Single-Person Households: Insights from a Household Survey of Fruit and Vegetable Purchases.

Despite the efforts made to promote consumption, some countries are not increasing their fruit and vegetable intake, while household structures are undergoing relevant changes. Fruit and vegetable consumption is necessary but not sufficient for a healthy diet. Previous research has linked adequate fruit and vegetable consumption to a lower risk of cardiovascular diseases, type 2 diabetes, and some mental health conditions. Furthermore, millions of deaths are reported annually worldwide due to diets low in fruit and vegetables, highlighting their critical public health importance. This study aims to separately analyze the purchases of fruit and vegetables in single-person households. We used three waves of the Family Budget Survey, Encuesta de Presupuestos Familiares, in Chile, which is nationally representative of urban areas and includes over 10,000 households in each wave. We employed descriptive statistics to examine the characteristics of the head of household and the food shopper as well as the structure, composition, and overall characteristics of households. Additionally, we performed separate analyses for fruit and vegetable purchases, using these variables to determine the marginal effect on the probability of purchasing fruit or vegetables through probit models. Results show that, from 2011-2012 to 2021-2022, the share of households not purchasing fruit and vegetables increased from 5.0% to 8.4% and that, in single-person households, it rose from 11.2% to 19.1%. Male-headed, single-person households with low education and income were more likely not to purchase fruit, and these households also have decreasing vegetable purchases. Additionally, household income significantly impacts fruit purchases but does not significantly affect vegetable purchases. Our findings highlight the importance of considering single-person households as a target population segment for future public policies to promote fruit and vegetable consumption.

Diet and sleep quality in chilean university students.

OBJECTIVES: To evaluate an association between eating patterns and sleep quality in Chilean university students. METHODS: A cross-sectional analytical study was conducted. Participants included students from 4 Chilean universities. Each student was administered survey Questionnaire on the frequency of healthy and unhealthy eating habits and Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index and their weight and height were taken to obtain the Body Mass Index (BMI). RESULTS: A total of 1,079 young university students, 80.26 % were women and the average age was 21.7 years. The 73.68 % have inadequate sleep quality. There is a significant differences in frequency between sleep quality and the intake of breakfast (p<0.001), fish (p<0.05) and dinner (p<0.05), that is, university students who reported optimal sleep consume breakfast and dinner on a daily basis and their fish intake is in line with nutritional recommendations. With respect to the association between sleep quality and healthy dietary patterns, it is observed a significant association (p<0.01) between optimal sleep and daily breakfast consumption in model 3 (Odds Ratio (OR): 0.61 (0.46-0.82)). Regarding unhealthy dietary patterns, a significant association (p<0.05) is observed in model 3 between sleep quality and alcohol consumption (OR: 1.42 (1.02-1.96)). Furthermore, a significant association between optimal sleep and salt consumption is observed in both model 2 (OR: 0.73 (0.54-0.99)) and model 3 (OR: 0.72 (0.53-0.97)). Finally, a significant relationship between not tobacco use and optimal sleep is observed (OR: 0.68 (0.48-0.96)). CONCLUSION: A positive relationship between healthy diet and sleep quality was observed in university students, which certain dietary patterns, such as the consumption of breakfast and low salt consumption and alcohol, are crucial to talk about a good sleep quality in this population group.

Effect of UHT Thermal Treatment on the Secondary Structures of Milk Proteins: Insights From FTIR Analysis and Potential Allergenic Activity.

Although thermal treatments are beneficial for the preservation and safety of milk, they can also alter its immunogenic activity by affecting its protein components. To achieve precise results, it is essential to identify the specific proteins that cause food allergies. Therefore, investigating the possible alterations of cow's milk proteins (CMPs) resulting from thermal treatments is necessary. In this study, the Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) technique was used to analyze the effect of UHT thermal treatment on the secondary structures of milk casein. Using the second derivative, six characteristic peaks were identified in the Amide I region, ranging from 1700 to 1600 cm-1. It was found that thermal treatments produce shifts in absorption peaks, indicating changes in protein conformation and possibly in allergenic activity. These shifts were clearly identified in the first characteristic peak of samples M8 and M9, from 1621 to 1600 cm-1. The results suggest that thermal treatments may promote protein aggregation by increasing ß turns and reducing ß sheets and α helices, which could enhance the allergenic potential of the proteins and facilitate the formation of complexes between different milk proteins, such as ß-lactoglobulin and κ-casein. Further studies are needed to experimentally validate the allergenic activity of proteins modified by thermal treatments, as only an analytical method (FTIR) was used to evaluate the secondary structures of the proteins.

Dietary Polyphenols and Gut Microbiota Cross-Talk: Molecular and Therapeutic Perspectives for Cardiometabolic Disease: A Narrative Review.

The intricate interplay between the gut microbiota and polyphenols has emerged as a captivating frontier in understanding and potentially harnessing the therapeutic potential of these bioactive compounds. Phenolic compounds, renowned for their antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antidiabetic, and anticancer properties, are subject to intricate transformations within the gut milieu, where the diverse microbial ecosystem exerts profound effects on their metabolism and bioavailability. Conversely, polyphenols exhibit a remarkable capacity to modulate the composition and activity of the gut microbiota, fostering a bidirectional relationship that extends beyond mere nutrient processing. This symbiotic interaction holds significant implications for human health, particularly in cardiometabolic diseases such as diabetes mellitus, metabolic-dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease, and cardiovascular disease. Through a comprehensive exploration of molecular interactions, this narrative review elucidates the reciprocal dynamics between the gut microbiota and polyphenols, unveiling novel avenues for therapeutic intervention in cardiometabolic disorders. By unravelling the intricate cross-talk between these two entities, this review underscores the multifaceted roles of polyphenols in overall health and the pivotal role of gut microbiota modulation as a promising therapeutic strategy in mitigating the burden of cardiometabolic diseases.

Stress factors and food purchase prioritization during the pandemic of coronavirus disease 2019.

BACKGROUND: The pandemic of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic confinement has an impact on stress levels, which causes changes in food purchase and consumption behaviors. The objective of this study is to associate food purchase prioritization with stress level during the COVID-19 pandemic confinement. METHODS: Multicenter, observational and cross-sectional study, an online questionnaire that included data on sociodemographic variables, stress factors and food purchase prioritization was disseminated through digital platforms and social networks. RESULTS: A number of 6357 participants were included, of whom 83.6% were female, 56.3% were from the middle socioeconomic level, 71.2% had completed higher education and 78.3% had a job. At greater stress levels it was observed a higher prioritization of canned foods (Odds ratio (OR): 1.91, 95% CI: 1.56; 2.34), sweets (OR: 1.58, 95% CI: 1.06; 2.34) and flours (OR: 1.45, 95% CI: 1.25; 1.68). While lower stress levels are associated with nuts (OR: 0.75, 95% CI: 0.66; 0.85), vegetables (OR: 0.82, 95% CI: 0.72; 0.94), and fruits (OR: 0.90, 95% CI: 0.80; 1.01), after adjusting for confounders. CONCLUSIONS: There is an association between food purchase prioritization and stress level during the COVID-19 confinement. At greater stress levels, individuals purchase more food, both healthy and unhealthy. The later may have a negative impact on people's health, leading to or further aggravating malnutrition by excess and nutrition-related noncommunicable diseases.

Food insecurity and sociodemographic factors in Latin America during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Objective: To understand the association of food insecurity with sociodemographic factors in a sample population in Latin America during the COVID-19 pandemic. Methods: This was a multicenter cross-sectional study conducted in 10 countries in Latin America using an online survey through various digital platforms from October 14, 2020 to February 15, 2021. Statistical analysis of data was performed by applying descriptive statistics, chi-square test, and logistic regression analysis. Results: Of a total of 6 357 surveys, 58.2% of respondents experienced food security, 29.3% were slightly food insecure, 9.2% were moderately food insecure, and 3.3% were severely food insecure. Concerning the association food insecurity and sociodemographic variables, there is a significant association in the variables studied, including area of residence, education level, occupation, number of persons in the household, household with children younger than 10 years of age, and socioeconomic level. Conclusions: These findings indicate that sociodemographic factors associated with food insecurity during the COVID-19 pandemic in Latin America were rural residence; complete and incomplete basic and secondary schooling; occupation (homemaker, unemployed, and self-employed); low, medium-low, and medium socioeconomic level; household with more than four persons; and household with children younger than 10 years of age.

Food insecurity and sociodemographic factors in Latin America during the COVID-19 pandemic / Inseguridad alimentaria y factores sociodemográficos en América Latina durante la pandemia de COVID-19 / Insegurança alimentar e fatores sociodemográficos na América Latina durante a pandemia de COVID-19

[ABSTRACT]. Objective. To understand the association of food insecurity with sociodemographic factors in a sample popu- lation in Latin America during the COVID-19 pandemic. Methods. This was a multicenter cross-sectional study conducted in 10 countries in Latin America using an online survey through various digital platforms from October 14, 2020 to February 15, 2021. Statistical analysis of data was performed by applying descriptive statistics, chi-square test, and logistic regression analysis. Results. Of a total of 6 357 surveys, 58.2% of respondents experienced food security, 29.3% were slightly food insecure, 9.2% were moderately food insecure, and 3.3% were severely food insecure. Concerning the association food insecurity and sociodemographic variables, there is a significant association in the variables studied, including area of residence, education level, occupation, number of persons in the household, house- hold with children younger than 10 years of age, and socioeconomic level. Conclusions. These findings indicate that sociodemographic factors associated with food insecurity during the COVID-19 pandemic in Latin America were rural residence; complete and incomplete basic and secondary schooling; occupation (homemaker, unemployed, and self-employed); low, medium-low, and medium socioeco- nomic level; household with more than four persons; and household with children younger than 10 years of age.

[RESUMEN]. Objetivo. Determinar la asociación de la inseguridad alimentaria con factores sociodemográficos en una muestra de población de América Latina durante la pandemia de COVID-19. Métodos. Se llevó a cabo un estudio transversal multicéntrico en diez países de América Latina mediante una encuesta en línea a través de diversas plataformas digitales, entre el 14 de octubre del 2020 y el 15 de febrero del 2021. Se realizó un análisis estadístico de los datos usando procedimientos de estadística descriptiva, la prueba ji al cuadrado y un análisis de regresión logística. Resultados. En un total de 6 357 encuestas, el 58,2% de las personas encuestadas gozaba de seguridad ali- mentaria, el 29,3% tenía una inseguridad alimentaria leve, el 9,2% una inseguridad alimentaria moderada y el 3,3% una inseguridad alimentaria grave. Por lo que respecta a la asociación entre la inseguridad alimentaria y las variables sociodemográficas, hay una asociación significativa para algunas de las variables estudiadas, como la zona de residencia, el nivel de estudios, la actividad laboral, el número de personas en el hogar, el hogar con menores de 10 años y el nivel socioeconómico. Conclusiones. Estos resultados indican que los factores sociodemográficos asociados a la inseguridad alimentaria durante la pandemia de COVID-19 en América Latina fueron la residencia en zonas rurales; la edu- cación primaria y secundaria completa o no; la actividad laboral (trabajo doméstico, personas desempleadas y trabajadores autónomos); el nivel socioeconómico bajo, medio bajo, y medio; el hogar con más de cuatro personas; y el hogar con menores de 10 años.

[RESUMO]. Objetivo. Compreender a relação entre insegurança alimentar e fatores sociodemográficos em uma amostra populacional da América Latina durante a pandemia de COVID-19. Métodos. Estudo transversal multicêntrico realizado em 10 países da América Latina por meio de uma pesquisa on-line conduzida em diferentes plataformas digitais de 14 de outubro de 2020 a 15 de fevereiro de 2021. A análise estatística dos dados foi realizada por meio da aplicação de estatísticas descritivas, teste qui-quadrado e análise de regressão logística. Resultados. De um total de 6 357 questionários, 58,2% dos entrevistados afirmaram ter segurança alimentar, 29,3% indicaram um nível de insegurança alimentar leve, 9,2% tinham insegurança alimentar moderada e 3,3%, insegurança alimentar grave. No que diz respeito à relação entre insegurança alimentar e variáveis sociodemográficas, há uma relação significativa com as variáveis estudadas, incluindo área de residência, nível de escolaridade, ocupação, número de pessoas no domicílio, domicílio com crianças com menos de 10 anos de idade e nível socioeconômico. Conclusões. Os achados apontam que os fatores sociodemográficos associados à insegurança alimentar durante a pandemia de COVID-19 na América Latina foram residência em zona rural; ensino fundamental e médio completo e incompleto; ocupação (do lar, desempregado(a) e autônomo(a)); nível socioeconômico baixo, médio-baixo e médio; domicílio com mais de quatro pessoas; e domicílio com crianças menores de 10 anos de idade.

Comportamiento de la población chilena en las buenas prácticas de higiene

Las enfermedades transmitidas por los alimentos causan una alta carga de morbilidad, con una mayor ocurrencia en ambientes domiciliarios. El objetivo del estudio es asociar hábitos relacionados con buenas prácticas de higiene con variables sociodemográficas en una muestra representativa de la población chilena. Estudio de análisis secundario, realizado a partir de la Encuesta nacional de Salud (ENS) 2016-2017, donde se analizaron las preguntas de buenas prácticas de higiene. La muestra contempla 6.233 participantes, de los cuales el 62,8% corresponde a sexo femenino. Se identificó que las mujeres tienen mejores hábitos de higiene en la manipulación de alimentos respecto a los hombres. Por otro lado, los adultos entre 45-64 años y mayores a 65 años, presentan mejores hábitos relacionados con inocuidad alimentaria, en relación con otros grupos etarios. En conclusión, las variables sociodemográficas como sexo, edad, nivel educativo son determinantes en las buenas prácticas de higiene. Se debe educar a la población en la manipulación de alimentos, para garantizar la inocuidad alimentaria.

Foodborne diseases cause a high burden of morbidity, with a greater occurrence in home environments. The objective of the study is to associate habits related to good hygiene practices with sociodemographic variables in a representative sample of the Chilean population. Secondary analysis study, conducted from the National Health Survey (NHS) 2016-2017, where the questions of good hygiene practices were analyzed. The sample contemplates 6,233 participants, of which 62.8% corresponds to female sex. It was identified that women have better hygiene habits in food handling compared to men. On the other hand, adults aged 45-64 years and over 65 years had better habits related to food safety than other age groups. In conclusion, sociodemographic variables such as sex, age and educational level are determining factors in good hygiene practices. The population should be educated in food handling to ensure food safety.

Adolescents with a Favorable Mediterranean-Style-Based Pattern Show Higher Cognitive and Academic Achievement: A Cluster Analysis-The Cogni-Action Project.

A Mediterranean diet (MedDiet) has emerged as a crucial dietary choice, not only in attenuating various adolescents' metabolic health issues but it has also been associated with improved cognitive and academic achievement. However, few studies have established patterns of food consumption linked to both cognitive and academic achievement in adolescents living in a developing country with non-Mediterranean-based food. Methods: This cross-sectional study included 1296 Chilean adolescents (50% girls) aged 10-14 years. The MedDiet Quality Index was used to assess adherence to the MedDiet in children and adolescents. Through cluster analysis, four distinct dietary patterns were identified: Western diet (WD = 4.3%); low fruit and vegetables, high-sugar diet (LFV-HSD = 28.2%); low fruit and vegetables, low-sugar diet (LFV-LSD = 42.2%); and the MedDiet (25.3%). A mixed-model analysis was conducted to compare these clusters and their relationships with cognitive and academic achievements. Principal component analysis was performed to identify four primary cognitive domains: working memory, cognitive flexibility, inhibitory control, and fluid reasoning. Academic achievement was determined with five school subjects (Language, English, Mathematics, Science, and History) and included the Academic-PISA score derived from the mean scores in Language, Mathematics, and Science. Results: A marked difference was observed between the four clusters, which was mainly related to the consumption of sugar, ultra-processed foods, fruits, and vegetables. According to cognitive performance, the MedDiet group showed higher performance across all domains than the LFV-HSD, LFV-LSD, and WD groups. Regarding academic achievement, the WD underperformed in all analyses compared to the other groups, while the MedDiet was the unique profile that achieved a positive difference in all academic subjects compared to the WD and LFV-HSD groups (p < 0.05). Conclusions: These findings suggest that higher adherence to Mediterranean-style-based patterns and better food quality choices are associated with improved cognitive and academic achievements.

Effects of an Educational Intervention Program on Positional Cranial Deformity in Premature Infants.

Positional cranial deformities are associated with prematurity evolving during the first 2 years of life due to the malleable characteristics of the skull, the first year being the main/primary therapeutic window for intervention. The objectives were (a) to describe health characteristics, peri- and postnatal pathologies, and positional cranial deformities in infants enrolled in an early intervention program and (b) to analyze the effects of a parent education-based intervention program on positional cranial deformity in premature infants. A quantitative, analytical, longitudinal study was conducted. It included 103 premature infants enrolled in an early intervention program (EIP) during the year 2017, all under 4 months of corrected age, to whom a parent education-based intervention program was applied. Cranial circumference, cranial width, diagonals, and anteroposterior diameter were measured, and the cranial asymmetry index (CAI) and cephalic index (CI) were calculated at baseline and during two subsequent evaluations separated by a 3-month period. The main results showed that 75.7% of the infants belonged to a very premature gestational age category, and 57.3% had an adequate weight for gestational age. The most frequent pathologies were premature jaundice, premature anemia, and hyaline membrane disease. The most frequent positional cranial deformity was plagiocephaly. The parent education-based intervention program resulted in (1) a significant decrease in the CAI and a significant increase in the IC, (2) plagiocephalies: an increase in the mild category and a decrease in the moderate + severe categories, (3) brachycephalies: a decrease in the absence category and an increase in the moderate + severe category, and (4) dolichocephalies: an increase in the absence category and a decrease in the mild category. In conclusion, the recommended first line of intervention was not enough for this population, and future studies should support the development of national clinical guidelines, where education is complemented with other therapeutic measures.

Self-Reported Nutritional Status and Breakfast Characterization in Latin American University Students.

OBJECTIVE: To associate breakfast consumption frequency with self-reported nutritional status and dietary patterns of Latin American university students by human development. MATERIAL AND METHODS: This was a cross-sectional, multicenter observational study. University students from 11 Latin American countries (Argentina, Chile, Colombia, Costa Rica, Ecuador, Guatemala, Mexico, Peru, Paraguay, Panama and Uruguay) were invited to participate by answering an online self-administered questionnaire on food consumption and sociodemographic indicators, associations were investigated using logistic regression. RESULTS: The logistic regression analysis showed significant associations between breakfast consumption and the crude model, models 2 and 3 in countries with very high and upper-middle/high human development. However, after adjustment in the most comprehensive model, the association is no longer statistically significant. In the fully adjusted model of the variables, a significant relationship was observed between breakfast consumption and both healthy and unhealthy dietary patterns. Specifically, students who typically consume breakfast exhibit greater consumption of oatmeal and fruits, as well as healthier dinner choices. Conversely, they exhibit lower consumption of fast food, sugary drinks, and juices. In particular, in highly developed countries, along with the mentioned foods, consumption of dairy was linked to breakfast consumption in a positive way, while alcohol consumption was negatively associated. CONCLUSION: University students who eat breakfast on a regular basis maintain a healthier diet in comparison to those who do not, irrespective of their country's level of human development.

Food insecurity and sociodemographic factors in Latin America during the COVID-19 pandemic / Inseguridad alimentaria y factores sociodemográficos en América Latina durante la pandemia de COVID-19 / Insegurança alimentar e fatores sociodemográficos na América Latina durante a pandemia de COVID-19

ABSTRACT Objective. To understand the association of food insecurity with sociodemographic factors in a sample population in Latin America during the COVID-19 pandemic. Methods. This was a multicenter cross-sectional study conducted in 10 countries in Latin America using an online survey through various digital platforms from October 14, 2020 to February 15, 2021. Statistical analysis of data was performed by applying descriptive statistics, chi-square test, and logistic regression analysis. Results. Of a total of 6 357 surveys, 58.2% of respondents experienced food security, 29.3% were slightly food insecure, 9.2% were moderately food insecure, and 3.3% were severely food insecure. Concerning the association food insecurity and sociodemographic variables, there is a significant association in the variables studied, including area of residence, education level, occupation, number of persons in the household, household with children younger than 10 years of age, and socioeconomic level. Conclusions. These findings indicate that sociodemographic factors associated with food insecurity during the COVID-19 pandemic in Latin America were rural residence; complete and incomplete basic and secondary schooling; occupation (homemaker, unemployed, and self-employed); low, medium-low, and medium socioeconomic level; household with more than four persons; and household with children younger than 10 years of age.

RESUMEN Objetivo. Determinar la asociación de la inseguridad alimentaria con factores sociodemográficos en una muestra de población de América Latina durante la pandemia de COVID-19. Métodos. Se llevó a cabo un estudio transversal multicéntrico en diez países de América Latina mediante una encuesta en línea a través de diversas plataformas digitales, entre el 14 de octubre del 2020 y el 15 de febrero del 2021. Se realizó un análisis estadístico de los datos usando procedimientos de estadística descriptiva, la prueba ji al cuadrado y un análisis de regresión logística. Resultados. En un total de 6 357 encuestas, el 58,2% de las personas encuestadas gozaba de seguridad alimentaria, el 29,3% tenía una inseguridad alimentaria leve, el 9,2% una inseguridad alimentaria moderada y el 3,3% una inseguridad alimentaria grave. Por lo que respecta a la asociación entre la inseguridad alimentaria y las variables sociodemográficas, hay una asociación significativa para algunas de las variables estudiadas, como la zona de residencia, el nivel de estudios, la actividad laboral, el número de personas en el hogar, el hogar con menores de 10 años y el nivel socioeconómico. Conclusiones. Estos resultados indican que los factores sociodemográficos asociados a la inseguridad alimentaria durante la pandemia de COVID-19 en América Latina fueron la residencia en zonas rurales; la educación primaria y secundaria completa o no; la actividad laboral (trabajo doméstico, personas desempleadas y trabajadores autónomos); el nivel socioeconómico bajo, medio bajo, y medio; el hogar con más de cuatro personas; y el hogar con menores de 10 años.

RESUMO Objetivo. Compreender a relação entre insegurança alimentar e fatores sociodemográficos em uma amostra populacional da América Latina durante a pandemia de COVID-19. Métodos. Estudo transversal multicêntrico realizado em 10 países da América Latina por meio de uma pesquisa on-line conduzida em diferentes plataformas digitais de 14 de outubro de 2020 a 15 de fevereiro de 2021. A análise estatística dos dados foi realizada por meio da aplicação de estatísticas descritivas, teste qui-quadrado e análise de regressão logística. Resultados. De um total de 6 357 questionários, 58,2% dos entrevistados afirmaram ter segurança alimentar, 29,3% indicaram um nível de insegurança alimentar leve, 9,2% tinham insegurança alimentar moderada e 3,3%, insegurança alimentar grave. No que diz respeito à relação entre insegurança alimentar e variáveis sociodemográficas, há uma relação significativa com as variáveis estudadas, incluindo área de residência, nível de escolaridade, ocupação, número de pessoas no domicílio, domicílio com crianças com menos de 10 anos de idade e nível socioeconômico. Conclusões. Os achados apontam que os fatores sociodemográficos associados à insegurança alimentar durante a pandemia de COVID-19 na América Latina foram residência em zona rural; ensino fundamental e médio completo e incompleto; ocupação (do lar, desempregado(a) e autônomo(a)); nível socioeconômico baixo, médio-baixo e médio; domicílio com mais de quatro pessoas; e domicílio com crianças menores de 10 anos de idade.

Social Outbreak in Chile, and Its Association with the Effects Biological, Psychological, Social, and Quality of Life.

The World Health Organization has defined collective violence as the instrumental use of violence by people who identify themselves as members of a group against other individuals and have political, economic, or social objectives. In Chile, the "Social Outbreak" was used to describe an episode of collective violence, which began on October 18, 2019, triggered by a multitude of socioeconomic and political factors, with protests and mobilizations in the country's large and small cities; in central, commercial, and residential areas, that lasted for several months, affecting a large part of the population. The objective of the present study was to associate the social outbreak in Chile with its biological, psychological, and social effects on people's health and quality of life, as well as its characteristics in terms of exposure, proximity, type, and frequency. This was a cross-sectional study with non-probabilistic national-level sampling, conducted from 28 November 2019, to 3 March 2020. The instrument had four sections. A total of 2651 participants answered the survey; 70.8% were female, and the mean age was 35.2. The main disturbances perceived were protests (70.9%), alarm sounds (68.1%), shooting sounds (59.0%), and tear gas bombs (56.9%). When quantifying the magnitude of these associations, people who had a medium exposure have a higher probability (OR: 1.99, CI: 1.58; 2.50) of suffering three or more biological effects than people that have a low exposure, while people with higher exposition have a 4.09 times higher probability (CI: 3.11; 5.38). A similar pattern was observed regarding psychological effects, although social effects were primarily experienced by those with high exposure. Social networks, TV, and radio were the most used media among people who perceived a greater effect. People who lived, worked, or shopped near the disturbance's areas show a higher proportion negative effect.

Association between diet, mental health and sleep quality in university students during the COVID-19 pandemic: a systematic review.

OBJECTIVES: To evaluate recently published scientific evidence and synthesize the results of observational studies that examine the association between diet, mental health, and sleep quality in university students during the COVID-19 pandemic. CONTENT: An electronic search of scientific literature published in 2021 and up to 2 years ago was performed using keyword search, with focus on observational studies published in PubMed, MEDLINE and Web of Science. It included: active university students of both sexes during the COVID-19 pandemic. SUMMARY AND OUTLOOK: The 5 studies included in this review showed that there have been significant changes in both mental health and eating habits during the COVID-19 pandemic. The conclusion, there is an association between mental health and sleep quality in university students, resulting in an alteration of sleep hours and poor sleep. Furthermore, an association between mental health and diet quality is also observed, producing an increase in caloric intake or in the number of meals during the day.

Factors associated with the consumption of fruits and vegetables in latin american university students

Objective: Explore the association between compliance with recommended consumption (5-a-day) of fruits and vegetables (F&V) with sociodemographic factors of university students of Latin America. Subjects: We conducted an analytical cross-sectional study in which 4,880 university students from 10 Latin American countries completed a self-administered online survey. Methods: F&V consumption and other sociodemographic variables were measured according to a validated survey. Body mass index was self-reported. Ordinal logistic regression models were applied. Results: Regarding the consumption of F&V, 4.7% of men complied with the recommendation, while in women this value reached 7.7%. In the adjusted model, having a normal weight (OR= 0.59; 95% CI 0.44-0.7; p=<0.001), being female (OR= 0.67; 95% CI 0.49-0.89; p=<0.01), being enrolled in a health-related degree program (OR= 0,60; IC95% 0,45-0,78; p<0.001), having professional parents (OR= 0.75; 95% CI 0.60-0.95; p=<0.05) and practicing physical activity (OR= 0.34; 95% CI 0.27-0.42; p=<0.001) were associated with compliance to F&V consumption recommendations. In the analysis by country, physical activity was the variable most associated with F&V consumption. Conclusion: We observed a low consumption of F&V in university students. The variables associated with compliance to the F&V recommendation were being normal weight, female, being enrolled in a health-related degree program, having professional parents, and practicing physical activity, the latter being the most important variable.

Objetivo: Explorar la asociación de la frecuencia de cumplimiento de las recomendaciones de consumo (5 al día) de frutas y verduras (F&V) con factores sociodemográficos de estudiantes universitarios de América Latina. Metodología: Se realizó un estudio transversal analítico con 4.880 estudiantes universitarios de 10 países de América Latina, quienes completaron una encuesta en línea autoadministrada. Se midió el consumo de F&V y otras variables sociodemográficas según una encuesta previamente validada. El índice de masa corporal fue autoinformado. Se aplicaron modelos de regresión logística ordinal. Resultados: En cuanto al consumo de F&V, en los hombres el 4,7% cumple con la recomendación, mientras que en las mujeres este valor alcanza el 7,7%. En el modelo más ajustado, presentar normopeso (OR= 0,59; IC 95% 0,44-0,7; p=<0,001), ser mujer (OR= 0,67; IC 95% 0,49-0,89; p=<0,01), estar matriculado en carrera relacionada con la salud (OR= 0,60; IC95% 0,45-0,78; p<0,001), tener padres profesionales (OR= 0,75; IC 95% 0,60-0,95; p=<0,05) y realizar actividad física (OR= 0,34; IC 95% 0,27-0,42; p=<0,001) fueron las variables asociadas al cumplimiento del consumo de F&V. En el análisis por país, la actividad física fue la variable más asociada al consumo de F&V. Conclusión: Se observa un bajo consumo de F&V en estudiantes universitarios, y entre las variables asociadas al cumplimiento de la recomendación de F&V se encuentran estar normopeso, sexo femenino, estar cursando una carrera relacionada con la salud, tener los padres y la práctica de actividad física, siendo esta última la variable más importante.

Barriers and Opportunities for Clinical Nutritionists in 13 Latin American Countries: A Qualitative Study.

A clinical nutritionist (CN) is a university-educated professional trained to perform preventive and recovery functions in the health of patients. The actions of these professionals, both worldwide and in Latin America, may face barriers and opportunities that require careful identification and examination. The main objective of this study is to identify the most important barriers and opportunities for the clinical nutritionist in 13 Latin American countries. A qualitative study was carried out; the initial phase involved conducting in-depth individual interviews with 89 informants, experienced CNs from 13 Latin American countries. After calculating the mean and standard deviation, we ranked the top 10 most frequently reported barriers by assigning a score ranging from 1 to 10. Additionally, 3 opportunities were identified with a lower score from 1 to 3. Means and standard deviation were calculated to sort the responses. Results: the most important barrier was the absence of public policies that regulate and/or monitor compliance with the staffing of CNs according to the number of hospital beds, while the most important opportunity was the advances in technology such as software, body analysis equipment and other tools used in Nutritional Care. The identified barriers can interfere with the professional performance of CNs and, moreover, make it difficult to monitor the good nutritional status of patients. It is recommended to consider the barriers identified in this study, as well as the opportunities, with a view to improving the quality of hospital services with an adequate supply of nutritionists.

Dietary Fibre Intake in Chile: 13 Years after the Last National Report.

BACKGROUND: The objective is to provide updated data on the intake of total dietary fibre in the population residing in Chile and to identify food sources that contribute most to its intake, as well as its association with different sociodemographic and nutritional status-related determinants. METHODS: In this descriptive cross-sectional study, a nationwide survey was applied to determine fibre intake using an instrument that has been previously validated in the resident population of Chile. RESULTS: The sample consisted of a total of 1761 participants. Dietary fibre intake was 12.8 ± 7.1 g/day for the total population, and 90% of participants did not meet the recommendation, with no differences in consumption by sex, geographical area, and the urban/rural population. A lower consumption was found among participants with overweight and obesity. According to food groups, bread was the major contributor to fibre intake, providing 4.39 ± 3.05 g/day, followed by cereals (2.26 ± 2.80 g/day) and vegetables (1.85 ± 1.59 g/day). CONCLUSIONS: 90% of the population consume less fibre than recommended, and bread is the main food source; these data are critical for the development of strategies that are aimed at changing habits in order to improve diet quality.

Low Sleep Hygiene Is Associated with Less Adherence to the Mediterranean Diet in Chilean Schoolchildren from Rural Public Schools-A Cross-Sectional Study.

The Mediterranean diet stands as a widely acknowledged and health-promoting dietary pattern, renowned for its notable linkage to the mitigation of noncommunicable chronic maladies. Nonetheless, the existing body of evidence concerning the potential interrelation between sleep hygiene and this dietary regimen remains circumscribed. The main objective was to determine the association between sleep hygiene and adherence to the Mediterranean diet in Chilean schoolchildren from rural public schools in southern Chile. A non-experimental study was carried out, with an analytical, cross-sectional design. A total of 265 students (56.6% women, mean age 13.5 ± 1.8) from a rural community in southern Chile were recruited. Sleep habits were evaluated using Section 6 of the Life Habits and Adolescence Questionnaire, Sleep and Rest, and adherence to the Mediterranean diet was assessed with the KIDMED Mediterranean Diet Adherence Questionnaire. The main results indicated that 52.8% of schoolchildren need to improve adherence to the Mediterranean diet and 16.6% have a low-quality Mediterranean diet. A high percentage of schoolchildren have behaviors related to poor sleep hygiene (going to bed late (46%), waking up tired and wanting to continue sleeping (63.8%), and having problems falling asleep (42.6%)). Schoolchildren who got up after 8:30 a.m., those who fell asleep after midnight, upon conducting a comparative analysis of the students based on their sleep patterns, those who woke up tired and those who had trouble falling asleep had a lower level of adherence to the Mediterranean diet compared to schoolchildren who got up earlier than 8:30 a.m., fell asleep before midnight, did not wake up tired, and those who did not find it difficult to fall asleep, respectively. In conclusion, having poor sleep patterns including difficulties in both awakening and falling asleep are associated with less adherence to the Mediterranean diet in schoolchildren from rural public schools in southern Chile. Monitoring these variables and promoting healthy lifestyle habits within the educational community are essential measures.

Exploring food intake networks and anhedonia symptoms in a Chilean Adults sample.

INTRODUCTION: high-calorie and sugar-sweetened food is considered more pleasant food. People with anhedonia symptoms have difficulties experiencing pleasure in daily activities. However, is still unclear if anhedonia symptomatology increases palatable food consumption in the Chilean Adults sample. OBJECTIVE: to explore food networks in the Chilean Adults sample and in people with anhedonia symptom. METHODS: the sample was recruited through digital platforms. Pregnant or lactating women and subjects under pharmacological treatment or psychotherapy were excluded. A total of 1242 subjects, 76.6% women, with a mean age of 30.7 (SD 9.3) and who were highly educated, participated in the study. Data were collected through an online survey. A questionnaire on food consumption based on daily and weekly frequency was used, as well as the Snaith-Hamilton Pleasure Scale to measure anhedonia symptoms. We employed the Gaussian graph model (GGM) to analyze food consumption as networks. We started with the total sample, and then we repeated the analysis on a subsample with anhedonia symptoms, and next on a subsample with exclusively food-related anhedonia. RESULTS: in the total sample, a positive and strong relationship was observed between fruits and vegetables, as well as a negative association with the triad of sugar-sweetened beverages, fast food, and fried food. The network in anhedonic subjects shows that "pasta, rice & potatoes" and "bread" have a stronger association and a more central place in the network compared those without anhedonia symptoms. CONCLUSIONS: Subjects with anhedonia symptoms have a more central consumption of foods with a high or medium glycemic index compared to subjects without anhedonia symptoms, which could trigger the development of chronic diet-related diseases.

[Diet and body weight at the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic in Mexico]. / Alimentación y peso corporal al inicio de la pandemia por COVID-19 en México.

Background: Weight changes in adults have strong repercussions on people's health status. During the COVID-19 pandemic, these changes could be more evident due to the mandatory confinement, as well as eating habits and lifestyle. In this study, changes in diet and body weight in Mexican population at the beginning of COVID-19 lockdown period (weeks 4-7) were evaluated using an online survey. Objective: To identify the characteristics of the diet and the perceived change in body weight at the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic in Mexico. Material and methods: Descriptive, cross-sectional study of 1281 people over 18 years of age, electronic survey in weeks 4-7 of confinement with sociodemographic data, food consumption and perception of body weight. Results: The change in food consumption was 53.9%, finding differences according to gender in beverages (carbonated, juices, alcoholic), coffee/tea, fruits, legumes (p < 0.05). The perception of body weight increases by 3.4 (increased) and 2.1 (lowered) times more than the risk of change in diet. Conclusions: The dietary differences refer to a tendency to the type of food consumed, mainly sugary drinks, with the perception of changes in positive body weight in women.

Introducción: los cambios de peso corporal tienen fuertes repercusiones en el estado de salud de las personas. Durante la pandemia, estos cambios podrían verse más pronunciados debido al confinamiento obligatorio, así como a los malos hábitos alimentarios y al estilo de vida. En este estudio se examinaron los cambios en la alimentación y el peso corporal en población mexicana durante el inicio de la pandemia por COVID-19 (semanas 4-7 de confinamiento) mediante una encuesta en línea. Objetivo: identificar las características de la alimentación y el cambio percibido del peso corporal al inicio de la pandemia por COVID-19 en México. Material y métodos: estudio descriptivo, transversal, de 1281 personas mayores de 18 años, mediante encuesta electrónica en las semanas 4-7 de confinamiento, con datos sociodemográficos, consumo alimentario y percepción del peso corporal. Resultados: el cambio de consumo de alimentos fue del 53.9%, encontrando diferencias según sexo en bebidas (carbonatadas, jugos, alcohólicas), café/té, frutas, leguminosas (p < 0.05). La percepción del peso corporal incrementó en 3.4 (subieron) y 2.1 (bajaron) veces más el riesgo de cambio en la alimentación. Conclusiones: las diferencias alimentarias refieren una tendencia al tipo de alimentos que consumen, principalmente bebidas ricas en azúcares, con percepción de cambios en el peso corporal positivo en mujeres.