Healthy and sustainable school meals - proposal for a new quality index SMI-LE

INTRODUCTION AND OBJECTIVE

Provision of healthy and high-quality school meals is an important solution to improve children's health and well-being. Moreover, the meals provided at schools should not only meet dietary guidelines but also questions of sustainability. The aim of the study was to develop a new index to assess the quality of school meal menus, specifically their accordance with actual regulations, dietary guidelines and some sustainability goals.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

The School Meal Index-Lunch Evaluation (SMI-LE) is an originally created index to evaluate the quality of 5-day school menus. The general idea is to reflect the healthy and sustainability issues that should be present in school canteens according to WHO and EU recommendations. The index was tested in a real-life situation and fifty 5-day school menus available online from primary schools located in different regions of Poland, in rural and urban areas, were assessed with SMI-LE.

RESULTS

The median value of SMI-LE equaled 52 /140 points. Most of the analyzed menus (72%) were classified as 'Medium' quality according to SMI-LE. The menus classified as 'Low' were characterized by the lowest energy value, the lowest content of calcium, magnesium, iron, potassium, and folates, while the highest of sodium. Menus from the 'Good' category had the highest nutritional value, as well as the lowest sodium content.

CONCLUSIONS

A novel tool to has been provided for measuring the quality of school meals that addresses health and sustainability issues. It responds to the need for new indices that would consider changes in dietary guidelines and increasing knowledge about the impact of food systems on the environment.

Changes in Plasma Carotenoid Concentrations during the AntioxObesity Weight Reduction Program among Adults with Excessive Body Weight

Plasma carotenoid concentrations are associated with antioxidant defense which might be disturbed in people with excessive body weight (EBW). This study aimed at evaluating the effect of a 6-week weight reduction program on plasma concentration of β-carotene, lycopene, and lutein/zeaxanthin in adults with EBW. A total of 130 adults were recruited for the study; 75 completed the program. Data on food consumption were collected with a 3-day recording method and a semi-quantitative FFQ. Body height, body weight (BW), waist circumference (WC), fat mass (FM), fat-free mass (FFM), abdominal subcutaneous adipose tissue (SAT), and visceral adipose tissue (VAT) were measured. Lipid profile, β-carotene, lycopene, and lutein/zeaxanthin were analyzed in blood. The AntioxObesity program resulted in a significant reduction in BW, WC, FM, SAT, and VAT. The mean plasma concentrations of β-carotene, lycopene, and lutein/zeaxanthin increased significantly after intervention. A reduction in FM above 4 kg significantly increased the concentration of β-carotene, lutein/zeaxanthin, and total carotenoids. An increase in carotenoid levels correlated with FM reduction, as fruit and vegetable intake remained unchanged. However, this effect may vary due to gender, HDL-cholesterol, body fat content, and obesity status in the weight loss process.

Dietary Vitamin E Isoforms Intake: Development of a New Tool to Assess Tocopherols and Tocotrienols Intake in Adults

Due to the documented health benefits of tocopherols and tocotrienols as bioactive compounds, it seems important to assess their intake. The aim of this study was to develop a new tool and its application for assessment of tocopherol and tocotrienol intake in adults. Dietary data were collected by semiquantitative FFQ (VitE-FFQ) and by a 1-day dietary record in a group of 447 subjects. The database of the US Department of Agriculture (USDA) was used to calculate the individual isoforms of vitamin E and develop the tool-VIT_E.CAL. The assessment of measuring agreement between the two methods was conducted by analysis of the correlations and Bland-Altman plots. The average α-tocopherol intake was 11.3 mg/day for the data obtained using the FFQ method and 12.8 mg/day for the results obtained using the 1-day dietary record. Depending on the adopted recommendation, only 40-57% of the subjects had adequate vitamin E intake. The intake of α-tocopherol did not exceed the UL value in any of the respondents. The dominant forms of vitamin E in the diet of the studied group were α- and γ- forms (55% and 38% of the total sum) among tocopherols and β- and γ- forms (49% and 24% of the total sum) among tocotrienols. VIT_E.CAL allows us to calculate not only the total amount of vitamin E but also its eight isoforms. It can be a useful tool to assess individual and group intake of various forms of vitamin E in the diet. The use of VIT_E.CAL enables the proper assessment of vitamin E (as α-tocopherol and not α-tocopherol equivalent) in the diet of Poles, and most likely also in the European diet. The obtained results indicate the need to take into account the content of individual forms of vitamin E in food/diet, which will allow for a reliable assessment of its consumption. It also seems necessary to standardize the nomenclature regarding the name of vitamin E and its use for correct nutritional assessment.

Plasma Carotenoids and Polyphenols and Their Association with MetS: The Need for Nutritional Interventions

Metabolic syndrome (MetS) is characterized by increased pro-oxidative stress and a chronic inflammation state and their consequent alterations. Several studies have highlighted the protective effect of carotenoids and polyphenols in MetS patients. This study aimed to evaluate the plasma level of selected carotenoids and polyphenols and to determine their relationship with MetS severity, MetS components, and inflammatory markers in Polish adults with metabolic disorders. It was designed as a cross-sectional study. The final study group comprised 275 adults, including 158 women and 117 men. Data were collected on the frequency of consumption of selected food groups. Anthropometric measurements and blood samples were taken to determine the concentration of carotenoids, polyphenols, and indicators (parameters) of metabolic disorders. Plasma concentrations of selected carotenoids and polyphenols were low in adults with MetS. The highest concentrations of carotenoids and polyphenols in the blood were observed for lutein and phenolic acids (including gallic and p-coumaric acids). Nevertheless, a correlation was found between the individual bioactive compounds and MetS components. In terms of the lipid profile, our study showed that the plasma of the selected carotenoids and polyphenols positively correlated with HDL cholesterol (zeaxanthin; total carotenoids), LDL cholesterol (chlorogenic acid), triglycerides (lycopene), and the total cholesterol (kaempferol). We found that the level of CRP as a marker of inflammation negatively correlated with the concentration of zeaxanthin. In our study group, no relationship was found between the dietary antioxidant intensity and the variables studied, which may be attributed to the low frequency of consumption of the sources of bioactive compounds, such as carotenoids and polyphenols, but also to the metabolic disorders. Further research is needed to determine whether these associations are causally related to the metabolic syndrome or are a result of the pathologies of the syndrome or improper diet with a low intake of vegetables and fruit.

Associations between Dietary Patterns, Anthropometric and Cardiometabolic Indices and the Number of MetS Components in Polish Adults with Metabolic Disorders

Diet-therapy of metabolic syndrome (MetS) is of great importance due to significant health and social consequences. The aim of this study was (1) to determine dietary patterns (DPs), and (2) to search for associations between defined DPs, anthropometric and cardiometabolic indices, and the number of MetS components in Polish adults with metabolic disorders. The study was designed as a cross-sectional. The study group was 276 adults. Data about the frequency of consumption of selected food groups were collected. Anthropometric measurements: body height (H), body weight (BW), waist (WC), and hip (HC), as well as body composition, were taken. Blood samples were obtained for measurements of glucose and lipids. The obtained biochemical and anthropometric parameters were used to calculate the anthropometric and metabolic dysfunction indices. Three dietary patterns were identified in our study group: Western, Prudent and Low Food. Results of logistic regression analysis indicated rare consumption of fish as a predictor of risk of more severe forms of MetS. The possibility of using body roundness index (BRI) for fast diagnosis of cardiometabolic risk was found. In the management of MetS, the development of strategies to reduce the risk of more severe forms of MetS should be focused on increasing fish consumption and other prohealthy food.

Tocopherols and Tocotrienols-Bioactive Dietary Compounds; What Is Certain, What Is Doubt?

Tocopherols and tocotrienols are natural compounds of plant origin, available in the nature. They are supplied in various amounts in a diet, mainly from vegetable oils, some oilseeds, and nuts. The main forms in the diet are α- and γ-tocopherol, due to the highest content in food products. Nevertheless, α-tocopherol is the main form of vitamin E with the highest tissue concentration. The α- forms of both tocopherols and tocotrienols are considered as the most metabolically active. Currently, research results indicate also a greater antioxidant potential of tocotrienols than tocopherols. Moreover, the biological role of vitamin E metabolites have received increasing interest. The aim of this review is to update the knowledge of tocopherol and tocotrienol bioactivity, with a particular focus on their bioavailability, distribution, and metabolism determinants in humans. Almost one hundred years after the start of research on α-tocopherol, its biological properties are still under investigation. For several decades, researchers' interest in the biological importance of other forms of vitamin E has also been growing. Some of the functions, for instance the antioxidant functions of α- and γ-tocopherols, have been confirmed in humans, while others, such as the relationship with metabolic disorders, are still under investigation. Some studies, which analyzed the biological role and mechanisms of tocopherols and tocotrienols over the past few years described new and even unexpected cellular and molecular properties that will be the subject of future research.

Long-term effect of one-time nutritional education in school on nutritional knowledge of early school-aged children

Background

In the group of school-aged children nutritional education (NE) enables an early development of healthy eating habits, which can be transferred to the adult life.

Objective

The aim of the study was to assess the long-term effect of a one-time nutritional education, including also culinary workshops, on the level of nutritional knowledge (NK) of early school-aged children as well as to analyse the nutritional content of the children's books.

Material and methods

The study was conducted among second- and third-grade pupils from a primary school in Warsaw (n=76). The level of NK was determined using the same, self-administrated questionnaire at each of the three stages of the study.

Results

The level of NK was assumed as very good in 47% of respondents before the education, in 91% immediately after the education, and in 74% six months after it. Out of all 23.0 points (max.) on average 18.1 points were obtained at the first stage, 21.1 points at the second stage and 19.7 points at the third stage (p<0.001). Immediately after the NE and six months after it the level of NK increased significantly (comparing to the first stage) especially on these topics: the daily water requirements and the recommendations on physical activity (p<0.001 for both questions).

Conclusions

The results of the study confirmed the effectiveness of a one-time nutritional education on the level of nutritional knowledge. Moreover, results show that in the research group nutritional knowledge about importance of physical activity, adequate nutrition, eating varicoloured vegetables and fruits, screen time limits and distinguishing between healthy and unhealthy products was satisfactory, even at the baseline, but in the main source of fats in a diet, the role of milk products, the effect of having too little water in a diet and the sugar content in food children's knowledge was not enough.

Dietary and Lifestyle Changes During COVID-19 and the Subsequent Lockdowns among Polish Adults: A Cross-Sectional Online Survey PLifeCOVID-19 Study

The present study aimed to identify patterns of dietary changes during the COVID-19 pandemic and their associations with sociodemographics, body mass index (BMI) before pandemic, and lifestyle changes in Polish adults and to examine the effects of lockdowns on dietary-lifestyle changes. This study used a cross-sectional online survey to collect data. The k-means algorithm was used to determine of patterns of dietary changes, and logistic regression analyses were performed. During the study period, 43% of respondents decreased physical activity (PA), 49%-increased screen time, and 34%-increased food consumption. Among the three dietary changes patterns, two opposite patterns were found: Prohealthy (28% participants) and Unhealthy (19% participants).The adherence to the Prohealthy pattern was negatively associated with age, but positively with being overweight (aOR 1.31) or obese before pandemic (aOR 1.64). Residing in a macroeconomic region with GDP > 100% decreased adherence to the Prohealthy (aOR 0.73) but increased adherence to the Unhealthy pattern (aOR 1.47). Adults over 40 years old, those living with children, unemployed, those living in a region with a higher GDP, and those not consuming homemade meals could be more exposed to unhealthy behaviors. From a public health perspective, enhancing the message "to be active" during the compulsory isolation period should be prioritized.

Analysis of Association between Breastfeeding and Vegetable or Fruit Intake in Later Childhood in a Population-Based Observational Study

Vegetable and fruit consumption in childhood remains below recommendations in many countries. As the intake of fruit and/or vegetables during childhood in a few studies was associated with breastfeeding, it may be suggested as a serious interfering factor while analyzing the association between breastfeeding and its long-term health effects. Thus, it may be important for creation and implementation of effective public health programs. The aim of this study was to evaluate the association between breastfeeding and consumption of fruit or vegetables in later childhood. The study was conducted within the Project “ABC of Healthy Eating—ABC of Kids and Parents” among a representative sample of 703 pairs of mothers and children aged 7–12 years in Poland. A systematic purposive-quota selection according to gender, age, place of residence, and region of Poland was applied. The study was conducted by interviewers in the respondents’ homes in 2017. Logistic regression analysis was conducted, and models adjusted for children’s age, BMI centile and gender, maternal education, employment status, and economic situation, as well as for EU–28 average Gross Domestic Product (GDP) region. Almost 86% of children were ever breastfed. Vegetables for breakfast, second breakfast, dinner, supper, and between meals were consumed by 23.9%, 18.6%, 47.4%, 26.7%, and 4.0% of children, whereas fruit was consumed by 13.9%, 46.1%, 7.7%, 12.9%, and 59.7% of children, respectively. Breastfeeding for a period of 4–6 months increased the chance of vegetable consumption for breakfast in the whole group (aOR 3.80, 95% CI 1.90–7.59, p ≤ 0.001) and particularly in girls (aOR 4.60, 95% CI 1.43–14.75, p ≤ 0.01) when compared to boys (aOR 3.17, 95% CI 1.32–7.63, p ≤ 0.01). Longer duration of breastfeeding (over 12 months) increased the chance of vegetable consumption for dinner in the total group (aOR 2.36, 95% CI 1.30–4.26, p ≤ 0.01) and particularly in girls (aOR 3.04, 95% CI 1.24–7.46, p ≤ 0.01) when compared to boys (aOR 2.20, 95% CI 1.01–4.95, p ≤ 0.05). We showed a positive association between breastfeeding and vegetable consumption for breakfast and dinner among children aged 7–12 years. These associations were gender-specific (stronger among girls) and were not diminished by socio-demographic factors.

Weight loss program is associated with decrease α-tocopherol status in obese adults

BACKGROUND & AIMS

Studies on changes in plasma α-tocopherol levels during body fat reduction in obese persons are not clear. The aim of the present study was to assess factors associated with α-tocopherol status in obese people and to examine changes in α-tocopherol status after a 6-week AntioxObesity weight loss program.

METHODS

The study was conducted in 60 overweight or obese adults, aged 18-54 years old. Food intake data were collected using the 3-day record method and a semi-quantitative food-frequency questionnaire. Anthropometric measurements included: height (H), body weight, waist circumference (WC) and hip circumference (HC), body composition: fat mass (FM) and fat-free mass (FFM), subcutaneous fat (SF) and visceral fat (VF). Lipid profile, α-tocopherol concentration, glutathione peroxidase (GPx) activity, total antioxidant capacity (TAC) in plasma and superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity in erythrocytes were determined.

RESULTS

Energy, fat, and carbohydrate intakes decreased significantly in all subjects (P < 0.001). Body weight, WC, body mass index (BMI), waist-to height ratio (WHtR), and FM, VF and SF decreased significantly during the 6 weeks in all subjects. Plasma α-tocopherol significantly decreased during the program (P = 0.006). No changes were observed for SOD activity, but GPx activity and TAC decreased significantly (P = 0.001; P = 0,023, respectively). Plasma α-tocopherol concentration after 6 weeks of the AntioxObesity program was strongly associated with baseline plasma α-tocopherol, changes in TC, VF and FM. Low α-tocopherol status (<20 μmol/L) was found in 78% of the women and 68% of the men, after 6 weeks of the AntioxObesity program. Men were characterized by a greater decrease in weight, BMI, WC, FM, VF, SF and TAC compared to women.

CONCLUSIONS

A 6-week weight loss program lowered α-tocopherol status in overweight and obese people. Low baseline α-tocopherol status and adiposity in obese adults negatively affected α-tocopherol status after 6 weeks weight loss program. These results, coupled with excessive weight and low α-tocopherol intake, led to the finding that there was an increased risk of oxidative stress diseases in adults on a reduced diet. Long-term dietary restriction program for obese patients should be monitored to avoid α-tocopherol deficiency, and take into account higher dietary α-tocopherol requirements for obese people.

Adherence to nutrition guidelines in patients with cardiovascular diseases (CVD) as a secondary prevention

BACKGROUND

The appropriate nutrition is an important component of the secondary prevention of cardiovascular diseases (CVD)

OBJECTIVES

The aim of the study was to investigate if the patients with cardiovascular disease were informed of the role of appropriate nutrition in prevention or received nutrition guidelines and to assess the dietary intake compared to recommendations for patients with cardiovascular disease who received or not nutrition guidelines

MATERIAL AND METHODS

The study was conducted among patients with cardiovascular disease (n = 127) of cardiological hospital clinic, aged 62 ± 11. The questionnaire was used to obtain personal and anthropometric details, information if patients had received nutrition guidelines. The method of 3-day food records was used for dietary assessment

RESULTS

20% of subjects had not received nutrition guidelines and almost 40% of subjects did not recognize the nutrition effect on cardiovascular disease development. Compared to the diets of the subjects who had not received nutrition guidelines, the diets of those who had received them were of significantly lower intake of: energy from saturated fatty acids (15%, p = 0.006), cholesterol (21%, p = 0.012) and higher intake (14-26%) of potassium (p = 0,003), sodium (p = 0.013), phosphorus (p = 0.044), magnesium (p = 0.003), iron (p = 0.005), copper (p = 0.001), zinc (p = 0.046). Among the patients who had received nutrition guidelines, percentage of the subjects whose intake of nutrients was consistent with recommendations was higher

CONCLUSIONS

Not all subjects had received nutrition guidelines. Diets of those who had received them were more balanced, but in neither group nutrition guidelines were complied with

Alpha-Tocopherol May Protect Hepatocytes Against Oxidative Damage Induced by Endurance Training in Growing Organisms

BACKGROUND

Training-induced oxidative stress can be reduced by α-tocopherol. Adequate intake of α-tocopherol could have health benefits for previously untrained young subjects.

OBJECTIVES

The aim of this study was to determine the effects of training and different doses of α-tocopherol on exercise-induced oxidative stress in rat livers.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Young male Wistar rats (n = 40) were randomly divided into eight groups (undergoing training and not undergoing training, given orally administered α-tocopherol doses of 0, 0.5, 1.0 and 4.0 mg). Every day for 10 consecutive days, the rats in the training groups ran for 15 min on a treadmill at 20 m/min to induce oxidative stress. Hepatic oxidative stress was evaluated based on the liver concentrations of 8-hydroxy-2'-deoxyguanosine (8-OHdG) and thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS).

RESULTS

The liver concentrations of α-tocopherol were significantly influenced by α-tocopherol doses (p < 0.001) and physical exercise (p < 0.001). The liver concentrations of α-tocopherol increased in response to the highest dose (4 mg/d) of α-tocopherol in the non-training groups. In the training groups, the liver concentrations of α-tocopherol were independent of the dose. The levels of TBARS, a marker of lipid peroxidation, were lowest in the training and non-training rats administered 4.0 mg of α-tocopherol. Physical exercise and α-tocopherol doses significantly influenced TBARS concentrations (p = 0.004, p < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

The results of this study indicate that running training causes lipids peroxidation and reduces α-tocopherol levels in the liver, but it does not contribute to DNA damage. Increased liver concentrations of α-tocopherol were found to exert a protective effect against oxidative damage induced by endurance training. An adequate intake of α-tocopherol is important for previously untrained young subjects.

Consumption of black and green teas as a dietary source of polyphenols in Polish inhabitants of the Mazovian region

BACKGROUND

Tea is a very popular drink throughout many parts of the world, that includes Poland. The tea infusion (cup of tea) itself contains phenolic compounds with anti-oxidant properties that constitute 30% of the dry mass of tea leaves responsible for a health promoting effect on the human body.

OBJECTIVES

To estimate the determinants and amounts of black and green tea consumed by a selected population group, along with their polyphenols intake from tea.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

A survey was conducted of 281 subjects in 2012 from the Mazovian region of Poland, recruited from social-networking sites which had been sent a web application questionnaire (Mini-ankiety.pl).

RESULTS

Subjects were aged 18-56 years, of whom the majority (73%) were aged 21-30 years. City dwellers constituted 86%, whilst those remaining were from small towns (14%). Black tea was drunk by 80% of whom 39% did so daily, whilst green tea was drunk by 72% of whom 17% did so daily. Determinants affecting the amounts of tea drinking were principally gender, education, place of residence and number of household members. Women significantly drank more than one cup of green tea daily compared to men. Those with a higher education significantly drank more than one cup of black tea daily compared to those with lower education levels. Homeowning subjects with 2 household members significantly drank more than one cup of green tea daily than the others. The average daily intakes of polyphenols from black tea in those who drank so regularly was 503 mg and that for green tea was 361 mg.

CONCLUSIONS

The main source of tea polyphenols was found to be black tea as this was drunk more often than green tea. There is a need for promoting more green tea to be drunk as a source of polyphenols.

Effect of probiotic and storage time of thiamine and riboflavin content in the milk drinks fermented by Lactobacillus casei KNE-1

BACKGROUND

Fermented milk drinks are unique products due to content of Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium that are recognized as probiotics. They are a natural component of the colon microbiota as well as commonly used probiotics in functional food.

OBJECTIVES

The effects of the storage time and prebiotic type (inuline or oligofructose) were studied in banana-milk drink after fermentation by Lactobacillus casei KNE-1 on the thiamine and riboflavin concentrations.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

The material for the study was fermented fruit milk drinks: banana-milk prepared in laboratory conditions and fruit milk drinks purchased in a local shop, as a comparative material. The thiamine was determined by thiochrome method and the riboflavin was determined by fluorometric method.

RESULTS

The storage time after the end of the fermentation process did not increase the content of thiamine and riboflavin in fermented banana-milk drink more than the output level. The addition of oligofructose significantly affected the synthesis of thiamine by Lactobacillus casei KNE-1 irrespectively of the storage time. The storage time but not the type of prebiotic affected the riboflavin concentration. Taking into account the highest content of both vitamins, the banana-milk drink fermented by Lactobacillus casei KNE-1 should be consumed immediately or 24 days after fermentation.

CONCLUSIONS

This information could be used by manufacturers for the planning of technological process. The content of thiamine and riboflavin in the fermented milk drinks is the result of the type of prebiotic, the individual bacterial strain properties as well as the storage time. These factors should be investigated to optimize the content of B vitamins in fermented milk drinks in the future.

School pupils and university students surveyed for drinking beverages containing caffeine

BACKGROUND

Caffeine is a commonly found ingredient in many beverages. Its main dietary source is coffee, cola drinks and in recent years, energy drinks.

OBJECTIVES

To compare the consumption of drinks containing caffeine (coffee, colas and energy drinks) and the reasons and circumstances under which they were drunk by middle school (junior high school) pupils and university students.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Surveyed subjects were 90 middle school pupils from Warsaw and Kutno together with 100 students attending the Warsaw University of Life Sciences (SGGW). A questionnaire, designed by the authors, was used to determine the amounts, frequency and the reasons or circumstances in which coffee, colas and energy drinks were consumed. Statistics used, consisted of the Mann-Whitney U and Chi-square (chi2) tests, with significance taken as alpha < or = 0.05.

RESULTS

Cola drinks were found to be the most popularly consumed beverages containing caffeine; 97% pupils and 93% students. Coffee was however drunk twice less by pupils compared to students, whilst similar amounts of energy drinks were consumed by both groups; respectively 48% and 53%. Gender differences were observed for the energy drinks with young men drinking the most. Coffee and energy drink consumption also rose with age by respectively 39% and 57%. The mean caffeine intake in pupils and students were respectively estimated to be 141 and 163 mg/day(d). The reasons why these beverages were drunk varied, from drinking coffee to keeping awake and drinking cola because of its good taste. Pupils also drank energy drinks due to its taste but students because of improved mental performance and in staying awake.

CONCLUSIONS

Drinking caffeine containing drinks by adolescents can be very variable and comes from many different sources. Thus, its intakes may be very high and so require monitoring, particularly for the youngest. Further observational studies are needed to assess the consumption of energy drinks in relation to physical activity.

α-Tocopherol, ascorbic acid, and β-carotene protect against oxidative stress but reveal no direct influence on p53 expression in rats subjected to stress

We hypothesized that α-tocopherol, ascorbic acid, and β-carotene, either applied individually or in combination, would modulate redox homeostasis and affect the regulation of genes involved in DNA repair under stress conditions. To test this hypothesis, we analyzed the influence of these vitamins, either supplied individually or in combination, on the plasma lipid peroxide level and the hepatic level of 8-hydroxy-2'-deoxyguanosine in rats. We also evaluated the expression of p53 and Mdm2 protein in the intestinal epithelium, as these proteins are involved in the cellular regulation of DNA damage repair. Male Wistar rats (n = 112) were supplemented with α-tocopherol (2 mg), ascorbic acid (12 mg), and β-carotene (1 mg), both individually and in combination, for 14 days; 32 control rats were treated with placebo. Half of the animals in each group (n = 8) were subjected to 15-minute treadmill running at 20 m/min to cause exercise-induced oxidative stress. A statistically significant reduction in lipid peroxide levels was observed in the plasma of rats subjected to exercise and given 2 or 3 of the antioxidants (P < .0001). Exercise, as well as coadministration of the antioxidants, had no significant effect on the amount of DNA damage. Downward trends in the level of p53 protein expression were observed both in exercised and nonexercised animals, especially when the studied vitamins were administered in combination. Our findings suggest that α-tocopherol, ascorbic acid, and β-carotene, when given concurrently, have primarily antioxidant effects on lipids under stress but do not significantly affect the regulation of p53 gene expression.

Assessing schoolchildren's ability to make proper use of a food and nutrition pyramid

BACKGROUND

Being acquainted with nutritional recommendations does not necessarily imply that they are fully understood, nor on how they can be applied when correctly planning an adequate diet.

OBJECTIVE

To determine whether children can recognise single portion sizes of various foodstuffs and to test their ability for planning a daily menu in accordance to the guidelines from a Food and Nutrition Pyramid.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Subjects under survey were n = 100 children aged 10-11 years, attending two elementary schools: in Warsaw and Piaseczno. The school in Warsaw participated in two national education programmes on food and nutrition (ie. 'Fruit at School' and 'A Glass of Milk') whilst the other did not participate in any such programmes. The study tool was a questionnaire consisting of closed questions together with practical exercises on planning a dietary balanced menu using the Food and Nutrition Pyramid recommendations.

RESULTS

Children could easily recognise single portion sizes (73% correct replies), however they found it more difficult to plan a suitable menu, where 60% met the given specifications; ie. numbers of different food type portions, menu diversity, number of meals as well as taking physical activity into account. Girls were significantly better at planning menus. It was also found that, compared to the guidelines, wheat and dairy products, vegetables and fats were under-represented whereas meat and fruit were chosen in excess. Nearly 80% of menus were sufficiently diverse but only 48% were composed of a typical/normal selection of foodstuffs.

CONCLUSIONS

Despite being provided with guidelines for preparing appropriate menus, most children failed this task. This was likely due to either not fully understanding the instructions or a lack of skills in adopting the Food and Nutrition Pyramid recommendations. Thus it is necessary to give more comprehensive explanations when teaching nutrition during school lessons as well as letting the children practice doing the practical aspects.

Evaluation of energy drink intake in selected student groups

BACKGROUND

Energy drinks are intended for people who work hard, both physically and mentally, particularly young people engaged in an active lifestyle.

OBJECTIVE

To assess the intake of energy drinks in a student group, during examinations and throughout an academic year.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A survey was performed on 92 students attending the Faculty of Human Nutrition and Consumer Sciences (Warsaw University of Life Sciences--WULS) and those from the Faculty of Physical Education (University of Physical Education--UPE) in Warsaw.

RESULTS

Students consumed many more energy drinks during examinations (1424 +/- 1577 ml/week) than during the academic year (441 +/- 579 ml/week). About 30% more subjects from UPE drank such drinks, throughout both examinations and the academic year, compared to those from WULS. On average, most students drunk less than one can per day. During exams, only 49% students consumed an average of less than 125 ml of energy drinks per day, (WULS; 55% and UPE; 46%), whereas this rose to 84% during the academic year (WULS; 91% and UPA; 80%). The most popular brands were Tiger, Red Bull and Burn. CONCLUSIONS. It is important that due care and attention is exercised in consuming high amounts of energy drinks as they contain bioactive substances, including caffeine, inositol, taurine, glucuronolactone and vitamins of the group B. These all have specific effects on the body and can be a cause for concern if their intake is high.

Nutritional assessment in Polish men with cardiovascular diseases

BACKGROUND

Cardiovascular disease is the most common cause of death in Poland, where many factors have been found responsible such as obesity, smoking cigarettes and a lack of physical activity. Amongst these are also nutritional determinants, which principally include the amount and types of dietary fatty acids consumed, coupled with low intakes of antioxidant-rich fruit and vegetables.

OBJECTIVES

To assess nutrition in male subjects suffering from cardiovascular disease.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Subjects were 95 men with cardiovascular disease aged 30-90 years. Nutrition was assessed by weighed food records over 3 days. The calorific dietary intake, as well as the proportions of calories derived from dietary protein, carbohydrates and fat were also calculated; this included vitamins and minerals.

RESULTS

Only 18% subjects had a normal Body Mass Index (BMI); the rest falling into the overweight or obesity ranges. The average dietary calorific daily intakes were abnormally low at 1582 kcal/person, however the proportions of fat and protein making up this value were too high; respectively at 36% and 19%. The average daily consumption per person of cholesterol, fibre and vegetables were respectively 251 mg, 19 g and 608 g. A significant number were deficient in dietary minerals (eg. calcium, potassium and magnesium) as well as vitamins; especially A, B, and B2.

CONCLUSIONS

Persons suffering from cardiovascular disease require a diet with sufficient calories for their body needs. It is also vital that the dietary sources of energy are properly balanced between protein, carbohydrates and fats as well as having appropriate intakes of both vitamins and minerals (eg. calcium, magnesium and potassium).

[Studies on the determinants of energy drinks intake by students]

BACKGROUND

Energy drinks are among the most popular functional products. They contain bioactive substances which may produce beneficial effects on the body, but excessive consumption of energy drinks or use them in accordance with their intended use may be dangerous to health.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of the study was to assess determinants and circumstances of energy drinks consuming in selected group of students, their opinion and knowledge on energy drinks.

MATERIAL AND METHOD

The study was conducted in March 2011 in Warsaw and included 92 students from Warsaw University of Life Sciences (WULS) and from University of Physical Education (UPE). The data was collected using diagnostic survey.

RESULTS

Energy drinks consumed 67% of the respondents. The most common reason for drinking energy drinks was to stay awake (45.2%). They most often drank them during the examination session (21.0%) and afterwards they experienced stimulation (72.9%), but also palpitations (32.2%) and insomnia (25.8%). Students who consumed energy drinks confirmed that they are effective (88.7%) and tasty (41.9%), but dangerous for health (43.5%). Majority of all users of energy drinks (80.7%) mixed them with alcohol. Every fourth respondent did not read the composition of the consumed beverages.

CONCLUSIONS

Energy drinks have been a popular food product among students. After energy drinks consumption students often felt agitated but also experienced negative symptoms. Young people have to pay attention to the composition of energy drinks, what proves their consciousness.

[Selected vitamins content in pre-school children diet in Warsaw and regions]

The aim of this study was the evaluation of selected vitamins in the decade menus collected from five kindergartens in Warsaw and regions. The evaluation was done for 10 days menus of spring period Results shown the planned pre-school nutrition was not balanced properly related to too much amount of vitamin A, E, vitamin B and niacin and too little vitamin D and folate.

[Evaluation of iron, vitamin B12 and folate intake in the selected group of women at childbearing age]

The aim of this work was to evaluate iron, vitamin B12 and folate intake in the selected group of young females, aged 21-28 years. The study was carried out in winter 2008 with the use of 3-day dietary food records method. It has been shown too low mean iron (9.7 mg/d) and folate (270 microg/d) intake, on the level of 53% and 68% RDA respectively and also to high mean vitamin B12 (3.3 microg/d) intake (136% RDA). About 12% of questioned women took supplements, which supply additionally about 9.0 mg of iron, 192 microg of folate and near 1 microg of vitamin B12, what constitute together respectively 115, 127 and 199% RDA. Place of dwelling, BMI, smoking habits, physical activity have no influence an iron, vitamin B12 and folate intake.

[Evaluation of fatty acids and cholesterol intake by a group of students]

The main purpose of this work was the analysis of the composition of fatty acids and cholesterol. The investigation was done among 143 students, with 3-day dietary records method. The research was carried out in the years 2007 and 2008. The average fat intake was 92.7% of RDA. The intakes of saturated, monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fatty acids were 99.4%, 71.2% and 73.3% of recommended levels, respectively. The average intake of cholesterol was in accordance with recommended value 300 mg (91.00%). Intake of fat, fatty acids and cholesterol depended on gender Intake offat, saturated and monounsaturated fatty acids depended on state of health additionally. Intake of saturated fatty acids was different according to place of dwelling. In case of men too much energy from fat (37.9%) was recorded and too much intake of cholesterol (about 58%).

[Evaluation of antioxidant vitamins intake by students of Warsaw University of Life Science]

The aim of this study was the assessment of antioxidant vitamins intake among students of the Faculty of Human Nutrition and Consumer Sciences of Warsaw University of Life Science. The investigation was done among 145 students at the age 21-28 in the 2008 year. Data about food intake were collected using a 3-day dietary records method. On this basis intake of vitamin A, beta-carotene, vitamin E and C was calculated The results shows that the quantity of antioxidant vitamins was adequate for vitamin C (64 mg/d, 102% EAR), but for vitamin A and E was higher then recommended value (698 microg retinol equivalent/d, 135% EAR and 11,5 mg tocopherol equivalent/d, 138% of AI). About 12-15% students used supplements, providing additional 574 microg vitamin A, 116 mg vitamin C and 4 mg vitamin E. It covered together with food intakes 260%, 298% EAR value and 199% of AI value, in case of vitamin E. In smokers, for which recommendations of intake antioxidant vitamins are slightly different, it was found too low their intake.

[Students nutrients intake and risk of cardiovascular diseases]

The aim of this study was to assess nutrients intake and to take some anthropometric measures relevant to the risk of cardiovascular diseases. The study was conducted in spring 2008 among 93 students of SGGW aged 22-24. Obtained results indicated that the mean energy intake was 2029 kcal/per person/day (86% of recommended level), fat--75.2 g/per person/day (33% intake of energy), cholesterol 304 mg/per person/day, dietary fiber 19.6 g/per person/day, potassium 2996 mg/per person/day (85% of recommended level), sodium from products--2199 mg/per person/day and salt--8.8 g/per person/day. The mean Body Mass Index (BMI) of students was 22.0 kg/m2, fat content and water in body were respectively: 25.8% and 53.0%, the mean blood pressure was 114/76 mm Hg and pulse 74 beats/per minute. Statistical analysis showed significantly higher intake of protein (by 17%) in people with adequate body mass than in students with malnutrition, and higher intake of dietary fiber (by 25%), potassium (by 21.3%) and NaCl (by 31.1%) in obese participants than in people with adequate body mass. Data showed significantly higher fat content in body (by 26.6%) and higher systolic blood pressure (by 5.2%) in students with BMI > 25.0 kg/m2 than in students with BMI = 20.0-24.9 kg/m2. Statistical analysis showed positive correlation between value of BMI and fat content in body, intake of dietary fiber, intake of potassium and systolic blood pressure among students of SGGW. Positive correlation was obtained also between measure systolic blood pressure and diastolic blood pressure, intake of cholesterol, intake of saturated fatty acid and intake of energy among participants.

The influence of dietary vitamin A supplementation on vitamin A and insulin levels in sedentary or physically trained rats

Male rats of Wistar strain (n = 48) were fed a vitamin A deficient diet for 3 days of adaptation period and then a 10 day experimental period to reduce slightly the body stores of this vitamin. Half of the animals were subjected to physical training and/or oral vitamin A supplementation. Four different doses of supplementation were used--0, 7.5, 15 and 60 microg/d/rat, which is equivalent to 0, 25, 50 and 200 IU of vitamin A, respectively. Animals from the defined groups ran on a treadmill with a rate of 2.0 m/s for 15 minutes per day for 10 days. After overnight fasting, the rats were sacrificed, and insulin in blood serum and hepatic retinol concentrations were estimated. Daily feed intake and daily body gains were similar in groups of sedentary and physically trained rats. A moderate level of oral vitamin A supplementation (the highest supplemented dose was about 6 x the above recommended NRC level) did not cause any changes in these zootechnical parameters. Oral Vitamin A supplementation resulted in an increase in retinol concentration in the liver (F = 15.2, p < 0.001), but without significant difference between trained and untrained animals. Physical training of rats caused a statistically significant decrease of insulin concentration in blood serum (1.53 +/- 0.18 vs. 1.73 +/- 0.20). This difference was highly significant (F = 11.1, p < 0.001). Vitamin A supplementation was found not to influence the concentration of this hormone, which is responsible for energy metabolism regulation in the body. Based on estimated parameters, the necessity of vitamin A excessive use in physically trained subjects was not proven.

[Fatty acids in confectionery products]

The content of fat and fatty acids in 144 different confectionery products purchased on the market in Warsaw region during 1997-1999 have been investigated. In examined confectionery products considerable variability of both fat and fatty acids content have been found. The content of fat varied from 6.6% (coconut cookies) up to 40% (chocolate wafers). Saturated fatty acids were present in both cis and trans form. Especially trans fatty acids reach (above 50%) were fats extracted from nut wafers, coconuts wafers.

[Fatty acids in chocolate and chocolate products]

Fat content as well as fatty acids composition in 46 chocolate both stuffed and hard type as well as 14 chocolate related products from the market in Warsaw area in the years of 1997-1999 has been analysed. As the result of above investigations the considerable difference in fat content (from 6.6 to 40.0%) as well as fatty acids groups has been detected, in particular in stuffed chocolates and chocolate products.