The healthy eating index for older adults: adaptation of the 2015 healthy eating index considering dietary guidelines for healthy aging.

INTRODUCTION: The Healthy Eating Index (HEI) is a comprehensive measure to assess diet quality. Because of the various factors that influence the nutritional status of older adults, there is a need to adapt an index that assesses the quality of the diet considering the dietary requirements of aging and health promotion. This study aimed to adapt the HEI for older adults, considering their needs for healthy eating. METHODS: Food consumption data was collected by means of three non-consecutive 24-hour food recalls (R24h). For the adaptation of the Healthy Eating Index for Older Adults (HEI-OA), the components and scoring methodology of HEI-2015 were maintained and Brazilian food intake recommendations for the older population were used, which are in line with international recommendations. The validity of the HEI-OA was assessed by four ideal diets, Mann-Whitney's test, Spearman's correlation analysis and Cronbach's coefficient. RESULTS: Content validity of the HEI-OA was confirmed by the maximum score for diets recommended to older adults and by the score between groups with known differences in diet quality. The HEI-OA total score did not correlate with total energy intake (TEI - total energy value: r = -0.141, p > 0.05). The total HEI-OA score showed a statistically significant correlation with several nutrients. These correlations allowed identifying that these nutrients are closely related to the components of the HEI-OA. The internal consistency value for the HEI-OA total score was 0.327, similar to the 2005 and 2010 versions of the HEI. CONCLUSION: The HEI was successfully adapted for use with older adults, presenting validity and reliability. The HEI-OA can be used to assess diet quality in line with international dietary guidelines for healthy aging.

Probiotic Supplementation, Hepatic Fibrosis, and the Microbiota Profile in Patients with Nonalcoholic Steatohepatitis: A Randomized Controlled Trial.

BACKGROUND: Promising results in improvement of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease and nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) have been identified following probiotic (PRO) treatment. OBJECTIVES: To evaluate PRO supplementation on hepatic fibrosis, inflammatory and metabolic markers, and gut microbiota in NASH patients. METHODS: In a double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial, 48 patients with NASH with a median age of 58 y and median BMI of 32.7 kg/m2 were randomly assigned to receive PROs (Lactobacillus acidophilus 1 × 109 colony forming units and Bifidobacterium lactis 1 × 109 colony forming units) or a placebo daily for 6 mo. Serum aminotransferases, total cholesterol and fractions, C-reactive protein, ferritin, interleukin-6, tumor necrosis factor-α, monocyte chemoattractant protein-1, and leptin were assessed. To evaluate liver fibrosis, Fibromax was used. In addition, 16S rRNA gene-based analysis was performed to evaluate gut microbiota composition. All assessments were performed at baseline and after 6 mo. For the assessment of outcomes after treatment, mixed generalized linear models were used to evaluate the main effects of the group-moment interaction. For multiple comparisons, Bonferroni correction was applied (α = 0.05/4 = 0.0125). Results for the outcomes are presented as mean and SE. RESULTS: The AST to Platelet Ratio Index (APRI) score was the primary outcome that decreased over time in the PRO group. Aspartate aminotransferase presented a statistically significant result in the group-moment interaction analyses, but no statistical significance was found after the Bonferroni correction. Liver fibrosis, steatosis, and inflammatory activity presented no statistically significant differences between the groups. No major shifts in gut microbiota composition were identified between groups after PRO treatment. CONCLUSIONS: Patients with NASH who received PRO supplementation for 6 mo presented improvement in the APRI score after treatment. These results draw attention to clinical practice and suggest that supplementation with PROs alone is not sufficient to improve enzymatic liver markers, inflammatory parameters, and gut microbiota in patients with NASH. This trial was registered at clinicaltrials.gov as NCT02764047.

Nutrition Knowledge of Elderly Women: Effect of Two Food and Nutrition Education Programs.

OBJECTIVE: To compare the effect of two programs of Food and Nutrition Education (FNE) on the Nutrition knowledge of elderly women, Brazil. METHODS: Randomized field trial. Community-based elderly women over 60 years (n = 36) participated in a twelve-week intervention in either of two FNE programs: Psychopedagogical Program (PP) or Culinary Workshop Program (CWP). There were three moments of data collection in the study; pre-intervention knowledge data); post intervention and follow up (after 6 months upon intervention completion). A questionnaire about knowledge of food and Nutrition was administered at every data collection moment. RESULTS: In the analysis performed by the Generalized Estimation Equation Models (GEE) there was a significant interaction effect (P = 0.033) in the diabetes block in which the percentage of correct answers in the follow-up moment was higher compared to the pre-intervention moment in the CWP group (65.65% and 45.66%, respectively). In the knowledge blocks: total percentage of correct answers, hypertension, food processing, the evaluation effect was observed, regardless of the intervention performed.Three blocks of knowledge, including the block of the total percentage of correct answers in knowledge in Nutrition, presented a significant evaluation effect, which suggests that the interventions were important for the gain of knowledge, regardless of the type of intervention performed. Elderly-focused FNE programs should include a methodology that encompasses recreational education activities, and practical activities, such as culinary workshops.

There is no correlation between stages of nafld assessed by liver biopsy and the diagnostic criteria for sarcopenia in active populations: a cross-sectional study / Não há correlação entre os estágios da dhgna avaliados por biópsia hepática e os critérios diagnósticos para sarcopenia em populações ativas: um estudo transversal / No existe correlación entre las etapas de ehgna evaluadas mediante biopsia hepática y los criterios diagnósticos de sarcopenia en poblaciones activas: un estudio transversal

Objective: To demonstrate the correlations of the diagnostic criteria for sarcopenia and the levels of Non-alcoholic Fat Liver Disease (NAFLD) assessed by liver biopsy in a physically active population. Methods: Cross-sectional study. Individuals aged >18 years, with NAFLD confirmed by liver biopsy, physically active. Sarcopenia assessment followed EWGSOP2: muscle strength by handgrip, Skeletal Muscle Mass by Bioimpedance, and physical performance by usual gait speed. Statistical Analysis: To test differences between groups in continuous variables, Student's T or Mann-Whitney U Test for independent samples. Pearson and Spearman tests were used for correlations. A 5% significance was considered (p<0.05). Results: 52 patients with NAFLD included, consisting of 35 women and 15 men. There was no difference in age or anthropometric variables. Were found difference statically significant in platelets (higher in women), basal insulin, HOMA-IR and Quick (higher in men). In sarcopenia, the handgrip strength showed difference in favors of men. There was no statistically significant correlation between the sarcopenia and NAFLD levels. Discussion: sarcopenia has been reported as an independent risk factor for NAFLD and its progressions. The physical exercise is one of the most recommended and more effective treatment for both conditions, so is expected that a non-sedentary individual can reduce both indicators. However, there is no consensus about the best method. Also, the both conditions share heterogeneity in diagnosis, prognosis, reason for develop and risk factors across the literature. Conclusion: For populations where most individuals are physically active, it is not possible to find correlation between sarcopenia diagnostic criteria and the stages of NAFLD.

Objetivo: Demonstrar as correlações dos critérios diagnósticos de sarcopenia e dos níveis de doença hepática gordurosa não alcoólica (DHGNA) avaliados por biópsia hepática em uma população fisicamente ativa. Métodos: Estudo transversal. Indivíduos com idade >18 anos, com DHGNA confirmada por biópsia hepática, fisicamente ativos. A avaliação da sarcopenia seguiu o EWGSOP2: força muscular por preensão manual, massa muscular esquelética por bioimpedância e performance física por velocidade usual de marcha. Análise Estatística: Para testar diferenças entre grupos nas variáveis contínuas, teste T de Student ou Teste U de Mann-Whitney para amostras independentes. Os testes de Pearson e Spearman foram utilizados para correlações. Foi considerada significância de 5% (p<0,05). Resultados: Foram incluídos 52 pacientes com DHGNA, sendo 35 mulheres e 15 homens. Não houve diferença na idade ou nas variáveis antropométricas. Foram encontradas diferenças estatisticamente significativas em plaquetas (maior em mulheres), insulina basal, HOMA-IR e Quick (maior em homens). Na sarcopenia, a força de preensão manual apresentou diferença em favor dos homens. Não houve correlação estatisticamente significativa entre os níveis de sarcopenia e DHGNA. Discussão: a sarcopenia tem sido relatada como fator de risco independente para DHGNA e suas progressões. O exercício físico é um dos tratamentos mais recomendados e mais eficazes para ambas as condições, pelo que se espera que um indivíduo não sedentário consiga reduzir ambos os indicadores. No entanto, não há consenso sobre o melhor método. Além disso, ambas as condições compartilham heterogeneidade no diagnóstico, prognóstico, razão de desenvolvimento e fatores de risco em toda a literatura. Conclusão: Para populações onde a maioria dos indivíduos é fisicamente ativo, não é possível encontrar correlação entre os critérios diagnósticos de sarcopenia e os estágios da DHGNA.

Objetivo: demostrar las correlaciones de los criterios diagnósticos de sarcopenia y los niveles de enfermedad del hígado graso no alcohólico (EHGNA) evaluados mediante biopsia hepática en una población físicamente activa. Métodos: Estudio transversal. Individuos mayores de 18 años, con EHGNA confirmada mediante biopsia hepática, físicamente activos. La evaluación de la sarcopenia siguió el EWGSOP2: fuerza muscular mediante agarre manual, masa muscular esquelética mediante bioimpedancia y rendimiento físico mediante velocidad de marcha habitual. Análisis estadístico: Para probar diferencias entre grupos en variables continuas, prueba T de Student o U de Mann-Whitney para muestras independientes. Para las correlaciones se utilizaron las pruebas de Pearson y Spearman. Se consideró una significancia del 5% (p<0,05). Resultados: Se incluyeron 52 pacientes con EHGNA, 35 mujeres y 15 hombres. No hubo diferencia en la edad ni en variables antropométricas. Se encontraron diferencias estadísticamente significativas en plaquetas (mayor en mujeres), insulina basal, HOMA- IR y Quick (mayor en hombres). En la sarcopenia, la fuerza de prensión manual mostró diferencia a favor de los hombres. No hubo correlación estadísticamente significativa entre la sarcopenia y los niveles de NAFLD. Discusión: la sarcopenia ha sido reportada como un factor de riesgo independiente para NAFLD y sus progresiones. El ejercicio físico es uno de los tratamientos más recomendados y efectivos para ambas afecciones, por lo que se espera que una persona no sedentaria pueda reducir ambos indicadores. Sin embargo, no hay consenso sobre cuál es el mejor método. Además, ambas afecciones comparten heterogeneidad en el diagnóstico, pronóstico, motivo de desarrollo y factores de riesgo en la literatura. Conclusión: Para poblaciones donde la mayoría de las personas son físicamente activas, no es posible encontrar correlación entre los criterios de diagnóstico de sarcopenia y las etapas de NAFLD.

Use of Social Networks in the Context of the Dietitian's Practice in Brazil and Changes During the COVID-19 Pandemic: Exploratory Study.

BACKGROUND: Social networks have been pointed out as 1 of the greatest means of spreading information. A large part of the population is already present on these platforms, looking up subjects such as health, nutrition, and food. To reach this audience, it may be important for dietitians to explore social networks. However, there is a gap in scientific studies on exploring the ways in which these platforms are used by dietitians in Brazil, and the roles they play in the profession have not been well defined. OBJECTIVE: This study aims to describe the roles that social networks play in dietitians' practice in Brazil and their mode of use of social networks. This study also aims to identify professionals' perceptions and opinions regarding the use of these tools, as well as changes in behavior on social network usage caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. METHODS: We carried out a quantitative cross-sectional study, collecting data through an online questionnaire, submitted between October 2020 and January 2021 to dietitians registered on the Federal Council of Dietitians. All participants included in the study answered questions about the use of social networks in their professional context. RESULTS: In total, 264 (91.7%) of the 288 participants reported using social networks for professional practice. Instagram was the social network most often used by professionals (224/264, 84.8%). Dietitians (N=288) related to the use of social networks (always to almost always) for sharing information about their services (n=114-72 [39.6%-25%], respectively), following the work of other dietitians (n=172-64 [59.7%-22.2%], respectively), and writing about topics related to food and nutrition (n=166-53 [57.6%-18.4%], respectively). The roles played by social networks in the professional context of dietitians were attracting more clients (210/289, 72.7%) and keeping in touch with them (195/289, 67.5%). Furthermore, 227 (78.5%) of the 289 dietitians strongly agreed that social networks are good tools to promote their services. During the COVID-19 pandemic, 216 (74.7%) of the 289 participants noticed changes in their behavior, feelings, or beliefs on the use of social networks related to professional practice, and 149 (51.6%) have increased the frequency of sharing information about nutrition and health in general on social networks. CONCLUSIONS: The main roles of social networks in the professional context of dietitians are to attract clients and to facilitate the contact between professional and client. The modes of use reported by the professionals included sharing information about their services, following the work of professional colleagues, and writing about topics related to nutrition. Most of them reported believing that social networks are an effective way to disseminate their services. Moreover, most professionals claimed to have noticed changes in their behaviors or beliefs on social media during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Fibromax and inflamatory markers cannot replace liver biopsy in the evaluation of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease.

BACKGROUND: To evaluate the performance of a non-invasive test (Fibromax™, Ferring Pharmaceutical, Saint-Prex, Switzerland) and inflamatory markers (IL-1ß, IL-6, IL-8, TNF-α, MCP-1) in the diagnosis and staging of patients with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. METHODS: Patients older than 18 years with steatosis were prospectively evaluated at a tertiary hospital in southern Brazil. Liver biopsy, Fibromax™ test and inflamatory markers (IL-1ß, IL-6, IL-8, TNF-α, MCP-1) were performed. Measures of sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value (PPV), negative predictive value (NPV) and accuracy were used, considering liver biopsy as the gold standard. RESULTS: Seventy-three Fibromax™ tests were analyzed. SteatoTest presented a sensitivity of 95.5% and PPV of 97.0% for the diagnosis of steatosis. NashTest obtained a sensitivity of 83.3%, specificity of 37.5%, PPV of 90.9% and NPV of 23.1% for the diagnosis of non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH). FibroTest presented a sensitivity of 38.9%, specificity of 92.7%, PPV of 63.6% and NPV of 82.3% to evaluate advanced fibrosis. In the evaluation of patients with grade 2 and 3 steatosis, ROC analyses showed an area under the curve (AUROC) for SteatoTest of 0.68 (P=0.015). NashTest AUROC was 0.59 (P=0.417) for the evaluation of NASH. FibroTest AUROC was 0.79 (P<0.001) for advanced fibrosis. Kappa coefficient values for SteatoTest, NashTest and FibroTest were not statistically significant. Thirty-seven patients performed also analysis of the inflamatory markers, showing that patients with inflammatory activity grade 2-3 on liver biopsy had significantly higher levels of IL6 (P=0.016) and lower TNF-α (P=0.034), but there was no other difference when analysed fibrosis or steatosis. CONCLUSIONS: The Fibromax™ test and the inflamatory markers (IL-1ß, IL-6, IL-8, TNF-α, MCP-1) did not present a satisfactory performance to be considered a good alternative to replace liver biopsy in the evaluation of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease.

Obesity blunts cephalic-phase microvascular responses to food.

Neurally mediated anticipatory responses, also named cephalic-phase responses, and microcirculatory regulation are two important mechanisms to maintain metabolic homeostasis. Altered cephalic-phase responses in obesity and its metabolic consequences have been proposed. There is, however, a lack of studies focusing on in vivo assessment of the microcirculation during this phase in patients with obesity. In this randomized controlled trial, we selected patients with obesity and healthy subjects after clinical and laboratory assessments. Those with obesity were randomized into two groups: experimental (cephalic-phase microvascular response stimulation - CP group, n = 13) and controls (n = 14). Healthy subjects (n = 17) were also included to form a CP control group. Skin microvascular assessment was used as a model of systemic microcirculation. Resting functional capillary density (FCD) and peak FCD during post-occlusive reactive hyperemia (PORH) were measured by dorsal finger videocapillaroscopy and expressed mainly capillary recruitment capacity. Resting red blood cell velocity (RBCV), peak RBCV during PORH (RBCVmax), and time taken to reach RBCVmax (TRBCVmax) were assessed by dynamic nailfold videocapillaroscopy and expressed the microhemodynamics. Patients with obesity (with or without stimulus) failed to show an increase on FCD during PORH post-stimulus (p = 0.221 and p = 0.307, respectively) depicting lack of capillary recruitment. In contrast, healthy subjects presented an increase in this microvascular outcome (p = 0.004). Changes in all variables of microhemodynamics occurred in both CP groups (healthy and those with obesity). During CP, we originally demonstrated an absence of capillary recruitment in subjects with obesity. These findings might contribute to the literature of microvascular impairment and metabolic conditions.

Transient hepatic elastography has the best performance to evaluate liver fibrosis in non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD).

INTRODUCTION AND AIM: The gold-standard for fibrosis diagnosis in non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is liver biopsy, despite its invasive approach, sampling limitations and variability among observers. The objective was to validate the performance of non-invasive methods (Fibroscan™; APRI, FIB4 and NAFLD score) comparing with liver biopsy in the evaluation of liver fibrosis in patients with NAFLD. MATERIAL AND METHODS: NAFLD patients ≥18 years of age who were submitted to liver biopsy were included and evaluated at two reference tertiary hospitals in Brazil with transient hepatic elastography (THE) assessment through Fibroscan™, APRI, FIB4 and NAFLD scores were determined. Sensitivity, specificity, positive (PPV) and negative (NPV) predictive values for the diagnosis of advanced fibrosis were calculated to evaluate the performance of these non-invasive methods in NAFLD patients, adopting liver biopsy as the gold standard. RESULTS: A total of 104 patients were studied. At three different cutoff values (7.9, 8.7 and 9.6kPa) THE presented the highest sensitivity values (95%, 90% and 85% respectively), and the highest NPV (98%, 96.4% and 95.1% respectively) for the diagnosis of advanced fibrosis. It also presented the highest AUROC (0.87; CI 95% 0.78-0.97). CONCLUSION: When compared to the gold standard, transient hepatic elastography presented the best performance for the diagnosis and exclusion of advanced fibrosis in patients with NAFLD, overcoming APRI, FIB4 and NAFLD score.

Food consumption of users of the Brazilian Unified Health System by type of assistance and participation in the "Bolsa Família". / Consumo alimentar de usuários do Sistema Único de Saúde segundo o tipo de assistência e participação no Bolsa Família.

A cross-sectional study was conducted to evaluate and compare dietary intake, type of assistance (Basic Health Units - UBS and Family Health Strategies - ESF) and participation in the "Bolsa Família" Program (PBF) among users of the Brazilian Unified Health System, (SUS). The sample was composed of individuals of both sexes between 18 and 78 years of age in Porto Alegre, state of Rio Grande do Sul. Socioeconomic, clinical and food consumption data were collected via a questionnaire adapted from the SISVAN and VIGITEL national surveys. The analyses were conducted using R3.1 software. Of the 187 patients, 91 were affiliated to the ESF, 96 to UBS and 40 were registered with the PBF. A healthy eating pattern was identified in only 41% of SUS users. It was observed that 55% did not consume raw salad (37% p = 0.04) and vegetable consumption was lower among the PBF users (67.5% versus 75.9%; p = 0.02). There was no significant difference in food consumption considering the kind of assistance (ESF or UBS). A healthy consumption pattern was not associated with demographic and socioeconomic variables. The majority of beneficiaries of the PBF did not admit to healthy eating patterns. Therefore, effective health promotion and prevention is needed for this population, mainly among the beneficiaries of the PBF.

Foi realizado estudo transversal com objetivo de avaliar e comparar o consumo alimentar de usuários do Sistema Único de Saúde (SUS), segundo tipo de assistência (Unidades Básicas de Saúde-UBS e Estratégias de Saúde da Família-ESF) e participação no Programa Bolsa Família (PBF). A amostra foi composta por indivíduos de 18 a 78 anos, de ambos sexos, de Porto Alegre-RS. Foram coletados dados socioeconômicos, clínicos e de consumo alimentar através de questionário adaptado dos inquéritos nacionais SISVAN e VIGITEL. As análises foram realizadas no software R3.1. Dos 187 entrevistados, 91 pertenciam à ESF, 96 à UBS e 40 eram beneficiários do PBF. O padrão alimentar saudável foi identificado em apenas 41% dos usuários do SUS. Entre os beneficiários do PBF, consumo de hortaliças foi menor (67,5% vs 75,9;p = 0,02) e 55% não consumiam salada crua (37%;p = 0,04). Não houve diferença significativa no consumo considerando o tipo de assistência recebida (ESF ou UBS). O padrão de consumo saudável não foi associado às variáveis demográficas e socioeconômicas. A maioria dos beneficiados pelo PBF também não demonstrou padrão alimentar saudável. Portanto, maiores esforços para efetiva promoção e prevenção da saúde são necessários para essa população, principalmente entre os beneficiados pelo PBF.

Consumo alimentar de usuários do Sistema Único de Saúde segundo o tipo de assistência e participação no Bolsa Família / Food consumption of users of the Brazilian Unified Health System by type of assistance and participation in the "Bolsa Família"

Resumo Foi realizado estudo transversal com objetivo de avaliar e comparar o consumo alimentar de usuários do Sistema Único de Saúde (SUS), segundo tipo de assistência (Unidades Básicas de Saúde-UBS e Estratégias de Saúde da Família-ESF) e participação no Programa Bolsa Família (PBF). A amostra foi composta por indivíduos de 18 a 78 anos, de ambos sexos, de Porto Alegre-RS. Foram coletados dados socioeconômicos, clínicos e de consumo alimentar através de questionário adaptado dos inquéritos nacionais SISVAN e VIGITEL. As análises foram realizadas no software R3.1. Dos 187 entrevistados, 91 pertenciam à ESF, 96 à UBS e 40 eram beneficiários do PBF. O padrão alimentar saudável foi identificado em apenas 41% dos usuários do SUS. Entre os beneficiários do PBF, consumo de hortaliças foi menor (67,5% vs 75,9;p = 0,02) e 55% não consumiam salada crua (37%;p = 0,04). Não houve diferença significativa no consumo considerando o tipo de assistência recebida (ESF ou UBS). O padrão de consumo saudável não foi associado às variáveis demográficas e socioeconômicas. A maioria dos beneficiados pelo PBF também não demonstrou padrão alimentar saudável. Portanto, maiores esforços para efetiva promoção e prevenção da saúde são necessários para essa população, principalmente entre os beneficiados pelo PBF.

Abstract A cross-sectional study was conducted to evaluate and compare dietary intake, type of assistance (Basic Health Units - UBS and Family Health Strategies - ESF) and participation in the "Bolsa Família" Program (PBF) among users of the Brazilian Unified Health System, (SUS). The sample was composed of individuals of both sexes between 18 and 78 years of age in Porto Alegre, state of Rio Grande do Sul. Socioeconomic, clinical and food consumption data were collected via a questionnaire adapted from the SISVAN and VIGITEL national surveys. The analyses were conducted using R3.1 software. Of the 187 patients, 91 were affiliated to the ESF, 96 to UBS and 40 were registered with the PBF. A healthy eating pattern was identified in only 41% of SUS users. It was observed that 55% did not consume raw salad (37% p = 0.04) and vegetable consumption was lower among the PBF users (67.5% versus 75.9%; p = 0.02). There was no significant difference in food consumption considering the kind of assistance (ESF or UBS). A healthy consumption pattern was not associated with demographic and socioeconomic variables. The majority of beneficiaries of the PBF did not admit to healthy eating patterns. Therefore, effective health promotion and prevention is needed for this population, mainly among the beneficiaries of the PBF.

Dietary Management in the Immediate Preoperative Period of Bariatric Surgery: a National Overview : Bariatric Preoperative Diets.

BACKGROUND: Although widely applied, there is no consensus about the characteristics of the diets prescribed in the immediate preoperative period of bariatric surgery (BS). The objective of this study was to perform a survey on preoperative dietary management in BS centers. METHODS: This was a cross-sectional study with BS Brazilian centers. Only BS centers with certificate of excellence by Surgical Review Corporation were included. An electronic questionnaire was applied to assess details about the dietary management in the immediate preoperative period of BS. RESULTS: Of the 15 centers invited, 80% (n = 12) answered the questionnaire. Preoperative weight loss was required to patients in all 12 centers. For 8.3% (n = 1), this request was applied to all patients; 91.7% (n = 11) of the centers requested weight loss in specific cases. Ten (83.3%) centers prescribed restrictive diets; none of these adopted a standard dietary protocol. The caloric value of the diets ranged from 800 to 2000 kcal/day. The duration of the diet ranged from 10 to 20 days in 40% (n = 4) of the centers and from 20 to 90 days in 60% (n = 6) of the centers. Dietary prescription was based on team consensus in 100% (n = 12) of the centers. In 33.3% (n = 4) of the centers, scientific evidence supporting dietary prescription was cited. CONCLUSION: This study identified the frequent practice of requesting preoperative weight loss and the diversity of diets used in the immediate preoperative period by Brazilian BS centers. Future guideline proposal is needed on preoperative BS diets.

Effects of very low calorie diets on liver size and weight loss in the preoperative period of bariatric surgery: a systematic review.

Restrictive diet implementation in bariatric surgery (BS) preoperative period is common, although its benefits are not well established. This study aimed to assess the effects of very low calorie diets (VLCD) on liver size and weight loss during BS preoperative period. Surgery-related complications were also assessed. A systematic review of the literature was performed. Terms such as "bariatric surgery" and "very low energy diet" were included in the search strategy. Inclusion criteria were adult patients (aged>18 yr); VLCD treatment in BS preoperative period (10 d to 12 wk); and assessment of 1 the following outcomes: weight loss, liver volume reduction, and surgical complications. There were 9 studies included (849 patients including 250 controls, 196 controls without VLCD). Of the studies, 3 were randomized clinical trials and 6 were observational studies. VLCD treatment led to weight loss (-2.8 to -14.8 kg) and to liver size reduction by 5% to 20% of the initial volume. VLCD treatment did not significantly reduce perioperative complications. However, 1 study (n = 273) reported a protective effect 30 days after surgery. This systematic review found VLCD treatment led to significant weight loss and liver volume reduction when applied to patients with obesity in BS preoperative period. The effect of VLCD on surgical risks is not clear. Standardization of dietary characteristics is needed, because weight loss and decrease in liver size were not connected to higher caloric restriction. This is an important matter in clinical practice as to avoid unnecessary prolonged and/or excessive dietary restriction.

Relative validity of a food frequency questionnaire in patients coinfected with hepatitis C virus and human immunodeficiency virus.

INTRODUCTION:: Validation of food frequency questionnaires (FFQs) is recommended for accurate measurement of habitual food consumption. We assessed the relative validity of a FFQ in patients coinfected with hepatitis C virus and human immunodeficiency virus. METHODS:: Each patient responded to a FFQ and three 24-hour food recalls. Pearson's correlation and weighted Kappa index analyses were performed to identify the FFQ relative validity and concordance. RESULTS:: De-attenuated correlation coefficients ranged from 0.35 (vitamin B1) to 0.81 (selenium). The concordance index ranged from 0.07 (vitamin C) to 0.51 (calcium). CONCLUSIONS:: The FFQ showed satisfactory relative validity for most nutrients.

Sarcopenia and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease: Is there a relationship? A systematic review.

AIM: To perform a systematic review to evaluate the incidence and prevalence of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) in adult patients with sarcopenia. METHODS: Randomized clinical trials, cross-sectional or cohort studies including adult patients (over 18 years) with sarcopenia were selected. The primary outcomes of interest were the prevalence or incidence of NAFLD in sarcopenic patients. In the screening process, 44 full-text articles were included in the review and 41 studies were excluded. RESULTS: Three cross-sectional studies were included. The authors attempted to perform a systematic review, but due to the differences between the studies, a qualitative synthesis was provided. The diagnosis of NAFLD was made by non-invasive methods (image methods or any surrogate markers) in all three evaluated studies. All the studies suggested that there was an independent association between sarcopenia and NAFLD. CONCLUSION: Sarcopenia is independently associated with NAFLD and possibly to an advanced fibrosis.

Is there an association between vitamin D and liver fibrosis in patients with chronic hepatitis C? / Existe associação entre vitamina D e fibrose hepática em pacientes com hepatite C crônica?

ABSTRACT BACKGROUND Vitamin D is known for its immunomodulatory, anti-inflammatory and antifibrotic properties, which are quite relevant in the pathogenesis and treatment of many causes of chronic liver disease. OBJECTIVE This study aimed to evaluate the association between serum vitamin D levels and the histopathological findings in patients with chronic hepatitis C virus infection. METHODS Cross-sectional study composed of patients with chronic hepatitis C. All patients underwent vitamin D 25 dosage and anthropometric data analysis. Liver biopsy was performed in a maximum 36-month period before inclusion in the study. RESULTS Of the 74 patients included in the study, 45 (60.8%) were women, mean age was 57.03±9.24 years, and 63 (85.1%) were white. No association was observed between the serum levels of vitamin D and inflammatory activity (P=0.699) nor with the degree of liver fibrosis (P=0.269). CONCLUSION In this study, no association was observed between vitamin D and inflammatory activity, as well as the degree of liver fibrosis, in patients with chronic hepatitis C.

RESUMO CONTEXTO A vitamina D é conhecida por possuir propriedades imunomoduladoras, anti-inflamatórias e antifibróticas, relevantes na patogênese e tratamento de muitas causas de doença hepática crônica. OBJETIVO Este estudo tem como objetivo avaliar a associação entre os níveis séricos de vitamina D e os achados histopatológicos em pacientes com infecção crônica do vírus da hepatite C. MÉTODOS Estudo transversal, composto por pacientes com hepatite C crônica. Todos os pacientes foram submetidos à dosagem de vitamina D 25 e análise de dados antropométricos. A biópsia hepática foi realizada em um período máximo de 36 meses antes da inclusão no estudo. RESULTADOS Dos 74 pacientes incluídos no estudo, 45 (60,8%) eram mulheres, média de idade de 57,03±9,24 anos e 63 (85,1%) eram brancos. Não foi observada associação entre os níveis séricos de vitamina D e atividade inflamatória (P=0,699), nem com o grau de fibrose hepática (P=0,269). CONCLUSÃO No presente estudo, não foi observada associação entre a vitamina D e a atividade inflamatória, bem como com o grau de fibrose hepática, em pacientes com hepatite C crônica.

Relative validity of a food frequency questionnaire in patients coinfected with hepatitis C virus and human immunodeficiency virus

ABSTRACT INTRODUCTION: Validation of food frequency questionnaires (FFQs) is recommended for accurate measurement of habitual food consumption. We assessed the relative validity of a FFQ in patients coinfected with hepatitis C virus and human immunodeficiency virus. METHODS: Each patient responded to a FFQ and three 24-hour food recalls. Pearson's correlation and weighted Kappa index analyses were performed to identify the FFQ relative validity and concordance. RESULTS: De-attenuated correlation coefficients ranged from 0.35 (vitamin B1) to 0.81 (selenium). The concordance index ranged from 0.07 (vitamin C) to 0.51 (calcium). CONCLUSIONS: The FFQ showed satisfactory relative validity for most nutrients.

Is there an association between vitamin D and liver fibrosis in patients with chronic hepatitis C?

BACKGROUND: - Vitamin D is known for its immunomodulatory, anti-inflammatory and antifibrotic properties, which are quite relevant in the pathogenesis and treatment of many causes of chronic liver disease. OBJECTIVE: - This study aimed to evaluate the association between serum vitamin D levels and the histopathological findings in patients with chronic hepatitis C virus infection. METHODS: - Cross-sectional study composed of patients with chronic hepatitis C. All patients underwent vitamin D 25 dosage and anthropometric data analysis. Liver biopsy was performed in a maximum 36-month period before inclusion in the study. RESULTS: - Of the 74 patients included in the study, 45 (60.8%) were women, mean age was 57.03±9.24 years, and 63 (85.1%) were white. No association was observed between the serum levels of vitamin D and inflammatory activity (P=0.699) nor with the degree of liver fibrosis (P=0.269). CONCLUSION: - In this study, no association was observed between vitamin D and inflammatory activity, as well as the degree of liver fibrosis, in patients with chronic hepatitis C.

Nutritional status and food intake of HCV/HIV coinfected patients.

INTRODUCTION: Hepatitis C virus (HCV) and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) coinfection may cause nutrient deficiency and affect the nutritional status.Objetive: To assess nutritional status, and energy and macronutrient intake in HCV/HIV coinfected patients. METHODS: Cross-sectional study on HIV/HCV-coinfected patients treated in a public hospital. Nutritional status was assessed by measurements of weight, height, waist circumference (WC), arm circumference (AC), triceps skinfold thickness (TST), non-dominant hand gripltrength (NDHGS), body mass index (BMI) and mid-upper arm circumference (MUAC). Dietary intake was assessed by 24-hour recall. RESULTS: Fifty-seven patients (59.6% women) with mean age of 46 ± 11.2 years were studied. According to BMI, more than half of patients were overweight or obese, and 41% of men and 68% of women had increased or substantially increased WC. The prevalence of malnutrition varied between the methods -10.5% (BMI), 29.8% (AC), 56.2% (TST), 17.6% (MUAC), and 12.3% (NDHGS). We found a high percentage of patients with inadequate intake of protein, fat and energy. The percentage of total energy intake (%TEI) from carbohydrates inversely correlated with WC and AC. A positive correlation was observed between %TEI from protein and NDHGS, and between %TEI from fat and BMI, WC and AC. CONCLUSION: We found a high prevalence of increased body weight and WC, and inadequate dietary intake in HCV/HIV coinfected patients. We observed a positive association between protein intake and muscle function, and between fat intake and obesity.

Nutritional status and food intake of HCV/HIV coinfected patients / Evaluación del estado nutricional y de la ingesta de alimentos de los pacientes coinfectados por el HV/HIV

Introduction: Hepatitis C virus (HCV) and human immunodefi ciency virus (HIV) coinfection may cause nutrient deficiency and affect the nutritional status. Objetive: To assess nutritional status, and energy and macronutrient intake in HCV/HIV coinfected patients. Methods: Cross-sectional study on HIV/HCV-coinfected patients treated in a public hospital. Nutritional status was assessed by measurements of weight, height, waist circumference (WC), arm circumference (AC), triceps skinfold thickness (TST), non-dominant hand grip strength (NDHGS), body mass index (BMI) and mid-upper arm circumference (MUAC). Dietary intake was assessed by 24-hour recall. Results: Fifty-seven patients (59.6% women) with mean age of 46 ± 11.2 years were studied. According to BMI, more than half of patients were overweight or obese, and 41% of men and 68% of women had increased or substantially increased WC. The prevalence of malnutrition varied between the methods –10.5% (BMI), 29.8% (AC), 56.2% (TST), 17.6% (MUAC), and 12.3% (NDHGS). We found a high percentage of patients with inadequate intake of protein, fat and energy. The percentage of total energy intake (%TEI) from carbohydrates inversely correlated with WC and AC. A positive correlation was observed between %TEI from protein and NDHGS, and between %TEI from fat and BMI, WC and AC. Conclusion: We found a high prevalence of increased body weight and WC, and inadequate dietary intake in HCV/HIV coinfected patients. We observed a positive association between protein intake and muscle function, and between fat intake and obesity (AU)

Introducción: la coinfección con el virus de la hepatitis C (HCV) y el virus de la inmunodeficiencia humana (HIV) puede comprometer el estado nutricional y causar deficiencia de nutrientes. Objetivo: evaluar el estado nutricional y la ingesta de energía y macronutrientes en pacientes coinfectados por el HCV/HIV (human immunodeficiency virus). Métodos: estudio transversal con pacientes coinfectados por el HCV/HIV de un hospital público. El estado nutricional se evaluó por mediciones de peso, altura, circunferencia de la cintura (CC), circunferencia del brazo (CB), pliegue cutáneo del tríceps (DCT), fuerza de prensión mano no dominante (FAM), índice de masa corporal (IMC) y circunferencia muscular del brazo (CMB). La evaluación del consumo de alimentos se realizó mediante encuesta de recordatorio de 24 horas. Resultados: se evaluaron 57 pacientes (59,6% mujeres) con una edad media de 46 ± 11,2. De acuerdo con el IMC, más de la mitad de los participantes eran obesos o con sobrepeso. Además, el 40,9% de los hombres y el 67,6% de las mujeres tenían CC aumentada. La prevalencia de desnutrición varió entre los métodos: IMC (10,5%), CB (29,8%), DCT (56,2%), CMB (17,6%), FAM (12,3%). Hubo un alto porcentaje de consumo insuficiente de proteínas, lípidos y energía. El porcentaje del valor energético total (%VET) de carbohidratos se asoció inversamente con las medidas de CC y CB. El %VET de proteínas se correlacionó positivamente con las medidas de FAM. El %VET de lípidos mostró una asociación positiva con el IMC, CC y CB. Conclusión: se encontró una alta prevalencia del aumento de peso corporal y CC, y una ingesta dietética inadecuada. Se observó una asociación positiva entre la ingesta de proteínas y la función muscular, y entre la ingesta de grasa y la obesidad (AU)