Nutrition
-
It is essential to monitor changes in skeletal muscles to control healthy aging. The aim of this study was to assess changes in muscle mass, strength, and functional quality taking place in the course of aging and to analyze their correlations with recorded changes in impedance. ⋯ Muscle mass deficits are not the main cause of the decline in muscle functional quality in older adults. Changes in muscle condition impairing muscle functions can be identified by changes in impedance components. An analysis of changes in phase angle and reactance would facilitate the assessment of muscle quality in geriatric prophylaxis and in screening, but it is necessary to establish normalized reference values for older adults.
-
The aim of this study was to explore the relationship between plasma folate status and measures of airway disease (as reflected by spirometry) in children with asthma on a traditional Mediterranean diet. We hypothesized that folate deficiency is associated with lung function impairment in this group of children. ⋯ The findings of this study highlighted the potential negative effects of folate deficiency on pulmonary function in girls with asthma, the importance of monitoring folate status in children with asthma, and early prevention strategies.
-
The aim of this study was to analyze adherence to the Mediterranean diet among the adult general population of Cyprus during the COVID-19 confinement. ⋯ Adherence to the Mediterranean diet during the confinement imposed due to the COVID-19 pandemic among the Cypriot adult population was associated with male sex, age >45 y, being married, being physically active, and being resident of rural regions. The importance of better understanding of nutritional behavior during COVID-19 lockdowns is emphasized so public health authorities can plan future lockdown policies on nutritional recommendations, should a new pandemic occur.
-
The prevalence of convenience and beverage stores in Taiwan provides an environment for children to access different beverages. To our knowledge, the relationship between beverage consumption types and anthropometrics in children has not been reported in Taiwan. The aim of this study was to examine the association between the consumption frequency of beverage type and anthropometrics in third-grade children. ⋯ This was the first study conducted on third-grade children in Taiwan showing the beverage consumption type was associated with anthropometrics. Nutritious beverages appear to be a better choice for growth in children. Nevertheless, additional related studies, including an overall assessment of children's calorie and nutrient intakes and related dietary behaviors, are warranted to provide more helpful information for policymakers.
-
The effect of falls on changes in body weight is still unknown. This study investigated the extent to which falls can modify the course of body weight in nursing home residents, and aimed to identify the factors that might modulate this effect. ⋯ Falls may trigger a body weight loss in nursing home residents, especially in the oldest old people and those with severe cognitive impairment who receive little support from informal caregivers. These findings highlight the importance of monitoring nutritional status of people who live in institutions after falls.