Medical nutrition therapy provided by a dietitian improves outcomes in adults with prehypertension or hypertension: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

BACKGROUND: Hypertension is an important risk factor for cardiovascular disease (CVD). Interventions with dietitians can help modify dietary intake and reduce hypertension risk. OBJECTIVES: We aimed to examine the following research question: In adults with prehypertension or hypertension, what is the effect of medical nutrition therapy (MNT) provided by a dietitian on blood pressure (BP), CVD risk and events, and anthropometrics compared with standard care or no intervention? METHODS: MEDLINE, CINAHL, and Cochrane Central databases were searched for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) published in peer-reviewed journals from 1985-2022. Risk of bias was assessed using version 2 of the Cochrane tool for RCTs. Meta-analyses were conducted using the DerSimonian-Laird random-effects model. Certainty of evidence (COE) was assessed for each outcome using the Grading of Recommendations, Assessment and Evaluation method. RESULTS: Forty articles representing 31 RCTs were included and analyzed. MNT provided by a dietitian may reduce systolic [mean difference (MD): -3.63 mmHg; 95% confidence interval (CI): -4.35, -2.91 mmHg] and diastolic (MD: -2.02 mmHg; 95% CI: -2.56, -1.49 mmHg) BP (P < 0.001) and body weight (MD: -1.84 kg; 95% CI: -2.72, -0.96 kg; P < 0.001) and improve antihypertensive medication usage, relative risk of stroke (MD: 0.34; 95% CI: 0.14, 0.81; P = 0.02), and CVD risk score [standardized mean difference (SMD): -0.20; 95% CI: -0.30, -0.09; P < 0.001] compared with control participants, and COE was moderate. Additionally, MNT may reduce arterial stiffness (SMD: -0.45; 95% CI: -0.71, -0.19; P = 0.008) and waist circumference (SMD: -1.18 cm; 95% CI: -2.00, -0.36; P = 0.04), and COE was low. There was no significant difference in risk of myocardial infarction between groups. Dietitian interventions reduced BP and related cardiovascular outcomes for adults with prehypertension or hypertension. CONCLUSIONS: Dietitians play a critical role in improving cardiometabolic risk factors for adults with elevated BP; thus, improved payment for and access to MNT services has the potential to significantly impact public health. This review was registered at PROSPERO as CRD42022351693.

Factors associated with dietitian referrals to support long-term care residents advancing towards the end of life.

BACKGROUND: Dietitians are central members of the multidisciplinary long-term care (LTC) healthcare team. The overall aim of this current investigation is to gain a better understanding of dietitian involvement in LTC resident's end-of-life care via referrals. METHODS: Retrospective chart reviews for 164 deceased residents (mean age = 88.3 ± 7.3; 61% female) in 18 LTC homes in Ontario, Canada, identified dietitian referrals and documented eating challenges recorded over 2-week periods at four time points (i.e., 6 months, 3 months, 1 month and 2 weeks) prior to death. Nutrition care plans at the beginning of these time points were also noted. Logistic mixed effects regression models identified time-varying predictors of dietitian referrals. Bivariate tests identified associations between nutrition orders and dietitian referrals that occurred in the last month of life. RESULTS: Nearly three-quarters (73%) of participants had at least one dietitian referral across the four observations. Referrals increased significantly with proximity to death; 45% of residents had a referral documented in the last 2 weeks of life. Dietitian referrals were associated with the number of eating challenges (odds ratio [OR] = 1.42, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.27, 1.58). Comfort-focused nutrition care orders were significantly more common when a dietitian was referred (25%) compared with when a dietitian was not referred (12%) in the final month of life (p = 0.04). CONCLUSIONS: Our findings suggest that dietitians are involved in end-of-life and comfort-focused nutrition care initiatives, yet they are not engaged consistently for this purpose. This presents a significant opportunity for dietitians to upskill and champion palliative approaches to nutrition care within the multidisciplinary LTC team.

Distribución de nutricionistas en el sistema de salud peruano: un panorama por niveles de atención

La prestación de servicios para la atención integral de la salud requiere la participación de diversos profesionales con competencias específicas para brindar la mejor atención posible a la población. La inclusión del nutricionista en los diferentes niveles del sistema de salud es crucial para garantizar una atención integral en las diversas etapas de la vida. Una distribución inequitativa de nutricionistas en los niveles de atención puede conducir a una fragmentación de la atención y la pérdida de oportunidades para abordar los problemas relacionados con la alimentación y nutrición. Por ello, se desarrolló un estudio con el objetivo de describir la distribución de nutricionistas en los establecimientos de salud según el nivel de atención, y evaluar el cumplimiento de las recomendaciones de recursos humanos establecidas por la norma técnica de las UPSS de Nutrición y Dietética. Se desarrolló un estudio descriptivo y transversal, mediante el análisis de fuentes secundarias. Se utilizaron los datos de recursos humanos por IPRESS de SUSALUD, del año 2022. Se consideró la Norma técnica de UPSS de Nutrición y Dietética para evaluar el cumplimiento de las recomendaciones de recursos humanos. Entre los principales resultados, se identificó que el 7.93% de los establecimientos de salud del primer nivel de atención tienen al menos un nutricionista. En el segundo nivel de atención, el 96.35% de los establecimientos de salud no cumplen con las recomendaciones de recursos humanos de la norma técnica, y ningún establecimiento del tercer nivel de atención cumplió esta recomendación. La distribución de nutricionistas en los diversos niveles de atención del sistema de salud peruano es desigual. Es necesario mejorar la planificación de recursos humanos en el sistema de salud peruano para garantizar una atención integral de la salud a la población.

The provision of services for comprehensive healthcare requires the involvement of various professionals with specific competencies to provide the best possible care to the population. The inclusion of nutritionists at different levels of the healthcare system is crucial to ensure comprehensive care at various stages of life. An unequal distribution of nutritionists across healthcare levels can lead to fragmented care and missed opportunities to address nutrition-related issues. Therefore, a study was conducted with the aim of describing the distribution of nutritionists in healthcare facilities according to the level of care and evaluating compliance with the human resources recommendations established by the technical standard of Nutrition and Dietetics UPSS. A descriptive and cross-sectional study was conducted using the analysis of secondary sources. Human resources data from SUSALUD for the year 2022 were used. The Technical Standard of UPSS of Nutrition and Dietetics was considered to assess compliance with human resources recommendations. Among the main findings, it was identified that 7.93% of first-level healthcare facilities have at least one nutritionist. In the second level of care, 96.35% of healthcare facilities do not comply with the human resources recommendations of the technical standard, and no third-level healthcare facility met this recommendation. The distribution of nutritionists across various levels of care in the Peruvian healthcare system is unequal. It is necessary to improve human resources planning in the Peruvian healthcare system to ensure comprehensive healthcare for the population..

Importance, performance frequency, and predicted future importance of dietitians' jobs by practicing dietitians in Korea: a survey study.

PURPOSE: This study aimed to explore the perceptions held by practicing dietitians of the importance of their tasks performed in current work environments, the frequency at which those tasks are performed, and predictions about the importance of those tasks in future work environments. METHODS: This was a cross-sectional survey study. An online survey was administered to 350 practicing dietitians. They were asked to assess the importance, performance frequency, and predicted changes in the importance of 27 tasks using a 5-point scale. Descriptive statistics were calculated, and the means of the variables were compared across categorized work environments using analysis of variance. RESULTS: The importance scores of all surveyed tasks were higher than 3.0, except for the marketing management task. Self-development, nutrition education/counseling, menu planning, food safety management, and documentation/data management were all rated higher than 4.0. The highest performance frequency score was related to documentation/data management. The importance scores of all duties, except for professional development, differed significantly by workplace. As for predictions about the future importance of the tasks surveyed, dietitians responded that the importance of all 27 tasks would either remain at current levels or increase in the future. CONCLUSION: Twenty-seven tasks were confirmed to represent dietitians' job functions in various workplaces. These tasks can be used to improve the test specifications of the Korean Dietitian Licensing Examination and the curriculum of dietetic education programs.

[Approach to Childhood Obesity in Spain. A comparison among autonomies]. / Abordaje de la obesidad infantil. Comparativa entre comunidades autónomas.

OBJECTIVE: Childhood obesity represents a serious public health problem and given its multifactorial nature and its consequences; it is necessary to carry out an effective approach. The Spanish system of autonomies, with delegated powers, could accentuate inequality in its approach. The objective of the study was to know the existence or not of these inequalities. METHODS: A descriptive cross-sectional study was carried out between the months of February-April 2022, in which the approach to childhood obesity was compared among the seventeen communities and two autonomous cities, through the analysis of the following indicators: pediatric staff, pediatric nursing, nutrition personnel and their legal recognition, the existence of comprehensive plans and health expenditure on childhood obesity. The search for information has been carried out through a bibliographic review and a request for access to public information to the corresponding regional councils. It were performed ratios of paediatricians and nurses per 1,000 inhabitants and health expenditure per inhabitant were calculated. RESULTS: It was observed that in Spain paediatricians have a ratio according to international recommendations (1.21), but not general and paediatric nursing (with a ratio of 0.65, which is equivalent to approximately 1,544 inhabitants for each nurse), and nutrition professionals. Among autonomies there were large variations for the three categories. Comprehensive plans were outdated or absent altogether, as well as the periodic analysis of obesity expenditure. CONCLUSIONS: The approach to childhood obesity seems to vary considerably among autonomies according to the analysed indicators. Thus, it would be advisable to lead all efforts to homogenize it, to improve care quality and prevention and treatment choices in all national regions.

OBJECTIVE: La obesidad infantil representa un grave problema de Salud Pública y, dado su carácter multifactorial y sus consecuencias, resulta necesario llevar a cabo un abordaje eficaz. El sistema de autonomías español, con competencias delegadas, podría acentuar la desigualdad en su abordaje. El objetivo del estudio fue conocer la existencia o no de dichas desigualdades. METHODS: Se llevó a cabo un estudio transversal descriptivo, entre los meses de febrero-abril de 2022, en el que se comparó el abordaje de la obesidad infantil entre las diecisiete comunidades y dos ciudades autónomas, mediante el análisis de los siguientes indicadores: personal de pediatría; enfermería pediátrica; personal de nutrición y su reconocimiento legal; existencia de planes integrales; y gasto sanitario para obesidad infantil. La búsqueda de información se realizó mediante revisión bibliográfica y solicitud de acceso a información pública a las correspondientes consejerías autonómicas. Hubo cálculo de ratios de pediatras y enfermeros por 1.000 habitantes y gasto sanitario por habitante. RESULTS: Se observó que a nivel nacional los pediatras poseen una ratio acorde a las recomendaciones internacionales (1,21), no así enfermería general y pediátrica (con una ratio de 0,65, que equivale a aproximadamente 1.544 habitantes por cada enfermera), ni el personal de nutrición. Entre comunidades autónomas se apreciaron grandes variaciones para las tres categorías. Los planes integrales de abordaje se encontraron desactualizados o, directamente, ausentes, al igual que el análisis periódico del gasto derivado de la obesidad. CONCLUSIONS: El abordaje de la obesidad infantil parece variar de forma considerable entre autonomías según los indicadores analizados. Por ello, sería recomendable encauzar todos los esfuerzos en homogenizarlo, para mejorar la calidad asistencial e igualar las oportunidades de prevención y tratamiento en todo el ámbito nacional.

Orthorexia nervosa in dietitians and dietetics students-prevalence, risk factors, and interventions: a scoping review using a systematic approach.

CONTEXT: Orthorexia nervosa (ON) is characterized by compulsive behaviors and increased concerns about healthful eating. Dietitians appear to be especially vulnerable to ON, and it is still debatable whether the disordered eating behaviors motivate individuals to enroll in nutrition programs, or whether these behaviors result from an exaggerated preoccupation with healthy eating triggered during their nutrition studies. OBJECTIVE: The aim was to provide an overview of the present state of knowledge about the prevalence, risk factors, and interventions addressing ON among dietitians and dietetics students. More specifically, it was examined whether dietitians and dietetics students differ from students attending different education programs or other health professionals with regard to the severity and risk factors of ON, and whether the extent of ON changes during the progression in the nutrition education years of study. DATA SOURCES: MEDLINE (Ovid), PubMed, EMBASE (Ovid), PsycInfo (EBSCO), CINAHL (EBSCO), Cochrane, ProQuest Central, CABI, ProQuest Dissertations, Google Scholar, ScienceDirect, and SpringerLink were searched on May 8, 2021, and updated on November 12, 2022. DATA EXTRACTION: Records were screened for eligibility; study characteristics, methodology, and findings of included articles were extracted; and the methodological quality assessed using the AXIS tool. Each step was preceded by a calibration exercise and conducted independently and in duplicate by pairs of 2 reviewers. Any disagreements were resolved through discussions. DATA ANALYSIS: A narrative synthesis was performed, whereby the characteristics, methodologies, and results of included studies were compared. CONCLUSIONS: Results were inconclusive; yet, a general status of the relatively "high" prevalence of ON among dietitians and dietetics students was established, stressing the need for systematic research to understand and mitigate orthorexic tendencies in this group. It is still too early to answer questions pertaining to prevalence, risk factors, interventions, and differences between dietetics students and other majors when it comes to severity and progress of ON throughout the continuing years of study, or between dietitians and other professional groups. SYSTEMATIC REVIEW REGISTRATION: Open Science Framework Identifier: DOI 10.17605/OSF.IO/BY5KF.

Abordaje de la obesidad infantil. Comparativa entre comunidades autónomas / Approach to Childhood Obesity in Spain. A comparison among autonomies

Fundamentos: la obesidad infantil representa un grave problema de salud pública y, dado su carácter multifactorial y sus consecuencias, resulta necesario llevar a cabo un abordaje eficaz. El sistema de autonomías español, con competencias delegadas, podría acentuar la desigualdad en su abordaje. El objetivo del estudio fue conocer la existencia o no de dichas desigualdades. Métodos: se llevó a cabo un estudio transversal descriptivo, entre los meses de febrero-abril de 2022, en el que se comparó el abordaje de la obesidad infantil entre las diecisiete comunidades y dos ciudades autónomas, mediante el análisis de los siguientes indicadores: personal de pediatría; enfermería pediátrica; personal de nutrición y su reconocimiento legal; existencia de planes integrales; y gasto sanitario para obesidad infantil. La búsqueda de información se realizó mediante revisión bibliográfica y solicitud de acceso a información pública a las correspondientes consejerías autonómicas. Hubo cálculo de ratios de pediatras y enfermeros por 1.000 habitantes y gasto sanitario por habitante. Resultados: se observó que a nivel nacional los pediatras poseen una ratio acorde a las recomendaciones internacionales (1,21), no así enfermería general y pediátrica (con una ratio de 0,65, que equivale a aproximadamente 1.544 habitantes por cada enfermera), ni el personal de nutrición. Entre comunidades autónomas se apreciaron grandes variaciones para las tres categorías. Los planes integrales de abordaje se encontraron desactualizados o, directamente, ausentes, al igual que el análisis periódico del gasto derivado de la obesidad.Conclusiones: el abordaje de la obesidad infantil parece variar de forma considerable entre autonomías según los indicadores analizados. Por ello, sería recomendable encauzar todos los esfuerzos en homogenizarlo, para mejorar la calidad asistencial e igualar las oportunidades de prevención y tratamiento en todo el ámbito nacional.(au)

Background: childhood obesity represents a serious public health problem and given its multifactorial nature and its con-sequences; it is necessary to carry out an effective approach. The spanish system of autonomies, with delegated powers, could accentuate inequality in its approach. The objective of the study was to know the existence or not of these inequalities. Methods: a descriptive cross-sectional study was carried out between the months of february-april 2022, in which the approach to childhood obesity was compared among the seventeen communities and two autonomous cities, through the analysis of the following indicators: pediatric staff, pediatric nursing, nutrition personnel and their legal recognition, the existence of comprehensive plans and health expenditure on childhood obesity. The search for information has been carried out through a bibliographic review and a request for access to public information to the corresponding regional councils. It were performed ratios of paediatricians and nurses per 1,000 inhabitants and health expenditure per inhabitant were calculated.results: it was observed that in spain paediatricians have a ratio according to international recommendations (1.21), but not ge-neral and paediatric nursing (with a ratio of 0.65, which is equivalent to approximately 1,544 inhabitants for each nurse), and nutrition professionals. Among autonomies there were large variations for the three categories. Comprehensive plans were outdated or absent altogether, as well as the periodic analysis of obesity expenditure. Conclusions: the approach to childhood obesity seems to vary considerably among autonomies according to the analysed indicators. Thus, it would be advisable to lead all efforts to homogenize it, to improve care quality and prevention and treatment choices in all national regions.(AU)

The effectiveness of a home-based dietetic intervention for community-dwelling older adults.

OBJECTIVES: The aim of this study was to describe the characteristics of clients receiving home-based dietetic intervention and to evaluate the effectiveness of these interventions in improving nutritional status, functional status, and quality of life in a culturally and socioeconomically diverse client group. METHODS: Participants referred to a home-based dietetic service were recruited to this prospective cohort study. Dietetic interventions were recommended at baseline and reviewed at 3-month follow-up. Assessment of nutritional, functional and quality of life markers was measured using the Mini Nutritional Assessment (MNA), Timed Up and Go (TUG) and EQ-5D-5L, respectively, at baseline and after home-based dietetic intervention. RESULTS: Participants (n = 99) were recruited from consecutive referrals. Participant's weight, body mass index (BMI), total daily energy and protein intake, MNA total score, and TUG significantly improved after a 3-month nutrition intervention (effect sizes 0.257, 0.257, 0.580, 0.533, 0.577 and 0.281, respectively). The most common interventions dietitians utilised were nutrition education, use of oral nutritional supplements (ONS) and meal fortification. In total, 339 dietetic interventions were recommended to participants at baseline with 197 (58.11%) implemented at 3 months, with meal planning and referral to other relevant allied health or Commonwealth Home Support Program (CHSP) services the most implemented interventions. CONCLUSIONS: Home-based dietetic intervention improves nutritional status, functional status and quality of life in community-dwelling older adults referred for dietetic input. Improvements observed in nutritional and functional status were consistent with benchmarks of change from published literature.

Do some patients receive unnecessary parenteral nutrition after pancreatoduodenectomy? Results from an international multicentre study.

Backgrounds/Aims: After pancreatoduodenectomy (PD), an early oral diet is recommended; however, the postoperative nutritional management of PD patients is known to be highly variable, with some centers still routinely providing parenteral nutrition (PN). Some patients who receive PN experience clinically significant complications, underscoring its judicious use. Using a large cohort, this study aimed to determine the proportion of PD patients who received postoperative nutritional support (NS), describe the nature of this support, and investigate whether receiving PN correlated with adverse perioperative outcomes. Methods: Data were extracted from the Recurrence After Whipple's study, a retrospective multicenter study of PD outcomes. Results: In total, 1,323 patients (89%) had data on their postoperative NS status available. Of these, 45% received postoperative NS, which was "enteral only," "parenteral only," and "enteral and parenteral" in 44%, 35%, and 21% of cases, respectively. Body mass index < 18.5 kg/m2 (p = 0.03), absence of preoperative biliary stenting (p = 0.009), and serum albumin < 36 g/L (p = 0.009) all correlated with receiving postoperative NS. Among those who did not develop a serious postoperative complication, i.e., those who had a relatively uneventful recovery, 20% received PN. Conclusions: A considerable number of patients who had an uneventful recovery received PN. PN is not without risk, and should be reserved for those who are unable to take an oral diet. PD patients should undergo pre- and postoperative assessment by nutrition professionals to ensure they are managed appropriately, and to optimize perioperative outcomes.

Fatores associados à depressão e ansiedade em nutricionistas na pandemia por COVID-19 / Factors associated with depression and anxiety in nutritionists in the COVID-19 pandemic

O objetivo foi investigar os fatores associados à depressão e/ou ansiedade em nutricionistas durante a pandemia por COVID-19. Estudo transversal com aplicação das escalas GAD-7 e PHQ-9. Dos 1.018 participantes 60,2% manifestaram rastreio positivo para depressão e/ou ansiedade, com maior força de associação para conflitos muito frequentes nas relações (OR = 11,11; IC95% 6,61;18,67), uso de medicação para dor (OR = 7,42; IC95% 4,67;11,79) e pensar sempre sobre a pandemia (OR = 6,5; IC95% 4,14;10,32). Não estar em tratamento psicoterápico (OR = 0,39; IC95% 0,27;0,560) e não estar em uso de medicamento psicotrópico (OR = 0,40; IC95% 0,26;0,60) foram associados a menores chances de rastreio positivo. O estudo resulta em conhecimento epidemiológico aplicável a ações de vigilância, prevenção e controle da ansiedade e depressão entre nutricionistas.

The objective was to investigate the factors associated with depression and/or anxiety and depression in nutritionists during the COVID-19 pandemic. Cross-sectional study with the application of the GAD-7 and PHQ-9 scales. 1,018 participated, of which 60.2% showed positive screening for depression and/or anxiety, with a greater strength of association for very frequent conflicts in relationships (OR = 11.11; 95%CI 6.61;18.67), use of pain medication (OR = 7.42; 95%CI 4.67;11.79) and always thinking about the pandemic (OR = 6.5; 95%CI 4.14;10.32). Not being under psychotherapeutic treatment (OR = 0.39; 95%CI 0.27;0.560) and not using psychotropic medication (OR = 0.40; 95%CI 0.26;0.60) were associated with lower odds of positive screening. This study results in epidemiological knowledge applicable to surveillance, prevention and control of anxiety and depression among nutritionists.

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.

Local Food Environment and Consumption of Ultra-Processed Foods: Cross-Sectional Data from the Nutritionists' Health Study-NutriHS.

This study aimed to analyze whether community food environments are associated with individual food consumption among nutrition students and newly graduated nutritionists. This cross-sectional study used data from the Nutritionists' Health Study cohort, which included 357 undergraduate nutrition students from the city of Fortaleza, Ceará, Brazil. Exposure to the food environment was defined as the proximity and availability of food outlets within a 500 m buffer from the participants' homes. Food consumption was assessed using a Food Frequency Questionnaire and analyzed according to the NOVA classification. Multi-level linear regression models with fixed effects were used to estimate the presence of food outlets within the buffer and their association with food consumption. The presence of mini-markets in the buffer in the fourth quartile was associated with lower consumption of ultra-processed foods (UPF) when observing socioeconomic and lifestyle conditions (ß = -3.29; 95% CI = -6.39 to -0.19). The presence of bakeries and coffee shops was related to lower consumption of ultra-processed foods among participants when observing socioeconomic conditions (ß = -3.10; 95% CI = -6.18 to -0.02). There was no clear evidence of an association between the type of food outlet and UPF consumption. The community food environment seemed to influence food consumption among study participants, although clearer and more consistent evidence on this subject is needed.

High-risk antenatal women's perceptions of dietitian appointments and information.

Problem: The dietitian service at a metropolitan health service in Queensland, Australia has a non-engagement rate for high-risk antenatal women of 50%. Aim: Determine which attributes are related to non-attendance at dietitian appointments, and women's perceptions and attitudes towards dietitian appointments during pregnancy. Methods: An explanatory mixed-methods design was utilised, with first phase including 103 antenatal women referred to a dietitian in 2021 and compared the attributes of those who attended with those who did not engage. Queensland Health electronic databases were used to collect attribute data, which were then analysed with Jamovi (version 1.6) for descriptive, correlational, multivariate analyses of variance MANOVA. Second phase included seven semi-structured interviews with women attending a dietitian appointment, and subsequently analysed through thematic analysis. Results: Distance from clinic was not related to clinic attendance, and women reported they would attend regardless of distance or work status. Non-attendance was related to higher gravidity, parity, and if referred for obesity, but not previous gastric sleeve or underweight referral. Six themes were identified from the interview data: "Women want to be treated like an individual," "It's all about expectations," "Midwives hold the key," "Preferences in receiving dietary information," "Weight has been a long-term problem and is a sensitive topic," and "Barriers to attendance." Conclusion: Antenatal services can adjust service delivery to improve engagement in weight management services during pregnancy. Telehealth appointments may reduce non-engagement due to distance from clinic. Demystifying the dietitian appointment, ensuring non-judgemental referral processes and collaboration between midwives and dietitians will ensure that women value the service.

Perspective: Food and Nutrition Insecurity in Europe: Challenges and Opportunities for Dietitians.

In recent years, the interest in food and nutrition insecurity in high-income countries has skyrocketed. However, its recognition in Europe is still developing. This perspective summarizes the evidence on food and nutrition insecurity across Europe in terms of prevalence, consequences, and current mitigation strategies, with the aim of outlining the challenges and opportunities for dietitians. Prevalence in the general population ranges between 5% and 20%, with higher rates identified in women, children, older adults, single-parent households, those with low educational attainment, and on low or unstable income and/or employment. In users of food aid, the prevalence of food insecurity is above 70%. Responses to food and nutrition insecurity include welfare policies and food assistance programs at regional and national levels. However, most current strategies are not successful in tackling the structural drivers of food and nutrition insecurity, nor do they guarantee diet quality. Despite limited involvement to-date, dietitians can play an important role in addressing food and nutrition insecurity across Europe. This narrative identifies 4 areas: 1) create awareness of the existence and severity of food and nutrition insecurity, 2) advocate for comprehensive, robust data on the determinants and prevalence, 3) partner with diverse stakeholders, social assistance providers, local authorities, and nongovernmental organizations in a comprehensive, intersectoral, and integrated manner, 4) participate in the development of political instruments and interventions that ensure equitable access to high-quality safe food.

Priorities, barriers, and facilitators for nutrition-related care for autistic children: a qualitative study comparing interdisciplinary health professional and parent perspectives.

Introduction: Children with autism spectrum disorder often face nutrition-related challenges, such as food selectivity, gastrointestinal issues, overweight and obesity, and inadequate nutrient intake. However, the role of routine nutrition-related screening or care by interdisciplinary health professionals is not well understood. This study aimed to compare the beliefs of health professionals with those of parents of autistic children regarding high-priority nutrition-related challenges, barriers and facilitators to care, and desired education and resources related to nutrition for autistic children. Participants: Interdisciplinary health professionals (n = 25) (i.e., pediatricians, occupational therapists, speech-language pathologists, board certified behavior analysts, registered dietitians) and parents of autistic children (n = 22). Methods: The study used semi-structured phone interviews, which were recorded, transcribed, verified, and double-coded using the Framework Method. Results: Thematic analysis of transcripts revealed that while health professionals and parents of autistic children shared some perspectives on nutrition-related challenges and care, they also had distinct viewpoints. Parents emphasized the importance of addressing food selectivity, behavioral eating challenges, sensory issues, and sleep disturbances affecting appetite. Both groups acknowledged the need for tailored support, access to an interdisciplinary care team, and reasonable expectations. Some health professionals perceived parents as lacking motivation or the ability to make changes. In contrast, many parents felt that health professionals lacked the knowledge and motivation to take nutrition or growth concerns seriously. Health professionals acknowledged that their lack of knowledge or capacity to provide nutrition education or referrals was a common barrier to care, particularly given limited community resources. Discussion: Health professionals who serve autistic children are motivated to address nutrition-related challenges but lack resources related to nutrition. To promote better health outcomes for autistic children, professionals should identify and support parent motivations around nutrition-related care. Both groups expressed interest in accessing autism-specific resources for education, referral, and screening guidance. Future research could explore the development of healthcare training models that improve the competency of health professionals in providing nutrition care and referral for autistic children.

Investigating the Role of Nutrition in Enhancing Immunity During the COVID-19 Pandemic: Twitter Text-Mining Analysis.

BACKGROUND: The COVID-19 pandemic has brought to the spotlight the critical role played by a balanced and healthy diet in bolstering the human immune system. There is burgeoning interest in nutrition-related information on social media platforms like Twitter. There is a critical need to assess and understand public opinion, attitudes, and sentiments toward nutrition-related information shared on Twitter. OBJECTIVE: This study uses text mining to analyze nutrition-related messages on Twitter to identify and analyze how the general public perceives various food groups and diets for improving immunity to the SARS-CoV-2 virus. METHODS: We gathered 71,178 nutrition-related tweets that were posted between January 01, 2020, and September 30, 2020. The Correlated Explanation text mining algorithm was used to identify frequently discussed topics that users mentioned as contributing to immunity building against SARS-CoV-2. We assessed the relative importance of these topics and performed a sentiment analysis. We also qualitatively examined the tweets to gain a closer understanding of nutrition-related topics and food groups. RESULTS: Text-mining yielded 10 topics that users discussed frequently on Twitter, viz proteins, whole grains, fruits, vegetables, dairy-related, spices and herbs, fluids, supplements, avoidable foods, and specialty diets. Supplements were the most frequently discussed topic (23,913/71,178, 33.6%) with a higher proportion (20,935/23,913, 87.75%) exhibiting a positive sentiment with a score of 0.41. Consuming fluids (17,685/71,178, 24.85%) and fruits (14,807/71,178, 20.80%) were the second and third most frequent topics with favorable, positive sentiments. Spices and herbs (8719/71,178, 12.25%) and avoidable foods (8619/71,178, 12.11%) were also frequently discussed. Negative sentiments were observed for a higher proportion of avoidable foods (7627/8619, 84.31%) with a sentiment score of -0.39. CONCLUSIONS: This study identified 10 important food groups and associated sentiments that users discussed as a means to improve immunity. Our findings can help dieticians and nutritionists to frame appropriate interventions and diet programs.

Many pediatric patients with gastroparesis do not receive dietary education.

BACKGROUND: Gastroparesis is delayed gastric emptying in the absence of obstruction; dietary modifications are first-line treatment. However, we do not know the factors related to provision of dietary recommendations. METHODS: We sought to determine how often pediatric patients with gastroparesis receive dietary education (from a gastroenterology provider vs dietitian), the recommendations given, and factors related to these outcomes. We performed a retrospective chart review of children 2- to 18-years-old managed by pediatric gastroenterology providers at our institution. Patient demographics and clinical data, dietary advice given (if any), and dietitian consultation (if any), practice location, and prokinetic use were captured. An adjusted binomial regression model identified factors associated with dietary education provision, dietitian consultation, and diet(s) recommended. RESULTS: Of 161 patients who met criteria, 98 (60.8%) received dietary education and 42 (26.1%) met with a dietitian. The most common recommendation by gastroenterology providers and dietitians was diet composition adjustment (26.5% and 47.6%, respectively). Patients with nausea/vomiting were less likely to receive dietary education or be recommended to adjust diet composition. Patients with weight loss/failure to thrive were more likely to receive dietitian support. Patients seen in the community vs medical center outpatient setting were more likely to be recommended a low-fat diet. CONCLUSIONS: Only a little over half of children with gastroparesis receive dietary education and use of a dietitian's expertise is much less frequent. Symptoms and clinical setting appear related to what, where, and by whom guidance is provided.

Ketogenic Diet as a Possible Non-pharmacological Therapy in Main Endocrine Diseases of the Female Reproductive System: A Practical Guide for Nutritionists.

PURPOSEOF REVIEW: This narrative review explored the role of ketogenic diets (KDs) in improving fertility outcomes, low-grade inflammation, body weight, visceral adipose tissue, and its potential use in certain types of cancer, through its favorable actions on mitochondrial function, reactive oxygen species generation, chronic inflammation, and tumor growth inhibition. RECENT FINDINGS  : Nutrition is crucial to maintain the female reproductive system's health. Evidence on the association between diet and female reproductive system has greatly expanded over the last decade, leading to the identification of specific diet therapy, particularly KDs. KDs has been proved to be an effective weight-loss tool. To date, KDs is being increasingly used in the treatment of many diseases, such as obesity, type 2 diabetes mellitus. KDs is a dietary intervention capable of ameliorating the inflammatory state and oxidative stress through several mechanisms. Due to the increasing use of KDs beyond obesity, this literature review will provide the latest scientific evidence of its possible use in common disorders of the female endocrine-reproductive tract, and a practical guide to its use in these patients.

How food preparation and food choice influence the nutritional growth of children: a rising matter for the nutritionists and dietitians in Nigeria.

This current work describes how the nutritionists and dietitians in Nigeria to tackle the nutritional deficiencies among the under-5 children in Nigeria due to poor food preparation by the parents and caregivers as well as how the food is chosen for these children. Studies have shown that the resultant effects of poor food preparation and the skewness of food choices on particularly the more vulnerable group of under-5s are malnutrition. According to the State of the World's Children, published by the United Nations International Children's Emergency Fund, the prevalence of child malnutrition in Sub-Saharan Africa, including Nigeria, is particularly high. Thus, it is high time for the nutritionists and dietitians in Nigeria to step up their advocacy, community sensitization, and awareness campaigns on appropriate diet and approach to food issues, especially on how food is prepared by most Nigerian parents and caregivers, and also work on their decision-making process governing the food choices they make for their children.