The Nutritional Impact of Dairy Product Consumption on Dietary Intakes of Adults (1995–1996): The Bogalusa Heart Study

Dairy Consumption at Breakfast among Southeast Asian Children: Associations with Nutrient Intake from the South East Asian Nutrition Surveys II (SEANUTS II)

BACKGROUND

Children's rapid growth requires adequate nutrient intake, with breakfast, especially when incorporating dairy, playing an important role. This study examined associations between dairy consumption at breakfast and energy and nutrient intake among children in Southeast Asia.

METHODS

Utilizing the cross-sectional South East Asian Nutrition Surveys II dataset, using a 24 h dietary recall and questionnaires distributed among 10,286 children aged 2 to 12 years from Malaysia, Thailand, Indonesia, and Vietnam, we investigated the impact of dairy consumption at breakfast on nutrient intake and examined associations between breakfast consumption and the prevalence of stunting and overweight/obesity among 10,135 children.

RESULTS

Although most of the children consumed breakfast, only 37%, 27%, 16%, and 18% in Malaysia, Thailand, Indonesia, and Vietnam, respectively, included dairy in this meal, with younger children being significantly more likely to consume dairy at breakfast (p < 0.001). Dairy consumers had significantly higher intakes of vitamins A, B12, and D and calcium both at breakfast and throughout the day (p < 0.001). Breakfast skippers had a 29% increased risk of being overweight/obese.

CONCLUSIONS

Dairy consumption at breakfast was associated with enhanced nutrient intake and overall diet quality among Southeast Asian children. The association between breakfast habits and anthropometric outcomes highlights the need to address nutritional deficiencies and promote healthy growth and development.

Association between Intake of Total Dairy and Individual Dairy Foods and Markers of Folate, Vitamin B6 and Vitamin B12 Status in the U.S. Population

Vitamin B6, B12 and folate are required for energy metabolism and have been identified as nutrients of concern for certain population groups. This study examined the cross-sectional association between the consumption of dairy (total dairy, milk, yogurt and cheese) and biomarkers and adequacy for these nutrients in a nationally representative sample. Twenty-four-hour dietary recall data and concentrations of RBC folate (ng/mL), serum folate (ng/mL), and serum vitamins B6 (nmol/L) and B12 (pg/mL) were obtained from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey 2001−2018 (n = 72,831) and were analyzed by linear and logistic regression after adjusting for demographic variables. Significance was set at p < 0.01. Mean intakes of total dairy were 2.21, 2.17, 1.83 and 1.51 cups eq among consumers aged 2−8, 9−18, 19−50 and 51+ years, respectively. Higher intakes of total dairy as well as individual dairy foods (especially milk and yogurt) were positively associated with serum and RBC folate, serum vitamin B6 and serum B12, and generally, with 9−57% lower risk of inadequate or deficient levels of these vitamins. These findings suggest that encouraging dairy consumption may be an effective strategy for improving micronutrient status and provide continued evidence to support the current dietary recommendations for dairy and dairy products.

The Association between Milk Intake and Nutrient Intake Adequacy among Japanese Female Junior High School Students: A Cross-Sectional Study

The consumption of dairy products, including milk, may be important for improving the overall quality of a diet. The aim of this study was to examine the relationship between milk intake and nutritional adequacy among Japanese female junior high school students. The participants of this study were Japanese female junior high school students aged between 12 and 15 years. Dietary habits over the past month were assessed by a brief self-administered diet history questionnaire. The adequacy of each nutrient intake was determined based on the Dietary Reference Intakes for Japanese 2020, with two goals: the estimated average requirement for fourteen nutrients and tentative dietary goals for preventing lifestyle-related diseases for six nutrients. The participants were classified into five groups according to milk intake (Q1 (lowest) to Q5 (highest)) by quintile. The adequacy of vitamin B₂, calcium, magnesium, and potassium were higher among students with a higher milk consumption than among those with a lower milk consumption. However, the intake of saturated fatty acids was in excess among higher milk consumers. The present study suggests that milk intake was related to an adequate intake of some vitamins and minerals and an inadequate intake of saturated fatty acids among Japanese female junior high school students.

[Role of dairy and alternative plant products in a healthy and sustainable diet]

Dairy products and plant alternatives are two food groups that are part of the Spanish population's diet. Both have a very different nutritional composition - unlike plant products, the high nutritional density of dairy products makes it easier to meet nutrient requirements at different stages of life. Although the environmental impact of dairy production is greater than that of plant-based products, it falls below that of other food groups such as red meat, including pork and beef. Dairy and plant alternatives meet critical points of the sustainable diet definition, and several food guides from countries around the world are including them within healthy and sustainable eating patterns. For this reason, it is necessary to clarify that both products can be part of a healthy and sustainable diet, although they belong to different food groups, which are not interchangeable and should not be used alternatively.

Is milk and dairy intake a preventive factor for elderly cognition (dementia and Alzheimer's)? A quality review of cohort surveys

Milk and dairy (M&D) is a longstanding human food with widespread use. Many studies showed the preventive capacity of M&D in several human health disorders, but its utility in others is under discussion. Aging has been associated to elderly cognitive decline including dementia-Alzheimer syndrome (Dem-AD). The absence of a therapy to impede or postpone Dem-AD determines the need for its prevention, including nutritional factors. To evaluate the preventive capacity of M&D consumption in elderly Dem-AD we performed a systematic review in the main biomedical databases and information resources, but we present this study as a narrative review to discuss better the complexity of this subject. The elderly Dem-AD has a long pre-symptomatic period and the M&D intake has a widespread use. These determinants and the quality flaws of published studies impeach us to answer whether M&D consumption is preventive for Dem-AD. Moreover, two long Japanese cohorts suggest that M&D intake could prevent Dem-AD. Prospective cohorts beginning in midlife (or early life) could answer this question in the future.

Association between dairy product consumption and hyperuricemia in an elderly population with metabolic syndrome

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

The prevalence of hyperuricemia has increased substantially in recent decades. It has been suggested that it is an independent risk factor for weight gain, hypertension, hypertriglyceridemia, metabolic syndrome (MetS), and cardiovascular disease. Results from epidemiological studies conducted in different study populations have suggested that high consumption of dairy products is associated with a lower risk of developing hyperuricemia. However, this association is still unclear. The aim of the present study is to explore the association of the consumption of total dairy products and their subtypes with the risk of hyperuricemia in an elderly Mediterranean population with MetS.

METHODS AND RESULTS

Baseline cross-sectional analyses were conducted on 6329 men/women (mean age 65 years) with overweight/obesity and MetS from the PREDIMED-Plus cohort. Dairy consumption was assessed using a food frequency questionnaire. Multivariable-adjusted Cox regressions were fitted to analyze the association of quartiles of consumption of total dairy products and their subtypes with the prevalence of hyperuricemia. Participants in the upper quartile of the consumption of total dairy products (multiadjusted prevalence ratio (PR) = 0.84; 95% CI: 0.75-0.94; P-trend 0.02), low-fat dairy products (PR = 0.79; 95% CI: 0.70-0.89; P-trend <0.001), total milk (PR = 0.81; 95% CI: 0.73-0.90; P-trend<0.001), low-fat milk (PR = 0.80; 95% CI: 0.72-0.89; P-trend<0.001, respectively), low-fat yogurt (PR = 0.89; 95% CI: 0.80-0.98; P-trend 0.051), and cheese (PR = 0.86; 95% CI: 0.77-0.96; P-trend 0.003) presented a lower prevalence of hyperuricemia. Whole-fat dairy, fermented dairy, and yogurt consumption were not associated with hyperuricemia.

CONCLUSIONS

High consumption of total dairy products, total milk, low-fat dairy products, low-fat milk, low-fat yogurt, and cheese is associated with a lower risk of hyperuricemia.

The Association between Milk and Dairy Products Consumption and Nutrient Intake Adequacy among Japanese Adults: Analysis of the 2016 National Health and Nutrition Survey

Consumption of dairy products in the usual diet may be important for improving the overall quality of dietary intake. This study aimed to assess the difference in nutrient intake adequacy according to the intake of dairy products based on a 1-day weighed dietary record of Japanese adults from the 2016 National Health and Nutrition Survey. Nutritional adequacy was determined based on the Dietary Reference Intakes for Japanese 2015, with 2 goals: Tentative dietary goals (DG) for preventing lifestyle-related diseases, and the estimated average requirement (EAR). According to the dairy products consumption, participants were categorized into three groups (milk, other dairy product, or non-dairy), and the total number of those not meeting DG and EAR was compared. Non-dairy consumers were less likely to meet both DG and EAR compared to dairy consumers. Dairy consumers were more likely to exceed the DG for saturated fat than non-dairy consumers. Japanese adult dairy consumers were more likely to have adequate nutritional intake than non-dairy consumers, especially for calcium. We also observed a higher saturated fat intake in dairy consumers, which might be due to a certain dietary pattern in this group. Further investigation is needed to determine dairy intake and its influence on dietary quality among the Japanese population.

Diets containing the highest levels of dairy products are associated with greater eutrophication potential but higher nutrient intakes and lower financial cost in the United Kingdom

Purpose

Previously, the nutritional contribution, environmental and financial costs of dairy products have been examined independently. Our aim was to determine the nutritional adequacy, financial cost and environmental impact of UK diets according to dairy content.

Methods

In this cross-sectional study of adults (19–64 years) from the UK National Diet and Nutrition Survey years 1–4 (n = 1655), dietary intakes assessed from 4-day estimated food diaries were organized into quartiles (Q) total grams of dairy (milk, cheese, yogurt, dairy desserts) and analyzed using ANCOVA controlling for age, sex and energy intake with Bonferroni post hoc test for nutritional adequacy, Alternative Healthy Eating Index (AHEI-2010), environmental impact [greenhouse gas emissions (GHGE), eutrophication and acidification potentials], financial cost, markers of health and cardio-metabolic diseases.

Results

Nutritional adequacy, particularly for protein, calcium and iodine (+ 18 g, + 533 mg, + 95 g, respectively, all P < 0.0001) and AHEI-2010 (P < 0.0001) were significantly higher and systolic BP (− 2 mmHg, P = 0.019) was significantly lower for the higher-dairy diets (Q4, 274–1429 g/day dairy), compared with diets containing lower dairy (Q1, 0–96 g/day dairy). Diets in Q4 had lower financial cost (− 19%, P < 0.0001) and the greatest eutrophication potential, compared with Q1 (+ 29%, P < 0.0001). Yet the environmental (GHGE) and financial costs per unit nutrient (riboflavin, zinc, iodine, magnesium, calcium, potassium) were lower in Q4 than Q1 (all P < 0.0001).

Conclusion

Diets with the highest dairy content had higher nutrient composition, better diet quality, were associated with lower BP and financial cost, but with higher eutrophication potential. Robust environmental data for many of food groups are limited and this needs an urgent addressing.

Trial registration

This trial was registered on clinicaltrials.gov as NCT03407248.

Electronic supplementary material

The online version of this article (10.1007/s00394-019-01949-y) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.

Dental Infection and Resistance-Global Health Consequences

Antibiotics are widely used in dental caries and another dental related issues, both for therapeutic and prophylactic reasons. Unfortunately, in recent years the use of antibiotics has been accompanied by the rapid emergence antimicrobial resistance. Dental caries and periodontal diseases are historically known as the top oral health burden in both developing and developed nations affecting around 20⁻50% of the population of this planet and the uppermost reason for tooth loss. Dental surgeons and family practitioners frequently prescribed antimicrobials for their patients as outpatient care. Several studies reported that antibiotics are often irrationally- and overprescribed in dental diseases which is the basis of antimicrobial resistance. The aim of this review is to evaluate the use of antibiotics in dental diseases. Almost certainly the promotion of primary oral health care (POHC) in primary health care program especially among the least and middle-income countries (LMIC) may be the answer to ensure and promote rational dental care.

Both low- and regular-fat cheeses mediate improved insulin sensitivity and modulate serum phospholipid profiles in insulin-resistant rats

Dietary recommendations for cheese usually promote low (LOW)- over regular (REG)-fat versions due to the saturated fat. Conversely, epidemiological evidence shows that cheese consumption associates with reduced risk of type 2 diabetes. To investigate how cheese influences diabetes-related outcomes, a feeding trial comparing LOW and REG cheese was conducted in high-fat, lard-based diet (HFD)-fed insulin-resistant rats followed by evaluation of potential mechanisms. After 4 weeks of HFD, LOW or REG was added at 7 and 10 g/100 g diet, respectively, for another 8 weeks. Following either an oral glucose or insulin tolerance test to assess glucoregulation, rats were euthanized and serum was collected for metabolomic and lipid analyses. Hepatic tissue was used to measure glucoregulatory enzymes and lipid content. Both LOW and REG improved insulin sensitivity without effect on oral glucose tolerance, insulin secretion or body weight. Serum metabolomics identified 33 metabolites of interest, with 21 being phosphatidylcholines (PCs) or lysophosphatidylcholines (LPCs). HFD rats had significantly reduced LPC C16:1, C17:0, C18:1, C20:3 and C24:0, and these effects were normalized by LOW or REG cheese. Fourteen PC species were lowest in the HFD group and normalized by cheese feeding. Serum choline was elevated sevenfold in HFD- but not cheese-fed rats compared with rats fed low-fat diet. Liver triglyceride was elevated by LOW feeding. In conclusion, inclusion of both LOW and REG cheeses in the diet of insulin-resistant rats improves in vivo glucoregulation. This is associated with altered phospholipid metabolism, including cheese-mediated normalization of species that are decreased by high-fat feeding.

Fermented dairy products, diet quality, and cardio-metabolic profile of a Mediterranean cohort at high cardiovascular risk

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Fermented dairy products have been associated with a better diet quality and cardio-metabolic profile. However, in Mediterranean populations, these associations have not been well characterized. The aim of this study was to assess the diet quality and the associations between the consumption of total fermented dairy products and their subtypes and the prevalence of Metabolic Syndrome (MetS) components in a Mediterranean population at high cardiovascular risk.

METHODS AND RESULTS

Baseline cross-sectional analyses were conducted on 6,572 men and women (mean age: 65 years) with overweight or obesity and MetS recruited into the PREDIMED-Plus cohort. A 143-item Food Frequency Questionnaire (FFQ) was used, and anthropometrical, biochemical, and blood pressure measurements were recorded. Multivariate-adjusted Cox regressions were fitted to analyze the association between quartiles of consumption of fermented dairy products and their subtypes and MetS components to estimate the relative risk (RR) and 95% confidence intervals (95% CIs). Participants who were high consumers of fermented dairy products reported a higher consumption of fruit, vegetables, fish, nuts, and whole bread and a lower consumption of white bread, alcohol, and cookies. Participants in the higher quartile showed a lower prevalence of the low HDL-cholesterol component of the MetS (RR=0.88; 95% CI: 0.78-0.98) than those in the lowest quartile of cheese consumption. Cheese consumption was inversely associated with the prevalence of hypertriglyceridemia. Total fermented dairy products, yogurt, and its types were not associated with any of the MetS components.

CONCLUSIONS

Compared to nonconsumers, participants consuming fermented dairy products reported a better diet quality and, particularly, cheese consumers presented a lower prevalence of hypertriglyceridemia and low HDL-cholesterol plasma levels, which are MetS components.

Yogurt consumption is associated with higher nutrient intake, diet quality and favourable metabolic profile in children: a cross-sectional analysis using data from years 1-4 of the National diet and Nutrition Survey, UK

PURPOSE

Yogurt consumption has been associated with higher nutrient intakes, better diet quality and improved metabolic profiles in adults. Few studies have investigated these associations in children. This study investigated the association of yogurt consumption with nutrient intakes, diet quality and metabolic profile in British children.

METHODS

Data from  1687 children aged 4-10 and 11-18 years of the National Diet and Nutrition Survey (NDNS) years 1-4 were analysed. Yogurt consumption was determined using a 4-day diet diary. Diet quality was assessed by the Healthy Eating Index 2010 (HEI-2010). Anthropometric measures, blood pressure, pulse pressure, plasma glucose, HbA1c, C-reactive protein, triacylglycerol, total cholesterol, high-and low-density cholesterol from NDNS were used.

RESULTS

The highest tertile of yogurt consumption (T3) was associated with higher nutrient intakes, particularly for calcium (children 4-10 years: P < 0.0001; children 11-18 years P = 0.001), iodine (both age groups P < 0.0001) and riboflavin (both age groups P < 0.0001), and HEI-2010 score (both age groups P < 0.0001) in children aged 4-10 years (mean ± SD: 98.4 ± 35.7 g yogurt/day) and 11-18 years (mean ± SD: 105.4 ± 37.5 g yogurt/day) compared with non-consumers (0 g yogurt/d). Yogurt consumption was associated with significantly lower pulse pressure in children aged 4-10 years and lower HbA1c concentration, being shorter and having a larger hip circumference in children aged 11-18 years, compared with non-yogurt consumers.

CONCLUSION

This study suggests that British children who are yogurt consumers (> 60 g/day) have higher overall diet quality, nutrient intakes and adequacy, lower pulse pressure (children aged 4-10 years) and HbA1c concentrations (children aged 11-18 years), were shorter and had a smaller hip circumference (children aged 11-18 years).

Racial Variations in the Markers of Mineral Bone Disorders in CKD Patients in South Africa

Introduction

Several studies showed that serum intact parathyroid hormone (PTH), phosphate, and vitamin D levels differ across races. These comparative studies were largely carried out between Caucasians and black Americans. However, little is known of the existence of these associations in an African population with chronic kidney disease (CKD).

Methods

This cross-sectional multicenter study involved 293 CKD patients from 3 renal units in Johannesburg, South Africa.

Results

The 293 CKD patients (208 blacks, 85 whites) had an overall mean age of 51.1 ± 13.6 years, and black patients were significantly younger than the white patients (48.4 ± 13.6 years vs. 57.1 ± 15.5 years; P < 0.001). Compared with whites, blacks had higher median intact PTH (498 [range: 37–1084] pg/ml vs. 274 [range: 131–595] pg/ml; P = 0.03), alkaline phosphatase (122 [range: 89–192] U/L vs. 103 [range: 74–144] U/L; p = 0.03), and mean 25 OH vitamin D₃ (26.8 ± 12.7 ng/ml vs. 22.7 ± 12.2 ng/ml, P = 0.01) levels, whereas their median fibroblast growth factor (FGF) level was 23 (100 [range: 34–639] pg/ml vs. 233 [range: 80–1370] pg/ml; P = 0.002), and their mean serum phosphate (1.3 ± 0.5 vs. 1.5 ± 0.5; P = 0.001) levels were significantly lower. In multivariable analyses, black race was independently associated with increased log PTH (β = 0.488, P = 0.01) and decreased log FGF-23 (β = −0.636, P = 0.02). Similarly, blacks had a 3.08 times higher likelihood (95% confidence interval: 1.51–6.30; P = 0.002) of developing severe hyperparathyroidism than whites.

Conclusion

This study highlighted the existence of racial differences in the circulating markers of mineral bone disorders in an African CKD population.

Dairy intake in relation to breast and pubertal development in Chilean girls

Background: Frequent dairy consumption in childhood has been related to higher growth-hormone concentrations that may affect mammary gland and pubertal development.Objective: We evaluated the relation of dairy intake to breast composition at Tanner stage 4 and age at menarche.Design: A total of 515 Chilean girls are included in the Growth and Obesity Cohort Study. The subjects have been followed longitudinally since they were 3-4 y old (from 2006 to the present). Starting in 2013, diet was assessed every 6 mo via a 24-h recall. The breast fibroglandular volume (FGV) was measured with the use of dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry at Tanner stage 4. The date of menarche was reported every 6 mo. Our analysis included 290 girls with data on prospective diet and breast composition and 324 girls with data on prospective diet and age at menarche.Results: The mean ± SD breast FGV and percentage of fibroglandular volume (%FGV) (i.e., FGV divided by total breast volume times 100) at Tanner stage 4 was 81.7 ± 32.2 cm³ and 42.0% ± 16.7%, respectively. Only sweetened, artificially flavored milk-based drinks were associated with the %FGV with girls who consumed >125 g/d having a %FGV that was 4.5% (95% CI: 0.9%, 8.1%) higher than that of girls who consumed none (P-trend = 0.007). Yogurt intake was associated with a lower FGV. Specifically, girls who consumed >125 g yogurt/d had -10.2 cm³ (95% CI: -20.2, -0.3 cm³) less FGV than did girls who consumed no yogurt (P-trend = 0.03). The majority (90.7%) of girls in our cohort attained menarche before the data analyses with a mean ± SD age at menarche of 11.9 ± 0.7 y. In multivariable models, low-fat dairy, low-fat milk, and yogurt intakes were associated with a later age at menarche. In particular, girls who consumed >125 g yogurt/d had menarche, on average, 4.6 mo (95% CI: 1.9, 7.4 mo) later than girls who consumed no yogurt (P-trend = 0.01).Conclusion: More-frequent consumption of sweetened, artificially-flavored milk-based drinks is associated with a higher %FGV, whereas higher yogurt intake is associated with a lower FGV and delayed age at menarche in Chilean girls.

Yogurt, diet quality and lifestyle factors

Yogurt consumption has been associated with healthy dietary patterns and lifestyles, better diet quality and healthier metabolic profiles. Studies have shown that frequent yogurt consumers do not only have higher nutrient intakes, but also an improved diet quality, which includes higher consumption of fruits and vegetables, whole grains, and dairy compared with low or non-consumers indicating better compliance with dietary guidelines. Recent epidemiological and clinical evidence suggests that yogurt contributes to better metabolic health because of its effects on the control of body weight, energy homeostasis and glycemic control. Furthermore, yogurt consumers have been shown to be more physically active (⩾ 2 h/week), smoke less, have higher education and knowledge of nutrition compared with non-consumers. Thus, yogurt consumption may be considered a signature of a healthy diet through its nutritional content, impact on metabolic health including the control of energy balance, body weight and glycemia and its relationships with healthier behaviors and lifestyle factors.

How sound is the science behind the dietary recommendations for dairy?

This review examined the evidence behind dietary guidelines for dairy. Most countries recommend consumption of dairy products; and when amounts are specified, recommendations are typically for 2 or 3 servings per day. Specific recommendations for dairy products are based partly on culture and availability but primarily on meeting nutrient requirements. Dairy products are a rich source of many minerals and vitamins as well as high-quality protein. Thus, dairy consumption is a marker for diet quality. A recent report found that yogurt specifically is a good marker of diet quality. The food patterns recommended by the 2010 Dietary Guidelines for Americans Advisory Committee (DGAC) include 3 cups of low-fat milk and milk products. Few people achieve their recommended intakes of several shortfall nutrients without meeting their recommendations for dairy. The evidence for a benefit of dairy consumption is moderate for bone health in children but limited in adults and moderate for cardiovascular disease, blood pressure, and diabetes and limited for metabolic syndrome. Newer data since the recommendations of the 2010 DGAC are presented. However, the strength of the evidence for dairy consumption and health is limited by the lack of appropriately powered randomized controlled trials.

The nutritional role of flavored and white milk in the diets of children

BACKGROUND

Some schools are removing flavored milk from lunchrooms based on the perception that consumption has a negative impact on the overall dietary quality. The goal of this study was to assess the contribution of flavored and white milk in the diets of children.

METHODS

Intake data from children 2 to 18 years (N = 7332) participating in the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) 2003-2006 were obtained from in-person 24-hour dietary recalls. Mean ± standard error of energy and nutrients were determined.

RESULTS

Flavored and white milk contributed, respectively, 2-6% of total energy consumed, 3-12% of saturated fats, 1-3% of sodium, and 4-0% of added sugars. The percent contribution of white milk to intakes of vitamin A (21%), vitamin D (54%), calcium (29%), potassium (17%), magnesium (12%), and phosphorus (19%) exceeded 10% of total intake. Consumption of flavored milk contributed a smaller percentage to total intake. For total dairy consumed the percent contribution to intake of vitamins A and D, calcium, potassium, magnesium, and phosphorus ranged from 19% to 68%.

CONCLUSIONS

Milk has an important nutritional role in the diets of children. More research is needed to understand the barriers to consuming milk and potential unintended nutrition consequences of removing flavored milk from the lunchrooms.

Plant and animal protein intakes are differently associated with nutrient adequacy of the diet of French adults

The sustainability of dietary plant and animal protein consumption is an important issue, but few data are available to ascertain the health-related impact of animal and plant protein intake. The objective was to study the relationships between animal and plant protein intake and diet quality, as reflected by an integrated index of nutrient adequacy. Using data on 1912 adults from the French Individual and National Consumption Survey 2 (2006-2007), we assessed diet quality by using the PANDiet, a unique score combining 35 probabilities of having an adequate nutrient intake, and used multiple regression analysis to study the relationship with intakes of plant, animal, and related food source proteins. After adjustments for intakes of energy, alcohol, and protein from other sources and sociodemographic factors, plant protein intake was positively associated with the PANDiet, irrespective of sex (β = 0.50, P < 0.0001). By contrast, total and animal protein intakes were differently associated with the PANDiet according to sex, with a positive association in women (β = 0.07 and β = 0.08, respectively; P < 0.01) and an inverse association in men (β = -0.07 and β = -0.05, respectively; P < 0.01). The relationships between the PANDiet and intakes of protein from animal food sources varied: for instance, associations were inverse for red meat and poultry in men but not in women, whereas irrespective of sex, they were positive for fish, milk, and yogurt and inverse for processed meat, cheese, and eggs. These findings show that plant protein is a robust marker of a healthy diet, whereas total animal protein includes different subtypes of animal protein that largely vary in their relationship with diet quality. These data could help refine protein recommendations from a qualitative and dietary standpoint.

Yogurt consumption is associated with better diet quality and metabolic profile in American men and women

The evidence-based Dietary Guidelines for Americans recommends increasing the intake of fat-free or low-fat milk and milk products. However, yogurt, a nutrient-dense milk product, has been understudied. This cross-sectional study examined whether yogurt consumption was associated with better diet quality and metabolic profile among adults (n = 6526) participating in the Framingham Heart Study Offspring (1998-2001) and Third Generation (2002-2005) cohorts. A validated food frequency questionnaire was used to assess dietary intake, and the Dietary Guidelines Adherence Index (DGAI) was used to measure overall diet quality. Standardized clinical examinations and laboratory tests were conducted. Generalized estimating equations examined the associations of yogurt consumption with diet quality and levels of metabolic factors. Approximately 64% of women (vs 41% of men) were yogurt consumers (ie, consumed >0 servings/week). Yogurt consumers had a higher DGAI score (ie, better diet quality) than nonconsumers. Adjusted for demographic and lifestyle factors and DGAI, yogurt consumers, compared with nonconsumers, had higher potassium intakes (difference, 0.12 g/d) and were 47%, 55%, 48%, 38%, and 34% less likely to have inadequate intakes (based on Dietary Reference Intake) of vitamins B2 and B12, calcium, magnesium, and zinc, respectively (all P ≤ .001). In addition, yogurt consumption was associated with lower levels of circulating triglycerides, glucose, and lower systolic blood pressure and insulin resistance (all P < .05). Yogurt is a good source of several micronutrients and may help to improve diet quality and maintain metabolic well-being as part of a healthy, energy-balanced dietary pattern.

Dairy intake and related self-regulation improved in college students using online nutrition education

BACKGROUND

Dairy intake by college students is markedly lower than recommendations. Interventions to improve dairy intake based on Social Cognitive Theory (SCT) have potential to successfully change behavior by improving mediators that influence dietary choices.

OBJECTIVE

We aimed to use SCT to improve social support, self-efficacy, outcome expectations, self-regulation, and behavior related to dairy intake in college students.

DESIGN

We conducted a randomized nutrition education intervention.

PARTICIPANTS/SETTING

Participants included 211 college students (mean age 20.2 ± 0.1 years; 63% women and 37% men) recruited from a university campus. Participants in the intervention group (n=107) and comparison group (n=104) received an 8-week dairy intake or stress management intervention, respectively, via electronic mail. Data collection included dairy intake from 7-day food records and SCT variables from questionnaires administered during January 2008 and April 2008.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Changes in dairy intake and SCT variables (ie, social support, self-efficacy, outcome expectations, and self-regulation).

STATISTICAL ANALYSES PERFORMED

Multivariate analysis of covariance, with age and sex as covariates (P<0.05).

RESULTS

Ninety-one percent of participants (n=97 intervention, n=94 comparison) provided data; complete data were analyzed for 85% of participants (n=90 intervention, n=89 comparison). Participants in the intervention group reported higher intake of total dairy foods (P=0.012) and improved use of self-regulation strategies for consuming three servings per day of total dairy (P=0.000) and low-fat dairy foods (P=0.002) following the intervention.

CONCLUSIONS

Nutrition education via electronic mail based on an SCT model improved total dairy intake and self-regulation. Participants reported increased dairy intake and better use of self-regulation strategies. Future interventions should focus on benefits of consuming low-fat vs higher-fat dairy foods.

Self-perceived lactose intolerance results in lower intakes of calcium and dairy foods and is associated with hypertension and diabetes in adults

BACKGROUND

Self-perceived lactose intolerance may result in adverse dietary modifications; thus, more studies are needed to understand the prevalence of self-perceived lactose intolerance and how it relates to calcium intake and selected health conditions.

OBJECTIVE

The objective was to examine the effects of self-perceived lactose intolerance as it relates to calcium intake and specific health problems that have been attributed to reduced intakes of calcium and dairy foods in a nationally representative multiethnic sample of adults.

DESIGN

This was a cross-sectional study in a national sample of 3452 adults. The relation between self-perceived lactose intolerance, calcium intakes, and physician-diagnosed health conditions was analyzed by using linear regression analyses.

RESULTS

Of the total sample, 12.3% of respondents perceived themselves to be lactose intolerant. The age-adjusted prevalence of self-perceived lactose intolerance was 7.8% for non-Hispanic whites, 20.1% for non-Hispanic blacks, and 8.8% for Hispanics. Respondents with self-perceived lactose intolerance had significantly lower (P < 0.05) average daily calcium intakes from dairy foods than did those without self-perceived lactose intolerance. A significantly higher (P < 0.05) percentage of respondents with self-perceived lactose intolerance than of respondents without self-perceived lactose intolerance reported having physician-diagnosed diabetes and hypertension. The odds of self-reported physician-diagnosed diabetes or hypertension decreased by factors of 0.70 and 0.60, respectively, for a 1000-mg increase in calcium intake from dairy foods per day.

CONCLUSIONS

Self-perceived lactose-intolerant respondents had a significantly lower calcium intake from dairy foods and reported having a significantly higher rate of physician-diagnosed diabetes and hypertension.

Association between the Healthy Eating Index and bone turnover markers in US postmenopausal women aged ≥45 y

BACKGROUND

Some studies have reported that overall diet quality affects bone status in postmenopausal women; however, the findings are inconsistent.

OBJECTIVES

Our primary objective was to examine the association between overall diet quality and bone turnover markers (BTMs) in postmenopausal women aged ≥45 y by using the Healthy Eating Index 2005 (HEI-2005)-a diet quality-assessment tool-developed by the US Department of Agriculture. Our secondary objective was to explore the associations between the components of the HEI-2005 and the MyPyramid food groups and BTMs.

DESIGN

We used cross-sectional data from NHANES 1999-2002. Multiple regression models with adjustments for relevant confounders were used to examine the relation between the total HEI-2005 score and its components and food groups and serum bone-specific alkaline phosphatase (BAP), a biomarker of bone formation, and urinary N-telopeptides/creatinine (uNTx/Cr), a biomarker of bone resorption.

RESULTS

No association was found between the total HEI-2005 score and BTMs. The milk group component of HEI-2005 had a significant negative linear relation with uNTx/Cr. Women in the lowest tertile of the MyPyramid milk group had the highest uNTx/Cr. Those in the highest tertile of energy-adjusted added sugar intake had the highest BAP.

CONCLUSIONS

Our results support the ability of a healthy diet with adequate dairy intake to promote bone health in aging women. However, we found that the HEI-2005 is not a good measure of healthy eating for optimal bone health. Further research is needed to develop an overall dietary assessment tool in relation to bone health for postmenopausal women.

The prevalence of self-reported lactose intolerance and the consumption of dairy foods among African American adults are less than expected

OBJECTIVE

To determine the self-reported incidence of lactose intolerance and its influence on dairy choices among African American adults.

DESIGN, SETTING, AND PARTICIPANTS

An online survey closely matched to the 2000 US Census was administered to a nationally representative sample of African Americans (2016 adults) and a comparison sample of the general population (1084 adults). Statistical analyses performed included pairwise t tests for proportion conducted on percent responses at the 95% confidence level.

RESULTS

African Americans were more likely to eat fewer dairy foods, experience physical discomfort after consumption, and believe they were lactose intolerant. While 49% of African Americans had ever experienced "some type of physical discomfort" after eating dairy foods, 24% believed they were lactose intolerant. Within this group, 85% of African Americans would be willing to consume more dairy products if they could avoid lactose intolerance symptoms.

CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS

Dairy food, calcium, and vitamin D intake in African Americans and the general population are below US recommendations. Deficiencies of these nutrients are associated with chronic diseases that disproportionately affect African Americans. In the United States, dairy foods are the primary source of calcium and vitamin D, and lactose intolerance can be a significant barrier to dairy food intake. However, self-described lactose intolerance is less than commonly reported in African American populations. Low dairy intake may reflect concerns about lactose intolerance, other factors such as learned food habits and cultural preferences. Nutrition recommendations for African Americans and the general population should focus on the health benefits of dairy foods, provide culturally sensitive dietary options, and strategies to increase tolerance.

Web-based nutrition education intervention improves self-efficacy and self-regulation related to increased dairy intake in college students

Dairy consumption declines substantially during young adulthood. Interventions that incorporate theory-based nutrition education can provide insight into factors associated with dietary choices. The aim of this experimental study was to improve outcome expectations, self-efficacy, self-regulation, and behavior related to dairy intake in college students using social cognitive theory. Students (n=294) enrolled in a personal health class were randomized to intervention (n=148) or comparison group (n=146). The 5-week intervention (March 2006 to April 2006) was conducted using an online course system; components included e-mail messages, posted information, and behavior checklists with tailored feedback. Multivariate analysis of covariance with age and sex as covariates (P<0.05) was conducted to measure change related to dairy intake and social cognitive theory variables. Ninety-two percent of participants (n=135 intervention, n=136 control) completed the study. Dairy intake from food records did not differ between groups at baseline; baseline intake for all participants (mean ± standard error) was 0.45 ± 0.05 servings/day for low-fat dairy products and 1.44 ± 0.06 servings/day for total dairy products. Participants in the intervention group made greater increases in use of self-regulatory strategies (P=0.038) and self-efficacy for consuming three servings/day of dairy products (P=0.049), but not in outcome expectations or consumption of dairy products. A Web-based intervention designed to change dairy intake in college students was effective in modifying some social cognitive theory constructs; strategies that positively impact outcome expectations and social support through online interventions require further development.

Are new generations of female college-student populations meeting calcium requirements: comparison of American and Croatian female students

We compared calcium (Ca) sources and intake, as well as multivitamin/mineral supplement use between female students with nutrition/health background and those from general-student-populations. 314 participants 18–37 y, including 57 African-Americans and 54 Caucasian-Americans recruited from Nutrition and/or other Health Sciences departments (NHS), and 100 African-American and 103 Croatian women representing general-student-population (GSP), completed food frequency questionnaire assessing their usual Ca intake and supplement use. NHS populations met recommendations and consumed significantly more Ca, particularly from dairy sources, and were more likely to take supplements than GSP groups, suggesting that health education may influence Ca intake.

Role of dairy beverages in the diet

The U.S. Dietary Guidelines for Americans recommends 3 cups of low fat milk or equivalent daily for most calorie levels [1]. Milk provides over 10% of the requirement for calcium, vitamin D, magnesium, phosphorus, potassium, riboflavin, protein, and carbohydrates for most people. Obtaining adequate intakes of calcium, potassium, and magnesium without milk in the diet requires effort. Milk has bioactive ingredients that may play unique roles in health. Benefits of dairy consumption are associated with reduced risk of low bone mass, stroke, metabolic syndrome, and some cancers. Concerns over milk consumption have focused on saturated fats historically. More research is needed to resolve potential concerns of milk consumption and risk of several disorders including ovarian cancer and soft tissue calcification.

Low-fat dairy intake and body weight and composition changes in college students

Dairy calcium may help prevent excess weight gain and obesity when consumed in adequate amounts (three or more servings per day) and combined with energy balance. This prospective cohort study was conducted to evaluate dairy intake and examine the association between low-fat dairy intake and body weight and composition changes in college students. Seventy-six college students (65 women and 11 men; mean age+/-standard error [SE]=19.2+/-0.2 years) completed 7-day food records, body height (cm), weight (kg), and waist circumference (cm) measurements twice (September 2004 and April 2005). Percentage of truncal fat and percentage of total body fat were measured by dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry. One-way multivariate analysis of covariance was conducted. Overall (mean+/-SE) total dairy (1.4+/-0.1 servings/day), low-fat dairy (0.5+/-0.1 servings/day), and calcium (815+/-41 mg/day) intakes were low. Subjects who consumed a higher amount of low-fat dairy products (mean+/-SE=0.8+/-0.1 servings/day) had better diet quality, gained less body weight, and had reductions in waist circumference, percentage truncal fat, and percentage total body fat compared to those with lower intake (mean+/-SE=0.1+/-0.0 servings/day). Low-fat dairy intake may be associated with better diet quality and weight management in college students. Nutrition interventions in young adults should promote low-fat dairy intake as part of an overall healthful lifestyle.

Impact of dairy and sweetened beverage consumption on diet and weight of a multiethnic population of head start mothers

Mothers with children in Head Start play a critical role in providing healthful diets and modeling good dietary behaviors to their children, but there is little information available on their diet, especially on beverage consumption. The objective of this study was to assess the association of milk and sweetened beverage consumption with nutrient intake, dietary adequacy, and weight of a multiethnic population of Head Start mothers. Using a cross-sectional, secondary analysis, African-American (43%), Hispanic (33%), and white (24%) women (n=609) were divided into four beverage consumption groups: high milk/low sweetened beverage, high milk/high sweetened beverage, low milk/low sweetened beverage, and low milk/high sweetened beverage. Nutrient intake was determined by averaging 24-hour dietary recalls from 3 nonconsecutive days. Dietary adequacy was determined with the Mean Adequacy Ratio. Mean body mass index for the four beverage consumption groups was compared; there were no differences among the groups (overall mean+/-standard error=30.8+/-0.3). Women in the high milk/low sweetened beverage group had higher mean intakes of vitamins A, D, and B-6; riboflavin; thiamin; folate; phosphorus; calcium; iron; magnesium; and potassium (P<0.0125 for all) when compared with the other beverage consumption groups. Mean Adequacy Ratio was highest in the high milk/low sweetened beverage (71.8+/-0.8) and lowest in the low milk/high sweetened beverage (58.4+/-0.8) consumption groups (P<0.0125). Women in the high milk/low sweetened beverage group consumed more nutrient-dense foods. Overall consumption of milk was low. Consumption of high milk/low sweetened beverage was associated with improved nutrient intake, including the shortfall nutrients, ie, calcium, potassium, magnesium, and vitamin A.

Dietary sources of vitamin B-12 and their association with plasma vitamin B-12 concentrations in the general population: the Hordaland Homocysteine Study

BACKGROUND

Limited information is available on the association between vitamin B-12 status and intake from different dietary sources.

OBJECTIVE

We investigated the relation of dietary intake of different food items with plasma vitamin B-12 concentrations in the general population.

DESIGN

A cross-sectional, population-based study of 5937 subjects in 2 age groups (47-49 and 71-74 y) from the Hordaland Homocysteine Study in Norway was conducted by using a food-frequency questionnaire and measurements of plasma vitamin B-12 concentrations.

RESULTS

A significant difference in plasma vitamin B-12 concentrations was observed with increasing total vitamin B-12 intake. A plateau was reached at an intake of approximately 10 microg/d. Plasma vitamin B-12 was associated with intakes of increasing amounts of vitamin B-12 from dairy products or fish (P for trend <0.001 for both) but not with intakes of vitamin B-12 from meat or eggs. For the same content of vitamin B-12, intake from dairy products led to the greatest increase in plasma vitamin B-12. Total intake of vitamin B-12, particularly from milk and fish, decreased the risk of vitamin B-12 concentrations <200 pmol/L and impaired vitamin B-12 function (vitamin B-12 <200 pmol/L and methylmalonic acid >0.27 micromol/L) in the total group and in 71-74-y-old subjects.

CONCLUSIONS

Dietary intake of dairy products and fish are significant contributors to plasma vitamin B-12 and may improve plasma vitamin B-12 status. Vitamin B-12 appears to be more bioavailable from dairy products; guidelines for improving vitamin B-12 status should take this into consideration.

Lactose Maldigestion Revisited: Diagnosis, Prevalence in Ethnic Minorities, and Dietary Recommendations to Overcome It

Currently, an estimated 25% of Americans and 75% of individuals worldwide seem to suffer from lactose maldigestion. The authors' objective was to evaluate current prevalence of lactose maldigestion/intolerance in populations of various ethnic groups, examine the severity of symptoms, and recommend ways in alleviating them. In the United States, 25% of people who are lactose maldigesters are ethnic minorities. Earlier estimates report that ∽50% of Hispanic, almost 100% of Asian, and ∽80% of African Americans suffer from lactose maldigestion. There is evidence linking lactose maldigestion as a factor contributing to low calcium intake, leading to subsequent osteoporotic fractures. Although bone mineral density is higher in African and Hispanic American men and women compared to white and Asian Americans, osteoporosis is still a concern in those populations. Recent studies suggest that current estimates of lactose maldigestion may be grossly overestimated. Clinical trials show that even those individuals who do maldigest lactose could overcome adverse symptoms by a few simple dietary strategies. In addition, new research points to possible manipulation of colonic microflora toward alleviating symptoms.

The impact of dairy product consumption on nutrient adequacy and weight of Head Start mothers

OBJECTIVE

To assess the relationship of dairy product consumption on diet quality and weight of low-income women.

SETTING

Head Start centres in Texas and Alabama, USA.

DESIGN

Cross-sectional study. Women were divided into dairy consumption groups: < or =1, >1 to < or =2 and >2 servings/d. Nutrient intake/diet quality was determined by calculating the percentage meeting the Estimated Average Requirement, guidelines for fat and added sugar, and Mean Adequacy Ratio (MAR). Mean BMI was compared for the dairy consumption groups.

SUBJECTS

Mothers with children in Head Start; 609 African-Americans (43 %), Hispanic-Americans (32 %) and European-Americans (24 %).

RESULTS

Fifteen per cent of participants consumed >2 servings of dairy products and 57 % consumed < or =1 serving of dairy daily. Intakes of protein, vitamin D, riboflavin, P, Ca, K, Mg and Zn were significantly higher in those consuming >2 servings/d. Total SFA were higher and added sugars were lower in those consuming >2 servings of dairy products daily compared with those consuming < or =2 servings/d. Forty-one per cent of women consuming >2 servings of dairy daily had MAR scores under 85 compared with 94 % consuming < or =1 serving/d. Mean BMI was 30.36 kg/m2; there was no association between BMI and dairy product consumption.

CONCLUSIONS

Consumption of dairy products was low and was not associated with BMI in this low-income population. Higher levels of dairy product consumption were associated with higher MAR scores and improved intakes of Ca, K and Mg, which have been identified as shortfall nutrients in the diets of adults.

Contribution of dairy products to dietary potassium intake in the United States population

OBJECTIVE

Adequate dietary potassium intake is associated with a reduced risk of cardiovascular and other chronic diseases. The Dietary Guidelines for Americans 2005 identifies milk and milk products as a major contributor of dietary potassium and lists dairy products, along with fruits and vegetables, as food groups to encourage. This paper further examines the impact of dairy consumption on the potassium intake of the United States (US) population.

METHODS

Using data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) 1999-2002 we determined potassium intakes for various age groups of individuals who met the recommended number of dairy servings compared to those who did not. We also examined the impact of dairy servings consumed on mean and median potassium intakes and compared intakes to the age-appropriate Adequate Intakes (AI).

RESULTS

For all age groups, mean and median potassium intakes did not meet the respective AI. Mean potassium intakes were significantly greater in those subjects who met dairy intake recommendations compared to those who did not for all age groups. Mean and median potassium intakes increased with increasing dairy intake but were below current intake recommendations for all age groups analyzed. For adults age 19 to 50, 16.1% consumed the recommended number of dairy servings per day. For those 51 and older, 10.7% met current dairy intake recommendations.

CONCLUSIONS

Consumption of dairy products is below current recommendations which contributes in part to suboptimal dietary potassium intakes among a large proportion of the US population. Since adequate potassium intake is associated with decreased risk of chronic disease, consumption of a variety of potassium-rich foods, including fruits, vegetables and low-fat and fat free dairy products, should continue to be encouraged.

Whey proteins in the regulation of food intake and satiety

Whey protein has potential as a functional food component to contribute to the regulation of body weight by providing satiety signals that affect both short-term and long-term food intake regulation. Because whey is an inexpensive source of high nutritional quality protein, the utilization of whey as a physiologically functional food ingredient for weight management is of current interest. At present, the role of individual whey proteins and peptides in contributing to food intake regulation has not been fully defined. However, Whey protein reduces short-term food intake relative to placebo, carbohydrate and other proteins. Whey protein affects satiation and satiety by the actions of: (1) whey protein fractions per se; (2) bioactive peptides; (3) amino-acids released after digestion; (4) combined action of whey protein and/or peptides and/or amino acids with other milk constituents. Whey ingestion activates many components of the food intake regulatory system. Whey protein is insulinotropic, and whey-born peptides affect the renin-angiotensin system. Therefore whey protein has potential as physiologically functional food component for persons with obesity and its co-morbidities (hypertension, type II diabetes, hyper- and dislipidemia). It remains unclear, however, if the favourable effects of whey on food intake, subjective satiety and intake regulatory mechanisms in humans are obtained from usual serving sizes of dairy products. The effects described have been observed in short-term experiments and when whey is consumed in much higher amounts.

A biopsychosocial approach to examining tobacco-related health disparities among racially classified social groups

AIMS

To articulate a broader, multi-causal model that incorporates psychosocial and environmental factors that can differ systematically across racially classified social groups (RCSGs) and impact biological pathways related to the development of tobacco-related diseases.

METHODS

This paper is built upon a review of the existing scientific literature on selected biopsychosocial factors (diet/nutrition, obesity, alcoholic intake, psychosocial stress, occupational/environmental exposures and exposure to other diseases and illnesses) and tobacco use in examining the biological contributions to differences in tobacco-related health outcomes among RCSGs.

FINDINGS

Recent work has focused on RCSG genetic variations as a possible explanation for differences in tobacco-related health disparities. It is argued in this paper that, given the genetic heterogeneity 'within' RCSGs, it is unlikely that across RCSG genetic variations are likely to be the major source of differences impacting biological pathways in tobacco-related health outcomes. The evidence shows that results, even at the level of within-population genetic variations, have been limited and often inconsistent. A conceptual framework is proposed to account for biological pathways related to the development of tobacco-related diseases.

CONCLUSIONS

Determinants of tobacco-related health disparities are not understood clearly. The contribution of biological factors may be important. Current efforts to determine biological differences in tobacco use and related diseases among RCSGs have focused primarily on genetic variations. However, this approach has limitations. An alternative biopsychosocial framework that examines the potential biological mechanisms through which life experiences and behavior might affect tobacco use and health outcomes in these population groups is needed, including those of life-style (e.g. diet/nutrition, obesity, physical exercise, alcohol consumption), psychosocial (e.g. stress and coping), occupational/environmental exposures and the presence of other diseases/illnesses.

Dairy consumption and related nutrient intake in African-American adults and children in the United States: continuing survey of food intakes by individuals 1994-1996, 1998, and the National Health And Nutrition Examination Survey 1999-2000

OBJECTIVE

To establish the first baseline of dairy and related nutrient intake in African Americans, an at-risk population of public health concern in the United States. To document dairy consumption in African Americans by age and sex during 1994-1998 and 1999-2000 and compare it with concomitant dairy, calcium, and related nutrient intakes in non-African-American adults and children.

DESIGN

Duplicate and single 24-hour recalls were analyzed to determine dietary intake during the Continuing Survey of Food Intakes by Individuals 1994-1996, 1998 (CSFII), and the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey 1999-2000 (NHANES), respectively.

SUBJECTS

African Americans and non-African Americans of all ages who participated in CSFII 1994-1996, 1998, and in NHANES 1999-2000; both surveys are a stratified random sample of the total civilian, noninstitutionalized US population.

STATISTICAL ANALYSIS

Dairy food and nutrient intake per day were quantified according to age, sex, and ethnicity/race from CSFII 1994-1996, 1998, and NHANES 1999-2000. For NHANES, mean intakes from 1-day food records were sample-weighted, and standard errors estimated by the Taylor linearization method of SUDAAN (version 9.0, 2004, RTI International, Research Triangle Park, NC). Usual daily intakes of calcium, magnesium, and phosphorus were based on 2-day intake data from CSFII 1994-1996, 1998, and calculated using Software for Intake Distribution from Iowa State University. The percentage of individuals categorized as not meeting the Estimated Average Requirement for magnesium and phosphorus were calculated in the same way.

RESULTS

CSFII 1994-1996, 1998, and NHANES 1999-2000 data both show that African Americans in all age groups consume fewer mean servings per day of total dairy, milk, cheese, and yogurt than non-African Americans, and have lower mean intakes of calcium, magnesium, and phosphorus. Significant differences were seen for men and women.

CONCLUSIONS

In this analysis, young African-American women did not meet Dietary Reference Intakes for phosphorus, and all African Americans did not meet Dietary Reference Intakes for calcium and magnesium. African Americans in all age groups did not meet dairy recommendations from the 2005 US Dietary Guidelines and the 2004 National Medical Association Consensus Report on the role of dairy and dairy nutrients in the diet of African Americans.

Macro- and micronutrients in African-Americans with heart failure

An emerging body of evidence suggests secondary hyperparathyroidism (SHPT) may be an important covariant of congestive heart failure (CHF), especially in African-Americans (AA) where hypovitaminosis D is prevalent given that melanin, a natural sunscreen, mandates prolonged exposure of skin to sunlight and where a housebound lifestyle imposed by symptomatic CHF limits outdoor activities and hence sunlight exposure. In addition to the role of hypovitaminosis D in contributing to SHPT is the increased urinary and fecal losses of macronutrients Ca(2+) and Mg(2+) associated with the aldosteronism of CHF and their heightened urinary losses with furosemide treatment of CHF. Thus, a precarious Ca(2+) balance seen with reduced serum 25(OH)D is further compromised when AA develop CHF with circulating RAAS activation and are then treated with a loop diuretic. SHPT accounts for a paradoxical Ca(2+) overloading of diverse tissues and the induction of oxidative stress at these sites which spills over to the systemic circulation. In addition to SHPT, hypozincemia and hyposelenemia have been found in AA with compensated and decompensated heart failure and where an insufficiency of these micronutrients may have its origins in inadequate dietary intake, altered rates of absorption or excretion and/or tissue redistribution, and treatment with an ACE inhibitor or AT(1) receptor antagonist. Zn and Se deficiencies, which compromise the activity of several endogenous antioxidant defenses, could prove contributory to the severity of heart failure and its progressive nature. These findings call into question the need for nutriceutical treatment of heart failure and which is complementary to today's pharmaceuticals, especially in AA.

DNA-based gels for oral delivery of probiotic bacteria

A single-stranded DNA, readily extracted from industrial discarded salmon milt, was used to prepare hydrogels and complex gels by cross-linking with gelatin and kappa-carrageenan, for the oral delivery of probiotic bacteria. The complex gels showed a higher protective capability over the hydrogels for approximately one log scale. However, the hydrogels were more stable during storage at 4 degrees C. The Lactobacillus and Lactococcus due to protection of the hydrogels could better tolerate to acid than the Bifidobacterium. Furthermore, food-graded hydrogels were prepared and optimized to a similar protective capability for future applications.

Older Black Women Differ in Calcium Intake Source Compared to Age– and Socioeconomic Status–Matched White Women

Racial disparity in osteoporosis between older black and white women is well established; however, less is known regarding daily dietary and supplemental calcium intake in these populations. Moreover, racial differences in calcium intake are confounded by differences in socioeconomic status (SES). The objective of this study was to assess calcium intake and source in older black women (n=33) and white women (n=33), matched in age and SES. Calcium intake and source were evaluated by interview using a 46-item calcium food frequency questionnaire including all food groups and supplements. Black and white women were identical in SES and matched on age (black women 66.9+/-6.2 years vs white women 67.1+/-5.5 years [mean+/-standard deviation], P=0.85). No significant difference existed for dietary calcium intake between black and white women (974+/-524 vs 1,070+/-600 mg/day; P=0.65) or total calcium intake between black and white women (1,485+/-979 vs 1,791+/-887 mg/day; P=0.15). Dairy foods contributed most to dietary calcium intake in black and white women and differed by race (black women 402+/-269 mg/day, white women, 603+/-376 mg/day; P=0.02). Calcium intake from grains differed by race (black women 205+/-201 mg/day vs white women 130+/-234 mg/day; P=0.010) and fortified cereals were a major source of calcium for black women. Calcium supplementation contributed substantially to total calcium intake in both groups, with more white women (n=23, 70%) using supplements than black women did (n=19, 58%). However, no racial difference existed in supplemented calcium intake (black women, n=19; 889+/-605 vs white women, n=23; 1,034+/-460 mg/day; P=0.20). Our data suggest that total daily dietary and supplemental calcium intakes do not differ, but calcium intake from dairy foods and from grains differ in older black and white women matched in age and SES.