1
|
Fernandes S, Oliveira L, Pereira A, Costa MDC, Raposo A, Saraiva A, Magalhães B. Exploring Vitamin B12 Supplementation in the Vegan Population: A Scoping Review of the Evidence. Nutrients 2024; 16:1442. [PMID: 38794680 DOI: 10.3390/nu16101442] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2024] [Revised: 05/07/2024] [Accepted: 05/09/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024] Open
Abstract
With a significant portion of the population adopting veganism and conflicting views among nutrition professionals regarding the necessity of vitamin B12 supplementation, this review aims to explore existing studies evaluating interventions through food supplementation. It focuses on the impact of vitamin B12 deficiency across different demographics. The present study seeks to understand how research has addressed the relationship between the rise in veganism and vitamin B12 deficiency over the past decade. A scoping review was conducted following the PRISMA flow diagram. Studies from 2010 to 2023 were identified using Boolean operators and key terms in electronic databases such as PubMed/MEDLINE, Web of Science, and EBSCO (Library, Information Science & Technology Abstracts, and Academic Search Complete). Out of 217 articles identified, 70 studies were included. The topical analysis categorized the studies into three groups: those associating vitamin B12 deficiency with diseases (n = 14), those analyzing the dietary habits of vegetarian individuals (vegan or not) without a specific focus on vitamin B12 (n = 49), and those addressing food guides and nutrition institution positions (n = 7). The authors concluded that vitamin B12 deficiency is prevalent among vegans due to limited consumption of animal products. For vegetarians, supplementation is an efficient means of treating and preventing deficiency; a daily dose of 50 to 100 micrograms is advised. There are still significant gaps in the research, nevertheless, such as the absence of randomized controlled trials evaluating various forms or dosages of vitamin B12 among vegetarians and the requirement for more information and awareness of the vitamin's significance in vegan diets.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sávio Fernandes
- CBIOS (Research Center for Biosciences and Health Technologies), Universidade Lusófona de Humanidades e Tecnologias, Campo Grande 376, 1749-024 Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Leandro Oliveira
- CBIOS (Research Center for Biosciences and Health Technologies), Universidade Lusófona de Humanidades e Tecnologias, Campo Grande 376, 1749-024 Lisboa, Portugal
- Coimbra Health School, Polytechnic Institute of Coimbra, Rua 5 de Outubro-S. Martinho do Bispo, Apartado 7006, 3046-854 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Alda Pereira
- Institute for Preventive Medicine and Public Health, Faculty of Medicine, University of Lisbon, 1649-028 Lisboa, Portugal
- University Clinic of General and Family Medicine, Ecogenetics and Human Health Unity, Institute for Environmental Health, Instituto de Saúde Ambiental (ISAMB), 1649-028 Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Maria do Céu Costa
- CBIOS (Research Center for Biosciences and Health Technologies), Universidade Lusófona de Humanidades e Tecnologias, Campo Grande 376, 1749-024 Lisboa, Portugal
- Núcleo de Investigação em Ciências e Tecnologias da Saúde (NICiTeS), Polytechnic Institute of Lusophony, ERISA-Escola Superior de Saúde Ribeiro Sanches, 1900-693 Lisboa, Portugal
| | - António Raposo
- CBIOS (Research Center for Biosciences and Health Technologies), Universidade Lusófona de Humanidades e Tecnologias, Campo Grande 376, 1749-024 Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Ariana Saraiva
- Department of Animal Pathology and Production, Bromatology and Food Technology, Faculty of Veterinary, Universidad de Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, Trasmontaña s/n, 35413 Arucas, Spain
| | - Bruno Magalhães
- School of Health, University of Trás-os-Montes and Alto Douro (UTAD), 5000-801 Vila Real, Portugal
- RISE-Health Research Network, Faculty of Medicine, University of Porto, 4099-002 Porto, Portugal
- Clinical Academic Centre of Trás-os-Montes and Alto Douro (CACTMAD), 5000-801 Vila Real, Portugal
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Varzakas T, Antoniadou M. A Holistic Approach for Ethics and Sustainability in the Food Chain: The Gateway to Oral and Systemic Health. Foods 2024; 13:1224. [PMID: 38672896 PMCID: PMC11049237 DOI: 10.3390/foods13081224] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2024] [Revised: 04/12/2024] [Accepted: 04/15/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Food production is a complex matter, affecting people's lives, organizations' profits, and the well-being of the whole planet, and has multifaceted ethical considerations surrounding its production, distribution, and consumption. This paper addresses the pressing need to confront ethical challenges within the food system, encompassing issues such as environmental sustainability, food security, and individual food choices for better oral and systemic health of all individuals around the globe. From agricultural practices to global trade and food waste, ethical implications are addressed across various domains, highlighting the interconnectedness of ethical decision-making in the food industry. Central themes explored include the ethical dimensions of food production methods, the impact of global trade on food ethics, and the role of individuals in making ethically informed food choices. Additionally, this paper considers the spiritual and physical significance of food, particularly through the lens of oral health as a gateway to holistic well-being. Recognizing the complexity of the food and mouth ecosystem, this paper calls for serious interventions in legislation and economics to promote ethical protocols and techniques for sustainability reasons. It emphasizes the importance of ethical considerations in food safety management systems, regulatory frameworks, and quality standards. Moreover, this paper underlines the need for a comprehensive approach to address ethical dilemmas and moral values inherent in the food industry and oral health policies, adopting the precautionary principle and ethical decision-making frameworks. This article finally aims to serve as a call to action for stakeholders across the food industry and the healthcare sector, to prioritize ethical practices, promote transparency, rearrange economic parameters, and work towards a more sustainable and equitable food system for inner and outer oral and systemic health and human sustainability for all.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Theodoros Varzakas
- Department Food Science and Technology, University of the Peloponnese, 24100 Kalamata, Greece
| | - Maria Antoniadou
- Department of Dentistry, School of Health Sciences, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece
- Certified Systemic Analyst Program in Systemic Management (CSAP), University of Piraeus, 18534 Piraeus, Greece
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Owais U, Patel R, Abbott S. The influence of religiosity on food choice among British Muslims: A qualitative study. Nutr Health 2024:2601060241244883. [PMID: 38567450 DOI: 10.1177/02601060241244883] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/04/2024]
Abstract
Background: Religiosity is known to have a socio-cultural influence on food choice. However, to date, research exploring the influence of Islam on food selection has almost exclusively focused on fasting during Ramadan and has not explored the influences of Islam on everyday food choices among Muslim people. Aim: This qualitative study explored the influence of Islamic religiosity on everyday food choices among Muslim people. Methods: Thirty-two adult participants residing in the United Kingdom (n = 16 faith leaders and n = 16 lay Muslim people) were recruited from three Sunni mosques, and data was collected using semi-structured interviews. The data was analysed using reflexive thematic analysis and a constant comparison method was applied to draw out similarities and differences between faith leaders and lay Muslim people. Results: The results revealed that Islamic religiosity had an influence over food choice with two main overarching themes 1) Demonstrating religious obedience through food choices and, 2) Spheres of influence on food choice; and five sub-themes 1a) Trusting in familiar food providers, 1b) Verification of halal authenticity, 1c) Seeking purity within food, 2a) The Prophet Muhammed (Peace Be Upon Him) as a role model for food choice and, 2b) Islamic jurisprudence. Conclusion: These findings provide important insights into the influence of Islam on food choice and could be used support the design of faith-informed dietary interventions among Muslim people. Further research is required to examine the role of faith-informed dietary intervention in the Muslim community.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Umama Owais
- School of Health and Life Sciences, Coventry University, Coventry, UK
| | - Riya Patel
- Research Centre for Healthcare and Communities, Institute of Health and Wellbeing, Coventry, UK
| | - Sally Abbott
- Research Centre for Healthcare and Communities, Institute of Health and Wellbeing, Coventry, UK
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Liczbińska G, Gautam RK, Bharati P, Malina RM. Variation in body size and weight status among Hindu and Muslim Indian males born in the 1890s through the 1950s. Sci Rep 2024; 14:4189. [PMID: 38378810 PMCID: PMC10879519 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-54637-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2023] [Accepted: 02/14/2024] [Indexed: 02/22/2024] Open
Abstract
Hindus and Muslims represent the two largest religions in India, and also differ in nutritional status, health-related habits and standard of living associated with economic disparities. In this context, the present study considered estimated secular changes in body size, proportions, and weight status among Hindu and Muslim Indian men. The data are from anthropological surveys in the 1970s which included measurements of height, weight and sitting height of 43,950 males 18-84 years (birth years 1891-1957). Leg length was estimated; the BMI and sitting height/height ratio were calculated. Heights of men 35 + years were adjusted for estimated height loss with age. Weight status was also classified relative to WHO criteria for the BMI. Anthropometric characteristics of the two groups were compared with MANCOVA with age and geographic region as covariates. Linear regression of height on year of birth was also used to estimate secular change in each group. Heights, weights, and BMIs tended to be, on average, greater among Muslim than Hindu men at most ages, while distributions by weight status between groups were negligible. Sitting height was greater among Muslim men but estimated leg length did not differ between groups; the sitting height/height ratio thus suggested proportionally shorter legs among Muslim men. Results of the regression analyses indicated negligible differences in secular change between groups across the total span of birth years but indicated a decline in adjusted heights of men in both groups born between 1891 through 1930s and little secular change among those born in the 1930s through 1957. The variation in heights, weights and BMIs between Muslim and Hindu men at most ages suggested variation in socio-economic status and dietary habits between the groups, whereas the negligible estimated secular changes in height between groups likely reflected economic, social, and nutritional conditions during the interval of British rule and the transition to independence.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Grażyna Liczbińska
- Institute of Human Biology and Evolution, Faculty of Biology, Adam Mickiewicz University, Poznań, Poland.
| | - Rajesh K Gautam
- Department of Anthropology, Dr. Harisingh Gour Vishwavidyalaya (A Central University), Sagar, Madhya Pradesh, India
| | - Premananda Bharati
- Biological Anthropology Unit, Indian Statistical Institute, Kolkata, India
| | - Robert M Malina
- Professor Emeritus, Department of Kinesiology and Health Education, University of Texas, Austin, TX, 78705, USA
- Adjunct Professor, School of Public Health and Information Sciences, University of Louisville, Louisville, KY, USA
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Major-Smith D, Morgan J, Emmett P, Golding J, Northstone K. Associations between religious/spiritual beliefs and behaviours and dietary patterns: analysis of the parental generation in a prospective cohort study (ALSPAC) in Southwest England. Public Health Nutr 2023; 26:2895-2911. [PMID: 37665131 PMCID: PMC10755456 DOI: 10.1017/s1368980023001866] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2022] [Revised: 08/18/2023] [Accepted: 08/23/2023] [Indexed: 09/05/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Religious/spiritual beliefs and behaviours (RSBB) have been associated with health outcomes, with diet a potential mediator of this relationship. We therefore explored whether RSBB were associated with differences in diet. DESIGN Dietary patterns and nutrient intakes were derived from food frequency questionnaire completed by pregnant women in 1991-1992 (mean age = 28·3 years, range = 15-46) and by the mothers and partners 4 years post-partum (mothers mean age = 32·3, range = 19-49; partners mean age = 34·5, range = 18-74). RSBB exposures measured in pregnancy included religious belief, affiliation and attendance. We first explored whether RSBBs were associated with dietary patterns in confounder-adjusted linear regression models. If associations were found, we examined whether RSBB were associated with nutrient intake (linear regression) and following nutrient intake guidelines (logistic regression). SETTING Prospective birth cohort study in Southwest England (Avon Longitudinal Study of Parents and Children; ALSPAC). PARTICIPANTS 13 689 enrolled mothers and their associated partners. RESULTS In pregnant women, RSBB were associated with higher 'traditional' (i.e. 'meat and two veg') and lower 'vegetarian' dietary pattern scores. Religious attendance and non-Christian religious affiliation were associated with higher 'health-conscious' dietary pattern scores. Religious attendance was associated with increased micronutrient intake and following recommended micronutrient intake guidelines, with weaker effects for religious belief and affiliation. Comparable patterns were observed for mothers and partners 4 years post-partum, although associations between RSBB and nutrient intakes were weaker for partners. CONCLUSIONS RSBBs are associated with broad dietary patterns and nutrient intake in this cohort. If these reflect causal relationships, diet may potentially mediate the pathway between RSBB and health.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Major-Smith
- Centre for Academic Child Health, Population Health Sciences, Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, Bristol, BS8 2BN, UK
- MRC Integrative Epidemiology Unit, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
| | - Jimmy Morgan
- Centre for Academic Child Health, Population Health Sciences, Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, Bristol, BS8 2BN, UK
| | - Pauline Emmett
- Centre for Academic Child Health, Population Health Sciences, Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, Bristol, BS8 2BN, UK
| | - Jean Golding
- Centre for Academic Child Health, Population Health Sciences, Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, Bristol, BS8 2BN, UK
| | - Kate Northstone
- Population Health Sciences, Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Chouraqui JP. Vegetarian diets and diets which restrict animal-source foods during childhood in high-income countries. Paediatr Int Child Health 2023; 43:57-82. [PMID: 37649436 DOI: 10.1080/20469047.2023.2245186] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2022] [Accepted: 06/21/2023] [Indexed: 09/01/2023]
Abstract
Increasing numbers of populations in the West are restricting their intake of meat and other animal products for reasons relating to health or ethics; in many countries, these restrictions are already common for cultural, religious, or socio-economic reasons. By following their parent's diet, children are exposed in parallel. This narrative review aims at assessing current data regarding vegetarian diets in children from birth to 18 years of age, which include, by increasing degree of restriction, flexitarian, lacto-ovo-vegetarian, lacto-vegetarian, pescatarian, vegan and macrobiotic diets. The 202 references include 45 studies in children. The more restrictive the diet and the younger the child, the greater the risk of nutritional deficiency. Of particular concern are vitamin B12, iron, zinc, calcium, n-3 long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids, and protein and energy intake, especially in pregnant and nursing women, infants and young children. Providing an adequate lacto-ovo-vegetarian diet is relatively easy, whereas the maintenance of more restrictive diets may be challenging. The benefits and risks of vegetarian diets in adults are relatively well documented, but data for children are scarce. Vegan and macrobiotic diets should be discouraged in pregnant and lactating mothers as well as in young children, who, otherwise, should pay careful attention to ensuring nutritional adequacy, blood testing and appropriate supplementation. The health consequences of a chosen diet should be discussed with parents and adolescents to ensure the best possible adherence to advice and prescriptions. There is a need for well conducted studies in children but also for better knowledge of nutrition in healthcare professionals.Abbreviations: ALA: α-linolenic acid; ARA: arachidonic acid; ASF: animal source foods; BMC: bone mineral content; BMD: bone mineral density; DHA: docosahexaenoic acid; DRV: dietary reference value; EPA: eicosapentaenoic acid; FLD: flexitarian diet; LA: linoleic acid; LC-PUFA: long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids; LOVD: lacto-ovo-vegetarian diet; LVD: lacto-vegetarian diet; MAD: macrobiotic diet; OMD: omnivorous diet; PSF: plant-source foods; SFA: saturated fatty acids; VGD: vegetarian diets; VND: vegan diet.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jean-Pierre Chouraqui
- Paediatric Division of Nutrition and Gastro-Enterology, Department of Paediatric, Grenoble-Alpes University Hospital (CHUGA), Grenoble, France
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Hasan MR, Tabassum T, Tabassum T, Tanbir MA, Kibria M, Chowduary M, Nambiar R. Navigating Cultural Diversity in the Selection of Cardiovascular Device Treatments: A Comprehensive Review. Cureus 2023; 15:e38934. [PMID: 37313070 PMCID: PMC10259755 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.38934] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/11/2023] [Indexed: 06/15/2023] Open
Abstract
In cardiology, patients' cultural beliefs, linguistic differences, lack of knowledge, and socioeconomic status can create barriers to choosing device treatment. To address this issue, we conducted a thorough literature review using online databases such as PubMed, Google Scholar, and Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center's research portal. Our review found that cultural, religious, and linguistic barriers can contribute to patients' apprehension and reservations about device placement. These barriers can also impact patients' adherence to treatment and clinical outcomes. Patients from lower socioeconomic backgrounds may have difficulty accessing and affording device-based treatments. Additionally, fear and inadequate understanding of surgical procedures can deter patients from accepting device treatment in cardiology. To overcome these cultural barriers, healthcare providers must raise awareness about the benefits of device treatment and provide better training to overcome these challenges. It is crucial to address the unique needs of patients from different cultural backgrounds and socioeconomic statuses to ensure they receive the care they need.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Md Rockyb Hasan
- Department of Internal Medicine, Amarillo Campus, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Amarillo, USA
| | - Tahsin Tabassum
- Department of Public Health, School of Community Health and Policy, Morgan State University, Baltimore, USA
| | - Tanzin Tabassum
- Department of General Surgery, West Suffolk Hospital, Bury St Edmunds, GBR
| | - Mohammed A Tanbir
- Department of Internal Medicine, Amarillo Campus, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Amarillo, USA
| | - Mahzabin Kibria
- Department of Medicine, Sir Salimullah Medical College, Dhaka, BGD
| | - Mahidul Chowduary
- Department of Internal Medicine, Interfaith Medical Center, Brooklyn, USA
| | - Rajesh Nambiar
- Department of Cardiology, Amarillo Campus, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Amarillo, USA
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Chouraqui JP. Risk Assessment of Micronutrients Deficiency in Vegetarian or Vegan Children: Not So Obvious. Nutrients 2023; 15:2129. [PMID: 37432244 DOI: 10.3390/nu15092129] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2023] [Revised: 04/16/2023] [Accepted: 04/22/2023] [Indexed: 07/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Vegetarian diets have gained in popularity worldwide and therefore an increasing number of children may be exposed to the resulting nutritional consequences. Among them, the risk of micronutrient shortfall is particularly of concern. This narrative review aims to assess and discuss the relevance of micronutrient deficiency risk based on the available data. It mainly draws attention to iron, zinc, iodine, and vitamins B12 and D intake. Diets that are more restrictive in animal source foods, such as vegan diets, have a greater likelihood of nutritional deficiencies. However, the actual risk of micronutrient deficiency in vegetarian children is relatively difficult to assert based on the limitations of evidence due to the lack of well-designed studies. The risk of vitamin B12 deficiency must be considered in newborns from vegan or macrobiotic mothers and children with the most restrictive diet, as well as the risk of iron, zinc, and iodine deficiency, possibly by performing the appropriate tests. A lacto-ovo-vegetarian diet exposes a low risk if it uses a very varied diet with a sufficient intake of dairy products. Vegan and macrobiotic diets should be avoided during pregnancy and childhood. There is a need for education and nutrition guidance and the need for supplementation should be assessed individually.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jean-Pierre Chouraqui
- Paediatric Nutrition and Gastroenterology, Paediatrics Department, University Hospital of Grenoble-Alpes (CHUGA), Quai Yermoloff, 38700 La Tronche, France
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Dandapat B, Biswas S, Patra B. Religion, nutrition and birth weight among currently married women (15–49) in India: A study based on NFHS-5. Clinical Epidemiology and Global Health 2023. [DOI: 10.1016/j.cegh.2023.101218] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
|
10
|
Trabelsi K, Ammar A, Boujelbane MA, Puce L, Garbarino S, Scoditti E, Boukhris O, Khanfir S, Clark CCT, Glenn JM, Alhaj OA, Jahrami H, Chtourou H, Bragazzi NL. Religious fasting and its impacts on individual, public, and planetary health: Fasting as a "religious health asset" for a healthier, more equitable, and sustainable society. Front Nutr 2022; 9:1036496. [PMID: 36505246 PMCID: PMC9729557 DOI: 10.3389/fnut.2022.1036496] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2022] [Accepted: 10/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Religious fasting is practiced by people of all faiths, including Christianity, Islam, Buddhism, Jainism, as well as Hinduism, Judaism, and Taoism. Individual/clinical, public, global, and planetary health has traditionally been studied as separate entities. Nevertheless, religious fasting, in conjunction with other religious health assets, can provide several opportunities, ranging from the individual to the population, environmental, and planetary levels, by facilitating and supporting societal transformations and changes, such as the adoption of healthier, more equitable, and sustainable lifestyles, therein preserving the Earth's systems and addressing major interconnected, cascading, and compound challenges. In this review, we will summarize the most recent evidence on the effects of religious fasting, particularly Orthodox and Ramadan Islamic fasting, on human and public health. Further, we will explore the potential effects of religious fasting on tackling current environmental issues, with a special focus on nutrition/food restriction and planetary health. Finally, specific recommendations, particularly around dietary intake during the fasting rituals, will be provided to ensure a sustainable healthy planet.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Khaled Trabelsi
- Research Laboratory: Education, Motricity, Sport and Health, Sfax, Tunisia
- Higher Institute of Sport and Physical Education of Sfax, University of Sfax, Sfax, Tunisia
| | - Achraf Ammar
- Department of Training and Movement Science, Institute of Sport Science, Johannes Gutenberg-University Mainz, Mainz, Germany
- UFR SESS-STAPS, Paris-East Créteil University, LIRTES (EA 7313), Créteil, France
| | - Mohamed Ali Boujelbane
- Higher Institute of Sport and Physical Education of Sfax, University of Sfax, Sfax, Tunisia
| | - Luca Puce
- Department of Neuroscience, Rehabilitation, Ophthalmology, Genetics, Maternal and Child Health (DINOGMI), University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy
| | - Sergio Garbarino
- Department of Neuroscience, Rehabilitation, Ophthalmology, Genetics, Maternal and Child Health (DINOGMI), University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy
| | - Egeria Scoditti
- National Research Council, Institute of Clinical Physiology, Lecce, Italy
| | - Omar Boukhris
- Higher Institute of Sport and Physical Education of Sfax, University of Sfax, Sfax, Tunisia
- Sport and Exercise Science, School of Allied Health, Human Services and Sport, La Trobe University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Saber Khanfir
- Faculty of Medicine of Tunis, University of Tunis El Manar, Tunis, Tunisia
| | - Cain C. T. Clark
- Centre for Intelligent Healthcare, Coventry University, Coventry, United Kingdom
| | - Jordan M. Glenn
- Department of Health, Exercise Science Research Center Human Performance and Recreation, University of Arkansas, Fayetteville, AR, United States
| | - Omar A. Alhaj
- Department of Nutrition, Faculty of Pharmacy and Medical Sciences, University of Petra, Amman, Jordan
| | - Haitham Jahrami
- Department of Psychiatry, Ministry of Health, Manama, Bahrain
- Department of Psychiatry, College of Medicine and Medical Sciences, Arabian Gulf University, Manama, Bahrain
| | - Hamdi Chtourou
- Higher Institute of Sport and Physical Education of Sfax, University of Sfax, Sfax, Tunisia
| | - Nicola Luigi Bragazzi
- Laboratory for Industrial and Applied Mathematics, Department of Mathematics and Statistics, York University, Toronto, ON, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Chouraqui JP. Dietary Approaches to Iron Deficiency Prevention in Childhood—A Critical Public Health Issue. Nutrients 2022; 14:nu14081604. [PMID: 35458166 PMCID: PMC9026685 DOI: 10.3390/nu14081604] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2022] [Revised: 04/03/2022] [Accepted: 04/08/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Iron is an essential nutrient, and individual iron status is determined by the regulation of iron absorption, which is driven by iron requirements. Iron deficiency (ID) disproportionately affects infants, children, and adolescents, particularly those who live in areas with unfavorable socioeconomic conditions. The main reason for this is that diet provides insufficient bioavailable iron to meet their needs. The consequences of ID include poor immune function and response to vaccination, and moderate ID anemia is associated with depressed neurodevelopment and impaired cognitive and academic performances. The persistently high prevalence of ID worldwide leads to the need for effective measures of ID prevention. The main strategies include the dietary diversification of foods with more bioavailable iron and/or the use of iron-fortified staple foods such as formula or cereals. However, this strategy may be limited due to its cost, especially in low-income countries where biofortification is a promising approach. Another option is iron supplementation. In terms of health policy, the choice between mass and targeted ID prevention depends on local conditions. In any case, this remains a critical public health issue in many countries that must be taken into consideration, especially in children under 5 years of age.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jean-Pierre Chouraqui
- Pediatric Nutrition and Gastroenterology Unit, Woman, Mother and Child Department, University Hospital of Lausanne, 1011 Lausanne, Switzerland
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Darmaun D. Maternal intermittent fasting during pregnancy: a translational research challenge for an important clinical scenario. Clin Sci (Lond) 2021; 135:2099-102. [PMID: 34467967 DOI: 10.1042/CS20210578] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2021] [Revised: 08/17/2021] [Accepted: 08/17/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
In volume 135, issue 11 of Clinical Science, Alkhalefah et al. report that, in pregnant rats, repeated, cyclic fasting, mimicking the fasting experienced by observant Muslim pregnant women during Ramadan, alters placental amino acid transport and increases the incidence of low birth weight. Though Muslim women are exempt, many observe Ramadan: >500 million fetuses worldwide may be exposed to Ramadan fasting in each generation, and low birth weight increases the risk of developing chronic disease in the future adult. Several mechanisms, including altered circadian rhythm, maternal stress, undernutrition or compensatory overeating at the breaking of fast, could, in theory, impact fetal growth during Ramadan. Limitations of the experimental model obviously prevent direct extrapolation to humans. Whether Ramadan fasting indeed affect fetal growth therefore remains unclear, as there is no clear-cut evidence from epidemiological studies. The paper illustrates the need to design further case-controlled studies in large cohorts of women who fasted at various stages of pregnancy, compared to appropriately matched women who did not fast, as well as more experimental studies focused on this issue of public health relevance.
Collapse
|
13
|
Shatila H, Baroudi M, El Sayed Ahmad R, Chehab R, Forman MR, Abbas N, Faris M, Naja F. Impact of Ramadan Fasting on Dietary Intakes Among Healthy Adults: A Year-Round Comparative Study. Front Nutr 2021; 8:689788. [PMID: 34422880 PMCID: PMC8375294 DOI: 10.3389/fnut.2021.689788] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2021] [Accepted: 06/28/2021] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Religious rituals are considered among the principle factors that impact dietary behaviors and food selections. The main objective of this study is to characterize food intake among Lebanese adults observant of the fasting month of Ramadan and compare it to their intake of the rest of the year. During a year-round study, including the month of Ramadan, Lebanese adults (n = 62), completed multiple (9 to 13) 24-h dietary recalls. Information about sociodemographic and lifestyle characteristics was also obtained. Dietary intake was examined using food groups as well as energy, macro, and micronutrient consumption. Significant differences in dietary intakes were observed for 12 of the 19 food groups (expressed as a percent of total energy) during Ramadan as compared to the rest of the year. More specifically, the intakes of cereals, cereal-based products, pasta, eggs, nuts and seeds, milk and dairy, and fats and oils were lower, while vegetables, dried fruit, Arabic sweets, cakes and pastries, and sugar-sweetened-beverages intakes were higher during Ramadan as compared to the remainder of the year (p < 0.05). Such differences in food groups' intakes were reflected in nutrients intakes, including carbohydrates, cholesterol, calcium, beta-carotene, vitamin C, folate, and magnesium. The findings of this study highlighted major differences in dietary intakes between the fasting month as compared to the rest of the year. With the large number of adults who observe fasting during Ramadan, the particularities of dietary intake during Ramadan ought to be considered in the development of context and culture-specific dietary recommendations.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hibeh Shatila
- Department of Nutrition and Food Sciences, Faculty of Agriculture and Food Sciences, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Mariam Baroudi
- Department of Nutrition and Food Sciences, Faculty of Agriculture and Food Sciences, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Raeda El Sayed Ahmad
- Department of Nutrition and Food Sciences, Faculty of Agriculture and Food Sciences, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Rana Chehab
- Nutrition Sciences, College of Health and Human Sciences, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, United States
| | - Michele R Forman
- Nutrition Sciences, College of Health and Human Sciences, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, United States
| | - Nada Abbas
- Department of Nutrition and Food Sciences, Faculty of Agriculture and Food Sciences, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - MoezAlIslam Faris
- Department of Clinical Nutrition and Dietetics, College of Health Sciences, Research Institute of Medical & Health Sciences (RIMHS), University of Sharjah, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
| | - Farah Naja
- Department of Clinical Nutrition and Dietetics, College of Health Sciences, Research Institute of Medical & Health Sciences (RIMHS), University of Sharjah, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates.,Faculty of Agriculture and Food Sciences, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Peles C, Shloim N, Rudolf MCJ. "Over-preoccupation with healthy food is perceived as worship of the body": Food, culture and beliefs in Ultra-Orthodox Jewish families. Appetite 2021; 167:105621. [PMID: 34363899 DOI: 10.1016/j.appet.2021.105621] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2021] [Revised: 06/28/2021] [Accepted: 08/01/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Eating behaviours vary by culture and religion, and an understanding of attitudes and practices are essential for providing culturally competent nutritional guidance. The Ultra-orthodox Jewish community is characterized by poor diet, high rates of obesity, anemia and diabetes. This study aimed to acquire insights that could influence the promotion of healthier eating in the Ultra-orthodox and other closed religious communities, particularly regarding children's eating habits and the food they consume. METHODS In depth face-to-face recorded interviews were conducted with 20 information-rich participants: religious leaders, opinion leaders and education/health professionals from Gur and Chabad, two Ultra-orthodox Jewish religious communities in Israel. The focus was on exploring young family eating behaviours and perceived challenges to encouraging healthier nutrition in the community. Interviews were transcribed and thematic analysis employed using grounded theory. RESULTS Seven themes were identified with findings that had clear implications for the promotion of health at both the community and individual level. These included spiritual aspects of eating, deficits in knowledge and awareness, less relevance of kashrut than previously thought, the centrality of motherhood and family meals, the quality of food in educational institutions, the significance and sensitivity of Sabbath and festive meals and pragmatic considerations. DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSIONS By illuminating attitudes and behaviors, the study broadens and enhances our understanding of the Ultra-orthodox communities' perspectives on eating behaviours in the family. The findings have the potential to contribute to strengths-based health promotion for children's nutrition. Recommendations regarding culturally competent guidance and implications for other secluded religious communities are discussed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- C Peles
- Department of Population Health, Azrieli Faculty of Medicine, Safed, Israel.
| | - N Shloim
- School of Healthcare, University of Leeds, UK.
| | - M C J Rudolf
- Department of Population Health, Azrieli Faculty of Medicine, Safed, Israel.
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Evidence from observational studies suggests that obesity is associated with low vitamin D. As both obesity and hypovitaminosis D present an alarmingly increased prevalence worldwide, there is an intense research interest to clarify all aspects of this association. This review summarizes current evidence from meta-analyses investigating vitamin D status in obesity, including the effects of weight loss and bariatric surgery on vitamin D status and the outcomes of vitamin D supplementation on body weight. We also discuss potential pathophysiologic mechanisms and important controversies. RECENT FINDINGS Data from meta-analyses consistently support an inverse association of vitamin D levels with body weight. However, the impact of weight loss on improving vitamin D status is small, while studies on the supplementation with vitamin D after bariatric surgery have shown conflicting results regarding vitamin D status. Moreover, interventional studies do not support a beneficial effect of vitamin D supplementation on body weight. These findings warrant a cautious interpretation due to important methodological limitations and confounding factors, such as high heterogeneity of studies, variable methods of determination of vitamin D and definition of deficiency/insufficiency, use of various adiposity measures and definitions of obesity, and inadequate adjustment for confounding variables influencing vitamin D levels. The underlying pathogenetic mechanisms associating low vitamin D in obesity include volumetric dilution, sequestration into adipose tissue, limited sunlight exposure, and decreased vitamin D synthesis in the adipose tissue and liver. Experimental studies have demonstrated that low vitamin D may be implicated in adipose tissue differentiation and growth leading to obesity either by regulation of gene expression or through modulation of parathyroid hormone, calcium, and leptin. Obesity is associated with low vitamin D status but weight loss has little effect on improving this; vitamin D supplementation is also not associated with weight loss. Evidence regarding vitamin D status after bariatric surgery is contradicting. The link between vitamin D and obesity remains controversial due to important limitations and confounding of studies. More research is needed to clarify the complex interplay between vitamin D and adiposity.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Irene Karampela
- Second Department of Critical Care, Medical School, Attikon General University Hospital, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 1 Rimini St, Haidari, 12462, Athens, Greece.
- Department of Biological Chemistry, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Mikras Asias 75, Goudi, 11527, Athens, Greece.
| | - Alexandra Sakelliou
- Second Department of Critical Care, Medical School, Attikon General University Hospital, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 1 Rimini St, Haidari, 12462, Athens, Greece
| | - Natalia Vallianou
- First Department of Internal Medicine, Evangelismos General Hospital, 45-47 Ypsilantou St, 10676, Athens, Greece
| | - Gerasimos-Socrates Christodoulatos
- Department of Biological Chemistry, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Mikras Asias 75, Goudi, 11527, Athens, Greece
| | - Faidon Magkos
- Department of Nutrition, Exercise, and Sports, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Maria Dalamaga
- Department of Biological Chemistry, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Mikras Asias 75, Goudi, 11527, Athens, Greece
| |
Collapse
|