrate and saturated fat, measured as grams (342.8±91.5 vs. 264.9±91.0 g; 30.7±9.1 vs.
23.0±9.1 g) or as percentage of caloric adjusted intake (57.3±1.4 vs. 55.6±2.3 %; 12.1±0.7 vs. 11.2±1.1 %), all
p< 0.001, respectively. There was a trend for anthropometric measures to increase in subjects who had lived in
Australia greater than 5 years, and they also have 14 times the odds of having a waist circumference greater
than 80 cm compared to those living in Australia less than 5 years (95% CI, 1.84, 112.0). The increase in waist
circumference and higher energy and saturated fat intake associated with length of residence in Australia for
Taiwanese females suggests an increased riskof cardiovascular disease and diabetes.
Asia Pac J Clin Nutr. 2007;16(1):56-65.doi:
>>Abstract
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Can bioelectric impedance monitors beused to accurately estimate body fat in Chinese adults?
Author:Duncan J Macfarlane BSc(Hons) BPhEd DPhil
Keywords:validity, reliability, body composition, bioelectric impedance analysis
Abstract:Many laboratory-based methods exist to estimate body fat, yet few can be rapidly and easily applied
to field studies. Bioelectric impedance analysis (BIA) has developed to include portable foot-to-foot
systems that can estimate body fat during field studies, but it is unclear if the data they provide are
comparable to anthropometric methods traditionally used in large epidemiological fieldwork. This
study analysed the reliability and validity of three BIA devices (low, medium, and high cost), from
duplicate measures of mass and percentage body fat (%BF) from 20 young Chinese. Comparisons
were made to reference values of %BF derived from 38 duplicated anthropometric measurements
and the mean of at least 7 regression equations. All three BIA devices were reliable, with intraclass
correlation coefficients never below 0.999, whilst both technical errors of measurement and coefficients of variation (expressed as percentages) werebelow 1%. Validity analysis revealed all three
devices significantly overestimated %BF using the standard measurement setting (no correction for
athletic status) compared to the reference method: UM-022 (+3.2%, p< 0.01), BF-350 (+2.6%, p<
0.01), and TBF-410 (+2.1%, p< 0.01). When %BF was corrected for athletic status, neither the BF-350 (+0.3%, p= 0.72), nor the TBF-410 (-0.2%, p= 0.86) produced a %BF that differed significantly
from the reference method. It was concluded that these three BIA devices were reliable and could be
recommended as valid field measures of mass and %BF in this sample population provided the device allows a correction for athletic status.
Asia Pac J Clin Nutr. 2007;16(1):66-73.doi:
>>Abstract
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Gender and socio-economic differences in BMI of secondary high school students in Ho Chi Minh City
Author:Hong K. Tang PhD, MSc, MD , Michael J. Dibley MPH,
Keywords:Obesity, body mass index, anthropometry, adolescent, Vietnam
Abstract:Objective: To assess the nutritional status of adolescents in Ho Chi Minh City, and in particular determine the
prevalence of overweight and obesity in adolescents across different sub groups, based on gender, household
economic status and geographic location. Design: A cross-sectional survey based ona two-stage cluster sampling design. Setting: Secondary high schools in Ho Chi Minh City. Subjects: There were 1504 adolescents
involved in the study, of which 50% were girls and the mean age of participants was 13.1 years. Results: Overall, 4.9% of the students were overweight and 0.6% were obese, while 13.1% of the students were underweight.
The prevalence of underweight was significantly higher in boys than girls (p=0.001) and overweight and obesity were also higher in boys although these differences were not statistically significant (p=0.074). There was a
much higher prevalence of overweight and obesity in students from schools in wealthy urban districts (8.2%
and 0.6%, respectively) in comparison to students from schools in rural or semi-ruraldistricts (1.6% and 0.2%,
respectively) and these differences were statistically significant (p<0.001). Conclusions: A transition in nutritional status is underway in this population of adolescents where overweight and obesity are emerging as a public health problem, but underweightremains a significant problem.
Asia Pac J Clin Nutr. 2007;16(1):74-83.doi:
>>Abstract
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Intervention with traditional food as a major source of energy, protein, iron, vitamin C and vitamin A for rural Dalitmothers and young children in Andhra Pradesh, South India
Author:Martina Schmid PhD, Buduru Salomeyesudas MSc, Peri
Keywords:food-based intervention, malnutrition, India, Indigenous Peoples, Dalit
Abstract:Intakes of energy, protein, iron and vitamin A in India are usually reported as inadequate. Recognizing that traditional food systems are sustainable, high in species variety, and have rich nutrient sources, we compared dietary intakes and nutrient sources of Dalit mothers and their children living in villages with and without an intervention based on improved access to the traditional Dalitfood system. 24-hour recalls were conducted with
Dalitmothers and their children aged 6-39 months during summer and rainy seasons in 2003. We found that
mothers from intervention villages had significantly higherintakes of energy (mean ± SD: 12,197 ± 3,515 kJ vs.
11,172 ± 3,352 kJ; p= 0.02) and protein (77.5 ± 25.1 g vs. 71.1 ± 25.2 g; p= 0.05) in summer, and higher intakes of energy (11,168 ± 3,335 kJ vs. 10,168 ± 3,730 kJ; p= 0.04), protein (68.9 ± 22.6 g vs. 60.4 ± 23.8 g;
p<0.01) and iron (15.8 ± 6.6 mg vs. 13.7 ± 9.1 mg; p<0.01) during rainy season. There were no differences in
children’s intakes between intervention and control villages. In mothers, sorghum contributed 29% of energy,
33% of protein and 53% of iron, and green leafy vegetables contributed 21% of vitamin C and 38% of vitamin
A. Our results indicate that traditional food such as sorghum, pulses and green leafy vegetables are major
sources of energy, protein, iron, vitamin C and vitamin A, and that mothers from villages with the traditional
food intervention had higher intakes of energy, protein and iron.
Asia Pac J Clin Nutr. 2007;16(1):84-93.doi:
>>Abstract
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Impact of vitamin A supplementation on health status and absenteeism of school children in Sri Lanka
Author:Sanath Thushara Chamakara Mahawithanage BSc, Kanna
Keywords:Vitamin A supplementation, health status, school absenteeism, school children, Sri Lanka
Abstract:The objective of this study was to determine the impact of Vitamin A supplementation on health status and absenteeism of school children. A randomized double blind placebo controlled trial over a period of 13 months
was conducted in a rural area of Sri Lanka involving 613 school children attending Grades 1-5 (aged 5 to 13
years). Children were assigned to either 200,000 IU of Vitamin A (n=297) or placebo (n=316) once every 4
months. Socio-demographic data were obtainedat baseline, and anthropometry and haemoglobin concentrations were assessed at baseline and post intervention. Serum vitamin A concentrations were assayed by HPLC
in a subgroup of children (n=193) before administration of each dose. School absenteeism was recorded. The
two groups of children were similar at baseline in all variables. The subgroupof children was comparable to the
main study population. The prevalence of vitamin A deficiency (<20 μg/dL) in the subgroup of children was
8.2%. Changes in anthropometric indices and haemoglobin concentrations were similar in the two groups. The
major causes for absenteeism were non-health causes and supplemented children lost a fewer number of school
days due to illness than placebo children (p=0.053). Vitamin A concentrationsimproved with each dose and the
improvement was greater with better compliance. Vitamin A supplementation with 200,000 IU every 4 months
over 13 months improved vitamin A status and school attendance but not anthropometric status of these children.
Asia Pac J Clin Nutr. 2007;16(1):94-102.doi:
>>Abstract
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Oral vitamin B12supplementation reduces plasma total homocysteine concentration in women in India
Author:Chittaranjan S Yajnik MD FRCP, Himangi G Lubree MS
Keywords:vitamin B12 , total homocysteine, folate, supplementation, India
Abstract:People in India have a high prevalence of low vitamin BB
12
status and high plasma total homocysteine (tHcy)
concentrations. In a proof of principle trial, we studied the effect of oral vitamin B12
(500 µg) and/or 100 g
cooked green leafy vegetables (GLV) every alternate day in a 2x2 factorial design over a 6-week period. Fortytwo non-pregnant vegetarian women (age 20-50 years) wererandomly allocated to four study groups. Clinical
measurements were madeat the beginning and at the end of the study, and blood samples were collected before,
and 2 and 6 weeks after commencement of intervention. Forty women completed the trial. Twenty-six women
had low vitamin B12
status (<150 pmol/L) and 24 had hyperhomocysteinemia (>15 μmol/L). GLV supplementation did not alter plasma folate or tHcy. Vitamin B12supplementation increased plasma vitamin B12
B concentration (125 to 215pmol/L,p<0.05) and reduced tHcy concentration (18.0 to 13.0 μmol/L, p<0.05) within first 2
weeks, both of which remained stable for the next 4 weeks. Plasma vitamin B12and tHcy concentrations did not
change in those who did not receive vitamin B12
, and there was no change in plasma folate concentration in any
of the groups. Blood haemoglobin concentration increased marginally within first two weeks in those women
who received vitamin B12
(by 3 g/L, p<0.05) and the number of women with macrocytosis decreased from 2 to
zero. There was no change in vibration sensory threshold during the period of the study. High-dose per oral vitamin B12supplementation significantly reduced plasma tHcy within 2 weeks but did not achieve normal
plasma tHcy concentration even after 6 weeks.
Asia Pac J Clin Nutr. 2007;16(1):103-109.doi:
>>Abstract
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Metabolic fate of intravenously administered N-acetylneuraminic acid-6-14 C in newborn piglets
Author:Bing Wang PhD, Jeff A Downing PhD, Peter Petocz Ph
Keywords:N-acetylneuraminic acid 6 14 C, intravenous administration, brain, metabolic fate, newborn piglets
Abstract:Background: Sialic acid (N-acetylneuraminic acid), a component of gangliosides and sialylglycoproteins, may
be a conditional nutrient in early life because endogenous synthesis is limited.The aim of this study was to investigate the metabolic fate ofintravenously administrated N-acetylneuraminic acid 6
14
C (sialic acid) in piglets.
Method: Three-day-old male domestic piglets (Sus scrofa) were injected via the jugular vein with 5 µCi
(11-12x10
6
cpm) of N-acetylneuraminic acid-6
14
C (specific activity of 55 mCi/mmol). Blood samples were
collected at regular intervals over the next 120 min. The organs were thenremoved and the urine collected for
determination of residual radioactivity. Results: Within 2 min of injection, 80% of the activity was removed
from the blood and by 120 min the remaining activity approached 8%. At 120min, the brain contained significantly more radioactivity (cpm/g tissue) than the liver, pancreas, heart and spleen, but less than the kidneys.
Within the brain, the percentage of total injected activity was highest in the cerebrum (0.175 ± 0.008) followed
by the cerebellum (0.0295 ± 0.006, p= 0.00006) and the thalamus (0.029 ± 0.006, p= 0.00003). Conclusions:
An exogenous source of sialic acid is capable of crossing the blood-brain barrier and being taken up into various tissues. The findings suggest that dietary sources of sialic acid may contribute to early brain development in
newborn mammals.
Asia Pac J Clin Nutr. 2007;16(1):110-115.doi:
>>Abstract
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Effects of wheat flour fortified with different iron fortificants on iron status and anemia prevalence in iron deficient anemic students in Northern China
Author:Jing Sun BD, Jian Huang BD, Wenxian Li BD, Lijuan
Keywords:NaFeEDTA, FeSO4 , elementary iron, iron deficiency anemia, wheat flour, food fortification
Abstract:Objectives: To compare the effects of wheat flours fortified with NaFeEDTA, FeSO4and elemental iron (electrolytic iron), in improving iron status in anemic students. Methods: Four hundreds anemic students (11 to 18
years old) were divided into four groups and given wheat flour fortified with different iron fortificants at different concentrations: control group (no added iron); NaFeEDTA group (20 mg Fe/kg); FeSO4group (30 mg
Fe/kg); and elemental iron group (60 mg Fe/kg). The trial lasted for 6 months and the following parameters
were examined every 2 months: whole blood hemoglobin, free erythrocyte protoporphyrin, serum ferritin, serum iron, total iron binding capacity and transferrin receptor. Results: The flour consumption in the 4 groups
was 300-400 g/person/day, accounted for 70% of total cereal consumption in the diets. There were no significant differences in flour consumption among the 4 groups. Blood hemoglobin level increased in all the 3 intervened groups, but the increment in the NaFeEDTA group was significantly higher and earlier than the other 2
groups; and only 1% of the subjected remained anemic at the end of the trial in the NaFeEDTA group, while
40% and 60% of the subjects in the FeSO4and electrolytic iron group remainedanemic, respectively. The order
of improvements in free erythrocyte protoporphyrin, serum ferritin and transferring receptor levels were:
NaFeEDTA > FeSO4
> electrolytic iron. No significant changes were found in the control group on all the
tested parameters during the trial. Conclusions: The results indicated thateven when NaFeEDTA was added at
a lower level, it has better effects than FeSO4and elemental iron in controlling iron deficiency anemia and improving iron status in anemic children; while elemental iron was the least effective.
Asia Pac J Clin Nutr. 2007;16(1):116-121.doi:
>>Abstract
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Salt usage behaviors are related to urinary sodium excretion in normotensive Korean adults
Author:Hyun Ju Kim MSc, Hee Young Paik ScD, Sim Yeol Lee
Keywords:Sodium intake, urinary sodium excretion, Salt usage behavior
Abstract:High sodium intake is considered to be the major risk factor for hypertension but studies about sodium intake on prevention and management of hypertension is limited due to the difficulties in assessment of sodium intake. Dietary sodium comes not only from naturally occurring sodium in
foods but also from the added sodium during processing, cooking and at the table. Present study was
conducted to identify salt usage behavior questions related to urinary sodium excretion among normotensive adult Koreans. The test version of the salt usage questionnaire included six items of salt
usage behaviors and nine items of high salt containing foods. A survey was conducted in 189 adults
over 18 years of age in three age groups in bothgenders. Each participant answered the questionnaire and collected one 24-hour urine and urine samples were analyzed for sodium contents. Correlation analyses between scores of the questions and sodium excretion in 24-hour urine were performed to identify question items related to sodium excretion. Among fifteen questions, scores of
three questions on salt usage behaviors were significantly correlated to urinary sodium excretion
(r=0.17~0.19; p <0.05) and the sum of scores of the three questions showed higher correlation coefficients. (r=0.26, p<0.001) The salt usage behavior questions developed in this study would be useful in predicting sodium intake and in studying the relationship between sodium intake and health
among Korean adults.
Asia Pac J Clin Nutr. 2007;16(1):122-128.doi:
>>Abstract
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Establishment of an isoflavone database for usual Korean foods and evaluation of isoflavone intake among Korean children
Author:Min Kyung Park MS, Yoon Ju Song PhD, Hyojee Joung
Keywords:isoflavone database, isoflavone intake, evaluation, children, Korea
Abstract:Asian populations including Koreans are assumed to have a higher isoflavone intake due to the
higher consumption of soybean. However, it is difficult to estimate isoflavone intake because there
is no isoflavone database in Korea. In this study, an isoflavone database was established with systematic review. Literature with analytical values of Korean soybeans and its products were collected
and evaluated to establish an isoflavone database. A total of 142 food items containing isoflavones
were selected among 2,932 food items in the Korean Nutrient Database. Among these, only 25 food
items were evaluated with analytical values and the remaining 98 items were replaced with adaptations or calculations from similar items. Dietary intake of isoflavones was assessed for 426 boys and
365 girls aged 8 to 11 years with 3-day food records. The daily mean isoflavone intake was 8.3 mg
among boys and 7.2 mg among girls. More than 70% of subjects had a daily isoflavone intake below
10 mg. The most contributory food item to the isoflavone intake among adolescents was tofu in
quantity and soybean sauce in frequency. This database could be used to estimate isoflavone intakes
from dietary data among various populations and to evaluate the relationships between isoflavone
intake and chronic disease.
Asia Pac J Clin Nutr. 2007;16(1):129-139.doi:
>>Abstract
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Content of a novel online collection of traditional east African food habits (1930s – 1960s): data collected by the Max-Planck-Nutrition Research Unit, Bumbuli, Tanzania
Author:Verena Raschke MSc, Ulrich Oltersdorf PhD, Ibrahim
Keywords: Tanzania, Kenya, Uganda, indigenous, staple foods, beverages, diet, culture
Abstract:Background: Knowledge of traditional African foods and food habits has been, and continues to be, systematically extirpated. With the primary intent of collating data for our online collection documenting traditional African foods and food habits (available at: www.healthyeatingclub.com/Africa/), we reviewed the Oltersdorf
Collection, 75 observational investigations conducted throughout East Africa (i.e. Tanzania, Kenya, and
Uganda) between the 1930s and 1960s as compiled by the Max Planck Nutrition Research Unit,formerly located in Bumbuli, Tanzania. Methods: Data were categorized as follows: (1) food availability, (2) chemical
composition, (3) staple foods (i.e. native crops, cereals, legumes, roots and tubers, vegetables, fruits, spices, oils
and fats, beverages, and animal foods), (4) food preparation and culture, and (5) nutrient intake and health
status indicators. Results: Many of the traditional foods identified, including millet, sorghum, various legumes,
root and tubers, green leafy vegetables, plant oils and wild meats have known health benefits. Food preparatory
practices during this period, including boiling and occasional roasting are superior to current practices which
favor frying and deep-frying. Overall, our review and data extraction provide reason to believe that a diversified diet was possible for the people of East Africa during this period (1930s-1960s). Conclusions: There is a
wealth of knowledge pertaining to traditional East African foods and food habits within the Oltersdorf Collection.These data are currently available via our online collection. Future efforts should contribute to collating
and honing knowledge of traditional foods and food habits within this region, and indeed throughout the rest of
Africa. Preserving and disseminating this knowledge may be crucial for abating projected trends for noncommunicable diseases and malnutrition in Africa and abroad.
Asia Pac J Clin Nutr. 2007;16(1):140-151.doi:
>>Abstract
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Sub clinical vitamin A deficiency and anemia among Vietnamese children less than five years of age
Author:Nguyen Cong Khan MD, PhD, Nguyen Xuan Ninh MD, PhD
Keywords:vitamin A deficiency, anemia, children urban, rural prevalence, Vietnam
Abstract:The objective of the study was to assess the prevalence of sub clinical vitamin A deficiency and
anemia in Vietnamese children. For this, a cross-sectional survey was conducted in 40 villages (clusters) of four ecological regions in Vietnam during Apr-May 2001. In total 1657 children less than 5
years old were included by a cluster random sampling method. The prevalence of sub clinical vitamin A deficiency (serum retinol <0.70 μmol/L) was 12.0% and the prevalence of anemia (hemoglobin <110g/L) was 28.4 %. In the children under 6 months the prevalence of sub clinical vitamin A
deficiency was 35.1 % whereas the prevalence of anemia in this group was as high as 61.7%. The
prevalence of children with both sub clinical vitamin A deficiency and anemia was 6.1%. Sub clinical vitamin A deficiency and anemia prevalence differed significantly across the regions, with highest prevalence in the Northern Mountainous areas for vitamin A deficiency and in the Northern
Mountainous area and Mekong River Delta for anemia. It is concluded that sub clinical vitamin A
deficiency and anemia are still important public health problems in Vietnam. Sustainable strategies
for combating vitamin A deficiency and nutritional anemia are needed and should concentrate on
target groups, especially infants and malnourished children in high risk regions.
Asia Pac J Clin Nutr. 2007;16(1):152-157.doi:
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Vitamin A status of the minority ethnic group of Karen hill tribe children aged 1-6 years in Northern Thailand
Author:Prasong Tienboon MD,PhD and Prasit Wangpakapattana
Keywords:Nutritional status, Diet, Vitamin A, Intakes, Vitamins, Malnutrition, Karen, Children, Hill tribe, Thailand
Abstract:Vitamin A deficiency (VAD) is the most common cause ofchildhood blindness in the developing world. It is
estimated that by giving adequate vitamin A, in vitamin A deficient populations, child mortality from measles
can be reduced by 50%, and mortality from diarrheal disease by 40%. Overall mortality in children 6-59
months of age can be reduced by 23%. This paper reported results from a study of vitamin A status and malnutrition of the minority ethnic group of Karen hill tribe children aged 1-6 years in the north of Thailand. All
children aged 1-6 years (N = 158; 83 boys, 75 girls) from the three Karen villages (Mae Hae Tai, Mae Yot, Mae
Raek) of Mae Chaem district in the north of Thailand were studied. The Karen is the largest mountain ethnic
minority (“hill tribe”) group in Thailand. All children were examined by a qualified medical doctor and were
assessed for their vitamin A intakes using 24 hours dietary recall. Thai food composition table from Ministry
of Health, Thailand were used as references. The results were compared with the Thai Recommended Dietary
Allowances. Children aged 1-3 years and 4-6 years were separately analysed due to the differences in Thai
Recommended Dietary Allowances between the two age groups. A whole blood of 300 μL was obtained by
“fingerstick” for determination of serum vitamin A. Community or village’s vitamin A status was assessed by
using Simplified Dietary Assessment (SDA) method and Helen Keller International (HKI) food frequency
method. Descriptive statistics were used to analyse the data. All families of the study boys and girls had income lower than the Thailand poverty line (US $ 1,000/year). On average, 63% of children from Mae Hae Tai
village, 1.5% of children from Mae Yot village and none of children from Mae Raek village had serum vitamin
A <0.7 μmol/L which indicated VAD. All boys and only girls from Mae Raek village consumed vitamin A
more than the Thai RDA but girls from Mae Hae Tai village and Mae Yot village consumed vitamin A less than
the Thai RDA. Both boys and girls from Mae Raek village and also girls from Mae Yot village consumed vitamin A more than the Thai RDA. Using SDA and HKI methods to assess vitamin A status of the villages to
see whether VAD is a village's nutritional problem, it was found that all children from the three villages were at
risk of VAD. In order toimprove vitamin A status of the Karen children in Mae Chaem district, recommendations were made as follow: (1) increased use of fat and oil, particularly in areas with high risk of VAD; (2)
more general work with Karen communities on how children’s diets might be improved in a culturally acceptable manner, so as to bring vitamin A consumption closer to recommended allowance level.
Asia Pac J Clin Nutr. 2007;16(1):158-162.doi:
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Decision to breastfeed and early cessation of breastfeeding in infants below 6 months old – a population-based study of 3,204 infants in Hong Kong
Author:Warren T K Lee PhD, RD (UK) ,Eric Wong (MA), Susan
Keywords:breastfeeding, formula feeding, cessation of breastfeeding, infants, Hong Kong
Abstract:Breastfeeding rate has been low in Hong Kong over the last three decades. This has happened with concomitant
rapid economic development and improved living standards. A population-based survey was conducted to
evaluate factors influencing decision,duration and early cessation of breastfeeding in 3,204 full-term healthy
infants under 6 months throughout Hong Kong in 1993. A self-administered questionnaire was used. The overall percentage of breastfed infants was particularly low (9.6%), 36.1% had already given up breastfeeding and
were being formula-fed (FFBF), 54.3% have been exclusively formula-fed since birth. The proportion of
breastfed infants in the 5
th
month was even lower than in the 1
st
month (4.2% vs.14.7%). Mothers who sustained breastfeeding tended to have parity ≥2, were less educated, housewives and residing in Hong Kong <5
years when compared to FFBF mothers (p<0.009). Husbands had a decisive role on wives initiating breastfeeding while health-professionals had an influence on early switching to FFBF (p<0.003). More breastfeeding
mothers perceived breastfeeding benefits than FFBF mothers (p<0.03). The Cox proportional hazard model
showed that mother’s residency status ≥5-year (HR=2.4), working mothers (HR=1.5) and health-professionals’
opinions (HR=1.5) were associated withan early cessation of breastfeeding (p<0.001). However, strengthening
immunity (HR=0.67) and parity ≥2 (HR=0.72) helped sustain breastfeeding (p<0.001). To conclude, the proportion of breastfed infants was low in Hong Kong in the early 1990s. Major factors associated with the decision to breastfeed and early cessation of breastfeeding were identified which would help formulate an interdisciplinary approach for promotion of breastfeeding up-to 6 months and beyond.
Asia Pac J Clin Nutr. 2007;16(1):163-171.doi:
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Supplementation of infant formula with native inulin has a prebiotic effect in formula-fed babies
Author:Sook-He Kim PhD, Da Hee Lee PhD and Diederick Meye
Keywords: inulin, babies, colonic microbiota, infant formula, prebiotic
Abstract:Objectives: In this study we investigated the effects of native inulin in formula-fed babies. The influence of inulin on the microbial composition, pH, consistency and amount of faeces, and on frequency of defecation was
assessed. Methods: In this study a daily dosage of 0.25 g/kg/d was used: 3 weeks of inulin consumption were
followed by 3 weeks without or vice versa. The study group consisted of 14 babies with an average age of 12.6
weeks (± 6.4 weeks) and the average intake of inulin was 1.5 (± 0.3) g/d. Results: The consumption of inulin
increased the content of Bifidobacteriumand Lactobacillusin the faeces of formula-fed babies, without affecting the number of Bacteroidesor the total anaerobic count. With inulinthere was a trend for stools to become
softer and for the amount of faeces to increase significantly. Frequency of defecation was not affected by the
consumption of inulin. No adverse effects were reported during the periods of inulin consumption. Conclusions:
We conclude that, with native inulin, a prebiotic effect can be observed in formula-fed babies. Inulin may therefore be a useful ingredient in infant formulae.
Asia Pac J Clin Nutr. 2007;16(1):172-177.doi:
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Anthropometric and biochemical markers for nutritional risk among residents within an Australian residential care facility
Author:Jessica Grieger BSc(hons), Caryl Nowson BSc, Dip N
Keywords:long-term care, aged, Australia, nutritional status, bone density
Abstract:The risk of malnutrition is high among elderly population,yet few studies have measured indicators of nutritional status among Australian aged-care residents. Todetermine the relationship between nutritional status
and bone density, hand grip strength, and the timed-up and go test, in a group of Australian aged-care residents.
Anthropometric and biochemical analysis measured in subjects recruited to be part of a six month multivitamin
supplementation study. One hundred and fifteen subjects participated (68% female). The mean (SD) age and
body weight was 80.2(10.6) years, and 66.5(15.0) kg, respectively. Eleven percent were underweight (body
mass index, BMI, ≤20.0kg/m²), and 20% were obese BMI ≥30kg/m²). Low serum 25-hydroxy-vitamin D
(25(OH)D, ≤50 nmol/L) concentrations were found among 79% ofsubjects. After adjustment for body weight,
there was an association between serum 25(OH)D and bone density (heel ultrasound) (r=.204, p=.027). Low
serum zinc (≤10.7 μmol/L) concentrations were found among 46% of subjects; thisgroup had a slower timed
up and go time compared with those with higher zinc concentrations (n=19, 44.6 ± 5.6 seconds vs. n=27, 30.0 ±
3.3 seconds, p=.020). There were no associations between nutritional markers and hand grip strength. In this
group, more than ¾ of subjects had low serum 25(OH)D, and 46% had low zinc concentrations. Serum
25(OH)D was associated a lower bone density and zinc with a slower walking time. This indicates that the elderly in long term residential care facilities are at high risk for poor nutritional status, potentially increasing morbidity and mortality.
Asia Pac J Clin Nutr. 2007;16(1):178-186.doi:
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Prevalence of diabetes mellitus and population attributable fractions for coronary heart disease and stroke mortality in the WHO South-East Asia and Western Pacific regions
Author:Asia Pacific Cohort Studies Collaboration
Keywords:diabetes mellitus, Asia, Pacific Islands, prevalence, cardiovascular disease, stroke
Abstract:The aims of this study were to obtain the most recent representative data for the prevalence of diabetes in adult
populations in the World Health Organisation’s South-East Asia and Western Pacific regions and to quantify
the contribution of diabetes to the burden of mortality from cardiovascular diseases in these regions. Previous
reports indicate that there are 83 million individuals with diabetes in the Asia-Pacific region, but since many of
the country-specific estimates were not from nationally representative studies, this figure may not accurately
reflect the current burden of diabetes. Information on the prevalence of diabetes was obtained by searching
Medline and government health websites. Data were available from 12 countries representing 78% of the total
population of the Asia-Pacific region. Six of 10 countries with complete data reported a prevalence of diabetes
exceeding those estimates currently cited by the World Health Organization; three of which have also already
exceeded the World Health Organization projections for 2030.In the 12 countries in the region with nationally
representative data, the prevalence of diabetes ranged from 2.6% to 15.1%. Hazard ratios from the Asia Pacific
Cohort Studies Collaboration were usedto calculate population attributable fractions for diabetes for fatal
cardiovascular diseases in the region.Population attributable fractions ranged from 2% to 12% for coronary
heart disease, 1% to 6% for haemorrhagic stroke, and 2% to 11% for ischaemic stroke. Accurate estimates of
the prevalence of diabetes are of great importance and standard methods are needed for periodic surveillance
across the Asia-Pacific region and elsewhere.
Asia Pac J Clin Nutr. 2007;16(1):187-192.doi:
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Book Review and Future Events
Author:
Keywords:
Abstract:
Asia Pac J Clin Nutr. 2007;16(1):199.doi:
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