Dietary intake of polish organic and conventional fruit growers and their life partners - a pilot study

Diet is one of the elements that contribute to health and quality of life. There are significant discrepancies between the diets of people living in different regions, with different beliefs, or with different approaches to sustainability and ecology. There is a lack of research on dietary intake among organic and conventional fruit growers. The aim of our study was to examine the diets of orchardists and their immediate life partners in terms of meeting energy requirements, nutrient intake and fulfillment of dietary recommendations in this group. Fifty-three participants (28 in the organic group and 25 in the conventional group) took part in the study. Dietary data were obtained using the 3-day dietary record. Body mass and height were measured and BMI was calculated. Physical activity was estimated using a questionnaire method. The study group was aged 44 ± 8 years, with a body weight of 84 ± 16 kg and a height of 172 ± 9 cm. The mean BMI was 28 ± 4 kg/m2. Mean energy intake with diet was 2170 ± 606 kcal/day with needs of 3002 (1991-5144) kcal/day. A significant proportion of the study group did not fulfill their calcium and vitamin D requirements. In addition, a significant proportion of the conventional fruit growers did not cover their needs for potassium, magnesium and vitamins: E, C, and folate. Both groups had too high an intake of cholesterol and saturated fatty acids, and too low an intake of polyunsaturated fatty acids. In conclusion, the orchardists' diets mostly provided adequate amounts of nutrients, with inadequate intakes of calcium, vitamin D, cholesterol, and fatty acids. The diets of organic fruit growers were significantly richer in selected nutrients.

Energy expenditure during training and official league match in professional female soccer players - a pilot study

Background

The most important component of a well-balanced diet is the proper energetic value. However, adequate estimation of the body's energy needs is difficult for professional athletes, including soccer players. There is little research showing energy expenditure during training and lack of studies on the energy expenditure of professional female soccer players during a match.

Objective

The aim of our study was to estimate energy expenditure during training and official league match in female soccer players and comparing it.

Material and methods

Seven Polish professionally practicing soccer females (23.4±6,6 years old; 63.5±7.8 kg; 168.5±5.8 cm; 46±4.4 kg fat-free mass) participated in the study. The participants had their height and body mass measured. Energy expenditure during activities was measured by means of a SenseWear Pro3 Armband device. Body composition was assessed with Akern BIA 101 Anniversary Sport Edition device.

Results

Statistically higher energy expenditure was achieved in the study group during the match hour (452±55 kcal/hour) compared to the training hour (353±28 kcal/ hour) as well as in the case of energy expenditure per hour of activity per kg of fat-free mass (match: 9.94±1.75 kcal/kg fat-free mass/hour; training: 7.71±0.8 kcal/kg fat-free mass/hour). During one hour of training, more time was spent on sedentary, light, and moderate activities, but the difference was statistically significant only for light activities. More time during the match hour than during the training hour was spent on vigorous and very vigorous activities.

Conclusions

In conclusion, the energy expenditure of the players during the match was greater than in the case of the planned intensive training, which was caused by the timeshare of more intense physical activities and going a longer distance during match.

Fantastic Foods and Where to Find Them-Advantages and Disadvantages of Nutri-Score in the Search for Healthier Food

The composition and quality of food rations and the intake of nutrients with the diet are undoubtedly reflected in our health. In order to help the consumer choose the right food product, food manufacturers use front-of-pack labels, which are designed to convey concise information about the nutritional value of the product. Such labels include the Nutri-Score system. In this paper, we have critically analyzed this system. As the available data indicate, this system does not take into account a number of factors that affect the quality of a food product, including the size of the package, the contents of vitamins, minerals, and other selected health-promoting ingredients, the degree of processing, or the fatty acid profile of the product, and it discriminates against regional products, organic products, and juices and nectars. This system, although intuitive and created with good intentions, still has quite a few flaws that must be addressed before it can be considered to correctly indicate the nutritional value of food products.

Effect of Age and Gender on the Efficacy of a 12-Month Body Weight Reduction Program Conducted Online-A Prospective Cohort Study

Overweight and obesity are a cause of many non-communicable diseases leading to an increased risk of death. There are many programs aimed at weight reduction, but few publications have evaluated their effectiveness according to the gender and age of the subjects. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the effects of age and gender on weight loss outcomes in subjects participating in a 12-month online weight loss program. 400 subjects, 190 men and 210 women, were included in the study. The online intervention consisted of a 15% energy deficit diet and training (RESPO method). Changes in body weight over 12 months were similar (p = 0.14) across age groups. Weight reductions by month were statistically significant (p = 0.0001) in both groups. We noted no differences in weight loss between men and women expressed in kilograms. However, women reduced their body weight to a greater extent, i.e., by 2.7 percentage points, than men. Gender is a factor that may influence the effectiveness of weight loss programs, while age demonstrates no such influence. Our study shows that significant weight reduction during weight loss therapy is achieved by both men and women, but women can expect better results.

The possibility of use of the ketogenic diet and medium chain triglycerides supplementation in the support therapy of Alzheimer disease

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Diet-induced ketosis has a fasting-like effect and brings the body to increase the production of ketone bodies (KB). Works over the last decades have provided evidence of the therapeutic potential of the ketogenic diet (KD). This review focus on mainly clinical research on the effectiveness of the KD and medium-chain triglycerides (MCT) supplementation in ameliorating the severity of symptoms in Alzheimer disease (AD).

RECENT FINDINGS

A limited number of clinical studies (short-time and with a small number of participants) evaluated the role of the KD and MCT supplementation in AD as a potential dietary intervention in the therapy of this disease. These studies report that the application of KD or/and MCT supplements to older people reduces symptoms of AD. MCT supplements allow achieving an increased level of KBs in the blood even with a greater supply of carbohydrates in the diet and without any drastic changes in the habitual diet of patients.

SUMMARY

The recent literature highlights the potential benefit of using diet-induced ketosis as an additional element of therapy in AD. Since persons with AD are at risk of malnutrition, the use of KD raises certain concerns due to side effects, especially for long periods of time. MCT supplements to obtain similar clinical results without the need for drastic changes in the diet of patients.

Body Mass, Physical Activity and Eating Habits Changes during the First COVID-19 Pandemic Lockdown in Poland

The outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic caused a number of changes in social life around the world. In response to the growing number of infections, some countries have introduced restrictions that may have resulted in the change of the lifestyle. The aim of our study was to investigate the impact of the lockdown on body weight, physical activity and some eating habits of the society. The survey involving 183 people was conducted using a proprietary questionnaire. The mean age of the study participants was 33 ± 11 and mean height 169 ± 8 cm. An average increase in body weight was observed in 49.18% by 0.63 ± 3.7 kg which was the result of a decrease in physical activity and an increase in food consumption. We also observed a decrease in PAL from 1.64 ± 0.15 to 1.58 ± 0.13 and changes in the amount of food and individual groups of products consumption, including alcohol. Among the study participants who did not lose body mass, there was an average weight gain of 2.25 ± 2.5 kg. In conclusion, an increase of weight was shown in about half of the respondents in the study group which was associated with a decrease in physical activity and an increase in the consumption of total food and high energy density products.

The effect of high-fat versus high-carb diet on body composition in strength-trained males

Low-fat, high-carb (LFHC) and low-carb, high-fat (LCHF) diets change body composition as a consequence of the reduction of body fat of overweight persons. The aim of this study is the assessment of the impact of LFHC and LCHF diets on body composition of men of a healthy body mass who do strength sports while maintaining the appropriate calorific value in a diet and protein intake. The research involved 55 men aged 19-35, with an average BMI of 24.01 ± 1.17 (min. 20.1, max. 26.1). The participants were divided into two groups following two interventional diets: high-fat diet or high-carb diet, for 12 weeks. The body composition of the participants was measured using bioimpedance. After the 12-week-long experiment based on the low-carbohydrate diet, a significant body mass reduction of 1.5% was observed. In the group, following the LFHC diet, the parameters did not significantly change. In the group following LCHF diet, the body fat reduction of 8.6% from 14 (6.7-19.8) kg to 12.7 (3.9-19.2) was reported (p = 0.01) (in the absolute value of 1.2 kg). However, also in the LFHC group, the body fat mass was significantly reduced, that is, by 1.5% (p = 0.01) (by 0.4 kg). Nevertheless, it is worth emphasizing that despite significant changes within the groups, these changes were not statistically significant between the groups. Diets with different carbohydrate and fat intake and the energy value covering the energy needs of men training strength sports have similar impact on changes in body composition.

Dietary Factors and Prostate Cancer Development, Progression, and Reduction

Due to the constantly increasing number of cases, prostate cancer has become one of the most important health problems of modern societies. This review presents the current knowledge regarding the role of nutrients and foodstuff consumption in the etiology and development of prostate malignancies, including the potential mechanisms of action. The results of several in vivo and in vitro laboratory experiments as well as those reported by the clinical and epidemiological research studies carried out around the world were analyzed. The outcomes of these studies clearly show the influence of both nutrients and food products on the etiology and prevention of prostate cancer. Consumption of certain nutrients (saturated and trans fatty acids) and food products (e.g., processed meat products) leads to the disruption of prostate hormonal regulation, induction of oxidative stress and inflammation, and alteration of growth factor signaling and lipid metabolism, which all contribute to prostate carcinogenesis. On the other hand, a high consumption of vegetables, fruits, fish, and whole grain products exerts protective and/or therapeutic effects. Special bioactive functions are assigned to compounds such as flavonoids, stilbenes, and lycopene. Since the influence of nutrients and dietary pattern is a modifiable risk factor in the development and prevention of prostate cancer, awareness of the beneficial and harmful effects of individual food ingredients is of great importance in the global strategy against prostate cancer.

The Combination of a Diversified Intake of Carbohydrates and Fats and Supplementation of Vitamin D in a Diet Does Not Affect the Levels of Hormones (Testosterone, Estradiol, and Cortisol) in Men Practicing Strength Training for the Duration of 12 Weeks

This study aims to verify the extent to which a diversification of carbohydrates and fats intake in a diet, together with the reduction in vitamin D deficiency, impact the levels of hormones (testosterone, estradiol, cortisol) and Sex Hormone Binding Globulin (SHGB) in men doing strength training. The research involved 55 men aged 19-35. The participants were divided into two groups following two interventional diets for 12 weeks: high-fat diet (LCHF) or high-carb diet (LFHC), which were applied to satisfy the caloric requirements of each participant. Moreover, vitamin D supplementation was included. Moreover, both before and after following interventional diets, the level of hormones in participant's blood was examined. After 12 weeks of following interventional diets in both groups, no changes of the levels of testosterone and estradiol, as well as SHGB, were found. The cortisol level in both groups decreased; however, only in the LFHC group was the change statistically significant (p = 0.03) and amounted to -3.5% (the cortisol level on an empty stomach in this group decreased from 14.17 ± 3.35 to 13.93 ± 2.63 mcg/dl). In both groups, the supplementation of vitamin D brought about a significant change in the level of vitamin D metabolite (25 (OH) D) (p = 0.01). In the LCHF group, the level of metabolite increased by 95%, and by 58.3% in the LFHC group. The increase in vitamin D metabolite in blood was higher in the LCHF group than the LFHC group, which might have resulted from the supplementation of this vitamin.

The causes of adverse changes of testosterone levels in men

INTRODUCTION

As men age, progressive testosterone deficiency syndrome becomes an increasingly common problem. However, the decreased testosterone levels are not only the result of advanced age.

AREAS COVERED

PubMed search of published data on testosterone, nutritional deficiency, stress, sleep, and obesity. Many factors impact the male HPG axis (the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal), including body weight, calorific and nutritional value of a diet, the amount and quality of sleep, as well as the level of stress. In the case of persons of healthy weight, a below-average calorific value of a diet may decrease the levels of testosterone in men. On the other hand, the same caloric deficiency in obese persons may result in a neutral or positive impact on testosterone levels.

EXPERT OPINION

Many factors, including external, environmental and internal factors, influence testosterone levels. Undoubtedly, nutritional deficiency, and particularly of such nutrients as zinc, magnesium, vitamin D, together with low polyphenols intake, affects the HPG axis. The levels of mental and oxidative stress can also adversely impact the axis. Hence, a diagnosis of the cause of disturbance in testosterone levels depends on many factors and requires a broad range of research, as well as a change of patients' lifestyle.

Low energy availability in group of Polish female soccer players

Background

The most important element of a well-balanced diet is a proper energetic value. Energy deficiencies are often observed in athletes, especially women. Energy deficiencies can lead to low energy availability which can cause serious health problems and affect exercise capacities. There is, therefore, a risk of health complications and reduced physical performance among female soccer players.

Objective

The aim of this study was to check the frequency of low energy availability appearance in a group of women training soccer, which could results in negative health effects due to Relative Energy Deficiency in Sport (RED-S).

Material and methods

Thirty-one professional female soccer players practicing on different league levels (Extra-league, I league, II league) participated in the study. The participants had their height and body mass measured. To assess the Energy Intake the method of 3-day dietary food recording was used. Total Energy Expenditure (TEE) and Exercise Energy Expenditure (EEE) was measured by means of an Armband SenseWear Pro3 device. The content of fat free mass was assessed with Akern BIA 101 Anniversary Sport Edition device.

Results

The body mass median of participants was 58 kg. The average height was 166±5 cm, and the average BMI was 21.4±2 kg/m2. TEE was 2703±392 kcal/day, while EEE was 515 kcal (203-597 kcal). Energy intake was 1548±452 kcal/day. Energy availability was 25±11 kcal/kg fat free mass/day. Twenty of the study participants had low energy availability. The percentage of EEE in TEE was 17.93±3.14%.

Conclusions

Low energy availability was demonstrated in the vast majority of studied group, which may lead to negative health consequences or reduction of exercise capacity.

Nutrition for Female Soccer Players-Recommendations

Soccer is one of the most popular sports in the world. As its number of players is increasing, the number of female players is also on the rise. However, there are limited data about how the diets of female soccer players should be designed. Thus, the aim of our work is to deliver concise nutritional recommendations for women practicing this sport. Based on a literature review, we emphasize that individual adjustment of the energy value of the diet is the key factor for the physical performance of female soccer players. Appropriate macronutrient intake makes it possible to achieve the proper energy value of the diet (5-10 g/kg body mass/day carbohydrates; 1.2-1.7 g/kg body mass/day proteins; <30% fats from energy). The micronutrients should be consumed in amounts corresponding to individual values recommended in national standards. Soccer players should pay special attention to the proper consumption of such micronutrients, as well as vitamins such as iron, calcium, and vitamin D. The right amount of fluid intake, consistent with the player's needs, is crucial in maximizing exercise performance. The diet of a female practicing soccer is usually characterized with low energy values, which increases the risk of various health consequences related to low energy availability. Monitoring the diets of female soccer players is, therefore, necessary.

Assessment of resting energy demand and body composition in oncological patients undergoing partial resections of the liver

INTRODUCTION

The metabolism of the body is a complicated process. The most important organ of the organism that affects the intensity of changes is the liver. An effective treatment method of primary and metastatic tumours is a partial resection of the organ. The analysis of changes in the body composition of patients undergoing this type of treatment allows identification of problems coexisting with the underlying disease.

AIM

To evaluate changes in the parameters of body composition and the amount of resting metabolism.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

The study group consisted of 87 patients who underwent resection of changes in the liver or thermoablation of focal lesions during hospitalisation.

RESULTS

Analysis of the data showed that the surgical intervention contributes to a statistically significant (p < 0.05) decrease in the value of the phase angle. A significant increase was noted within the extra cellular water content. The amount of resting metabolism in the postoperative period did not differ significantly; however, there was an upward trend in women and a downward trend in men.

CONCLUSIONS

Surgical resection of lesions aimed at extending the survival of patients are performed more and more often, while the consequences of these operations are not sufficiently known. The adverse effect of resection treatments on body composition parameters, mainly imaged by decreasing the phase angle value, should be minimised. Effects on metabolism remain ambiguous because no significant changes have been demonstrated in the postoperative period.

Role of Ketogenic Diets in Neurodegenerative Diseases (Alzheimer's Disease and Parkinson's Disease)

The goal of this review was to assess the effectiveness of ketogenic diets on the therapy of neurodegenerative diseases. The ketogenic diet is a low-carbohydrate and fat-rich diet. Its implementation has a fasting-like effect, which brings the body into a state of ketosis. The ketogenic diet has, for almost 100 years, been used in the therapy of drug-resistant epilepsy, but current studies indicate possible neuroprotective effects. Thus far, only a few studies have evaluated the role of the ketogenic diet in the prevention of Parkinson’s disease (PD) and Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Single studies with human participants have demonstrated a reduction of disease symptoms after application. The application of the ketogenic diet to elderly people, however, raises certain concerns. Persons with neurodegenerative diseases are at risk of malnutrition, while food intake reduction is associated with disease symptoms. In turn, the ketogenic diet leads to a reduced appetite; it is not attractive from an organoleptic point of view, and may be accompanied by side effects of the gastrointestinal system. All this may lead to further lowering of consumed food portions by elderly persons with neurodegenerative diseases and, in consequence, to further reduction in the supply of nutrients provided by the diet. Neither data on the long-term application of the ketogenic diet in patients with neurodegenerative disease or data on its effects on disease symptoms are available. Further research is needed to evaluate the suitability of the ketogenic diet in the therapy of AD- or PD-affected persons.

Assessment of changes in the body composition in patients qualified for the operational treatment of the primary and metastatic liver tumors with the use of bioelectric impedance

INTRODUCTION

Resection is an optimal way of treatment of hepatic tumors and metastasis from another organ. The operational injury may influence on patients body composition examined by bioelectrical impedance (BIA). Analysis of parameters may be helpful in identifying early changes indicating of deterioration in nutritional status.

THE AIM OF THE STUDY

was to assess changes in body composition of patients before and after resection of liver tumors and potential radiofrequency ablation of lesions.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

The study included a group of 50 patients of the Department of General, Gastroenterological and Oncological Surgery, Medical University of Warsaw, who were qualified for radical surgical treatment of tumors within the liver. Data on water content, fat, muscle and cell mass were analyzed.

RESULTS

Comparing data obtained from patients before and after intervention in the liver, statistically significant (p &lt;0.05) loss of intracellular water, muscle mass, cell mass, as well as adipose tissue, was demonstrated. The phase angle value in these patients also significantly changed, decreasing by an average of 0.61°. On the other hand, the increase in content was noted in the case of extracellular water.

CONCLUSIONS

Surgical intervention within the liver causes noticeable, unfavorable changes in the body composition, as evidenced by the reduction in the value of muscle mass, as well as cellular mass, resulting in a decrease in the phase angle. Bioelectric impedance is a suitable method for assessing changes in body composition of patients undergoing liver resection and is useful in clinical practice. It is advisable to conduct further research in the group of patients undergoing invasive treatment of the liver due to: an increasing number of such operations and centers where this type of surgical intervention is performed.

Assessing the Validity and Reproducibility of an Iron Dietary Intake Questionnaire Conducted in a Group of Young Polish Women

The aim of the study was to analyse a designed brief iron dietary intake questionnaire based on a food frequency assessment (IRONIC-FFQ—IRON Intake Calculation-Food Frequency Questionnaire), including the assessment of validity and reproducibility in a group of 75 Polish women aged 20–30 years. Participants conducted 3-day dietary records and filled in the IRONIC-FFQ twice (FFQ1—directly after the dietary record and FFQ2—6 weeks later). The analysis included an assessment of validity (comparison with the results of the 3-day dietary record) and of reproducibility (comparison of the results obtained twice—FFQ1 and FFQ2). In the analysis of validity, the share of individuals correctly classified into tertiles was over 50% (weighted κ of 0.36), while analysis of correlation revealed correlation coefficients of almost 0.5. In the assessment of reproducibility, almost 80% of individuals were correctly classified and less than 3% were misclassified (weighted κ of 0.73), while a correlation coefficient higher than 0.85 was obtained. Both in the assessment of validity and of reproducibility, a Bland–Altman index of 6.7% was recorded (93.3% of compared pairs of results were in the acceptable range, attributed to differences within ± 2SD limit). Validation of the IRONIC-FFQ revealed a satisfactory level of validity and positively validated reproducibility.

[The impact of the consumption of fiber and milk on the development of colorectal carcinoma]

Colorectal carcinoma (CRC) is a diet-related disease. The high incidence of CRC is related to the excessive consumption of certain foods and a westernized lifestyle of contemporary societies. Obesity and low physical activity remain significant risk factors for CRC development. Molecular pathogenesis of CRC is fairly well recognized, which contributes to the formulation of hypotheses and conducting research on the participation of nutritional factors in the CRC development. This contribution remains diverse and for many food components a protective effect on colorectal carcinogenesis has been demonstrated. The aim of this review is to present a relationship between consumption of two selected components of the diet - fiber and milk - and the development of colorectal carcinoma, based on the review of literature.

[The impact of the consumption of vegetables, fruits, coffee and tea on the development of colorectal carcinoma]

The development of colorectal carcinoma is a multistep process of accumulation of mutations and epigenetic changes associated with DNA repair, proliferation, apoptosis, intra- and extracellular signaling, adhesion and other physiological functions of cells and tissues. A long period of development, high colorectal carcinoma-related mortality as well as significant social and economic costs due to this condition are prerequisites for seeking efficient methods of cancer prevention, including nutritional approach. A number of bioactive components of food is extensively tested for antitumor activity, however limited number of reliable studies on humans impedes the formulation of unequivocal nutritional recommendations. Plant products represent a rich source of numerous phytochemicals endowed with anticancer potential due to, first of all, their free radical scavenger activity. The purpose of this paper was to present the relationship between consumption of selected foods reach in numerous bioactive compounds with proven or putative anticancer activity - vegetables, fruits, coffee and tea - and the development of colorectal carcinoma, based on selected studies. A number of controversies related to the anti-tumor potential of the above ingredients was also discussed.

Lycopene, Lutein and Zeaxanthin May Reduce Faecal Blood, Mucus and Pus but not Abdominal Pain in Individuals with Ulcerative Colitis

BACKGROUND

The main symptom of ulcerative colitis is diarrhoea, which is often accompanied by painful tenesmus and faecal blood and mucus. It sometimes co-occurs with abdominal pain, fever, feeling of fatigue, loss of appetite and weight loss. Some dietary factors have been indicated as important in the treatment of ulcerative colitis. The aim of the study was to analyse the association between retinoid intake (total vitamin A, retinol, β-carotene, α-carotene, β-cryptoxanthin, lycopene, lutein and zeaxanthin) and ulcerative colitis symptoms (abdominal pain, faecal blood, faecal mucus, faecal pus) in individuals with ulcerative colitis in remission.

METHODS

Assessment of diet was based on self-reported data from each patient's dietary records taken over a period of three typical, random days (2 weekdays and 1 day of the weekend).

RESULTS

A total of 56 individuals with ulcerative colitis in remission (19 males and 37 females) were recruited for the study. One in every four individuals with ulcerative colitis in remission was characterised as having inadequate vitamin A intake. Higher lycopene, lutein and zeaxanthin intakes in individuals with ulcerative colitis in remission were associated with lower faecal blood, mucus and pus but not with lower incidence of abdominal pain. Higher carotene intake in individuals with ulcerative colitis in remission may contribute to higher incidence of faecal mucus.

CONCLUSIONS

Optimising intake of specific retinoids may enhance disease control in individuals with ulcerative colitis. Prospective studies, including patient reported and objective outcomes, are required to confirm this.

Assessment of mineral intake in the diets of Polish postmenopausal women in relation to their BMI-the RAC-OST-POL study : Mineral intake in relation to BMI

BACKGROUND

The diets of postmenopausal women in Western countries tend to be deficient in minerals, even if the energy value is at the recommended level. The objective of the presented population-based cohort study was to assess the intake of minerals (sodium, potassium, calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, iron, zinc and copper) in the diets of women aged above 55 years and to analyse the relations between BMI and mineral intake in this group.

METHODS

The study was conducted in a group of 406 women who were randomly recruited from the general population of those aged above 55 years. The main outcome measures included BMI, reported sodium, potassium, calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, iron, zinc and copper intake assessed by dietary record (conducted during two typical, non-consecutive days). The distribution was verified with the use of the Shapiro-Wilk test. The comparison between groups was conducted using ANOVA with the LSD post hoc test or Kruskal-Wallis ANOVA with multiple comparisons. A comparison of satisfying nutritional needs was conducted using the chi-square test.

RESULTS

Normal body weight individuals were characterised by lower sodium intake per 1000 kcal of diet than obese class II and III individuals (BMI ≥ 35.0 kg/m(2)). Overweight individuals were characterised by lower potassium and magnesium intake per 1000 kcal of diet than obese class I individuals (BMIϵ < 30.0; 35.0 kg/m(2)). The majority of individuals was characterised by insufficient potassium, calcium and magnesium intake. No differences in satisfying nutritional needs between BMI groups were observed for all minerals.

CONCLUSIONS

Following an improperly balanced diet was observed in the group of postmenopausal female individuals analysed. It was stated that the daily intake of all the assessed minerals was not BMI-dependent for the postmenopausal female individuals, but the nutrient density of diet (for sodium, potassium and magnesium) was associated with BMI.

Vitamin D Dietary Intake Questionnaire Validation Conducted among Young Polish Women

Due to inadequate intake of Vitamin D, identification of individuals characterised by the highest risk of deficiencies is one of the more crucial tasks for public health. The aim of the presented study was to assess the validity and reproducibility of the designed Vitamin D dietary intake questionnaire based on food frequency assessment--VIDEO-FFQ (VItamin D Estimation Only--Food Frequency Questionnaire) in a group of Polish women aged 20-30 years. Seventy-five participants kept a three-day dietary record and filled out the VIDEO-FFQ twice (immediately after the three-day dietary record and after six weeks). The assessment of validity and reproducibility was conducted by verifying standard errors of estimation, median differences, and percentages of individuals classified into tertiles, correlations and Bland-Altman plots. The Vitamin D intake for the majority of the surveyed women was inadequate as over 85% of them were characterised by values of intake lower than 5.0 μg per day. The results allowed concluding that a high accuracy of the VIDEO-FFQ was achieved. The required Bland-Altman index values lower than 5.0% were obtained, confirming satisfactory validity and reproducibility. The VIDEO-FFQ may be deemed a convenient practical tool for the estimation of Vitamin D intake in young women.

Analysis of the dietary factors contributing to the future osteoporosis risk in young Polish women

BACKGROUND

The osteoporosis is becoming serious problem for the preventive healthcare, that is stated for Poland and western countries. The loss of bone mass in women may be even five times higher than in men, so in the osteoporosis preventive strategies, young women are indicated as best potential target group.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of the study was to analyze the osteoporosis risk, on the basis of diet assessment in young Polish women, while satisfying nutritional needs for bone health-related nutrients was taken into account.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

The study was conducted in the group of 75 women, aged 20-30, who prepared three-day dietary record (14% of underweight, 15% of excessive body mass individuals). The intakes of nutrients being associated directly with risk of osteoporosis (protein, potassium, calcium, magnesium, vitamin D, vitamin B6, folates, vitamin B12, vitamin C) were analysed.

RESULTS

The vast majority (89%) of individuals was characterized by lower declared energy intake than calculated requirement. The majority was characterized by inadequate intake of potassium, calcium, magnesium, vitamin D and folates. Only 25% was characterized by an adequate intake of calcium and, while supplementation was taken into account, 10% was characterized by an adequate intake of vitamin D.

CONCLUSIONS

Following diets declared by the analysed young women may be the factor increasing seriously the risk of osteoporosis, as well as the risk of other diet-related diseases. The low intake of majority of analysed nutrients in the analysed group may result mainly from low energy value of declared diets. Taking into account the proper BMI of the majority of analysed group of young women and low energy value of their declared diets, the common underreporting may be sup- posed, and it may contribute to osteoporosis risk overestimation.

KEY WORDS

osteoporosis, young women, calcium, vitamin D, nutrients, underreporting.

Analysis of the declared nutritional behaviours in a group of diabetology nurses educating patients about diabetes diet therapy

BACKGROUND

The proper nutrition in diabetes is one of the crucial elements of therapy, but in practice, diet of diabetic individuals is commonly improperly balanced, that is associated with lack of nutritional knowledge. The nurses are also often characterized by insufficient knowledge about diabetes diet therapy and poor nutritional behaviors.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of the study was to analyze of the declared nutritional behaviors in a group of diabetology nurses and to compare it with declared nutritional behaviors of the control group.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

The group of 52 nurses recruited from all the regions of Poland working with diabetic patients was analysed and compared with control group of 63 individuals - random non-diabetic patients from all the regions of Poland. They were asked about accomplishing practical recommended nutritional goals for adults in Poland and were able to indicate if they follow detailed recommended nutritional goals "always" (3 points), "sometimes" (1 point) or "never" (0 points).

RESULTS

The diabetology nurses rarely declared fish and legumes intake (never or sometimes accomplishing goal: 87%), milk and dairy products intake (75%), as well as moderate sugar and sweets intake (69%). Nurses significantly rarer than control group declared regularity of meals (p=0.0000) and diversion of meals (p=0.0000). The lack of correlation between number of years of working with diabetic individuals and number of obtained points during assessment of nutritional behaviors was observed.

CONCLUSIONS

The nutritional behaviors of diabetology nurses are not good, even if they educate diabetic patients on daily basis. Nutritional education should be conducted not only in groups of diabetic patients, but also, in groups of diabetology nurses.

[Mercury pollution in selected food products in Poland in the context of their health safety]

Mercury is a silvery-white chemically active transition metal without known physiological role. It is also a toxin accumulated in living organisms--especially in the aquatic creatures (fish and shellfish). Mercury compounds are involved in biogeochemical cycles (especially atmospheric and hydrobiologic), and thus they become contaminants of food. Such process is facilitated by the increasing environmental chemization. Toxic effects of mercury compounds result from their high affinity to sulfur (sulfhydryl groups of amino acids), accumulation in parenchymal organs, metallic mercury lipophilicity as well as long biological half-life period. In Poland the major sources of mercury exposure in diet are fish products and mushrooms. The role of mercury in human toxicology was presented in the work, along with a review of the literature concerning mercury content in selected food products in Poland. In general, most of foods do not pose a threat to consumers' health. Some restrictions in the amount of predatory fish and mushrooms consumed by pregnant and breastfeeding women as well as small children should be however recommended.

[The principles of nutrition therapy of gout and hyperuricemia]

In 2012 the updated guidelines for the treatment of gout were published by the American College of Rheumatology (ACR), which underline the necessity of comprehensive treatment in this condition. According to the European League Against Rheumatism (EULAR), treatment of comorbidities, lifestyle modifications and proper diet may be of significant importance. In the primary care settings in Poland there is virtually no access to qualified dieticians. The nutritional counseling is sometimes implemented--usually to a very limited extent--by primary care physicians. It is believed that proper diet may improve the prognosis and quality of life in patients with gout. The aim of the work is to present the principles of nutrition therapy in gout and hyperuricemia, in the context of their pathogenesis. The key principles of nutrition therapy in the above mentioned conditions include a restriction of purine amount in the diet and reaching the proper body weight. Optimal hydration and alcohol elimination are also beneficial. Furthermore, some food ingredients can affect the plasma level of uric acid in the mechanisms irrelevant of their purine load.

Calcium intake and osteoporosis: the influence of calcium intake from dairy products on hip bone mineral density and fracture incidence - a population-based study in women over 55 years of age

OBJECTIVE

The incidence of osteoporosis increases with age and is most frequently observed in postmenopausal women. The objective of the present population-based cohort study was to assess the influence of Ca intake from dairy sources on hip bone mineral density and hip fracture incidence in a group of Polish women over 55 years of age.

DESIGN

The main outcome measures included: bone mineral density, the number of previous fractures and the reported Ca intake from dairy sources, assessed by a diet questionnaire.

SETTING

The RAC-OST-POL Study was conducted in the District of Raciborz in the south of Poland.

SUBJECTS

The study was carried out in a group of 625 women, randomly recruited from the general population of women aged >55 years.

RESULTS

Median Ca intake from dairy products was lower in the group of women with femoral neck T-score ≤-2·5 than in the group with T-score >-2·5 (275 v. 383 mg/d; P = 0·0019). For total hip score, the difference was close to borderline significance (P = 0·0698). Median Ca intake from dairy products was lower in the group of women with previous fractures than in those without fracture history (336 v. 395 mg/d; P = 0·0254). The main dairy source of Ca in the analysed group included milk drinks, rennet cheese and milk.

CONCLUSIONS

Higher dairy Ca intake is recommended, since a number of the women analysed were unable to satisfy their Ca requirement exclusively from their diet.

The effect of dairy products choice on calcium dietary intake in female university students of nutritional faculty

BACKGROUND

Dairy products provide the most important source of calcium in a typical human diet, being of particular significance to women.

OBJECTIVE

To determine dietary calcium intakes in a group of female students studying human nutrition at a Warsaw University of Life Sciences - SGGW through analysing the selections made of dairy products.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A food frequency questionnaire was used to assess average consumption of dairy products. Total daily calcium intakes were then estimated by adding the intakes obtained from such dairy products to an average non-dairy calcium value obtained from other foodstuffs and taken to be 250 mg.

RESULTS

Varied choices were made of dairy foodstuffs, with most subjects consuming milk, milk beverages, cottage cheese and rennet cheese. Calcium intakes were thus dependent on the dietary assortment of such selected dairy products made. Whenever cheeses were avoided in the diet, then low calcium intakes became more common.

CONCLUSIONS

When compared to dietary recommendations, calcium intakes in this group of young women were inadequately low especially for those not eating cheese and despite supposedly having sufficient knowledge through studying this subject area.

Assessment of physical activity, energy expenditure and energy intakes of young men practicing aerobic sports

BACKGROUND

Adequate nutrition and energy intake play key rule during the training period and recovery time. The assessment of athlete's energetic needs should be calculated individually, based on personal energy expenditure and Sense Wear PRO3 Armband (SWA) mobile monitor is a useful tool to achieve this goal. However, there is still few studies conducted with use of this monitor.

OBJECTIVES

To assess individual energy needs of athletes by use of SWA and to determine whether their energy intake fulfils the body's energy expenditure.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Subjects were 15 male students attending Military University of Technology in Warsaw, aged 19-24 years, practicing aerobic. The average body mass was 80.7 ± 7.7 kg and average height was 186.9 ± 5.2 cm, (BMI 23.09 ± 1.85 kg/m2). Assessment of physical activity and energy expenditure (TEE) was established using SWA, which was placed on the back side of dominant hand and worn continuously for 48 hours (during the training and non-training day). The presented results are the average values of these 2 days. Assessment of athletes' physical activity level was established by use of metabolic equivalent of task (MET) and number of steps (NS). Estimation of energy intake was based on three-day dietary recalls (two weekdays and one day of the weekend), evaluated using the Polish Software 'Energia' package.

RESULTS

The average TEE of examined athletes was 3877 ± 508 kcal/day and almost half of this energy was spend on physical activity (1898 ± 634 kcal/day). The number of steps was on average 19498 ± 5407 and average MET was 2.05 ± 2.09. The average daily energy intake was 2727 ± 576 kcal.

CONCLUSIONS

Athletes consumed inadequate amount of energy in comparison to their energy expenditure. Examined group did not have an adequate knowledge about their energy requirement, which shows the need of nutritional consulting and education among these athletes.

KEY WORDS

athletes, aerobic sports, energy expenditure, energy intake.

Assessment of diet in chronic kidney disease female predialysis patients

INTRODUCTION AND OBJECTIVE

Nutrition is important in the therapy of predialysis patients. The aim of the presented single-centre descriptive study was to assess the diet in chronic kidney disease female predialysis patients with no previous dietary intervention, in comparison with recommendations, as well as the analysis of the energy, protein and phosphate intake in correlation with chosen laboratory measurements.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The research was carried out in 31 female predialysis patients with CKD of different etiology, aged 29-79 years (GFR: 19.4±9.7 ml/min/1.73 m2). Main outcome measures were self-reported data from three-day dietary recall. Nutrients content and energy value of diet were compared with guidelines for chronic kidney disease patients or, in case of nutrients when they are not settled, with the recommendations for healthy women.

RESULTS

All patients had a lower energy intake than the recommended level. At the same time, 35.8% of patients were characterised by improper protein intake--too low or too high. The majority of patients had low intake of most of vitamins and minerals. The total, animal and plant protein were positively correlated with the energy value of diet and with amount of most of the nutrients. Values of GFR were positively correlated with animal protein intake, while phosphate and creatinine in blood were negatively correlated with total and animal protein intake.

CONCLUSIONS

The study highlights that diet of CKD predialysis patients with no previous dietary intervention is not properly balanced.

Estimation of energy and nutritional intake of young men practicing aerobic sports

BACKGROUND

Keeping to a balanced diet plays a key role in maximizing the body's efficiency so that sports training becomes more effective. Previous studies have shown that an athletes' diet is often not properly balanced, and can thus negatively affect sporting performance.

OBJECTIVES

To assess the energy and nutrient intake in young men practicing aerobic sport and compare them with those recommended.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Subjects were 25 male athletes, aged 19-25 years, practicing aerobic sports who were students at two Warsaw Universities; The Military University of Technology and University of Physical Education. The average body mass was 80.6 +/- 9.6 kg and average height was 187.0 +/- 7.6 cm, (BMI thus being 23.01 +/- 1.70 kg/m2). Dietary assessment was based on three-day dietary recalls consisting of two weekdays and one day of the weekend. The energy and macro/ micro-nutrient intake were evaluated using the Polish Software 'Energia' package and compared to recommendations and standards. Supplements were absent from the athletes' diets.

RESULTS

The energy value of diets were too low in most instances; average %-age deficiency was 30.22 +/- 13.76%. Total protein intake, (mean 1.41 +/- 0.36 g per kg body weight) was inadequate in 40% of cases, whilst all showed appropriate intakes of animal protein. Most subjects' carbohydrate intake (84%) was deficient; median 3.28 g/kg body weight. Fibre intake, (median 17.17 g) was also insufficient in 76% cases. Total fat intake, (33.9% +/- 5.7 energy) was too high in 32% of cases. The %-age dietary energy obtained from saturated fatty acids was 12.18% +/- 2.53 and 5.72% +/- 1.43 from polyunsaturated fatty acids, where most subjects' diet (64%) was, as well, high in cholesterol. Furthermore, significant deficiencies were observed in the following: Vitamin A (44% of group below EAR), vitamin C (80% below EAR), vitamin D (92% below EAR), foliate (84% below EAR), calcium (52% below EAR) and magnesium (60% below EAR). Vitamin E intake was however higher than the AI level. Almost all subjects had adequate intakes of vitamins B1, B2, B6, B12, niacin and zinc.

CONCLUSIONS

The energy value of diet and carbohydrate intake were inadequate to the athletes' requirements. Dietary deficiencies of folate, vitamins C and D, magnesium, calcium and potassium were also observed. There is therefore a need for sports nutrition counselling and education which would help athletes improve their eating habits and health, as well as for optimising their sports training performance.

[Physical activity of elderly people living in district Koprzywnica (Poland)]

BACKGROUND

Physical activity has good influence on health. The physical activity of elderly people may decrease, because of the health problems or think that with aging sport activity should be reduced.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of the study was to assess a physical activity and energy expenditure of people in age 60 and more in the Koprzywnica district (Poland).

MATERIAL AND METHODS

95 persons in age 60 and more (51 women and 44 men) participated in the study. All participants live alone or with family. The following data: total energy expenditure, active energy expenditure, physical activity duration (MET > 3,0), vigorous physical activity duration (MET > 6,0), number of steps, lying down duration were collected using SenseWear Pro3 Armband, Body Media Pittsburgh, USA. The measurement was conducted for 24 hours. Physical activity was also classified on the basis of the number of steps.

RESULTS

The median of the age of participants was 71 years. The median of BMI was 27,1 kg/m2. Age was correlated with BMI (R = -0,28, p = 0,005). Participants made on average 6335 steps daily, 42% of them made less than 5000 steps and 31,5% more than 10000 steps a day. The median of the total energy expenditure was 33,1 kcal/kg of body mass a day (2522 kcal a day), while the median of the active energy expenditure was 5,7 kcal/kg of body mass a day (482 kcal a day). The median of the physical activity duration was 1 hour and 22 minutes, and in most cases it was the moderate physical activity. In case of 17 women (33%) and 20 men (45,5%) the vigorous physical activity was detected, and duration of this physical activity was 1-22 minutes. The median of the lying down duration was 8 hours and 44 minutes. Older persons had shorter physical activity duration, made less steps and at the same time had lower active energy expenditure and total energy expenditure than younger ones. There were no differences between younger and older participants in the sedentary energy expenditure and lying down duration. Simultaneously participants with higher BMI compared with participants with lower BMI had shorter physical activity duration as well as lower active energy expenditure and total energy expenditure but there were no differences in number of steps, lying down duration and sedentary energy expenditure between them.

CONCLUSIONS

In case of older persons the duration of physical activity was shorter and the active energy expenditure was lower than in case of younger persons. Both groups had the sedentary energy expenditure and the lying duration at the same level. Elderly people with higher BMI had lower total energy expenditure and lower intensity and shorter physical activity duration than elderly people with lower BMI.

Physical activity of predialysis patients with chronic kidney disease measured using SenseWear Armban

AIM

The aim of the study was to analyze the correlations between age, BMI, fat mass, muscle mass, GFR and factors related to physical activity (PA) of predialysis individuals with chronic kidney disease (CKD).

METHODS

Into the study were enrolled 24 predialysis CKD patients: 6 male, 18 female (mean age 60.3 ± 10.2 years, BMI 27.5 ± 4.5 kg/m2, GFR 17.67 ± 6.52 mL/min/1.73 m2). PA was assessed during 24-hours using the multisensor system Armband SenseWear Pro 3. Body composition (BC) was measured using bioimpedance.

RESULTS

Total energy expenditure was 32.4±5.8 kcal/kg of body mass. Number of steps was 10423 ± 3680/day. Average lying down duration was 527 ± 107 min, median of physical activity duration was 74 min. All analyzed factors, except sleep duration, were dependent on the age. Fat mass and muscle mass were correlated with total energy expenditure (respectively r=-0.59, P=0.003; r=0.56, P=0.005), lying down duration (r=0.43, P=0.030; r=-0.52, P=0.009), physical activity duration (r=-0.53, P=0.008; r=0.56, P=0.004). GFR was correlated with lying down duration (r=-0.42, P=0.046).

CONCLUSION

PA of CKD patients was satisfactory - all patients demonstrated PA duration higher than 40 min. No influence of gender on the level of PA was observed, but PA decreased with the age progress. Higher level of PA was connected with favourable BC. The GFR level in the observed patients did not influence PA, except lying down duration, which was longer in patients with lower GFR.

[Influence of the lutein-rich products consumption on its supply in diet of individuals with age-related macular degeneration (AMD)]

PURPOSE

The aim of the study was analysis of the influence of the lutein-rich products consumption on its supply in diet of individuals with age-related macular degeneration

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The object of conducted analysis were 127 nutrition questionnaires from 64 individuals with AMD (44 female, 20 male) and 63 without AMD--control group (49 female, 14 male). The age of participants was 50-88. The nutrition questionnaire concerned: AMD and its course, consumption of lutein-rich products and lutein supplementation. Lutein supply was assessed on the base of most often consumed products and lutein content in typical servings as well as on the base of applied supplementation.

RESULTS

Patients with AMD, in comparison with control group, were significantly more often choosing green bean, parsley, dill (Anethum graveolens) and young beetroot leaves, as well as were consuming more diversified lutein-rich products. Lutein supply from diet was significanly increased in case of spinach consumption (very high in lutein) and broccoli consumption (high in lutein and chosen relatively often). Other products did not cause increase of lutein supply from diet, even if they evoked increase of lutein content in the typical serving or of quantity of servings.

CONCLUSIONS

Patients with AMD, in comparison with healthy individuals, more often consume lutein-rich products, but lutein supply from diet in both groups do not differ. Significant increase of lutein supply may be achieved only by consumption of products characterized by the highest content of it. Patients with AMD, in comparison with healthy individuals, more often apply lutein supplementation, that influences lutein daily supply.

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease as a feature of the metabolic syndrome

The main criteria of the metabolic syndrome are obesity, insulin resistance and disturbed lipid metabolism. The same disturbances are regarded to be involved into the pathomechanism of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease which is shown by epidemiological studies and animal models. Thus NAFLD can be regarded a specific feature of the metabolic syndrome and it should be looked for in high risk populations.

[The mechanisms of blood LDL-cholesterol lowering by phytosterols--a review]

Daily cholesterol consumption in western countries reaches as much as 400 mg. According to the health recommendations the daily intake should not exceed 300 mg and in the case of people with cardiovascular disease it should be less than 200 mg. For 50 years it is known that phytosterols can decrease the level of cholesterol in blood. One of the mechanisms is based on the fact that phytosterols stop absorption of cholesterol in digestive tract, which results in the decrease of the concentration of cholesterol in blood. The second mechanism is based on the fact that cholesterol is pumped back out of enterocytes into the lumen of small intestine by ABC transporter and phytosterols increase this process. The above merftioned mechanisms are different than the way statins can lower cholesterol level and they are commonly used as hipocholesterolemic medicine. Because different mechanisms are implemented both statins and fitosterols can be used in therapy of hipercholeserolemia. The people taking statins who still have increased level of total cholesterol and LDL-cholesterol in blood can include phytosterols in their diet what can lead to the decrease of its level.

[Helicobacter pylori infection and its influence on Parkinson disease]

The aim of this study was to determine the frequency of Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) infection and its influence on the symptoms of Parkinson's disease. The study group consisted of 58 people with Parkinson's disease aged 49 to 83 years old, and 26 of their spouses. Percentage of people infected by H. pylori was similar between people with Parkinson's disease and their spouses. In the same time in this study percentage of people infected by this bacterium was lower than in other studies of polish population. There was no relation between Parkinson's disease and H. pylori infection in the investigated group of patients suffering from Parkinson's disease.

[Helicobacter pylori--does it only cause gastroduodenal disease?]

Helicobacter pylori is a human pathogen that can be found all over the world. It is responsible for the following diseases of gastrointestinal tube: gastritis, gastric ulcer, duodenal ulcer, gastric cancer, gastric lymphomas, Menetier disease. Some research has been done recently trying to identify the connection between H. pylori infection and idiopathic Parkinson's Disease morbidity. Some of them show that people with this neurological disease are more likely to have ulcers and also seropositivity in the direction of H. pylori. The direct influence of H. pylori infection on Parkinson Disease is not known but the following relations are suggested: H. pylori may produce toxins that damage substantia nigra in brain; possible cross reaction of h. pylori antibodies with dopaminergic neurons; indirect influence of antacids containing aluminium used to alleviate the symptoms of ulcers. Investigations of the reasons for idiopathic parkinson disease draw attention to the influence of food factors. Some researches show that there is a relation between the frequency of eating certain foods and the parkinson disease morbidity. We have numerous techniques that allow us to diagnose h. pylori infection. Those techniques have different sensitivity, accuracy, invasiveness and costs, which determines their usefulness in clinical diagnostics. Approach to eradication of bacteria is still discussed because H. pylori infection doesn't always lead to health problems. Polish Working Group on Helicobacter pylori, called by the National Consultant's Team on Gastroenterology explained clearly when eradication is advisable and when it can be waived.