Nutrient intake in Italian infants and toddlers from North and South Italy: the Nutrintake 636 study.

We performed a cross-sectional study to compare the intake of energy, macronutrients, fiber, sodium and iron and the anthropometric status of infants and toddlers living in North (Milano) and South Italy (Catania). Nutrient intake was evaluated using a 7-day weighed food record. Out of 400 planned children aged 6 to 36 months, 390 (98%) were recruited, 189 in Milano and 201 in Catania. The mean (standard deviation) age was 17 (9) months in Milano and 17 (10) months in Catania. Anthropometry, energy intake and macronutrient intake were similar in Milano and Catania. However, iron intake was 27% lower and fiber intake 16% higher in Milano than in Catania. Despite normal anthropometry and energy intake, in the pooled sample there was a high intake of proteins, simple carbohydrates, saturated fats and sodium, and a low intake of iron and fiber compared to Italian reference values. This is the first study to report the macro- and micro-nutrient intake of children aged <12 months using the 7-day weighed food record and one of the very few studies that have employed such reference method in children from the general population.

[Herbal food supplements]. / Integratori alimentari a base vegetale.

Dietary supplements are increasingly popular. Supplements include substances such as vitamins, minerals, amino acids, essential fatty acids, fibers and botanicals. Directive 2002/46/EC foresees the use as food supplements of vitamins and minerals listed in the Annexes to the Directive. The Directive challenged the importance of a European regulatory framework for this products to be adopted by the member states. To date herbal products without any therapeutic activity have been included in food supplements. This review summarizes the main legislations on food supplements focusing on herbal products or derivatives.