Kiwifruit improves bowel function in patients with irritable bowel syndrome with constipation
Author:Chun-Chao Chang MD, Yi-Ting Lin MSc, Ya-Ting Lu BS
Keywords:irritable bowel syndrome/constipation, kiwifruit, colon transit time, bowel function, defecation frequency
Abstract:Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a common functional disorder of the gastrointestinal system, and is characterized by abdominal pain, diarrhea (IBS/D), constipation (IBS/C), and alternating diarrhea and constipation
(IBSC/A). The purpose of this study was to examine the impact of a four week kiwifruit intervention on bowel
function in patients diagnosed with IBS/C. Fifty-four patients with IBS/C and 16 healthy adults participated in
this study. All subjects participated in the 6 week, three phase study, which included a baseline phase (1 week), a
dietary intervention period (4 weeks), and a post-intervention phase (1 week). Forty-one IBS/C patients and all
healthy adults consumedtwo Hayward green (Actinida deliciosavar) kiwifruits per day for 4 weeks. Thirteen
IBS/C patients in the control group took two placebo capsules per day for 4 weeks. Colon transit time was measured immediately prior to and following the intervention period. All subjects completed daily defecation records.
After the 4-week intervention, weekly defecation frequency significantly increased in the IBS/C group of participants who consumed kiwifruit (p<0.05). Colon transit time significantly decreased (p=0.026) in the IBS/C
group that consumed kiwi fruit. These findings suggest that kiwifruit consumption for 4 weeks shortens colon
transit time, increases defecation frequency, and improves bowel function in adults diagnosed with IBS/C.
Asia Pac J Clin Nutr. 2010;19(4):451-457.doi:
>>Abstract
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Mixed fibers diet in surgical ICU septic patients
Author:Kaweesak Chittawatanarat FRCST, Piman Pokawinpudis
Keywords: mixed fiber, soluble fiber, insoluble fiber, diarrhea, surgical critically ill
Abstract:Diarrhea commonly occurs in surgical critically ill patients, especially septic patients and fiber formulas have
been reported to improve diarrhea. Mostreports have used soluble or insoluble fiber exclusively, while the effects of a mixed fiber diet remain unclear. This study compares diarrhea scoresbetween mixed-fiber and nonfiber diets in surgical septic patients receiving broad spectrum antibiotics. We conducted a prospective randomized control double blind study in a general surgical ICU. Patients who received broad spectrum antibiotics and
no contraindication to enteral feeding were randomly allocated to a fiber or non-fiber diet for up to 14 days. Nutritional delivery and diarrhea scores were recordeddaily. Intention to treat analysis was performed. Thirty-four
patients were enrolled in the study, 17 in the fiber group and 17 in non-fiber group. These two patients groups
were similar in demographics, disease severity, nutritional status, cause of sepsis and total feeding per day. The
proportion of patients with diarrhea score ≥12 was higher in the non-fiber group than in the fiber group, but the
difference was not statistically significant [8/17 (47.06%) vs. 4/17(23.53%); p=0.15]. However, the fiber group
had a lower mean diarrhea score (fiber vs. non-fiber = 3.6 ± 2.3 vs. 6.3 ± 3.6; p=0.005), as well as a lower global
diarrhea score from the generalized estimation equation model for repeated measurement [Coefficient -3.03
(95%CI= -5.03 to -0.92); p=0.005]. In summary, a mixed fiber diet formula can reduce the diarrhea score in surgical critically ill septic patients who received broad spectrum antibiotics.
Asia Pac J Clin Nutr. 2010;19(4):458-464.doi:
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Vitamin D supplementation and bone mass accrual in underprivileged adolescent Indian girls
Author:Anuradha V KhadilkarMD, Mehmood G Sayyad MSc, Neha
Keywords:vitamin D, calcium intake, PTH, menarche, India
Abstract:Vitamin D deficiency is common among children and adolescents in India, in spite of abundant sunshine. We
conducted a pilot; double blind randomised controlled trial toinvestigate the effect of vitamin D supplementation on bone mineral content in underprivileged adolescent girls, in Pune, India. Fifty post-menarcheal girls aged
14 to 15 years were randomised to receive 300,000 IU (7.5mg) of ergocalciferol or placebo orally, 4 times/year.
All participants received 250 mg elemental calcium (calcium carbonate) daily. Outcome measures included
change in serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D, size adjusted bone area and bone mineral content at total body and lumbar spine. Post supplementation, the median serum concentration of 25-hydroxyvitamin D was 75.2 (64.2-85.5)
nmol/L in the intervention group and 28.1 (16.7-34.0) nmol/L in the placebo group. Increment in bone outcome
measures was not different in the two groups. However, there was a positive effect of intervention in the size adjusted total body bone area (p<0.05), total body bone mineral content (p<0.05) and lumbar spine bone mineral
content (p<0.05), and positive trend in lumbar spine bone area (p=0.07) in girls who were within 2 years of menarche. We conclude that vitamin D supplementation did not have a beneficial effect on skeletal mineralization in
girls who were more than 2 years post menarcheal. However, there was a significant positive effect of the intervention on size adjusted total body and lumbar spine bone mineral content and a positive trend in lumbar spine
bone area, in girls who were ≤2 years of menarche.
Asia Pac J Clin Nutr. 2010;19(4):465-472.doi:
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Effect of a whey-predominant starter formula containing LCPUFAs and oligosaccharides (FOS/GOS) on gastrointestinal comfort in infants
Author:Boosba Vivatvakin MD, Atchara Mahayosnond MD, Apir
Keywords: gastric emptying, infant formula,whey, prebiotics, gastrointestinal comfort
Abstract:Development of new infant formulas aims to replicate the benefits of breast milk. One benefit of breast milk
over infant formulas is greater gastrointestinal comfort. We compared indicators of gastrointestinal comfort in
infants fed a whey-predominant formula containing long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids, galacto-oligosaccharides and fructo-oligosaccharides, and infants fed a control casein-predominant formula without additional
ingredients. The single-centre, prospective, double-blind,controlled trial randomly assigned healthy, full-term
infants (n=144) to receive exclusively either experimentalor control formula from 30 days to 4 months of age. A
group of exclusively breast-fed infants served as reference (n=80). At 1, 2, 3, and 4 months, infants’ growth parameters were measured and their health assessed. Parents recorded frequency and physical characteristics of infants’ stool, frequency of regurgitation, vomiting, crying and colic. At 2-months, gastric emptying (ultrasound)
and intestinal transit time (H2breath test) were measured, and stool samples collected for bacterial analysis.
Compared to the control (n=69), fewer of the experimental group (n=67) had hard stools (0.7 vs 7.5%, p<0.001)
and more had soft stools (90.8 vs 82.3%, p<0.05). Also compared to the control, the experimental group’s stool
microbiota composition (mean % bifidobacteria: 78.1 (experimental, n=17), 63.7 (control, n=16), 74.3 (breastfed, n=20)), gastric transit times (59.6 (experimental, n=53), 61.4 (control, n=62), 55.9 (breast-fed, n=67) minutes) and intestinal transit times (data not shown) were closer to that ofthe breast-fed group. Growth parameter
values were similar for all groups. The data suggest that, in infants, the prebiotic-containing whey-based formula
provides superior gastrointestinal comfort than a control formula.
Asia Pac J Clin Nutr. 2010;19(4):473-480.doi:
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Contribution of complementary food nutrients to estimated total nutrient intakes for rural Guatemalan infants in the second semester of life
Author:Raquel Campos Bs, Liza Hernandez Bs, Maria José So
Keywords: human milk, complementary foods, infant feeding, micronutrient intake, Guatemala
Abstract:Background: In developing countries, complementary foods are often introducedearlier or later than appropriate
and the quality is frequently insufficient, particularly in rural areas where complementary foods have traditionally been based on starchy gruels. Adequate intakes of a number of nutrients are recognized to beproblematic in
traditional complementary feeding regimens in developing societies. Aim: To determine the contribution of the
complementary feeding nutrients to the estimated total nutrient intake in Guatemalan infants. Methods: Three
non-consecutive 24-hr recalls were collected from a convenience sample of mothers of 64 infants, aged 6-12
month on enrolment, in the rural Guatemalan highland village of Santo Domingo Xenacoj. Additional information on early introduction of pre- and post-lacteal feeds and on first foods and beverages was included. Human
milk intakes were estimated by a model based on assumptions regarding satisfaction of weight-based daily energy needs by the combined diet. The 2004 WHO/FAO recommended nutrient intakes wereused as the standard
for adequate nutrient consumption. Results: We observed that exclusive breastfeeding up to 6 month is rare.
Mean nutrient intakes and densities were above recommended intakes for all nutrients examined, except calcium,
iron and zinc. Intakes of most nutrients were greater from the complementary feeding component of the diet. Vitamin A intake was excessive due to consumption of fortified sugar. Conclusions: We conclude that intakes of
most micronutrients were near recommendation levels, unusual within the complementary feeding experience in
scientific literature. Calcium, iron and zinc were identified as “problem nutrients” as persistently reported in developing countries.
Asia Pac J Clin Nutr. 2010;19(4):481-490.doi:
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Bitter receptor gene (TAS2R38) P49A genotypes and their associations with aversion to vegetables and sweet/fat foods in Malaysian subjects
Author:Shee-Xuen Ooi BSc, Pui-Leng Lee BSc, Huey-Yi Law B
Keywords:bitter, TAS2R38, single nucleotide polymorphism, Malaysia, nutrigenomics
Abstract:Recently, the bitter receptor gene (TAS2R38) was identified to be responsible for phenylthiocarbamide (PTC)
bitter sensitivity. Its two predominant haplotypes at three Single Nucleotide Polymorphisms (SNPs) are found to
be definitive for the PTC status, which the ProAlaVal and AlaValIle haplotypes are associated with tasters and
non-tasters, respectively. TAS2R38haplotypes have been reported to influence food preferences (like cruciferous
vegetables and fat foods) and cardiovascular disease risk factors. We examined, in 215 Malaysian subjects (100
males, 115 females), the association of the P49A SNP of TAS2R38with anthropometric measurements and aversion
to a list of 36 vegetables, 4 soy products, green tea and 37 sweet/fat foods. The subjects were successfully genotyped as 110 PA, 81 PP and 24 AA (with the A49 allelic frequency of 0.37), by Polymerase Chain ReactionRestriction Fragment Length Polymorphism (PCR-RFLP). Ethnicity (Malay, Chinese or Indian), but not gender,
was associated with the P49A TAS2R38genotypes (p<0.001). However, no significant differences in terms of
Body Mass Index, Total Body Fat, waist circumference and Waist-Hip Ratio were found between the genotypes
(p<0.05). Only aversions to green tea, mayonnaise and whipped cream, but not soy products, vegetables, and
other sweet/fat foods, were associated with the P49A genotypes (p<0.05). Therefore, the P49A SNP of the bitter
receptor gene TAS2R38 could not serve as a predictor of anthropometric measurements and aversion to vegetables or sweet/fat foods in the sampled Malaysian subjects, and this suggests the existence of other possible factors influencing food selection among Malaysians.
Asia Pac J Clin Nutr. 2010;19(4):491-498.doi:
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The bioavailability of eicosapentaenoic acid from reconstituted triglyceride fish oil is higher than that obtained from the triglyceride and monoglyceride forms
Author:Ammar Wakil MRCP, Miquel Mir PhD, Duane D Mellor B
Keywords:eicosapentaenoic, bioavailability, monoglyceride, diglyceride, triglyceride
Abstract:Omega 3 fatty acids have healthcare benefits, but their absorption characteristics are not well defined, particularly for strategies to improve their bioavailability. We performed a double blind study comparing the bioavailability of 20% eicosapentaenoic acid in 4.5 grams of: natural triglyceride, reconstituted triglyceride, enzymatically synthesized triglyceride, monoglyceride and diglyceride. Seven healthy volunteers were given the supplements on five occasions while repeatedmeasurements of eicosapentaenoic acid were taken to calculate the area
under the curve for the next 24 hours. There was a significant difference between the mean of calculated area
under the curve of eicosapentaenoic acid from reconstituted triglyceride (30.2) and that of the enzymatically synthesized triglyceride (11.9) and monoglyceride (13.4), z=-2.36 and -2.19, respectively, p<0.05. In summary, eicosapentaenoic acid bioavailability of chemically reconstituted triglycerides was better than that obtained from
enzymatically synthesized triglyceride and monoglyceride.
Asia Pac J Clin Nutr. 2010;19(4):499-505.doi:
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Association of interleukin-6 gene -572 C > G polymorphism with dietary intake of n-3 fatty acids on plasma HDL-c level in Chinese male adults
Author:Quan Zhou PhD, Bo Zhang PhD, Ping Wang PhD , Fang
Keywords:interleukin-6, polymorphism, n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids, HDL-c, interaction
Abstract:Objective: Heterogeneity in circulating lipid concentrations in response to different dietary fat intakes may be
due, in part, to gene polymorphism of cytokine related to inflammation. The objective was to determine whether
dietary n-3 PUFAs intake influenced the effects of IL-6 -572 polymorphism on plasma lipids and apolipoproteins. Study Design: This cross-sectional study included 195 men and 386 women aged 40–65 y. DNA was isolated from white blood cell to determine the IL-6 -572 C-G polymorphisms by the polymerase chain reactionlogation detection reaction (PCR-LDR) method. Dietary fatty acids were assessed by measuring erythrocyte
membrane fatty acids, and fasting plasma was collected to determine blood lipids and apoproteins. Results: The
frequency of the G allele was 0.214. There were no significant differences inplasma lipids across genotypes (all
p>0.05). When men and women were grouped into tertiles by the erythrocyte membrane n-3 PUFAs composition; in the lowest group, men with G allele had 18% higher HDL-cholesterol concentrations than did C/C genotype (p <0.05). Similar effects were observed for apo A. Adjusting for age, BMI and total PUFA did not alter
this association. The interaction was not significant in women. Conclusion: Dietary n-3 PUFA intake influenced
the effects of IL-6 -572 genotype on HDL-c concentrations in males.
Asia Pac J Clin Nutr. 2010;19(4):506-512.doi:
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A combination of iron and retinol supplementation benefits iron status, IL-2 level and lymphocyte proliferation in anemic pregnant women
Author:Yong Y Sun MD, Ai G Ma MD, Fang Yang MD,Feng Z Zha
Keywords:anemia, iron, retinol, IL-2, lymphocyte proliferation
Abstract:Background: Iron and vitamin A deficiencies impact anemia and the immune system. Objective: to investigate
the effect of iron combined with retinol supplementation on iron status, IL-2 level and lymphocyte proliferation.
Methods: a double-blind randomized trial conducted over 2 months. We randomly allocated 186 anemic pregnant women with 80≤Hb<110 g/L into four groups. Group I (n=47) was supplemented daily with 60 mg iron as
ferrous sulfate, IF (n=46) with 60 mg iron and 0.4 mg folic acid, IR (n=46) with 60 mg iron, 2.0 mg retinol and
0.4 mg folic acid and C (n=47) was the placebo group. Results: after the 2 months trial, there were considerable
increases of iron status in Hb, plasma iron and ferritin in the I, IF and IR groups compared with Group C. Increases in plasma iron and ferritin in the IR group were also significantly greater than in Groups I and IF. Compared with group C, increases of IL-2 levels were119, 184 and 206 ng/L; and lymphocyte proliferation increased by 0.095, 0.112 and 0.219 in Groups I, IF and IR, respectively. Increases of IL-2 were 65.3 ng/L and
87.5 ng/L in Groups IF and IR, greater than in Group I (both pvalues <0.01); and lymphocyte proliferation in
Group IR were 0.124 and 0.107, also greater than in Groups I and IF, respectively. Conclusion: iron combined
retinol supplementation was more beneficial to improving iron status and lymphocyte proliferation during pregnancy than iron alone.
Asia Pac J Clin Nutr. 2010;19(4):513-519.doi:
>>Abstract
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Dietary energy requirements of young adult women in China by the doubly labeled water method
Author:Jian-Min Liu PhD, Xiao-Guang Yang PhD, Jian-Hua Pi
Keywords:energy requirement, Chinese, doubly labeled water, basal energy expenditure, total energy expenditure
Abstract:Objective: The current recommendations on dietary energy requirements in China have been based on total energy
expenditure (TEE) derived from theoretical factorial calculations expressed as multiples of basal energy expenditure (BEE). Few direct measurements of TEE and BEE have been conducted in Chinese people. This study
was designed to measure the TEE and BEE of healthy,light active women of normal body weight living in
China, and to evaluate the recommendations on dietary energy requirements by comparing the data correspondingly. Design: 16 healthy female adults aged22.1±1.2 y with a body mass index (in kg/m
2
) of 20.4±1.7 were selected. Under well-controlled conditions, TEEs were determined by using the doubly labeled water method. At
the same time, BEEs were measured by using indirectcalorimetry. Results: Measured TEE was 1380±118 kcal/d,
which was close to the value of energy intake (1382±96 kcal/d). Comparing the measured TEE with the recommended (Chinese recommended value for this group is 2100 kcal/d), the recommended was substantially higher
than the measured by 15% or so. Meanwhile, the calculated BEE (1230±65 kcal/d) by using the adjusted
Schofield equation proposed by the Chinese Nutrition Society was significantly higher (p <0.001) than the
measured BEE (1130±110 kcal/d), by 9% or so. Conclusion: Current recommended energy intake for young
adult women may need to be revised on the basis of measured TEE and BEE.
Asia Pac J Clin Nutr. 2010;19(4):520-525.doi:
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Evidence for under-nutrition in adolescent females using routine dieting practices
Author:Jade Guest MPH, Ayse Bilgin PhD, Robyn PearcePhD,
Keywords:adolescent, nutrition, dietfads, BMI, alkaline phosphatase
Abstract:In Western countries the increasing prevalence of obesity in young people is a major public health concern.
While the focus has been on reducing obesity, paradoxically the success of these campaigns may result in unhealthy
nutritional practices. The aim of this study was to investigate the use and impact of weight control techniques on
the health of adolescent females. Using Analysis of Variance we compared physiological and biochemical markers
of health against responses to a modified, Schools Physical Activity and Nutrition Survey (SPANS) in 482 adolescent females (14-17 yrs) from secondary schools in the northern Sydney and Central Coast regions of New
South Wales, Australia. Participants who ‘often’used weight control methods had,on average, a healthy BMI of
22.5 (SD=3.7). However, comparison of blood derived markers between participants who ‘never’, ‘occasionally’
or ‘often’used weight reduction techniques showed that, those who ‘often’ used weight control methods had significantly lower haemoglobin (p<0.05), alkaline phosphatase (p<0.001), bilirubin (p<0.05), albumin (p<0.05),
total protein (p<0.05), and calcium (p<0.05), but higher blood levels of creatinine (p<0.05) and potassium
(p<0.05). These data suggest that the use of common weight control techniques by healthy weight adolescent
females can produce a metabolically divergent group whose biochemical markers are consistent with subtle levels
of chronic under-nutrition.
Asia Pac J Clin Nutr. 2010;19(4):526-533.doi:
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Relationship between changes of bone mineral density over seven years and A1330V polymorphism of the lowdensity lipoprotein receptor-related protein 5 gene or lifestyle factors in Japanese female workers
Author:Yayoi Funakoshi MA, Hisamitsu Omori PhD, Hironori
Keywords:bone mineral density, genetic polymorphism, Japan, lifestyle, low-density lipoprotein receptorrelated protein 5 gene
Abstract:A longitudinal study was conducted to investigate the relation between the changes of bone mineral density
(BMD) over a seven-year period and A1330V polymorphism of the low-density lipoprotein receptor-related
protein 5 (LRP5) gene or lifestyle factors. The subjects were113 premenopausal femaleemployees from a largescale integrated manufacturing facility in Japan aged 25.6±4.2 years (mean ±standard deviation) at baseline.
BMD was measured at the radius by dual energy X-ray absorptiometry. Lifestyle information was obtained by a
questionnaire. The genotype frequencies of LRP5gene polymorphism were 52%, 39%, and 9% for AA,AV, and
VV, respectively. After seven years, BMD showed a significant decrease (from 0.463±0.045 to 0.456±0.046 g/m
2
)
in subjects with the AV or VV genotypes, but not in subjects with the AA genotype. Analysis of covariance with
adjustment for age and body mass index showed that subjects who drank alcoholdisplayed a significantly
greater change of BMD if they had the AV orVV genotype than if they had the AA genotype (F=4.547, p=0.036).
Investigation of LRP5 A1330V polymorphism may be useful for identifying individuals who are susceptible to
osteoporosis, allowing early preventive measures to be provided.
Asia Pac J Clin Nutr. 2010;19(4):534-539.doi:
>>Abstract
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Intake of isoflavone and lignan phytoestrogens and associated demographic and lifestyle factors in older Australian women
Author:Katherine L Hanna PhD, Sheila O’Neill FRACGP, Phil
Keywords:phytoestrogens, isoflavones, lignans, life style, socio-demographic
Abstract:The purpose was to determine intake of phytoestrogens ina sample of older Australian women, and to investigate associated lifestyle factors. Subjects were an age-stratified sample of 511 women aged 40-80 y, randomly
selected from the electoral roll and participating in the Longitudinal Assessment of Ageing in Women at the
Royal Brisbane and Women’s Hospital. A cross-sectional study was conducted to assess isoflavone and lignan
intake over the past month from food and supplements using a 112-item phytoestrogen frequency questionnaire.
Data were also collected on nutrient intakes, physical activity, smoking, alcohol, non-prescription supplements,
hormone therapy, education and occupation. Logistic regression was used to evaluate associations between
demographic and lifestyle variables and soy/linseed consumption while controlling for age. Isoflavone intakes
were significantly higher in the younger compared to older age groups (p<0.001); there were no age-related differences in lignan intake. Forty-five percent of women consumed at least one serve of a soy and/or linseed item
and were defined as a soy/linseed consumer. Median (range) intakes by consumers for isoflavones and lignans
(3.9 (0-172) mg/d and 2.4 (0.1-33) mg/d) were higher than intakes by non-consumers (0.004 (0-2.6) mg/d and
1.57 (0.44-4.7) mg/d), respectively (p<0.001). Consumers had higher intakes of dietary fibre (p=0.003), energy
(p=0.04) and polyunsaturated fat (p=0.004), and higher levels of physical activity (p=0.006), socio-economic position (p<0.001), education (p<0.001) and supplement use (p<0.001). Women who consumed soy or linseed
foods differed in lifestyle and demographic characteristicssuggesting these factors should be considered when
investigating associations with chronic disease outcomes.
Asia Pac J Clin Nutr. 2010;19(4):540-549.doi:
>>Abstract
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Consumer awareness and self-reported behaviours related to salt consumption in Australia
Author:Jacqueline L Webster MA, Nicole Li PhD, Elizabeth
Keywords:salt, sodium, consumer, behaviour, public health
Abstract:Australians are eating far more salt than is good for health. In May 2007, the Australian Division of World Action on Salt and Health (AWASH) launched a campaign to reduce population salt intake. A consumer survey
was commissioned to quantify baseline aspects of awareness and behaviour related to salt and health amongst
Australians. A total of 1084 individuals aged 14 years orover were surveyed by ACA Research using an established consumer panel. Participants were selected to include people of each sex, within different age bands, from
major metropolitan and other areas of all Australian states and territories. Participants were invited via email to
complete a brief questionnaire online. Two-thirds knew that salt was bad for health but only 14% knew the recommended maximum daily intake. Seventy percent correctly identified that most dietary salt comes from processed foods but only a quarter regularly checked food labelsfor salt content. Even fewer reported their food purchases were influenced by the salt level indicated (21%). The survey showed a moderate understanding of how
salt effects health but there was little evidence of action to reduce salt intake. Consumer education will be one
part of the effort necessary to reduce salt intake in Australia and will require government investment in a targeted campaign to achieve improvements in knowledge and behaviours.
Asia Pac J Clin Nutr. 2010;19(4):550-554.doi:
>>Abstract
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Nutritional adequacy of four dietary patterns defined by cluster analysis in Japanese women aged 18-20 years
Author:Hitomi Okubo MS, Satoshi Sasaki PhD, Kentaro Murak
Keywords:dietary patterns, cluster analysis, dietary reference intakes, nutritional adequacy, Japanese young women
Abstract:Information on nutritional adequacy and inadequacy of dietary patterns is useful when making practical dietary
recommendations. We examined nutritional inadequacy ofdietary patterns among 3756 Japanese female dietetic
students aged 18-20 years. Diet was assessed with a validated self-administered diet history questionnaire (DHQ).
Dietary patterns were determined from intakes of 33 food groups summarized from 147 foods assessed with
DHQ, by cluster analysis. Nutritional inadequacy for the selected 21 nutrientsin each dietary pattern was examined using the reference values given in the Dietary Reference Intakes for the Japanese(DRIs) as the gold standard. Four dietary patterns identified were labeled ‘fish and vegetables’ (n=697), ‘meat and eggs’ (n=1008),
‘rice’ (n=1041), and ‘bread and confectionaries’ (n=1010) patterns. The ‘fish and vegetables’ pattern, characterized by high intakes of vegetables, potatoes, pulses, fruits, fish, and dairy products, showed significantly the
lowest percentage of subjects with inadequate intakes for 15 nutrients, except for the highest prevalence in sodium.
In contrast, ‘bread and confectionaries’ pattern, characterized by high intakes of bread, confectionaries, and soft
drinks, showed the highest prevalence of inadequate intakes for nine nutrients. The median number of nutrients
not meeting the DRIs as a marker of overall nutritional inadequacy was five in ‘fish and vegetables’ pattern. It
was significantly lower than nine both in 'meat and eggs' and ‘rice’, and 10 in ‘bread and confectionaries’ patterns
(p<0.001). A dietary pattern high in vegetables, fruits, fish, and some others showed better profile of nutritional
adequacy except for sodium in young Japanese women.
Asia Pac J Clin Nutr. 2010;19(4):555-563.doi:
>>Abstract
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Prospective cohort study evaluating the relationship between salted food intake and gastrointestinal tract cancer mortality in Japan
Author:Atsuhiko Murata MD, Yoshihisa Fujino PhD, Truong-M
Keywords:prospective cohort study, gastrointestinal tract cancer, diet, mortality, salted food
Abstract:Purpose: To investigate whether a high salted food intake increases the risk of gastrointestinal tract cancer mortality. Methods: We conducted a prospective study of 6830 Japanese inhabitants to evaluate the association between salted food consumption and the risk of gastrointestinal tract cancer mortality. Data were obtained from a
prospective cohort study in Japan. Salted food consumption, determined from a baseline questionnaire, was classified into the two categories of ‘low intake’ and ‘high intake’. The Cox proportional hazards model was used to
estimate hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CI). Findings: Total of 174 gastrointestinal tract
cancer deaths (47 esophagus cancer, 87 stomach cancer, 23 colon cancer and 17 rectal cancer) were observed
during 94996 person-years of follow-up, with a mean follow-up period of 8.9 years. After adjustment for age,
body mass index, physical activity, smoking, alcohol, history of diabetes mellitus and dietary items, including
vegetables, fruit, tea, red meat and processed meat, the HR for stomach cancer in males with high salt intake was
2.05 (95% CI:1.25 - 3.38) whereas that of rectal cancer was 3.58 (95% CI: 1.08 - 11.89). In contrast, no association was seen in females. Further, no association was seen between higher salted food consumption and esophagus and colon cancer in either sex. Conclusions: A significant association was seen between higher salted food
consumption and stomach and rectal cancer mortality in men, but not in women. No association was seen between higher consumption and esophagus and colon cancer mortality in either men or women.
Asia Pac J Clin Nutr. 2010;19(4):564-571.doi:
>>Abstract
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Dietary intake of six minerals in relation to the risk of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease
Author:Fumi Hirayama PhD, Andy H Lee PhD, Asae Oura PhD,
Keywords:calcium, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, iron, lung function, minerals
Abstract:To investigate the relationship between dietary intake of minerals and the risk of chronic obstructive pulmonary
disease (COPD), a case-control study was conducted in central Japan. A total of 278 referred patients (244 men
and 34 women) aged 50-75 years with COPD diagnosed within the past four years and 340 community-based
controls undertook spirometric measurements of lung function. A structured questionnaire was administered
face-to-face to obtain information on demographics and habitual food consumption. Dietary intakes of six major
minerals were derived from the Japanese food composition tables. The COPD patients had lower habitual energy-adjusted intakes of calcium, phosphorus and iron thancontrols, but not sodium. A significant reduction in
prevalence of COPD was observed for calcium, with adjusted odds ratio 0.65 (95% confidence interval: 0.37-
0.98) for the highest level versus lowest level of intake. A high iron intake was also inversely associated with the
COPD risk. In conclusion, an inverse association was evident between dietary calcium intake and the risk of
COPD for Japanese adults.
Asia Pac J Clin Nutr. 2010;19(4):572-577.doi:
>>Abstract
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Iodine deficiency status and iodised salt consumption in Malaysia: findings from a national iodine deficiency disorders survey
Author:Rusidah Selamat MSc, Wan Nazaimoon Wan Mohamud PhD
Keywords:iodine deficiency, urinary iodine, iodised salt, school children, Malaysia
Abstract:A nationwide cross-sectional school-based survey was undertaken among children aged 8-10 years old to determine the current iodine deficiency status in the country. Determination of urinary iodine (UI) and palpation of
the thyroid gland were carried out among 18,012 and 18,078 children respectively while iodine test of the salt
samples was done using Rapid Test Kits and the iodometric method. The results showed that based on WHO/
ICCIDD/UNICEF criteria, the national median UI was 109 µg/L [25
th
, 75
th
percentile (67, 166)] showing borderline adequacy. The overall national prevalence of iodine deficiency disorders (IDD) with UI<100 µg/L was
48.2% (95% CI: 46.0, 50.4), higher among children residing in rural areas than in urban areas. The highest prevalence of UI<100 µg/L was noted among the aborigines [(81.4% (95% CI: 75.1, 86.4)]. The national total goitre rate (grade 1 and grade 2 goitre) was 2.1%. Of 17,888 salt samples brought by the school children, 28.2%
(95% CI: 26.4, 30.2) were found to have iodine content. However, the overall proportion of the households in
Malaysia using adequately iodised salt as recommended by Malaysian Food Act 1983 of 20-30 ppm was only
6.8% (95% CI: 5.1, 9.0). In conclusion, although a goitre endemic was not present in Malaysia, almost half of
the states in Peninsular Malaysia still have large proportion of UI level <100 µg/L and warrant immediate action.
The findings of this survey suggest that there is a needfor review on the current approach of the national IDD
prevention and control programme.
Asia Pac J Clin Nutr. 2010;19(4):578-585.doi:
>>Abstract
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Comparison of anthropometric indices of obesity in predicting subsequent risk of hyperglycemia among Chinese men and women in Mainland China
Author:Fei Xu PhD, You Fa Wang PhD, LinGeng Lu PhD, YaQio
Keywords:body mass index, waist circumference, waist-to-hip ratio, waist-to-height ratio, hyperglycemia
Abstract:Background: Obesity is a strong risk factor for hyperglycemia. However, the performance of waist-to-height ratio (WHtR), waist-to-hip ratio (WHR), waist circumference (WC) and body mass index (BMI) in predicting hyperglycemia was inconclusive; and ethnic differences may exist in the associations. Objective: The objective was
to compare WHtR, WC, WHR and BMI in predicting hyperglycemia among Chinese adults and identify optimal
cut-off points. Design: A community-based prospective cohort study was conducted during 2004-2007 in Nanjing China. WHtR, WC, WHR, BMI, fasting capillary blood glucose, covariates and potential confounders were
assessed at baseline and third year of follow-up. Results: The overall cumulative incidence of hyperglycemia
was 8.6% (8.0% in men, 9.0% in women). Relative risks across quartiles of WHtR, WHR, WC and BMI were
1.00, 1.33, 1.67, 3.40; 1.00, 2.38, 2.53, 3.87; 1.00, 1.29, 1.75, 2.90; and 1.00, 1.45, 1.49, 2.41 in men, and 1.00,
1.24, 1.99, 2.87; 1.00, 1.14, 2.28, 2.66;1.00, 1.32, 1.80, 3.14; and 1.00, 1.39, 1.50, 2.08 in women, respectively.
pfor trend was <0.01 for each marker and gender. Adjustment for potential confounders did not change such
dose-response relationships materially. ROC analysis indicated that WHtR had the best sum of sensitivity and
specificity compared to the other measures .Optimal cut-offs for WHtR, WHR, WC and BMI were 0.51, 0.92, 85
and 24 for men, while 0.55, 0.86, 82 and 25 for women,respectively. Conclusion: WHtR, WHR, WC and BMI
were positively associated with subsequent hyperglycemia. WHtR and WC best predicted hyperglycemia among
Chinese adults.
Asia Pac J Clin Nutr. 2010;19(4):586-593.doi:
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Evaluation of partial body composition using bioelectrical impedance in Japanese children
Author:Toshihide Kubo PhD, Kaoru Suzuki NT, Yukari Mimura
Keywords:bioelectrical impedance, partial body composition, fat, muscle, children
Abstract:To clarify the growth pattern of body composition by body part for the management of childhood obesity, we
measured body fat and muscle using BIA (bioelectrical impedance analysis) in 685 Japanese elementary schoolchildren (aged 6-11 years). The growth patterns of percentage body fat (%BF), fat mass (FM), and muscle mass
(MM) were examined throughout the whole body and in various body parts. The %BF of the whole body was
greater in females than in males, and this difference widened with age. The %BF, FM, and MM in each body
part showed similar growth patternsand gender differences to those of the whole body. The mean %BF of the
left limbs was higher than that of the right limbs at all age groups. BMI was strongly correlated with %BF in
both sexes. In conclusion, the compositions of all body parts change similarly with age, and gender differences
are also similar in childhood. The effect of one's dominant arm on body composition is seen at a young age. The
accumulation of body composition data according to body part is indispensable for understanding childhood
body composition and managing obesity.
Asia Pac J Clin Nutr. 2010;19(4):594-601.doi:
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