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Satoh M, Muroya T, Metoki H. Does daily self-monitoring of urinary sodium to potassium ratio decrease salt intake? Hypertens Res 2024:10.1038/s41440-024-01727-2. [PMID: 38773338 DOI: 10.1038/s41440-024-01727-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2024] [Accepted: 04/21/2024] [Indexed: 05/23/2024]
Affiliation(s)
- Michihiro Satoh
- Division of Public Health, Hygiene and Epidemiology, Faculty of Medicine, Tohoku Medical and Pharmaceutical University, Sendai, Japan.
- Department of Preventive Medicine and Epidemiology, Tohoku Medical Megabank Organization, Tohoku University, Sendai, Japan.
- Department of Pharmacy, Tohoku Medical and Pharmaceutical University Hospital, Sendai, Japan.
| | - Tomoko Muroya
- Division of Public Health, Hygiene and Epidemiology, Faculty of Medicine, Tohoku Medical and Pharmaceutical University, Sendai, Japan
- Department of Preventive Medicine and Epidemiology, Tohoku Medical Megabank Organization, Tohoku University, Sendai, Japan
- Izumi Hospital, Sendai, Japan
| | - Hirohito Metoki
- Division of Public Health, Hygiene and Epidemiology, Faculty of Medicine, Tohoku Medical and Pharmaceutical University, Sendai, Japan
- Department of Preventive Medicine and Epidemiology, Tohoku Medical Megabank Organization, Tohoku University, Sendai, Japan
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Young L, Mackay S, Bradbury KE. Nutrient content and cost of canned and dried legumes and plant-based meat analogues available in New Zealand supermarkets. Nutr Diet 2023; 80:472-483. [PMID: 37545013 DOI: 10.1111/1747-0080.12834] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2022] [Revised: 06/23/2023] [Accepted: 06/30/2023] [Indexed: 08/08/2023]
Abstract
AIMS Plant-based eating patterns are recommended for human and planetary health. Plant-based protein sources in supermarkets include traditional options and plant-based meat analogues. This cross-sectional survey examined the nutritional content, healthiness, cost and labelling of these products. METHODS Nutrient content and claims on canned legumes (plain [N = 64] and flavoured [N = 25]), canned baked beans (N = 23), dried legumes (N = 21), tofu (plain [N = 8] and flavoured [N = 5]), falafels (N = 14), meat analogues (meat-free burgers [N = 11], meat-free sausages [N = 10] and 'other' meat-free products [N = 20]) were obtained from a database of packaged foods in New Zealand. Mean (SD) energy, protein, total fat, saturated fat, sodium and dietary fibre content (per 100 g) was calculated for each category. Healthiness was assessed using an estimated Health Star Rating (Rating ≥3.5 considered 'healthy'). Product data were linked with household purchasing data from the 2019 Nielsen IQ® consumer panel to calculate mean purchase price/100 g/category. The number and type of nutrition claims were compared across categories. RESULTS The highest mean protein content was 'other' meat-free products (14.8 ± 6.9 g/100 g). Meat-free sausages had the highest sodium and saturated fat content (643 ± 148 mg/100 g, 3.7 ± 4.5 g/100 g). Overall, few meat analogues (N = 5, 12%) scored an estimated Health Star Rating ≥3.5. Dried legumes were the cheapest plant protein (mean ± SD) purchase price = NZ $0.30 ± 0.16/100 g), compared with 'other' meat-free products (purchase price = NZ $2.57 ± 0.88/100 g). The most common nutrition claims on meat analogues were about protein content. Dietary fibre claims were the most common on canned and dried legumes. CONCLUSION Meat analogues offer convenience, however, may be less healthy and more expensive than traditional plant-based proteins. This study assists dietitians in providing accurate consumer messaging about healthy plant-based proteins.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leanne Young
- National Institute for Health Innovation, School of Population Health, The University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Sally Mackay
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Population Health, The University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Kathryn E Bradbury
- National Institute for Health Innovation, School of Population Health, The University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
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Chan A, Wai-chi Chan S, Kinsman L. Using the health belief model to understand the factors influencing the perceptions of people of Chinese ancestry about reducing salt consumption for hypertension prevention: A cross-sectional study. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0289867. [PMID: 37585401 PMCID: PMC10431675 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0289867] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2023] [Accepted: 07/27/2023] [Indexed: 08/18/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND High-salt diets are linked to hypertension. Chinese people in Australia, are at increased risk of hypertension due to the combination of routine addition of high quantities of salt to food during cooking and high salt levels in processed western foods. There is a scarcity of salt-related behavioural studies on this population group. This study aimed to explore the habitual salt consumption of Chinese Australians and factors that influence their perceptions about sustaining salt-related behavioural changes for hypertension prevention. METHOD A cross-sectional descriptive study using an adapted Determinants of Salt-Restriction Behaviour Questionnaire was conducted on 188 Chinese Australians. A non-probability sampling method was used to attract participants from different parts of Australia. Statistical analyses such as descriptive analysis, t-tests and Pearson correlation tests were performed in the study. RESULTS Over 97% of participants did not measure the amount of salt added to their meals. Many participants reported that salt was added to their meals based on their experience (39.4%) and food taste (31.9%). Over 80% of participants did not know the recommended level of daily salt consumption. Although salt-related knowledge had no significant correlation with individuals' salty food taste preferences, there were significant correlations with the perceptions of the severity of disease and health benefits of reducing salt consumption (p = .001 and < .001 respectively). People with stronger salty taste preferences perceived a higher level of health threat than people with lighter salty taste preferences (p = .003). CONCLUSION Findings from this study show that knowledge about salt-reduction alone had no significant effects on salt-related behaviours. Adequate culturally relevant practice-based education in salt-reduction strategies may facilitate salt-related behavioural changes in Chinese Australians. Overall, single young Chinese Australian men with stronger salty taste preferences is the group who needs salt reduction interventions the most.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alex Chan
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, The University of Newcastle, Newcastle, Australia
- School of Nursing, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, Australia
| | | | - Leigh Kinsman
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, The University of Newcastle, Newcastle, Australia
- La Trobe Rural Health School, La Trobe University, Bendigo, Australia
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Grimes CA, Bolton KA, Trieu K, Reimers J, Armstrong S, Bolam B, Beckford K, Santos JA, Rosewarne E, Dunford EK, Jan S, Webster J, Neal B, Nowson C, Woodward M. Evaluation of a state-wide intervention on salt intake in primary schoolchildren living in Victoria, Australia. Public Health Nutr 2023; 26:1456-1467. [PMID: 36785876 PMCID: PMC10346046 DOI: 10.1017/s1368980023000332] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2022] [Revised: 01/11/2023] [Accepted: 01/30/2023] [Indexed: 02/15/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE In 2015, the Victorian Salt Reduction Partnership launched a 4-year multifaceted salt reduction intervention designed to reduce salt intake by 1 g/d in children and adults living in Victoria, Australia. Child-relevant intervention strategies included a consumer awareness campaign targeting parents and food industry engagement seeking to reduce salt levels in processed foods. This study aimed to assess trends in salt intake, dietary sources of salt and discretionary salt use in primary schoolchildren pre- and post-delivery of the intervention. DESIGN Repeated cross-sectional surveys were completed at baseline (2010-2013) and follow-up (2018-2019). Salt intake was measured via 24-h urinary Na excretion, discretionary salt use behaviours by self-report and sources of salt by 24-h dietary recall. Data were analysed with multivariable-adjusted regression models. SETTING Victoria, Australia. PARTICIPANTS Children aged 4-12 years. RESULTS Complete 24-h urine samples were collected from 666 children at baseline and 161 at follow-up. Mean salt intake remained unchanged from baseline (6·0; se 0·1 g/d) to follow-up (6·1; 0·4 g/d) (P = 0·36), and there were no clear differences in the food sources of salt and at both time points approximately 70 % of children exceeded Na intake recommendations. At follow-up, 14 % more parents (P = 0·001) reported adding salt during cooking, but child use of table salt and inclusion of a saltshaker on the table remained unchanged. CONCLUSION These findings show no beneficial effect of the Victorian Salt Reduction Partnership intervention on children's salt intake. More intensive, sustained and coordinated efforts between state and federal stakeholders are required.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carley A Grimes
- Deakin University, Institute for Physical Activity and Nutrition, School of Exercise and Nutrition Sciences, Geelong, VIC3216, Australia
| | - Kristy A Bolton
- Deakin University, Institute for Physical Activity and Nutrition, School of Exercise and Nutrition Sciences, Geelong, VIC3216, Australia
| | - Kathy Trieu
- The George Institute for Global Health, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Jenny Reimers
- Victorian Health Promotion Foundation (VicHealth), Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | | | - Bruce Bolam
- Department of Health and Human Services, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Kelsey Beckford
- Deakin University, School of Exercise and Nutrition Sciences, Geelong, VIC, Australia
| | - Joseph Alvin Santos
- The George Institute for Global Health, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Emalie Rosewarne
- The George Institute for Global Health, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Elizabeth K Dunford
- The George Institute for Global Health, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia
- Department of Nutrition, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, USA
| | - Stephen Jan
- The George Institute for Global Health, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Jacqui Webster
- The George Institute for Global Health, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Bruce Neal
- The George Institute for Global Health, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia
- The George Institute for Global Health, School of Public Health, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Caryl Nowson
- Deakin University, Institute for Physical Activity and Nutrition, School of Exercise and Nutrition Sciences, Geelong, VIC3216, Australia
| | - Mark Woodward
- The George Institute for Global Health, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia
- The George Institute for Global Health, School of Public Health, Imperial College London, London, UK
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Khor BH, Sumida K, Scholes-Robertson N, Chan M, Lambert K, Kramer H, Lui SF, Wang AYM. Nutrition Education Models for Patients With Chronic Kidney Disease. Semin Nephrol 2023; 43:151404. [PMID: 37598539 DOI: 10.1016/j.semnephrol.2023.151404] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/22/2023]
Abstract
Nutrition is an integral component in the management of chronic kidney disease (CKD), and kidney health professionals play a crucial role in educating patients on dietary interventions for CKD. Several dietary modifications are indicated for CKD that require frequent adaptations with CKD progression and with underlying metabolic disturbances. However, poor adherence to dietary interventions is not uncommon among patients with CKD. An effective education program on nutrition intervention consists of providing knowledge and developing skills that are necessary to support behavioral change. The application of theoretical models of behavioral change such as social cognitive theory and the transtheoretical model in nutrition intervention has been reported to be effective in promoting changes in dietary habits. This review summarizes the evidence supporting the application of theoretical models as strategies to enhance nutrition education for patients with CKD. In addition, digital technologies are gaining interest in empowering patients and facilitating nutrition management in patients with CKD. This review also examines the applications of the latest digital technologies guided by behavioral theory in facilitating patients' changes in dietary intake patterns and lifestyle habits.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ban-Hock Khor
- Faculty of Food Science and Nutrition, University Malaysia Sabah, Sabah, Malaysia.
| | - Keiichi Sumida
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Medicine, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, TN, USA
| | - Nicole Scholes-Robertson
- Sydney School of Public Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Maria Chan
- Department of Nutrition and Dietetics, The St. George Hospital, Kogarah, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Kelly Lambert
- School of Medicine, Indigenous and Health Sciences, Faculty of Science, Medicine and Health, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Holly Kramer
- Departments of Public Health Sciences and Medicine, Loyola University, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Siu-Fai Lui
- Hong Kong Kidney Foundation, Hong Kong, China
| | - Angela Yee-Moon Wang
- Department of Medicine, Queen Mary Hospital, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
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Ares G, Antúnez L, Curutchet MR, Giménez A. Warning labels as a policy tool to encourage healthier eating habits. Curr Opin Food Sci 2023. [DOI: 10.1016/j.cofs.2023.101011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/22/2023]
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Aliasgharzadeh S, Ebrahimi-Mameghani M, Mahdavi R, Karimzadeh H, Nikniaz L, Tabrizi JS, Pourali F. Prioritizing population-based nutrition-related interventions to prevent and control hypertension in Iran: a multi-criteria decision-making approach. BMC Med Res Methodol 2022; 22:293. [PMCID: PMC9666957 DOI: 10.1186/s12874-022-01761-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2022] [Accepted: 10/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Background
Numerous nutrition-related policy options and strategies have been proposed to tackle hypertension and other risk factors of non-communicable diseases (NCDs). In this study, we developed a comparative analysis using a multi-criteria decision-making (MCDM) model for prioritizing population-based nutrition-related interventions to prevent and control hypertension in Iran.
Methods
We employed a combination of Delphi technique and Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) method as the methodological tool to prioritize decision alternatives using multiple criteria. The prominent assessment criteria and intervention strategies were derived using a literature review, focus group discussion (n = 11), and a 2-round modified Delphi technique with specialists and experts involved in different stages of health policy-making (round 1: n = 50, round 2: n = 46). Then, the AHP was used to determine the weightage of the selected interventions and develop the decision-making model. The sensitivity analysis was performed to test the stability of the priority ranking.
Results
Nine alternative interventions were included in the final ranking based on eight assessment criteria. According to the results, the most priority interventions to prevent and control hypertension included reformulation of food products to contain less salt and changing the target levels of salt in foods and meals, providing low-sodium salt substitutes, and reducing salt intake through the implementation of front-of-package labeling (FOPL). The results of the sensitivity analysis and a comparison analysis suggested that the assessment model performed in this study had an appropriate level of robustness in selecting the best option among the proposed alternatives.
Conclusion
MCDM techniques offer a potentially valuable approach to rationally structuring the problem, along with the opportunity to make explicit the judgments used as part of the decision-making model. The findings of this study provide a preliminary evidence base to guide future decisions and reforms aiming to improve appropriate population-based interventions for tackling hypertension and other risk factors of NCDs.
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Nakamura H, Kawashima T, Yamasaki L, Lwin KS, Eguchi A, Hayabuchi H, Tanoe Y, Tanaka S, Yoneoka D, Ghaznavi C, Uneyama H, Shibuya K, Nomura S. Reducing salt intake with umami: A secondary analysis of data in the UK National Diet and Nutrition Survey. Food Sci Nutr 2022; 11:872-882. [PMID: 36789077 PMCID: PMC9922145 DOI: 10.1002/fsn3.3121] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2022] [Revised: 09/30/2022] [Accepted: 10/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Reducing sodium content in foods is an important public health measure to reduce salt intake and decrease the incidence of noncommunicable diseases, such as cardiovascular disease and chronic kidney disease. This study quantified the amount of salt intake that could potentially be reduced by using umami substances, including glutamate, inosinate, and guanylate, without compromising taste, for adults in the United Kingdom (UK). We used data comprised of 1834 adults aged 20 years and over from the National Diet and Nutrition Survey (NDNS RP) 2016/2017-2018/2019. Four hypothetical scenarios in which the market share of low-sodium foods accounts for 0%, 30%, 60%, or 90% of consumed products were considered in the analyses. Per capita daily salt intake corresponding to the NDNS RP food groups was calculated for each scenario, and the salt intake was aggregated by gender and age groups. Replacing salt with umami substances could help UK adults reduce daily salt intake by 9.09%-18.59% (9.21%-18.43% for women; 8.83%-19.43% for men), which is equivalent to 0.45-0.92 g/day of salt reduction (0.41-0.82 g/day for women; 0.50-1.10 g/day for men). The use of umami substances may serve as one method for the UK government to encourage salt intake reduction, particularly in the context of food product reformulation, as 80% of salt consumed in the country comes from processed foods. Empirical studies with sensory evaluation should be conducted to confirm consumer tolerance. The food industry should also be engaged in conversations regarding the addition of umami to food products in the United Kingdom.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Takayuki Kawashima
- Department of Mathematical and Computing ScienceTokyo Institute of TechnologyTokyoJapan
| | - Lisa Yamasaki
- Department of Global Health Policy, Graduate School of MedicineThe University of TokyoTokyoJapan,School of MedicineNagasaki UniversityNagasakiJapan
| | - Kaung Suu Lwin
- Department of Global Health Policy, Graduate School of MedicineThe University of TokyoTokyoJapan
| | - Akifumi Eguchi
- Centre for Preventive Medical SciencesChiba UniversityChibaJapan
| | - Hitomi Hayabuchi
- Graduate School of Health and Environmental SciencesFukuoka Women's UniversityFukuokaJapan
| | - Yuta Tanoe
- Institute for Business and FinanceWaseda UniversityTokyoJapan
| | - Shiori Tanaka
- Division of PreventionNational Cancer Center Institute for Cancer ControlTokyoJapan
| | - Daisuke Yoneoka
- Tokyo Foundation for Policy ResearchTokyoJapan,Department of Global Health Policy, Graduate School of MedicineThe University of TokyoTokyoJapan,Infectious Disease Surveillance Center at the National Institute of Infectious DiseasesTokyoJapan
| | - Cyrus Ghaznavi
- Department of Health Policy and Management, School of MedicineKeio UniversityTokyoJapan,Medical Education ProgramWashington University School of Medicine in St. LouisSt. LouisMissouriUSA
| | | | | | - Shuhei Nomura
- Tokyo Foundation for Policy ResearchTokyoJapan,Department of Global Health Policy, Graduate School of MedicineThe University of TokyoTokyoJapan,Division of PreventionNational Cancer Center Institute for Cancer ControlTokyoJapan,Department of Health Policy and Management, School of MedicineKeio UniversityTokyoJapan
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Kurtz TW, Pravenec M, DiCarlo SE. Do conclusions drawn from spot urine sodium measurements agree with the conclusions drawn from the 24-h urine measurements? J Hypertens 2022; 40:2316-2317. [PMID: 36205014 PMCID: PMC9555751 DOI: 10.1097/hjh.0000000000003254] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Theodore W. Kurtz
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Michal Pravenec
- Institute of Physiology of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Stephen E. DiCarlo
- Department of Physiology, College of Osteopathic Medicine, Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan, USA
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Changes in the salt content of packaged foods sold in supermarkets between 2015-2020 in the United Kingdom: A repeated cross-sectional study. PLoS Med 2022; 19:e1004114. [PMID: 36197915 PMCID: PMC9581353 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pmed.1004114] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2022] [Revised: 10/19/2022] [Accepted: 09/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Excess consumption of salt is linked to an increased risk of hypertension and cardiovascular disease. The United Kingdom has had a comprehensive salt reduction programme since 2003, setting a series of progressively lower, product-specific reformulation targets for the food industry, combined with advice to consumers to reduce salt. The aim of this study was to assess the changes in the sales-weighted mean salt content of grocery foods sold through retail between 2015 and 2020 by category and company. METHODS AND FINDINGS Information for products, including salt content (g/100 g), was collected online from retailer websites for 6 consecutive years (2015 to 2020) and was matched with brand-level retail sales data from Euromonitor for 395 brands. The sales-weighted mean salt content and total volume of salt sold were calculated by category and company. The mean salt content of included foods fell by 0.05 g/100 g, from 1.04 g/100 g in 2015 to 0.90 g/100 g in 2020, equivalent to -4.2% (p = 0.13). The categories with the highest salt content in 2020 were savoury snacks (1.6 g/100 g) and cheese (1.6 g/100 g), and the categories that saw the greatest reductions in mean salt content over time were breakfast cereals (-16.0%, p = 0.65); processed beans, potatoes, and vegetables (-10.6%, p = 0.11); and meat, seafood, and alternatives (-9.2%, p = 0.56). The total volume of salt sold fell from 2.41 g per person per day to 2.25 g per person per day, a reduction of 0.16 g or 6.7% (p = 0.54). The majority (63%) of this decrease was attributable to changes in mean salt content, with the remaining 37% accounted for by reductions in sales. Across the top 5 companies in each of 9 categories, the volume of salt sold decreased in 26 and increased in 19 cases. This study is limited by its exclusion of foods purchased out of the home, including at restaurants, cafes, and takeaways. It also does not include salt added at the table, or that naturally occurring in foods, meaning the findings underrepresent the population's total salt intake. The assumption was also made that the products matched with the sales data were entirely representative of the brand, which may not be the case if products are sold exclusively in convenience stores or markets, which are not included in this database. CONCLUSIONS There has been a small decline in the salt content of foods and total volume of salt sold between 2015 and 2020, but observed changes were not statistically significant so could be due to random variations over time. We suggest that mandatory reporting of salt sales by large food companies would increase the transparency of how individual businesses are progressing towards the salt reduction targets.
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11
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Riis NL, Lassen AD, Bjoernsbo K, Toft U, Trolle E. Dietary Effects of Introducing Salt-Reduced Bread with and without Dietary Counselling-A Cluster Randomized Controlled Trial. Nutrients 2022; 14:nu14183852. [PMID: 36145227 PMCID: PMC9503308 DOI: 10.3390/nu14183852] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2022] [Revised: 09/12/2022] [Accepted: 09/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Successful strategies for policy makers and the food industry are required to reduce population salt intake. A 4-month cluster randomized controlled trial was conducted to evaluate whether the provision of salt-reduced bread with or without dietary counselling affected the dietary intake of selected food groups, energy, macronutrients, sodium, and potassium. Eighty-nine families (n = 309) consisting of minimum one parent and one child were assigned to receive bread gradually reduced in salt content alone (Intervention A), combined with dietary counselling (Intervention B), or bread with regular salt content (control). Food intake was recorded for seven consecutive days at baseline and follow-up. Salt intake was reduced in both Intervention A (−1.0 g salt/10 MJ, p = 0.027) and Intervention B (−1.0 g salt/10 MJ, p = 0.026) compared to the control. Consumption of bread and both total and salt-rich bread fillings remained similar between groups, while ‘cheese and cheese products’ were reduced in Intervention A (−38%, p = 0.011). Energy intake and macronutrient distribution were not affected in Intervention A, but Intervention B resulted in a higher energy intake (512 kJ, p = 0.019) and a lower energy % (E%) from saturated fat (−1.0 E%, p = 0.031) compared to the control. In conclusion, provision of salt-reduced bread both with and without dietary counselling successfully reduced dietary salt intake without adversely affecting the dietary nutritional quality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nanna Louise Riis
- National Food Institute, Technical University of Denmark, 2800 Kgs. Lyngby, Denmark
- Centre for Clinical Research and Prevention, Bispebjerg and Frederiksberg Hospital, 2000 Frederiksberg, Denmark
| | - Anne Dahl Lassen
- National Food Institute, Technical University of Denmark, 2800 Kgs. Lyngby, Denmark
| | - Kirsten Bjoernsbo
- Centre for Clinical Research and Prevention, Bispebjerg and Frederiksberg Hospital, 2000 Frederiksberg, Denmark
| | - Ulla Toft
- Centre for Clinical Research and Prevention, Bispebjerg and Frederiksberg Hospital, 2000 Frederiksberg, Denmark
| | - Ellen Trolle
- National Food Institute, Technical University of Denmark, 2800 Kgs. Lyngby, Denmark
- Correspondence:
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12
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Anderson P, Kokole D, Jané Llopis E, Burton R, Lachenmeier DW. Lower Strength Alcohol Products—A Realist Review-Based Road Map for European Policy Making. Nutrients 2022; 14:nu14183779. [PMID: 36145155 PMCID: PMC9500668 DOI: 10.3390/nu14183779] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2022] [Revised: 09/02/2022] [Accepted: 09/08/2022] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
This paper reports the result of a realist review based on a theory of change that substitution of higher strength alcohol products with lower strength alcohol products leads to decreases in overall levels of alcohol consumption in populations and consumer groups. The paper summarizes the results of 128 publications across twelve different themes. European consumers are increasingly buying and drinking lower strength alcohol products over time, with some two fifths doing so to drink less alcohol. It tends to be younger more socially advantaged men, and existing heavier buyers and drinkers of alcohol, who take up lower strength alcohol products. Substitution leads to a lower number of grams of alcohol bought and drunk. Although based on limited studies, buying and drinking lower strength products do not appear to act as gateways to buying and drinking higher strength products. Producer companies are increasing the availability of lower strength alcohol products, particularly for beer, with extra costs of production offset by income from sales. Lower strength alcohol products tend to be marketed as compliments to, rather than substitutes of, existing alcohol consumption, with, to date, the impact of such marketing not evaluated. Production of lower strength alcohol products could impair the impact of existing alcohol policy through alibi marketing (using the brand of lower strength products to promote higher strength products), broadened normalization of drinking cultures, and pressure to weaken policies. In addition to increasing the availability of lower strength products and improved labelling, the key policy that favours substitution of higher strength alcohol products with lower strength products is an alcohol tax based on the dose of alcohol across all products.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter Anderson
- Department of Health Promotion, CAPHRI Care and Public Health Research Institute, Maastricht University, 6200 MD Maastricht, The Netherlands
- Population Health Sciences Institute, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne NE2 4AX, UK
- Correspondence:
| | - Daša Kokole
- Department of Health Promotion, CAPHRI Care and Public Health Research Institute, Maastricht University, 6200 MD Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Eva Jané Llopis
- ESADE Business School, Ramon Llull University, 08034 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Robyn Burton
- Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology, and Neuroscience, King’s College London, London SE5 8AF, UK
| | - Dirk W. Lachenmeier
- Chemisches und Veterinäruntersuchungsamt (CVUA) Karlsruhe, Weissenburger Straße 3, 76187 Karlsruhe, Germany
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Cheng YL, Hu H, Song J, MacGregor GA, He FJ. Socioeconomic status and dietary sodium intake in children from 2008 to 2019 in the UK. J Hypertens 2022; 40:1499-1503. [PMID: 35726456 DOI: 10.1097/hjh.0000000000003172] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Little is known whether children's sodium intake is affected by the national salt reduction programme in the United Kingdom (UK), particularly in relation to socioeconomic groups. We aimed to assess the trend of sodium intake among children from different socioeconomic backgrounds in the UK, from 2008-2009 to 2018-2019. METHODS Repeated cross-sectional analyses of data from the National Diet and Nutrition Survey in children aged 4-18 years. Sodium intake was estimated from a 4-day dietary record in years 2008-2009 to 2018-2019 and 24-h urine collection (2008-2009 to 2011-2012 only). Socioeconomic status was based on parental occupation and equivalized household income. RESULTS We included 6281 children (age 11.0 ± 4.3 years, 51.3% boys). In 2008-2009 to 2011-2012, the mean sodium intake was 2342.4 ± 60.0 mg/day as measured by 24-h urinary sodium excretion, and was 2053.1 ± 18.2 mg/day by dietary records. From 2008-2009 to 2018-2019, the sodium intake as assessed by dietary records decreased by 15, 9 and 12% in children from routine and manual occupation families, intermediate occupation families and higher managerial, administrative and professional occupation families, respectively. On the basis of dietary records, the sodium intake of children from families in routine and manual occupations was 109.6 ± 23.1 mg/day ( P < 0.001) higher than those from higher managerial, administrative and professional occupation families in 2008-2009 to 2011-2012. Sodium intake measured by 24-h urine collection during the same period also showed a difference between occupation groups, but it was not statistically significant. The occupational differences in sodium intake became smaller over time and were no longer significant in 2016-2017 to 2018-2019. Similar findings were found for household income. CONCLUSION Sodium intake as assessed by dietary records decreased over the 10-year period from 2008-2009 to 2018-2019 in children from all socioeconomic groups, particularly in those from lower socioeconomic backgrounds. These findings suggest that the national salt reduction programme could potentially help reduce health inequality related to sodium intake in children.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yiu Lam Cheng
- Barts and The London School of Medicine and Dentistry, Queen Mary University of London, London, UK
| | - Huan Hu
- Research Center for Prevention from Radiation Hazards of Workers, National Institute of Occupational Safety and Health, Kanagawa, Japan
| | - Jing Song
- Wolfson Institute of Population Health, Barts and The London School of Medicine and Dentistry, Queen Mary University of London, London, UK
| | - Graham A MacGregor
- Wolfson Institute of Population Health, Barts and The London School of Medicine and Dentistry, Queen Mary University of London, London, UK
| | - Feng J He
- Wolfson Institute of Population Health, Barts and The London School of Medicine and Dentistry, Queen Mary University of London, London, UK
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14
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Martini D, Strazzullo P, Serafini M, Porrini M, Pellegrini N, Angelino D. Sodium Content in Cereal-Based Products Sold in Italy: How Far Are We from the Global Benchmarks? Nutrients 2022; 14:nu14153088. [PMID: 35956263 PMCID: PMC9370200 DOI: 10.3390/nu14153088] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2022] [Revised: 07/25/2022] [Accepted: 07/25/2022] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Reformulation of food products is one of the measures needed for reducing salt consumption. Accordingly, the World Health Organization (WHO) recently proposed global sodium benchmarks for different food categories to be used for setting national policies. Therefore, the sodium content of cereal-based products currently sold in Italy was compared with the WHO benchmarks, highlighting those categories primarily needing a reformulation. To this aim, the sodium content and several declarations (i.e., nutrition and health claims, organic or gluten free declaration) were retrieved from 2917 cereal-based products sold on the Italian market. All “minimally processed breakfast cereals” had a sodium content below the benchmark, while “flatbreads” and “leavened bread” had the highest percentage of items above the respective sodium benchmarks. Flatbreads and “crackers/savory biscuits” showed the highest median delta values from the respective benchmarks of 360 and 278 mg/100 g, respectively. Large variability in terms of percentage of products with sodium content above the benchmark was observed within the same categories, as well as among products with different declarations. A large number of food products currently sold on the Italian market have a sodium content above the benchmark. This result suggests the need to reformulate many food products currently on the market to achieve the WHO/United Nations (UN) objective of 30% global reduction in sodium intake by 2025.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniela Martini
- Department of Food, Environmental and Nutritional Sciences (DeFENS), Università degli Studi di Milano, 20133 Milan, Italy; (D.M.); (M.P.)
| | - Pasquale Strazzullo
- Department of Clinical Medicine and Surgery, Federico II University of Naples Medical School, 80131 Naples, Italy
- Correspondence: (P.S.); (N.P.); Tel.: +39-0432-558183 (N.P.)
| | - Mauro Serafini
- Faculty of Bioscience and Technology for Food, Agriculture and Environment, University of Teramo, 64100 Teramo, Italy; (M.S.); (D.A.)
| | - Marisa Porrini
- Department of Food, Environmental and Nutritional Sciences (DeFENS), Università degli Studi di Milano, 20133 Milan, Italy; (D.M.); (M.P.)
| | - Nicoletta Pellegrini
- Department of Agricultural, Food, Environmental and Animal Sciences, University of Udine, 33100 Udine, Italy
- Correspondence: (P.S.); (N.P.); Tel.: +39-0432-558183 (N.P.)
| | - Donato Angelino
- Faculty of Bioscience and Technology for Food, Agriculture and Environment, University of Teramo, 64100 Teramo, Italy; (M.S.); (D.A.)
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15
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Drewnowski A, Detzel P, Klassen-Wigger P. Perspective: Achieving Sustainable Healthy Diets Through Formulation and Processing of Foods. Curr Dev Nutr 2022; 6:nzac089. [PMID: 35711570 PMCID: PMC9197573 DOI: 10.1093/cdn/nzac089] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2021] [Revised: 02/09/2022] [Accepted: 04/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Food processing and food (re)formulation can contribute to achieving sustainable healthy diets. Distinct from product formulation, the main purpose of food processing is to provide a stable and resilient supply of safe, shelf-stable, and affordable foods. Although efforts at reformulating processed foods have focused on removing excess added fat, sugar, and salt, product formulation can also take the form of voluntary fortification with protein, fiber, and micronutrients to improve dietary nutrient density and address population health needs. Advances in food technology have also led to the addition of desirable ingredients, including plant-based proteins and fermentation products, to processed foods. Among continuing challenges to product (re)formulation are the need to ensure product safety, maintain sensory appeal, control product cost, assure consumer acceptance, and manage the environmental footprint across the value chain. Voluntary (re)formulation of processed foods by the food industry can help improve diet quality and food security for all.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adam Drewnowski
- Center for Public Health Nutrition, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
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16
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Matsumoto M, Tajima R, Fujiwara A, Yuan X, Okada E, Takimoto H. Trends in dietary salt sources in Japanese adults: data from the 2007-2019 National Health and Nutrition Survey. Br J Nutr 2022; 129:1-14. [PMID: 35506184 PMCID: PMC9899568 DOI: 10.1017/s0007114522001416] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2022] [Revised: 04/07/2022] [Accepted: 04/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
Identifying trends in dietary salt sources is essential for effectively reducing salt/Na intake. This study aimed to examine the trends in dietary salt sources among Japanese adults using the 2007-2019 National Health and Nutrition Survey data collected from 95 581 adults aged ≥ 20 years. Dietary intake was estimated using the 1-d household-based dietary record. Foods reported as potential sources of salt intake in Japan and other countries were categorised into twenty-one groups. Salt intake for each food group was adjusted using the density method based on the energy intake. Trends in dietary salt intake based on food sources by sex and age groups (20-39 years, 40-59 years and ≥ 60 years) were analysed using the Joinpoint Regression Program. Salt intake for each age group in both men and women decreased from 2007 (5·3 g/1000 kcal-6·4 g/1000 kcal) to 2019 (4·9 g/1000 kcal-5·6 g/1000 kcal). The major dietary source of salt continued to be seasonings such as soya sauce and soyabean paste (approximately 70 %). Salt intake from seasonings decreased over time in adults aged ≥ 40 years but did not change in those aged 20-39 years. Additionally, a decreasing salt intake from unprocessed fish and shellfish and an increasing salt intake from unprocessed meat were observed across all age categories for both sexes. This study demonstrated that a strategy targeting different age groups may be needed to reduce salt consumption from seasonings among the Japanese population. Further studies on salt content in seasonings and continued monitoring of trends in dietary salt sources are required.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mai Matsumoto
- Department of Nutritional Epidemiology and Shokuiku, National Institutes of Biomedical Innovation, Health, and Nutrition, 1-23-1 Toyama, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo162-8636, Japan
| | - Ryoko Tajima
- Department of Nutritional Epidemiology and Shokuiku, National Institutes of Biomedical Innovation, Health, and Nutrition, 1-23-1 Toyama, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo162-8636, Japan
| | - Aya Fujiwara
- Department of Nutritional Epidemiology and Shokuiku, National Institutes of Biomedical Innovation, Health, and Nutrition, 1-23-1 Toyama, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo162-8636, Japan
- Department of Social and Preventive Epidemiology, School of Public Health, University of Tokyo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Xiaoyi Yuan
- Department of Nutritional Epidemiology and Shokuiku, National Institutes of Biomedical Innovation, Health, and Nutrition, 1-23-1 Toyama, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo162-8636, Japan
- Department of Social and Preventive Epidemiology, School of Public Health, University of Tokyo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Emiko Okada
- Department of Nutritional Epidemiology and Shokuiku, National Institutes of Biomedical Innovation, Health, and Nutrition, 1-23-1 Toyama, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo162-8636, Japan
| | - Hidemi Takimoto
- Department of Nutritional Epidemiology and Shokuiku, National Institutes of Biomedical Innovation, Health, and Nutrition, 1-23-1 Toyama, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo162-8636, Japan
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17
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Rosewarne E, Santos JA, Trieu K, Tekle D, Mhurchu CN, Jones A, Ide N, Yamamoto R, Nishida C, Webster J. A Global Review of National Strategies to Reduce Sodium Concentrations in Packaged Foods. Adv Nutr 2022; 13:1820-1833. [PMID: 35485741 PMCID: PMC9526819 DOI: 10.1093/advances/nmac048] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2021] [Revised: 02/14/2022] [Accepted: 04/26/2022] [Indexed: 01/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Strategies to reduce sodium concentrations in packaged foods are effective and cost-effective approaches to reducing the burden of disease attributable to high sodium intakes. This review aimed to comprehensively describe, and explore characteristics of, national strategies to reduce sodium concentrations in packaged foods, and assess progress toward achieving national goals. A secondary aim was to understand the number, type, and variation of food category sodium targets set by countries compared with WHO global sodium benchmarks. National sodium reduction reformulation strategies were identified from a search of peer-reviewed and gray literature up to December 2019 supplemented by verified information from key contacts and experts up to December 2020. Key characteristics of countries' strategies were extracted, synthesized, and descriptively analyzed, including details of reformulation strategies and evaluation data. Country targets were mapped to the WHO global sodium benchmarks, and the number and variation of country sodium targets by WHO food categories were determined. Sixty-two countries had reformulation strategies to reduce sodium in packaged foods, and 19 countries had evaluated their reformulation strategies. Forty-three countries had sodium targets, which varied in type of targets (maximum sodium concentration: n = 26; maximum concentration plus relative reduction/average/sales-weighted average: n = 8; relative reduction: n = 7; average: n = 2), number of food category targets (range: n = 1 to 150), and regulatory approach (voluntary: n = 28; mandatory: n = 9; both: n = 6). Eight of 34 countries mapped to the WHO benchmarks had targets for just 1 specified food category (bread products). One-third of all countries were implementing national strategies to reduce sodium concentrations in packaged foods including establishing targets and/or processes for industry engagement. This review determined that there is scope to improve most countries' strategies. There has been limited progress in implementing and evaluating strategies between 2014 and 2019, and regional and income-level disparities persist. The WHO global sodium benchmarks present an important opportunity to accelerate reformulation action globally.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emalie Rosewarne
- The George Institute for Global Health, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
| | - Joseph Alvin Santos
- The George Institute for Global Health, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
| | - Kathy Trieu
- The George Institute for Global Health, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
| | - Dejen Tekle
- The George Institute for Global Health, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
| | - Cliona Ni Mhurchu
- The George Institute for Global Health, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia,Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Alexandra Jones
- The George Institute for Global Health, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
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18
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Kurtz T, Pravenec M, DiCarlo S. Mechanism-based strategies to prevent salt sensitivity and salt-induced hypertension. Clin Sci (Lond) 2022; 136:599-620. [PMID: 35452099 PMCID: PMC9069470 DOI: 10.1042/cs20210566] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2022] [Revised: 03/21/2022] [Accepted: 03/30/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
High-salt diets are a major cause of hypertension and cardiovascular (CV) disease. Many governments are interested in using food salt reduction programs to reduce the risk for salt-induced increases in blood pressure and CV events. It is assumed that reducing the salt concentration of processed foods will substantially reduce mean salt intake in the general population. However, contrary to expectations, reducing the sodium density of nearly all foods consumed in England by 21% had little or no effect on salt intake in the general population. This may be due to the fact that in England, as in other countries including the U.S.A., mean salt intake is already close to the lower normal physiologic limit for mean salt intake of free-living populations. Thus, mechanism-based strategies for preventing salt-induced increases in blood pressure that do not solely depend on reducing salt intake merit attention. It is now recognized that the initiation of salt-induced increases in blood pressure often involves a combination of normal increases in sodium balance, blood volume and cardiac output together with abnormal vascular resistance responses to increased salt intake. Therefore, preventing either the normal increases in sodium balance and cardiac output, or the abnormal vascular resistance responses to salt, can prevent salt-induced increases in blood pressure. Suboptimal nutrient intake is a common cause of the hemodynamic disturbances mediating salt-induced hypertension. Accordingly, efforts to identify and correct the nutrient deficiencies that promote salt sensitivity hold promise for decreasing population risk of salt-induced hypertension without requiring reductions in salt intake.
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Affiliation(s)
- Theodore W. Kurtz
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94017-0134, U.S.A
| | - Michal Pravenec
- Institute of Physiology, Czech Academy of Sciences, Prague 14220, Czech Republic
| | - Stephen E. DiCarlo
- Department of Physiology, College of Osteopathic Medicine, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48824, U.S.A
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19
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Kurtz TW, Pravenec M, DiCarlo SE. Will Food and Drug Administration Guidance to Reduce the Salt Content of Processed Foods Reduce Salt Intake and Save Lives? Hypertension 2022; 79:809-812. [PMID: 35263161 PMCID: PMC8903218 DOI: 10.1161/hypertensionaha.121.18942] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Theodore W Kurtz
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, University of California, San Francisco (T.W.K.)
| | - Michal Pravenec
- Institute of Physiology of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Prague, Czech Republic (M.P.)
| | - Stephen E DiCarlo
- Department of Physiology, College of Osteopathic Medicine, Michigan State University, East Lansing (S.E.D.)
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20
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Chan LY, Coyle DH, Wu JHY, Louie JCY. Total and Free Sugar Levels and Main Types of Sugars Used in 18,784 Local and Imported Pre-Packaged Foods and Beverages Sold in Hong Kong. Nutrients 2021; 13:3404. [PMID: 34684405 PMCID: PMC8540970 DOI: 10.3390/nu13103404] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2021] [Revised: 09/21/2021] [Accepted: 09/23/2021] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
There is limited information regarding the free sugar content of pre-packaged foods in Hong Kong. This study aims to assess the free sugar content and identify the most frequently used free sugar ingredients (FSI) in pre-packaged foods in Hong Kong. Data from 18,784 products from the 2019 FoodSwitch Hong Kong database were used in this analysis. Ingredient lists were screened to identify FSI. Total sugar content was derived from nutrition labels on packaging. Free sugar content was estimated based on adaptation of a previously established systematic methodology. Descriptive statistics of the total sugar and free sugar content, as well as the mean ± SD contribution of free sugar to total sugar of the audited products were calculated, stratified by food groups. Almost two-thirds (64.5%) of the pre-packaged foods contained at least one FSI. 'Sugar (sucrose)' was the most popular FSI that was found in more than half (54.7%) of the products. 'Fruit and vegetable juices' (median 10.0; IQR 8.3-11.5 g/100 mL) were found to have a higher median free sugar content than 'Soft drinks' (8.0; 6.0-10.6 g/100 mL). Mean ± SD contribution of free sugar to the total sugar content was 65.8 ± 43.4%, with 8 out of 14 food groups having >70% total sugar as free sugar. To conclude, free sugar, especially sucrose, was extensively used in a wide variety of pre-packaged products sold in Hong Kong. Further studies are needed to assess the population intake of free sugar in Hong Kong to inform public health policy on free sugar reduction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lok Yin Chan
- Faculty of Science, School of Biological Sciences, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam, Hong Kong 999077, China;
| | - Daisy H. Coyle
- Food Policy Division, The George Institute for Global Health, Camperdown, NSW 2050, Australia; (D.H.C.); (J.H.Y.W.)
| | - Jason H. Y. Wu
- Food Policy Division, The George Institute for Global Health, Camperdown, NSW 2050, Australia; (D.H.C.); (J.H.Y.W.)
| | - Jimmy Chun Yu Louie
- Faculty of Science, School of Biological Sciences, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam, Hong Kong 999077, China;
- Food Policy Division, The George Institute for Global Health, Camperdown, NSW 2050, Australia; (D.H.C.); (J.H.Y.W.)
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