Effects of inulin on calcium metabolism and bone health.

Inulin, a dietary fibre found in the roots of many plants, has positive effects on health. It is particularly noteworthy due to its positive impact on calcium metabolism. Inulin has significant functions, such as improving calcium absorption through passive diffusion, bolstering calcium absorption via ion exchange and expanding the absorption surface of the colon by stimulating cell growth. In addition, inulin boosts calcium absorption by increasing calcium solubility, stimulating levels of calcium-binding protein expression and increasing useful microorganisms. It increases calbindin levels and stimulates transcellular active calcium transport. An inulin intake of least 8-10 g/day supports calcium absorption and total body bone mineral content/density in adolescents through its known mechanisms of action. It also significantly enhances calcium absorption and improves bone health in postmenopausal women and adult men. Sustained and sufficient inulin supplementation in adults has a positive effect on calcium metabolism and bone mineral density.

Relationship of dietary and serum zinc and leptin levels with protein energy wasting in haemodialysis patients.

OBJECTIVE: This study was carried out to evaluate the relationship between dietary and serum zinc and leptin levels with protein-energy wasting (PEW) in haemodialysis patients. METHODS: The study was conducted on 80 volunteer patients aged 19-65 years who received haemodialysis treatment three times a week for at least 1 year. Anthropometric measurements and body composition analyses were performed. Blood samples were collected for serum zinc and leptin and other biochemical parameters. Food consumption of the patients was recorded for 3 days. Malnutrition-inflammation score (MIS) was calculated for all patients. PEW was assessed according to the criteria recommended by the International Society of Renal Nutrition and Metabolism (ISRNM). RESULTS: According to the ISRNM criteria, 38.1% of male patients and 36.8% of female patients were diagnosed with PEW. The median serum leptin levels of patients with PEW [9.0 (16.9) ng/mL] were significantly lower than those without PEW [20.7 (38.5) ng/mL] (p < 0.05). Dietary zinc intake in patients with PEW was significantly lower than that in patients without PEW (p < 0.05). However, there was no significant difference in serum zinc levels between the patients with and without PEW. In the multivariate analyses, dietary and serum zinc and leptin was associated with PEW. After controlling for several confounding factors these associations disappeared. Dietary zinc intake and serum leptin levels were inversely correlated with MIS. There was no relationship between serum leptin and dietary and serum zinc in these patients. CONCLUSION: Dietary zinc intake and serum zinc and leptin concentration were not associated with PEW. Low serum leptin levels might be the outcome rather than the cause of PEW in haemodialysis patients.

Factors affecting emotional eating and eating palatable food in adults.

BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVES: The aim of this study was to determine the relationship among emotional eating behavior, tendency to eat palatable foods, and several risk factors. SUBJECTS/METHODS: This study was carried out on 2,434 persons (1,736 women and 698 men) aged between 19 and 64 years. A questionnaire form was used as a data collection tool, which consisted of items for the socio-demographic characteristics, anthropometric measurements, Emotional Appetite Questionnaire (EMAQ), and the Palatable Eating Motives Scale (PEMS). RESULTS: A positive significant correlation was observed between the BMI groups and the negative emotions, negative situations, and negative total scores of EMAQ (P < 0.01). The regression results on negative subscales showed that a one unit increase in BMI resulted in a 0.293 unit increase in negative situations scores, a 0.626 unit increase in negative emotions scores, and a 0.919 unit increase in negative total EMAQ scores. When the BMI groups and PEMS subscale scores were examined, a significant relationship was found in the social motives, rewarding, and conformity subscales (P < 0.01). A one unit increase in BMI increased the coping motives scores by 0.077 units. CONCLUSIONS: The emotional states have a significant effect on the eating behavior. On the other hand, an increase in eating attacks was observed, particularly in people who were under the effect of a negative emotion or situation. Nevertheless, there were some limitations of the study in terms of quantitative determination of the effects of this eating behavior depending on the BMI.

Relationship between dietary caffeine intake and blood pressure in adults.

The aim of this study was to determine the consumption frequency of caffeinated foods and beverages and daily caffeine consumption amounts, and examine relation between caffeine and blood pressure (BP). A cross sectional door-to-door interview was conducted with 1329 volunteers between the ages of 20 and 60 (mean ages 29.9 ± 10.8 years) and based in Ankara/Turkey. The rate of individuals whose BPs were above 140/90 mmHg was 13.5%. The median caffeine consumption was 150.0 ± 122.06 mg. Although no significant correlation was found between total caffeine intake and diastolic blood pressure (DBP) of individuals, a positive correlation was observed between daily total caffeine and systolic blood pressure (SBP) (p < .05). Also, when analyzed factors that could be associated with DBP and SBP, BMI had effect in the model formed for both types of BP (p < .05). While smoking status associated with SBP (p = .002), gender and waist circumference related to DBP (p < .05) As a result relationship between caffeine intake and BP was affected other factors.

Validity and reliability of beverage intake questionnaire: evaluating hydration status.

OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this investigation is to test the validity and reliability the assessment methods for the true beverage consumption of adults. METHODS: This cross-sectional study was carried out 291 healthy volunteers. The beverage intake questionnaire (BIQ) was prepared in combination with a new one which is developed based on basic principles and the existing one developed for the beverages consumed the most with respect to frequency and amount by Turkish populations. During the initial visit the participants completed BIQ1 and then provided a urine sample to determine urinary specific gravity(USG). For validity, participants recorded the type and quantity of foods and beverages consumed on the same day and previous two days. Two weeks later, for reliability, participants completed the same beverage intake questionnaire (BIQ2). RESULTS: Mean daily total fluid intake was estimated at 1,773 ± 49.4mL using the dietary intake record (DIR), 2,120 ± 49.5 mL with BIQ1 and 1,990 ± 46.3 mL for BIQ2. The largest contribution to total fluid intake was plain water. The response on the two assessment tools (DIR and BIQ1) all beverage intakes were significantly correlated (p < 0.01) except for alcoholic beverage intake. One could see a significant correlation between BIQ1 and BIQ2 in relation to total fluid intakes (r = 0.838,p < 0.01). The USG measurement was negatively correlated with three assessment tools (DIR, BIQ1 and BIQ2), the amount of plain water and the amount of total fluid intake. CONCLUSIONS: The self-administered instrument described in this study may be useful for researchers interested in assessing habitual beverage consumption patterns or evaluating hydration status for adults.

Validity and reliability of beverage intake quiestionnaire: evaluating hydration status / Validez y fiabilidad de un cuestionario de ingesta de bebidas: evaluación del estado de hidratación

Objective: The purpose of this investigation is to test the validity and reliability the assessment methods for the true beverage consumption of adults. Methods: This cross-sectional study was carried out 291 healthy volunteers. The beverage intake questionnaire (BIQ) was prepared in combination with a new one which is developed based on basic principles and the existing one developed for the beverages consumed the most with respect to frequency and amount by Turkish populations. During the initial visit the participants completed BIQ1 and then provided a urine sample to determine urinary specific gravity(USG). For validity, participants recorded the type and quantity of foods and beverages consumed on the same day and previous two days. Two weeks later, for reliability, participants completed the same beverage intake questionnaire (BIQ2). Results: Mean daily total fluid intake was estimated at 1,773 ± 49.4mL using the dietary intake record (DIR), 2,120 ± 49.5 mL with BIQ1 and 1,990 ± 46.3 mL for BIQ2. The largest contribution to total fluid intake was plain water. The response on the two assessment tools (DIR and BIQ1) all beverage intakes were significantly correlated (p < 0.01) except for alcoholic beverage intake. One could see a significant correlation between BIQ1 and BIQ2 in relation to total fluid intakes (r = 0.838,p < 0.01). The USG measurement was negatively correlated with three assessment tools (DIR, BIQ1 and BIQ2), the amount of plain water and the amount of total fluid intake. Conclusions: The self-administered instrument described in this study may be useful for researchers interested in assessing habitual beverage consumption patterns or evaluating hydration status for adults (AU)

Objetivo: el objetivo de este estudio es evaluar la validez y la fiabilidad de los métodos utilizados para medir el consumo de bebidas de los adultos correctamente. Método: este estudio transversal fue conducido con 291 voluntarios sanos. El cuestionario de consumo de bebidas (BIQ) fue desarrollado como una nueva encuesta con la adición de las bebidas más consumidas por la población turca en términos de frecuencia y cantidad. Los participantes realizaron el cuestionario BIQ1 en la primera reunión y después se tomaron muestras de orina con el fi n de determinar la densidad urinaria (USG). Se registró la validez, el tipo y la cantidad de alimentos y bebidas consumidos por los participantes en el mismo día y dos días antes. Para comprobar la fiabilidad, se realizó a los participantes el mismo cuestionario de consumo de bebidas (BIQ2) dos semanas más tarde. Resultados: el consumo total diario de líquidos fue estimado en 1.773 ± 49,4 ml por los registros de alimentos (DIR), en 2.120 ± 49,5 ml por el BIQ1 y en 1.990 ± 46,3 ml por el BIQ2. La mayor contribución a la ingesta total de líquidos es debida al agua. Ambas herramientas de evaluación (DIR y BIQ1) mostraron una correlación significativa en todas las bebidas con excepción de las bebidas alcohólicas (p < 0,01). Una de la correlación más significativa se encontró en el consumo total de líquidos entre BIQ1 con BIQ2 (r = 0,838, p < 0,01). Se encontró que la medición de la USG está correlacionada negativamente con las tres herramientas (DIR, BIQ1 ve BIQ2) de evaluación para el agua y la ingesta total de líquidos. Conclusión: los cuestionarios para evaluar el estado de hidratación o y los hábitos de consumo de bebidas en adultos pueden ser de utilidad para aquellos investigadores interesados (AU)

Association between coffee consumption and serum lipid profile.

The aim of the present study was to investigate the association between coffee consumption and serum lipid levels in a study population of 122 Turkish subjects (mean age, 41.4±12.69 years), including 48 males and 74 females. A questionnaire was compiled to determine baseline characteristics, and food and coffee consumption. Subjects were divided into three groups, which included non-drinkers, Turkish coffee and instant coffee drinkers, and anthropometric measurements were acquired, including weight, height and body mass index. Serum lipid levels were analyzed, including the total cholesterol (TC), triglyceride (TG), high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) and very low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (VLDL-C) levels. Of the population studied, 76.2% had consumed at least one cup of coffee per week over the previous year. Daily consumption values were 62.3±40.60 ml (0.7±0.50 cup) for Turkish coffee and 116.3±121.96 ml (0.7±0.81 cup) for instant coffee. No statistically significant differences were observed in the serum levels of TC, TG, LDL-C, HDL-C or VLDL-C among the three groups. In addition, no statistically significant differences were observed in the serum lipid levels when comparing individuals who consumed coffee with sugar/cream or who smoked and those who did not (P>0.05). Therefore, the present observations indicated no significant association between the consumption of Turkish or instant coffee and serum lipid levels.

Risk of abnormal eating attitudes among Turkish dietetic students.

The purpose of this study was to determine the prevalence of abnormal eating attitudes among Turkish dietetic students and the relations between nutrition education and eating attitudes. The study population was 568 female university students (248 dietetic students, 320 non-dietetic students). Two scales were used: Eating Attitudes Test (EAT-26) and Bulimic Investigatory Test-Edinburg (BITE). Psychological factors were measured with the Rosenberg Self-esteem Scale (RSE) and the State-trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI). The mean eating attitudes first scores, bulimic investigatory test scores, and Rosenberg self-esteem scores were similar in both groups. Only the STAI score was significantly higher in dietetic students than non-dietetic students. Skipping breakfast was significantly higher in non-dietetic students. Unhealthy weightloss methods were used more by the non-dietetic students than dietetic students. There were no significant effects of nutrition education on BMI and eating attitudes of the students.

Prevalence of bulimic behaviors and trends in eating attitudes among Turkish late adolescents.

The eating attitudes and the prevalence of bulimic behaviors in a group of 300 late adolescents were investigated using the key questions from the Bulimia Investigatory Test, Edinburgh (BITE), and additional questions. Only four subjects (1.3%) scored above the cut-off point on the BITE, and prevalence rates of males and females were the same. Results showed that higher symptom scale scores were associated with the emergence of binge eating behavior and high energy intake. Females were less likely than males to see themselves as normal eaters and more likely to feel "miserable" when they binge. Higher score groups evidenced more dieting behavior than other groups and also more abnormal eating behavior. It was concluded that the prevalence of bulimic behaviors in Turkish late adolescents was low, but there was an increasing risk since they share Western ideals of slimness and engage in dieting.

Dietary intake and nutritional status of Turkish pregnant women during Ramadan.

OBJECTIVE: To determine the effects of Ramadan fasting on dietary intakes, nutritional status and biochemical parameters of Turkish pregnant women. METHODS: We carried out this study at Dr. Zekai Tahir Burak Women's Health Care and Research Hospital, Ankara, Turkey from October 15th to November 13th 2004. Forty-nine fasting group and 49 non-fasting group (control group) voluntarily enrolled for the study. We analyzed the blood biochemical parameters of pregnant women and obtained the dietary intakes from the groups. RESULTS: Compared to the control group, weight gain and energy intake (p<0.05 for second and third trimesters) was less in the fasting group. The percentage of protein (p<0.05 for first and second trimesters) and carbohydrates (p<0.05 for all trimesters) from total energy was higher in the fasting group than in the control group. We noticed a slight increase in the fasting blood glucose, serum total cholesterol high-density lipoprotein-cholesterol and triglycerides (p<0.05 for first trimester) concentrations in the fasting group during Ramadan. However, we found decreased levels in the plasma urea, total cholesterol, triglycerides, low-density lipoprotein-cholesterol and total protein and albumin levels of the fasting group in comparison with the control group. Dietary mineral and vitamin intakes were lower than the recommended daily allowance, except vitamin A and vitamin C in both groups. CONCLUSION: Based on the results of the present study, Ramadan fasting had no significant adverse effect on the health of pregnant women.

Vegetarianism and eating disorders: association between eating attitudes and other psychological factors among Turkish adolescents.

The purpose of this study was to determine whether differences exist in eating attitudes, self-esteem, social trait anxiety and social physique anxiety of self-reported vegetarian and nonvegetarian Turkish adolescents. The sample for the Turkish University' students is designed to provide the estimates of vegetarian indicators and prevalence. The participants were 608 females and 597 males, in total 1205 adolescents aged between 17 and 21 years. Disturbed eating behaviors (EAT-26> or =20) was found in 45.2% (14 of vegetarian) of the total vegetarian sample; which included two of the male vegetarians and 12 of the female vegetarians. The mean BMI was 19.78+/-1.49 kg/m(2) for female vegetarians and 20.78+/-2.46 kg/m(2) for female nonvegetarians (p<0.05). Male vegetarians had significantly higher score than male nonvegetarians on EAT-26 (17.25+/-11.18 for male vegetarians and 9.38+/-6.60 for male nonvegetarians), dieting (6.50+/-7.65 for male vegetarians and 2.55+/-3.87 for male nonvegetarians) and oral control (6.13+/-4.67 for male vegetarians and 3.20+/-3.19 for male nonvegetarians) scores (p<0.05). Besides, female vegetarians had significantly higher score than female nonvegetarians on EAT-26 (22.04+/-13.62 for female vegetarians and 11.38+/-8.28 for female nonvegetarians), dieting (10.35+/-9.58 for female vegetarians and 4.41+/-5.30 for female nonvegetarians), oral control (7.78+/-5.13 for female vegetarians and 3.33+/-3.51 for female nonvegetarians) and STAI (51.39+/-7.28 for female vegetarians and 47.29+/-5.13 for female nonvegetarians) scores (p<0.05). As a conclusion, the present study indicated abnormal eating attitudes, low self-esteem, high social physique anxiety, and high trait anxiety in Turkish vegetarian adolescents. The vegetarian adolescents may be more likely to display disordered eating attitudes and behaviors than nonvegetarians.

Eating attitudes and their psychological correlates among Turkish adolescents.

This study examined the eating attitudes and psychological characteristics of Turkish late adolescents. Seven hundred eighty-three university students were administered the Eating Attitudes Test, Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale, State-Trait Anxiety Inventory, and Social Physique Anxiety Scale. More than one in ten (9.2% of the males and 13.1% of the females) had abnormal eating attitude scores. Chi-square analysis revealed that there were no significant differences in the prevalance of abnormal eating behaviors based on gender. Analysis of covariance indicated that participants who had disturbed eating attitudes had lower self-esteem, higher social physique anxiety, and higher trait anxiety than those who had normal eating attitudes. It was concluded that the prevalence of disturbed eating attitudes was high among these Turkish late adolescents, and that disturbed eating attitudes were related to several psychological characteristics.