Nutrition reviews
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Results of a recent study of data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES I) on sodium intake and all-cause and cardiovascular mortality may call into question current recommendations to limit salt intake. Further research is needed to explore the relationship between sodium, cardiovascular disease, and mortality.
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Review
A proposal for the establishment of scientific criteria for health claims for functional foods.
Functional foods are defined and used differently in different nations. Health claims for these foods influence consumer behavior and potentially affect public health. In an increasingly global economy, health claims for functional foods should meet internationally agreed upon scientific criteria. The concept of health claims as it exists internationally is discussed, and suggestions to assist consumers, government, industry, and academia in deciding on a scientific and ethical basis for international agreement on health claims for functional foods are offered.
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The data on the relationship between iron deficiency and infection are conflicting. Some researchers conclude that mild iron deficiency is beneficial for immunity, whereas others contend that any deficit is not good for immunity. Additionally, infection or inflammation generate anemia and profound changes in iron metabolism mediated by cytokines. These changes are important confounders to consider in assessments of iron status.