Nutrition
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Healthy plant-based diets, such as the lacto-ovo-vegetarian and the vegan diet, offer numerous benefits to human health. Poorly designed plant-based diets, however, bear the risk for vitamin- and micronutrient deficiencies. Vitamin B12 (B12, cobalamin) is a nutrient of particular concern in both diets, and should be readily supplemented on a continuous basis to ensure adequate B12 levels and to prevent deficiencies. ⋯ While a short-term B12 supplement intake cessation might be well tolerated by vegans with an adequate B12 status, an interruption of more than 8 weeks could signify B12 loss approaching suboptimal status. This case report reiterates the need for continuous B12 supplementation in persons following an unfortified plant-based diet.
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Given the innovative nature of the method, our study aimed to assess the prognostic significance of body mass index (BMI)-adjusted calf circumference (CC) in older patients who are hospitalized. ⋯ Our novel study highlights the prognostic value of BMI-adjusted CC. As an anthropometric marker of muscle mass, it proved to be a predictor of mortality in older patients with high BMI. This adjustment is further important because it may help to better detect low muscle mass in these patients where such conditions might be masked.
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This study assessed the therapeutic benefits and modeled the cost-effectiveness of oral nutritional supplements (ONS) in China. ⋯ ONS are demonstrated a high rate of efficacy, although patients currently using ONS are typically in a severe disease state. In addition, ONS is cost-effective. We suggest that the reimbursement coverage of ONS be expanded to include in-hospital patients who are at high nutritional risk.
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The aim of this study was to investigate the relationship among phase angle (PA), malnutrition, and prognosis in patients with gastrointestinal cancer. ⋯ PA was identified as a robust predictor of malnutrition and poor prognosis in patients with gastrointestinal cancer.
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Maintaining plasma glucose homeostasis is vital for mammalian survival, but the masticatory function, which influences glucose regulation, has, to our knowledge, been overlooked. ⋯ These results emphasize the influence of proper chewing techniques on blood sugar levels. Implementing correct chewing habits could serve as an additional approach to managing the glycemic curve, particularly for individuals with diabetes.