MJN 2009 Issues
Malaysian Journal of Nutrition
Volume 15 No.1, 2009
Table of Content
Obesity and Risk of Colorectal Adenomatous Polyps: a
Case-Control Study in Hospital Kuala Lumpur
Ramadas A, Kandiah M, Zarida H, Yunus Gul AG & Faizal JA
ABSTRACT
Colorectal adenomas are precursor lesions of colorectal cancer. Several studies have proposed that obesity is a risk factor for colorectal adenoma. This case-control study examined the relationship between body mass index (BMI), waist circumference, waist- to-hip ratio (WHR), body fat percentage and colorectal adenomatous polyps (CRA) in patients who have had a colonoscopy at the Hospital Kuala Lumpur (HKL). Fifty-nine patients (42 males and 17 females) positively identified as having CRA and 59 polyp- free subjects were recruited as controls (33 males and 26 females). A pre-tested questionnaire was used to collect socio-economic information, while anthropometric measurements were determined directly by established methods. The mean BMI of female case subjects was significantly higher than control females (25.63 + 4.87 kg/m2 vs. 23.86 + 3.70 kg/m2 , p<0.05) but the difference in BMI was not significant in men. The mean WHR of male subjects was significantly higher in the case group (0.92 + 0.07 vs. 0.90 + 0.06, p<0.05). After adjusting for confounders, waist circumference was the only indicator that was found to significantly increase the risk for CRA in women (OR = 6.349, 95% CI = 1.063 – 37.919). Higher BMI, WHR and body fat percentage showed a non-significant risk in female subjects. In men, none of the obesity indicators were found to be significant risk factors for CRA. These findings suggest that abdominal obesity may be a contributing factor to CRA risk particularly in women. A prospective study is needed to confirm the role of obesity in the development of CRA in Malaysians.
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Colorectal adenomas are precursor lesions of colorectal cancer. Several studies have proposed that obesity is a risk factor for colorectal adenoma. This case-control study examined the relationship between body mass index (BMI), waist circumference, waist- to-hip ratio (WHR), body fat percentage and colorectal adenomatous polyps (CRA) in patients who have had a colonoscopy at the Hospital Kuala Lumpur (HKL). Fifty-nine patients (42 males and 17 females) positively identified as having CRA and 59 polyp- free subjects were recruited as controls (33 males and 26 females). A pre-tested questionnaire was used to collect socio-economic information, while anthropometric measurements were determined directly by established methods. The mean BMI of female case subjects was significantly higher than control females (25.63 + 4.87 kg/m2 vs. 23.86 + 3.70 kg/m2 , p<0.05) but the difference in BMI was not significant in men. The mean WHR of male subjects was significantly higher in the case group (0.92 + 0.07 vs. 0.90 + 0.06, p<0.05). After adjusting for confounders, waist circumference was the only indicator that was found to significantly increase the risk for CRA in women (OR = 6.349, 95% CI = 1.063 – 37.919). Higher BMI, WHR and body fat percentage showed a non-significant risk in female subjects. In men, none of the obesity indicators were found to be significant risk factors for CRA. These findings suggest that abdominal obesity may be a contributing factor to CRA risk particularly in women. A prospective study is needed to confirm the role of obesity in the development of CRA in Malaysians.
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Factors Associated with Non-exclusive Breastfeeding among
4-Week Post-partum Mothers in Klang District, Peninsular
Malaysia
Tan KL
ABSTRACT
This is a cross-sectional study which investigated the association between non-exclusive breastfeeding and maternal, paternal, obstetric and infant factors. Data on maternal, paternal, obstetric and infant factors were collected through face-to-face interview using a structured questionnaire from 498 mothers with four-week-old infants who attended government clinics in Klang district between 17 and 28 July 2006. The prevalence of non-exclusive breastfeeding at four weeks was 45.8%. Factors significantly associated with non-exclusive breastfeeding at four weeks included Indian ethnic mother (OR = 4.06), working mother (OR = 3.55), mother from high household income (OR = 1.90), mother who smokes (OR = 7.27), primiparous (OR = 1.97), infant not sharing a bed with mother (OR = 1.75) and infant born prematurely (OR = 7.69). Identification of risk factors should assist in targeting women who are at increased risk of non-exclusive breastfeeding.
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This is a cross-sectional study which investigated the association between non-exclusive breastfeeding and maternal, paternal, obstetric and infant factors. Data on maternal, paternal, obstetric and infant factors were collected through face-to-face interview using a structured questionnaire from 498 mothers with four-week-old infants who attended government clinics in Klang district between 17 and 28 July 2006. The prevalence of non-exclusive breastfeeding at four weeks was 45.8%. Factors significantly associated with non-exclusive breastfeeding at four weeks included Indian ethnic mother (OR = 4.06), working mother (OR = 3.55), mother from high household income (OR = 1.90), mother who smokes (OR = 7.27), primiparous (OR = 1.97), infant not sharing a bed with mother (OR = 1.75) and infant born prematurely (OR = 7.69). Identification of risk factors should assist in targeting women who are at increased risk of non-exclusive breastfeeding.
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Income Level and Food Intake Patterns among Male
Bengalee Slum Dwellers in Kolkata, India
Chakraborty R, Bose K & Ulijaszek SJ
ABSTRACT
This cross-sectional study explored the relationships between income levels and food intake patterns among slum dwellers in Kolkata, India. A total of 284 male subjects of Bengalee ethnicity participated in the study. The mean (SD) age, monthly family income and monthly per capita income of the subjects were 40.8 years (14.2), Indian Rupees (Rs.) 3259 (1574) and Rs. 700 (416) respectively. Potatoes, fresh vegetables, sweets and eggs were among the most frequently consumed food items on a daily basis. Butter, soft drinks, milk and ghee were least frequently consumed. The frequency of consumption of snacks, sweets and fruits showed strong significant correlations ( p < 0.001). Principal component analysis of the frequency of consumption of different foods showed five components that explained a cumulative variance of 56%. Eigen values of components one to five were: 1.49 for fruit, sweets and snacks; 1.36 for fish and soft drinks; 1.16 for ghee and butter; 0.65 for fresh vegetables; and 1.02 for milk. Individually, these components explained 14, 12, 11, 10 and 9% of the variations respectively. Regression analyses showed monthly per capita income to be significantly associated with frequency of consumption of soft drinks (F = 6.79, p < 0.001) and fish (F = 7.90, p < 0.005). Age showed a significantly positive association with butter consumption (F = 9.41, p <0.002), and was negatively associated with intake of soft drinks and fried snacks (F = 10.10, p < 0.002). Using regression equations to predict the impact of increased income on consumption patterns, it was found that a 10% increase in income is associated with 1% increase in consumption of fish, which carries traditional prestige. A similar increase in income would also lead to 10% increase in consumption of soft drinks that has connotations of brand associated prestige.
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This cross-sectional study explored the relationships between income levels and food intake patterns among slum dwellers in Kolkata, India. A total of 284 male subjects of Bengalee ethnicity participated in the study. The mean (SD) age, monthly family income and monthly per capita income of the subjects were 40.8 years (14.2), Indian Rupees (Rs.) 3259 (1574) and Rs. 700 (416) respectively. Potatoes, fresh vegetables, sweets and eggs were among the most frequently consumed food items on a daily basis. Butter, soft drinks, milk and ghee were least frequently consumed. The frequency of consumption of snacks, sweets and fruits showed strong significant correlations ( p < 0.001). Principal component analysis of the frequency of consumption of different foods showed five components that explained a cumulative variance of 56%. Eigen values of components one to five were: 1.49 for fruit, sweets and snacks; 1.36 for fish and soft drinks; 1.16 for ghee and butter; 0.65 for fresh vegetables; and 1.02 for milk. Individually, these components explained 14, 12, 11, 10 and 9% of the variations respectively. Regression analyses showed monthly per capita income to be significantly associated with frequency of consumption of soft drinks (F = 6.79, p < 0.001) and fish (F = 7.90, p < 0.005). Age showed a significantly positive association with butter consumption (F = 9.41, p <0.002), and was negatively associated with intake of soft drinks and fried snacks (F = 10.10, p < 0.002). Using regression equations to predict the impact of increased income on consumption patterns, it was found that a 10% increase in income is associated with 1% increase in consumption of fish, which carries traditional prestige. A similar increase in income would also lead to 10% increase in consumption of soft drinks that has connotations of brand associated prestige.
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Socio-demographic Factors Associated with Body Mass
Index of Female Adolescent Students in Semnan City, Iran
Doustmohammadian A, Dorostymotlagh AR, Keshavarz A, Sadrzadehyeganeh H & Mohammadpour-Ahrangani B
ABSTRACT
Malnutrition among adolescents is not only an important health problem but also an economic development problem in Iran and other developing countries. The home environment is found to be related to the development of malnutrition in children. Information on this relationship is important to identify the target risk groups for nutritional intervention. The objective of this study was to determine the association between socio-demographics with BMI status in high school adolescent girls in Semnan. In a cross- sectional study, using two-stage random sampling, 256 girl students aged 14-18 years were randomly selected from eight Semnan high schools. Weight and height were measured and BMI was calculated. Weight status was determined based on the CDC 2000 reference for BMI-for-age. Data on socio-demographic factors like age, age at menarche, family size, parental education, parental job and economic status was collected through a questionnaire. Age at menarche and mother’s literacy had significant association with weight status (P =0.031, P =0.001 respectively). Logistic regression analyses showed mother ’ s literacy and age at menarche were strong predictors for overweight but not for under weight. Increasing maternal nutritional knowledge is necessary to initiate changes in nutritional conduct. In addition, a longitudinal study of adolescent nutrition and its associated factors is suggested.
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Malnutrition among adolescents is not only an important health problem but also an economic development problem in Iran and other developing countries. The home environment is found to be related to the development of malnutrition in children. Information on this relationship is important to identify the target risk groups for nutritional intervention. The objective of this study was to determine the association between socio-demographics with BMI status in high school adolescent girls in Semnan. In a cross- sectional study, using two-stage random sampling, 256 girl students aged 14-18 years were randomly selected from eight Semnan high schools. Weight and height were measured and BMI was calculated. Weight status was determined based on the CDC 2000 reference for BMI-for-age. Data on socio-demographic factors like age, age at menarche, family size, parental education, parental job and economic status was collected through a questionnaire. Age at menarche and mother’s literacy had significant association with weight status (P =0.031, P =0.001 respectively). Logistic regression analyses showed mother ’ s literacy and age at menarche were strong predictors for overweight but not for under weight. Increasing maternal nutritional knowledge is necessary to initiate changes in nutritional conduct. In addition, a longitudinal study of adolescent nutrition and its associated factors is suggested.
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Association Between Fat Content of Breast Milk and Maternal
Nutritional Status and Infants’ Weight in Tabriz, Iran
Nikniaz L, Mahdavi R, Arefhoesseini SR & Sowti Khiabani, M
ABSTRACT
The aim of this study was to investigate the relationship between breast milk fat content with maternal anthropometric status, energy and macronutrient intake and weight for age Z-score of exclusively breastfed infants. Breast milk samples and information on energy and macronutrients intake (using 24-hour recall method for 3 days) were collected from 182 lactating women. Weight and height of mothers and infants were measured and the body mass index (BMI) and weight for age Z-score (WAZ) were calculated. The fat content of the milk samples was measured by the Gerber method. The mean daily energy intake was 2390 ± 405 kcal which was lower than the recommended values for mothers. The mean fat content of the milk samples was 3.52 ± 1.41 g/dl, which was significantly associated with dietary carbohydrate consumption ( β = 0.39, P <0.004) and BMI ( β = 0.28, P <0.02). A significant association between the WAZ of infants and maternal BMI ( β = 0.36, P <0.001) was recorded. The WAZ of infants whose mothers’ breast milk lipid content was more than 3 g/dl was significantly higher than those whose mothers had lower breast milk lipid content ( P <0.031). Further studies need to be done on the effect of fat content of breast milk on infant’s weight and how maternal factors regulate the composition of breast milk.
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The aim of this study was to investigate the relationship between breast milk fat content with maternal anthropometric status, energy and macronutrient intake and weight for age Z-score of exclusively breastfed infants. Breast milk samples and information on energy and macronutrients intake (using 24-hour recall method for 3 days) were collected from 182 lactating women. Weight and height of mothers and infants were measured and the body mass index (BMI) and weight for age Z-score (WAZ) were calculated. The fat content of the milk samples was measured by the Gerber method. The mean daily energy intake was 2390 ± 405 kcal which was lower than the recommended values for mothers. The mean fat content of the milk samples was 3.52 ± 1.41 g/dl, which was significantly associated with dietary carbohydrate consumption ( β = 0.39, P <0.004) and BMI ( β = 0.28, P <0.02). A significant association between the WAZ of infants and maternal BMI ( β = 0.36, P <0.001) was recorded. The WAZ of infants whose mothers’ breast milk lipid content was more than 3 g/dl was significantly higher than those whose mothers had lower breast milk lipid content ( P <0.031). Further studies need to be done on the effect of fat content of breast milk on infant’s weight and how maternal factors regulate the composition of breast milk.
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Assessing the Nutritional Status of Children with Leukemia
from Hospitals in Kuala Lumpur
Zalina AZ, Suzana Shahar, A Rahman A Jamal & Noor Aini MY
ABSTRACT
A cross-sectional study was carried out to evaluate the nutritional status of 51 subjects with leukemia aged 4 to 12 years from the Haematology & Oncology Paediatric Ward, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia Medical Centre (PPUKM) and the Paediatric Institute of Kuala Lumpur. Nutritional status was assessed using anthropometric measurements, biochemical and haematological parameters. Subjects comprised 32 (62.7%) males and 19 (27.3%) females. Most of the subjects (41.2%) were in the age group of 4 to 6 years. More than half of the children were Malays (70.6%) followed by Indians (15.7%) and Chinese (13.7%). The subjects were diagnosed as acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) (84.3%) followed by acute myelogenous leukemia (AML) (13.7%) and chronic myelogenous leukemia (CML) (2.0%) respectively. Most of the children were in remission status (54.9%). Underweight (<-2 SD for weight-for-age) was observed in 37.3% of the children while 17.6% of them were stunted (<-2 SD for height-for-age), and sign(s) of malnutrition (<-2 SD) for mid upper arm circumference (MUAC)-for-age was observed in 15.7% of the subjects. Approximately 20.0% of the subjects were in the severe malnutrition category with respect to low serum albumin levels (<3.5g/dl). All subjects had hemoglobin levels of less than the normal range. While the results indicated no significant differences in the nutritional status of subjects with leukemia at different stages of treatment, it was observed that the prevalence of malnutrition was higher in children with newly diagnosed leukemia. Thus, the nutritional status of children with leukemia should be monitored closely as there is a likelihood of deterioration owing to the disease.
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A cross-sectional study was carried out to evaluate the nutritional status of 51 subjects with leukemia aged 4 to 12 years from the Haematology & Oncology Paediatric Ward, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia Medical Centre (PPUKM) and the Paediatric Institute of Kuala Lumpur. Nutritional status was assessed using anthropometric measurements, biochemical and haematological parameters. Subjects comprised 32 (62.7%) males and 19 (27.3%) females. Most of the subjects (41.2%) were in the age group of 4 to 6 years. More than half of the children were Malays (70.6%) followed by Indians (15.7%) and Chinese (13.7%). The subjects were diagnosed as acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) (84.3%) followed by acute myelogenous leukemia (AML) (13.7%) and chronic myelogenous leukemia (CML) (2.0%) respectively. Most of the children were in remission status (54.9%). Underweight (<-2 SD for weight-for-age) was observed in 37.3% of the children while 17.6% of them were stunted (<-2 SD for height-for-age), and sign(s) of malnutrition (<-2 SD) for mid upper arm circumference (MUAC)-for-age was observed in 15.7% of the subjects. Approximately 20.0% of the subjects were in the severe malnutrition category with respect to low serum albumin levels (<3.5g/dl). All subjects had hemoglobin levels of less than the normal range. While the results indicated no significant differences in the nutritional status of subjects with leukemia at different stages of treatment, it was observed that the prevalence of malnutrition was higher in children with newly diagnosed leukemia. Thus, the nutritional status of children with leukemia should be monitored closely as there is a likelihood of deterioration owing to the disease.
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Inhibitory Effects of Tart Cherry (
Prunus cerasus
) Juice on
Xanthine Oxidoreductase Activity and its Hypouricemic and
Antioxidant Effects on Rats
Haidari F, Mohammad Shahi M, Keshavarz SA & Rashidi MR
ABSTRACT
The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of tart cherry juice on serum uric acid levels, hepatic xanthine oxidoreductase activity and two non-invasive biomarkers of oxidative stress (total antioxidant capacity and malondialdehyde concentration), in normal and hyperuricemic rats. Tart cherry juice (5 ml/kg) was given by oral gavage to rats for 2 weeks. Allopurinol (5 mg/kg) was used as a positive control and was also given by oral gavage. Data showed that tart cherry juice treatment did not cause any significant reduction in the serum uric acid levels in normal rats, but significantly reduced ( P <0.05) the serum uric acid levels of hyperuricemic rats in a time-dependent manner. Tart cherry juice treatment also inhibited hepatic xanthine oxidase/ dehydrogenase activity. Moreover, a significant increase ( P <0.05) in serum total antioxidant capacity was observed in tart cherry juice treated-rats in both normal and hyperuricemic groups. The oral administration of tart cherry juice also led to a significant reduction ( P <0.05) in MDA concentration in the hyperuricemic rats. Although the hypouricemic effect of allopurinol, as a putative inhibitor of xanthine oxidoreductase, was much higher than that of tart cherry, it could not significantly change anti-oxidative parameters. These features of tart cherry make it an attractive candidate for the prophylactic treatment of hyperuricaemia, particularly if it is to be taken on a long-term basis. Further investigations to define its clinical efficacy would be highly desirable.
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The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of tart cherry juice on serum uric acid levels, hepatic xanthine oxidoreductase activity and two non-invasive biomarkers of oxidative stress (total antioxidant capacity and malondialdehyde concentration), in normal and hyperuricemic rats. Tart cherry juice (5 ml/kg) was given by oral gavage to rats for 2 weeks. Allopurinol (5 mg/kg) was used as a positive control and was also given by oral gavage. Data showed that tart cherry juice treatment did not cause any significant reduction in the serum uric acid levels in normal rats, but significantly reduced ( P <0.05) the serum uric acid levels of hyperuricemic rats in a time-dependent manner. Tart cherry juice treatment also inhibited hepatic xanthine oxidase/ dehydrogenase activity. Moreover, a significant increase ( P <0.05) in serum total antioxidant capacity was observed in tart cherry juice treated-rats in both normal and hyperuricemic groups. The oral administration of tart cherry juice also led to a significant reduction ( P <0.05) in MDA concentration in the hyperuricemic rats. Although the hypouricemic effect of allopurinol, as a putative inhibitor of xanthine oxidoreductase, was much higher than that of tart cherry, it could not significantly change anti-oxidative parameters. These features of tart cherry make it an attractive candidate for the prophylactic treatment of hyperuricaemia, particularly if it is to be taken on a long-term basis. Further investigations to define its clinical efficacy would be highly desirable.
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Nutritional Composition,
in vitro
Antioxidant Activity and
Artemia salina
L. Lethality of Pulp and Seed of
Tamarindus
indica
L. Extracts
Khairunnuur FA, Zulkhairi A, Azrina A, Moklas MAM, Khairullizam S, Zamree MS & Shahidan MA
ABSTRACT
This study was designed to examine the nutritional composition, antioxidant activity and medium lethal concentration (LC50 value) of Tamarindus indica L. pulp and seed extracts in vitro . The extraction was set at 40°C, 60°C and 100°C for 12 hours, 6 hours and 15 minutes respectively to determine the optimum extraction parameter whereas the anti-oxidant activity of the extracts was measured using iron (III) reduction (FRAP) assay. Total phenolic content (TPC) of the extracts was estimated as gallic acid equivalent by Folin-Ciocalteau method. Toxicity potential of the extract was assessed in vitro by Artemia salina lethality test both in seed and pulp samples. The results showed that tamarind seed contained a higher percentage of carbohydrate, protein, fat and energy (15%, 82%, 95% and 33.13% respectively) than the pulp. On the other hand, the pulp demonstrated a high moisture (51.1%) and ash (34.84%) content than the seed. For the mineral analysis, tamarind seed contained higher Ca and C (1.0% and 50.73% respectively) than the pulp (0.27% and 40.40% respectively). No heavy metals were detected in both samples. Seed extracted at 60°C/6 hours and 100°C/15 minutes showed the highest TPC value and were significantly different ( p <0.05) than the seed extracted at 40°C/12 hours. Anti-oxidant activity is positively correlated to the TPC value of the extracts (R=0.991). The pulp and seed extracted at 100°C/15 minutes showed the highest FRAP value among its groups (216.17 ± 14.06 μ mol (Fe)/g and 659.74 ± 16.40 μ mol (Fe)/ g respectively). This study indicates that tamarind pulp and seed extracts possess beneficial antioxidant properties and the optimum extraction parameter is 100°C for 15 minutes. In Artemia salina lethality test, tamarind pulp caused significant mortality of the crustacean larvae with LC50 in the range of 26-28 μ L/mL. Tamarind seed were not toxic to Artemia salina since the LC50 of the extracts was higher than 1000 μ L/mL.
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This study was designed to examine the nutritional composition, antioxidant activity and medium lethal concentration (LC50 value) of Tamarindus indica L. pulp and seed extracts in vitro . The extraction was set at 40°C, 60°C and 100°C for 12 hours, 6 hours and 15 minutes respectively to determine the optimum extraction parameter whereas the anti-oxidant activity of the extracts was measured using iron (III) reduction (FRAP) assay. Total phenolic content (TPC) of the extracts was estimated as gallic acid equivalent by Folin-Ciocalteau method. Toxicity potential of the extract was assessed in vitro by Artemia salina lethality test both in seed and pulp samples. The results showed that tamarind seed contained a higher percentage of carbohydrate, protein, fat and energy (15%, 82%, 95% and 33.13% respectively) than the pulp. On the other hand, the pulp demonstrated a high moisture (51.1%) and ash (34.84%) content than the seed. For the mineral analysis, tamarind seed contained higher Ca and C (1.0% and 50.73% respectively) than the pulp (0.27% and 40.40% respectively). No heavy metals were detected in both samples. Seed extracted at 60°C/6 hours and 100°C/15 minutes showed the highest TPC value and were significantly different ( p <0.05) than the seed extracted at 40°C/12 hours. Anti-oxidant activity is positively correlated to the TPC value of the extracts (R=0.991). The pulp and seed extracted at 100°C/15 minutes showed the highest FRAP value among its groups (216.17 ± 14.06 μ mol (Fe)/g and 659.74 ± 16.40 μ mol (Fe)/ g respectively). This study indicates that tamarind pulp and seed extracts possess beneficial antioxidant properties and the optimum extraction parameter is 100°C for 15 minutes. In Artemia salina lethality test, tamarind pulp caused significant mortality of the crustacean larvae with LC50 in the range of 26-28 μ L/mL. Tamarind seed were not toxic to Artemia salina since the LC50 of the extracts was higher than 1000 μ L/mL.
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Bioaccessibility of Carotenoids and Tocopherols in Marine
Microalgae,
Nannochloropsis sp.
and
Chaetoceros sp.
Goh LP, Loh SP, Fatimah MY & Perumal K
ABSTRACT
Microalgae can produce various natural products such as pigments, enzymes, unique fatty acids and vitamin that benefit humans. The objective of the study is to study the bioaccessibility of carotenoids ( β -carotene and lycopene) and vitamin E ( α - and β - tocopherol) of Nannochloropsis oculata and Chaetoceros calcitrans . Analyses were carried out for both the powdered forms of N. oculata and C. calcitrans , and the dried extract forms of N. oculata and C. calcitrans . In vitro digestion method together with RP-HPLC was used to determine the bioaccessibility of carotenoids and vitamin E for both forms of microalgae. Powdered form of N. oculata had the highest bioaccessibility of β -carotene (28.0 ± 0.6 g kg-1 ), followed by dried extract N. oculata (21.5 ± 1.1 g kg-1 ), dried extract C. calcitrans (16.9 ± 0.1 g kg-1 ), and powdered C. calcitrans (15.6 ± 0.1 g kg-1 ). For lycopene, dried extract of N. oculata had the highest bioaccessibility of lycopene (42.6 ± 1.1 g kg-1 ), followed by dried extract C. calcitrans (41.9 ± 0.6 g kg-1 ), powdered C. calcitrans (39.7 ± 0.1 g kg-1 ) and powdered N. oculata (32.6 ± 0.7 g kg-1 ). Dried extract C. calcitrans had the highest bioaccessibility of α -tocopherol (72.1 ± 1.2 g kg-1 ). However, β -tocopherol was not detected in both dried extract and powdered form of C. calcitrans . In conclusion, all samples in their dried extract forms were found to have significantly higher bioaccessibilities than their powdered forms. This may be due to the disruption of the food matrix contributing to a higher bioaccessibility of nutrients shown by the dried extract forms
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Microalgae can produce various natural products such as pigments, enzymes, unique fatty acids and vitamin that benefit humans. The objective of the study is to study the bioaccessibility of carotenoids ( β -carotene and lycopene) and vitamin E ( α - and β - tocopherol) of Nannochloropsis oculata and Chaetoceros calcitrans . Analyses were carried out for both the powdered forms of N. oculata and C. calcitrans , and the dried extract forms of N. oculata and C. calcitrans . In vitro digestion method together with RP-HPLC was used to determine the bioaccessibility of carotenoids and vitamin E for both forms of microalgae. Powdered form of N. oculata had the highest bioaccessibility of β -carotene (28.0 ± 0.6 g kg-1 ), followed by dried extract N. oculata (21.5 ± 1.1 g kg-1 ), dried extract C. calcitrans (16.9 ± 0.1 g kg-1 ), and powdered C. calcitrans (15.6 ± 0.1 g kg-1 ). For lycopene, dried extract of N. oculata had the highest bioaccessibility of lycopene (42.6 ± 1.1 g kg-1 ), followed by dried extract C. calcitrans (41.9 ± 0.6 g kg-1 ), powdered C. calcitrans (39.7 ± 0.1 g kg-1 ) and powdered N. oculata (32.6 ± 0.7 g kg-1 ). Dried extract C. calcitrans had the highest bioaccessibility of α -tocopherol (72.1 ± 1.2 g kg-1 ). However, β -tocopherol was not detected in both dried extract and powdered form of C. calcitrans . In conclusion, all samples in their dried extract forms were found to have significantly higher bioaccessibilities than their powdered forms. This may be due to the disruption of the food matrix contributing to a higher bioaccessibility of nutrients shown by the dried extract forms
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Determination of Amino Acid Content and Protein Quality
of Complementary Food Produced from Locally Available
Food Materials in Ondo State, Nigeria
Ijarotimi OS & Olopade AJ
ABSTRACT
Protein-energy malnutrition is increasing among children in developing countries due to low nutrient density of traditional complementary diets. Therefore, this study aimed at determining the protein quality of a complementary food produced from cooking banana fruits and bambara groundnut seeds. The cooking banana and bambara groundnut seeds are locally available in both urban and villages markets in Nigeria. The cooking bananas (CB) and bambara groundnut (BG) seeds were processed into flours using standard procedure. The flours were mixed in a ratio of 70:30 (CBR1) and 60:40 (CBR2 ) of CB and BG respectively. A commercial weaning food (Nutrend) and traditional weaning food, ogi(corn gruel), were used as control food samples. The amino acid content and protein quality of the food samples were determined using standard procedures. Glutamic acid (CBR1 = 4.353 g/100g, CBR2 = 5.804 g/100g) was the highest while cysteine (CBR1 = 0.252 g/100g; CBR2 = 0.336 g/100g) was the lowest of the amino acids in the food samples. The amino acids composition increased as the percentage supplementation of bambara ground nut increased in the mixtures. The formulated food sample showed that CBR1 and CBR2 met 31.8% and 42.4% respectively of the recommended dietary allowance (RDA) fulfilment of essential amino acids. The biological value (BV) of CBR2 (90.5%) was significantly high when compared with CBR1 (75.9%) and ogi (52.4%). There was no significant difference between the BV of CBR2 with the BV of Nutrend (93.8%). Also, the net protein utilisation (NPU), total digestibility (TD), protein efficiency ratio (PER), feed efficiency ratio (FER) and nitrogen retention (NR) of CBR2 were within a similar range as those for Nutrend. As for the haematological variables, there were no significant differences between those fed the formulated diets and the control samples. The rate of weight gain for the animals fed with CBR2 food sample was higher than those fed with CBR1 and ogi but were lower than those for animals fed with Nutrend and casein. The study established that the CBR2 samples contained the essential amino acids needed to support infant growth and development.
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Protein-energy malnutrition is increasing among children in developing countries due to low nutrient density of traditional complementary diets. Therefore, this study aimed at determining the protein quality of a complementary food produced from cooking banana fruits and bambara groundnut seeds. The cooking banana and bambara groundnut seeds are locally available in both urban and villages markets in Nigeria. The cooking bananas (CB) and bambara groundnut (BG) seeds were processed into flours using standard procedure. The flours were mixed in a ratio of 70:30 (CBR1) and 60:40 (CBR2 ) of CB and BG respectively. A commercial weaning food (Nutrend) and traditional weaning food, ogi(corn gruel), were used as control food samples. The amino acid content and protein quality of the food samples were determined using standard procedures. Glutamic acid (CBR1 = 4.353 g/100g, CBR2 = 5.804 g/100g) was the highest while cysteine (CBR1 = 0.252 g/100g; CBR2 = 0.336 g/100g) was the lowest of the amino acids in the food samples. The amino acids composition increased as the percentage supplementation of bambara ground nut increased in the mixtures. The formulated food sample showed that CBR1 and CBR2 met 31.8% and 42.4% respectively of the recommended dietary allowance (RDA) fulfilment of essential amino acids. The biological value (BV) of CBR2 (90.5%) was significantly high when compared with CBR1 (75.9%) and ogi (52.4%). There was no significant difference between the BV of CBR2 with the BV of Nutrend (93.8%). Also, the net protein utilisation (NPU), total digestibility (TD), protein efficiency ratio (PER), feed efficiency ratio (FER) and nitrogen retention (NR) of CBR2 were within a similar range as those for Nutrend. As for the haematological variables, there were no significant differences between those fed the formulated diets and the control samples. The rate of weight gain for the animals fed with CBR2 food sample was higher than those fed with CBR1 and ogi but were lower than those for animals fed with Nutrend and casein. The study established that the CBR2 samples contained the essential amino acids needed to support infant growth and development.
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Malaysian Journal of Nutrition
Volume 15 No.2, 2009
Table of Content
Body Mass Index (BMI) of Adults: Findings of the
Malaysian Adult Nutrition
Survey (MANS)
Azmi MY, Junidah R, Siti Mariam A, Safiah MY, Fatimah S, Norimah AK, Poh BK, Kandiah M, Zalilah MS, Wan Abdul Manan WM, Siti Haslinda MD & Tahir A
ABSTRACT
The Malaysian Adults Nutrition Survey (MANS) was carried out between October 2002 and July 2003, involving 6,775 men and 3,441 women aged 18 – 59 years. Anthropometric assessment showed that the overall mean body weight and BMI were 62.65 kg (CI: 62.20, 63.09) and 24.37 kg/m2 (CI: 24.21, 24.53) respectively. Based on the WHO (1998) classification of BMI, 12.15% (CI: 11.26, 13.10) were obese (BMI > 30 kg/m2 ), and 26.71% (CI: 25.50, 27.96) overweight (BMI > 25 - 29.9 kg/m2 ). Significantly, more women were obese [14.66% (CI: 13.37, 16.04)] while significantly more men were overweight [28.55% (CI: 26.77, 30.40)]. Ethnicity- wise, prevalence of obesity was highest among the Malays [15.28% (CI: 13.91, 16.77)] while overweight was highest for the Indians [31.01% (CI: 26.64, 35.76)]. Both obesity and overweight were highest among those aged 40 - 49 years. Obesity was highest for those whose household income was between RM1,500 - 3,500 while overweight was more prevalent for those whose household income exceeded RM3,500. The prevalence of overweight was highest for those with primary education [31.90% (CI: 29.21, 34.72)]. There was no significant urban- rural differential in both obesity and overweight. The study found 9.02% (CI: 8.82, 10.61) with chronic energy deficiency (CED) (BMI < 18.5 kg/m2 ). The prevalence of CED was relatively higher in the indigenous population (Orang Asli) [14.53% (CI: 5.14, 34.77)], subjects aged 18-19 years [26.24% (CI: 21.12, 32.09)], and with monthly household income of < RM1,500 [10.85% (CI: 9.63, 12.20)]. The prevalence of CED was not significantly different among the geographical zones and educational levels, and between urban/rural areas and sexes. The results call for priority action to address the serious problem of overweight and obesity among Malaysian adults as it poses a grave burden to the country’s resources and development.
Key words: Adults, BMI, findings from MANS
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The Malaysian Adults Nutrition Survey (MANS) was carried out between October 2002 and July 2003, involving 6,775 men and 3,441 women aged 18 – 59 years. Anthropometric assessment showed that the overall mean body weight and BMI were 62.65 kg (CI: 62.20, 63.09) and 24.37 kg/m2 (CI: 24.21, 24.53) respectively. Based on the WHO (1998) classification of BMI, 12.15% (CI: 11.26, 13.10) were obese (BMI > 30 kg/m2 ), and 26.71% (CI: 25.50, 27.96) overweight (BMI > 25 - 29.9 kg/m2 ). Significantly, more women were obese [14.66% (CI: 13.37, 16.04)] while significantly more men were overweight [28.55% (CI: 26.77, 30.40)]. Ethnicity- wise, prevalence of obesity was highest among the Malays [15.28% (CI: 13.91, 16.77)] while overweight was highest for the Indians [31.01% (CI: 26.64, 35.76)]. Both obesity and overweight were highest among those aged 40 - 49 years. Obesity was highest for those whose household income was between RM1,500 - 3,500 while overweight was more prevalent for those whose household income exceeded RM3,500. The prevalence of overweight was highest for those with primary education [31.90% (CI: 29.21, 34.72)]. There was no significant urban- rural differential in both obesity and overweight. The study found 9.02% (CI: 8.82, 10.61) with chronic energy deficiency (CED) (BMI < 18.5 kg/m2 ). The prevalence of CED was relatively higher in the indigenous population (Orang Asli) [14.53% (CI: 5.14, 34.77)], subjects aged 18-19 years [26.24% (CI: 21.12, 32.09)], and with monthly household income of < RM1,500 [10.85% (CI: 9.63, 12.20)]. The prevalence of CED was not significantly different among the geographical zones and educational levels, and between urban/rural areas and sexes. The results call for priority action to address the serious problem of overweight and obesity among Malaysian adults as it poses a grave burden to the country’s resources and development.
Key words: Adults, BMI, findings from MANS
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Nutritional Status of Children below Five Years in Malaysia:
Anthropometric Analyses from the Third National Health and
Morbidity Survey III (NHMS, 2006)
Khor GL, Noor Safiza MN, Jamalludin AB, Jamaiyah H, Geeta A, Kee CC, Rahmah R, Alan Wong N F, Suzana S, Ahmad AZ, Ruzita AT & Ahmad FY
ABSTRACT
The Third National Health and Morbidity Survey (NHMS III) was conducted in 2006 on a nationally representative sample of population in Malaysia. Over 21,000 children aged 0-17.9 years were measured for body weight and stature according to the protocol of the World Health Organization. This article describes the nutritional status of children aged 0-59.9 months. Mean z score for weight- for-age (WAZ), height-for-age (HAZ) and BMI-for-age were compared with the z- scores tables of the WHO standards. The overall prevalence of underweight and stunting of the children were 12.9% and 17.2% respectively. These levels included 2.4% severe underweight and 6.0% severe stunting. In terms of z scores, the age group of 0–5.9 months showed the best nutritional status with mean WAZ of -0.33 (95%CI: -0.52, 0.15) and -0.40 (-0.57, 0.24) for boys and girls respectively, while mean HAZ was 0.64 (0.38, 0.89) for boys and 0.76 (0.54, 0.98) for girls. Mean HAZ and WAZ status was least satisfactory after about 6 months, suggesting a faltering in growth rate at an age that coincides with dependence on complementary feeding. Prevalence of overweight based on BMI-for-age for the sexes combined was 6.4%, while that based on WAZ was 3.4%. The NHMS III results indicate that Malaysian children have better nutritional status compared to children under 5 years in neighbouring countries. In order to meet the targets set in the National Plan of Nutrition (2006-2015), more effective intervention programmes are needed to accelerate the reduction of underweight and stunting, and to arrest the rise of overweight in young children.
Key words: Children below 5 years, nutritional status, third NHMS
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The Third National Health and Morbidity Survey (NHMS III) was conducted in 2006 on a nationally representative sample of population in Malaysia. Over 21,000 children aged 0-17.9 years were measured for body weight and stature according to the protocol of the World Health Organization. This article describes the nutritional status of children aged 0-59.9 months. Mean z score for weight- for-age (WAZ), height-for-age (HAZ) and BMI-for-age were compared with the z- scores tables of the WHO standards. The overall prevalence of underweight and stunting of the children were 12.9% and 17.2% respectively. These levels included 2.4% severe underweight and 6.0% severe stunting. In terms of z scores, the age group of 0–5.9 months showed the best nutritional status with mean WAZ of -0.33 (95%CI: -0.52, 0.15) and -0.40 (-0.57, 0.24) for boys and girls respectively, while mean HAZ was 0.64 (0.38, 0.89) for boys and 0.76 (0.54, 0.98) for girls. Mean HAZ and WAZ status was least satisfactory after about 6 months, suggesting a faltering in growth rate at an age that coincides with dependence on complementary feeding. Prevalence of overweight based on BMI-for-age for the sexes combined was 6.4%, while that based on WAZ was 3.4%. The NHMS III results indicate that Malaysian children have better nutritional status compared to children under 5 years in neighbouring countries. In order to meet the targets set in the National Plan of Nutrition (2006-2015), more effective intervention programmes are needed to accelerate the reduction of underweight and stunting, and to arrest the rise of overweight in young children.
Key words: Children below 5 years, nutritional status, third NHMS
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Biosocial Correlates of Nutrition and Chronic Energy
Deficiency among Adult Females of two Ecological Zones in
Madhya Pradesh and Uttarakhand, India
Gautam RK & Thakur R
ABSTRACT
The paper aims to draw out biosocial correlates of nutrition through body mass index (BMI) and chronic energy deficiency (CED). The findings are based on cross-sectional data of 446 women aged 18-60 years from six different endogamous groups of two ecological zones. The mean age of studied women varied from 31 to 36 years. The mean age at menarche was found to be 14.50±1.32 years. Similarly mean age at menopause was found to be 46.22±4.00 years. The mean of reproductive life span varied from 27 to 35 years. Average number of pregnancies per women was 4.44±2.52, average foetal loss was 0.11, children surviving per women was 3.61, whereas average child loss per women was found to be 0.62 and average family size was 9.51. Variations in mean BMI kg/m2 between populations ranged between 18.56 and 20.71. Prevalence of CED was highest among the Brahmin women of Uttarakhand (58.3%) followed by Ahirwar of Madhya Pradesh (47.1%). Incidence of CED was found lowest among Brahmin women of Madhya Pradesh (24.0%). Linear regression coefficient (b ± standard error) of BMI on Cormic Index for these women was 33.1 ± 8.1 (t=4.0, p=0.001), and correlation coefficient (R) was 0.189. Out of 6 anthropometric variables considered for regression analysis, 5, namely weight, hip circumference, waist circumference, mid arm circumference and sitting height showed significant correlations with BMI. Significant differences in sitting height and Cormic Index of women from the hills and plains indicate the role of ecology in shaping its habitants. Out of 9 demographic variables, only age of respondent and family size were found to have a significant impact on low BMI status. The present study postulates that the nutritional status of women has improved over the last decades.
Key words: Adult females, chronic energy deficiency, Madhya Pradesh, nutrition, Uttarakhand
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The paper aims to draw out biosocial correlates of nutrition through body mass index (BMI) and chronic energy deficiency (CED). The findings are based on cross-sectional data of 446 women aged 18-60 years from six different endogamous groups of two ecological zones. The mean age of studied women varied from 31 to 36 years. The mean age at menarche was found to be 14.50±1.32 years. Similarly mean age at menopause was found to be 46.22±4.00 years. The mean of reproductive life span varied from 27 to 35 years. Average number of pregnancies per women was 4.44±2.52, average foetal loss was 0.11, children surviving per women was 3.61, whereas average child loss per women was found to be 0.62 and average family size was 9.51. Variations in mean BMI kg/m2 between populations ranged between 18.56 and 20.71. Prevalence of CED was highest among the Brahmin women of Uttarakhand (58.3%) followed by Ahirwar of Madhya Pradesh (47.1%). Incidence of CED was found lowest among Brahmin women of Madhya Pradesh (24.0%). Linear regression coefficient (b ± standard error) of BMI on Cormic Index for these women was 33.1 ± 8.1 (t=4.0, p=0.001), and correlation coefficient (R) was 0.189. Out of 6 anthropometric variables considered for regression analysis, 5, namely weight, hip circumference, waist circumference, mid arm circumference and sitting height showed significant correlations with BMI. Significant differences in sitting height and Cormic Index of women from the hills and plains indicate the role of ecology in shaping its habitants. Out of 9 demographic variables, only age of respondent and family size were found to have a significant impact on low BMI status. The present study postulates that the nutritional status of women has improved over the last decades.
Key words: Adult females, chronic energy deficiency, Madhya Pradesh, nutrition, Uttarakhand
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Prevalence of Thinness among Rural Bengalee Pre-school
Children in Chapra, Nadia District, West Bengal, India
Biswas S, Bose K, Bisai S & Chakraborty R
ABSTRACT
This-cross sectional study investigated the age and sex variations in thinness among 2016 (930 boys and 1086 girls) 3-5 years old rural children of Bengalee ethnicity. The children were randomly recruited from 66 Integrated Child Development Service (ICDS) centres of Chapra Block, Nadia District, West Bengal, India. The area is remote and mostly inhabited by Bengalee Muslims. All pre- school children (3–5 years old) living in Chapra Block are enrolled at these centres. Anthropometric measures taken included height and weight using standard techniques and then body mass index (BMI) was computed. Age and sex specific cut-off values of body mass index (BMI) were utilised to identify thinness. Overall prevalence of thinness was 49.68 % and 51.57 % among boys and girls, respectively. There were significant ( p < 0.05) sex differences in height, weight and BMI. In general, the frequency of thinness increased with increasing age in both sexes. The rates of Grade-III and Grade-II thinness were higher among girls (Grade-III = 7.46 %, Grade-II = 13.44 %) compared with boys (Grade- III = 5.48 %, Grade-II = 11.72 %). In contrast, Grade-I thinness was higher among boys. The results from this study indicate that the nutritional status of rural Bengalee pre-school children is unsatisfactory. These children are experiencing marked nutritional stress. There is scope for much improvement in the form of enhanced supplementary nutrition.
Key words: Bengalee, BMI, India, pre-school children, thinness, West Bengal
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This-cross sectional study investigated the age and sex variations in thinness among 2016 (930 boys and 1086 girls) 3-5 years old rural children of Bengalee ethnicity. The children were randomly recruited from 66 Integrated Child Development Service (ICDS) centres of Chapra Block, Nadia District, West Bengal, India. The area is remote and mostly inhabited by Bengalee Muslims. All pre- school children (3–5 years old) living in Chapra Block are enrolled at these centres. Anthropometric measures taken included height and weight using standard techniques and then body mass index (BMI) was computed. Age and sex specific cut-off values of body mass index (BMI) were utilised to identify thinness. Overall prevalence of thinness was 49.68 % and 51.57 % among boys and girls, respectively. There were significant ( p < 0.05) sex differences in height, weight and BMI. In general, the frequency of thinness increased with increasing age in both sexes. The rates of Grade-III and Grade-II thinness were higher among girls (Grade-III = 7.46 %, Grade-II = 13.44 %) compared with boys (Grade- III = 5.48 %, Grade-II = 11.72 %). In contrast, Grade-I thinness was higher among boys. The results from this study indicate that the nutritional status of rural Bengalee pre-school children is unsatisfactory. These children are experiencing marked nutritional stress. There is scope for much improvement in the form of enhanced supplementary nutrition.
Key words: Bengalee, BMI, India, pre-school children, thinness, West Bengal
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Breakfast Skipping and Its Associated Factors among
Undergraduates in a Public University in Kuala Lumpur
Moy FM, Johari S, Ismail Y, Mahad R, Tie FH & Wan Ismail WMA
ABSTRACT
An analytical cross-sectional study was conducted in a public university in Kuala Lumpur among a random sample of 2665 undergraduates. The objective was to study the prevalence of breakfast skipping and its associated factors. Data collection was conducted via a self-administered pre-tested questionnaire. There were 43.5% male respondents, with Malays being the majority (58.3%). The prevalence of breakfast skipping was 29.2 (95% CI: 27.3 – 30.3) %. The factors significantly associated with breakfast skipping ( p <0.05) were age, race, accommodation, faculty and skipping dinner. As the respondents’ age increased, their risk of breakfast skipping was lower (OR: 0.95; 0.89 – 0.99). Malays (OR: 1.94; 1.48 – 2.54), Indians (OR: 1.70; 1.08 – 2.66), and students from the Sabah and Sarawak indigenous communities (OR: 2.13; 1.37 – 3.33) were more likely to skip breakfast compared to their Chinese counterparts. Respondents who stayed in their own houses were also less likely to skip breakfast compared to those staying in hostel with meals catered (OR: 2.32; 1.39 – 3.84), hostel with cafeteria (OR: 2.92; 1.74 – 4.91) or in rented houses (OR: 2.08; 1.25 – 3.46). Respondents majoring in Arts & Economics had 1.40 (1.07 – 1.82) times risk of breakfast skipping compared to those majoring in Life Sciences. Those who skipped dinner too had twice the odds (1.47 – 2.77) of breakfast skipping. In conclusion the prevalence of breakfast skipping among the undergraduates of this university was moderately high. Health awareness campaigns or introduction of healthy eating guidelines should be initiated for the undergraduates as well as food caterers in campus. The policy and pricing of catered food in campus should also be reviewed.
Key words: Breakfast skipping, undergraduates
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An analytical cross-sectional study was conducted in a public university in Kuala Lumpur among a random sample of 2665 undergraduates. The objective was to study the prevalence of breakfast skipping and its associated factors. Data collection was conducted via a self-administered pre-tested questionnaire. There were 43.5% male respondents, with Malays being the majority (58.3%). The prevalence of breakfast skipping was 29.2 (95% CI: 27.3 – 30.3) %. The factors significantly associated with breakfast skipping ( p <0.05) were age, race, accommodation, faculty and skipping dinner. As the respondents’ age increased, their risk of breakfast skipping was lower (OR: 0.95; 0.89 – 0.99). Malays (OR: 1.94; 1.48 – 2.54), Indians (OR: 1.70; 1.08 – 2.66), and students from the Sabah and Sarawak indigenous communities (OR: 2.13; 1.37 – 3.33) were more likely to skip breakfast compared to their Chinese counterparts. Respondents who stayed in their own houses were also less likely to skip breakfast compared to those staying in hostel with meals catered (OR: 2.32; 1.39 – 3.84), hostel with cafeteria (OR: 2.92; 1.74 – 4.91) or in rented houses (OR: 2.08; 1.25 – 3.46). Respondents majoring in Arts & Economics had 1.40 (1.07 – 1.82) times risk of breakfast skipping compared to those majoring in Life Sciences. Those who skipped dinner too had twice the odds (1.47 – 2.77) of breakfast skipping. In conclusion the prevalence of breakfast skipping among the undergraduates of this university was moderately high. Health awareness campaigns or introduction of healthy eating guidelines should be initiated for the undergraduates as well as food caterers in campus. The policy and pricing of catered food in campus should also be reviewed.
Key words: Breakfast skipping, undergraduates
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Burden of Anaemia in Rural and Urban Jat Women in
Haryana State, India
Maninder Kaur & Kochar GK
ABSTRACT
A cross-sectional study was undertaken on 600 Jat women (rural=300, urban=300), aged 40 to 70 years from Haryana state in North India. The aim of the study was to determine the prevalence of anaemia and the dietary intake of rural and urban middle-aged (40-59 years) and older (60 & above) Jat women. The findings indicated that all the subjects exhibited a decline in the mean values of haemoglobin (Hb) concentration with advancement in age. The mean blood Hb concentration of urban middle-aged and older women was 10.1±1.3g/dl and 9.91.4g/dl respectively, which was higher than their rural counterparts at all age groups, although the differences were statistically non-significant ( p >0.05). The overall prevalence of anaemia reached 88.7% (rural women= 91.3%, urban women =86%). Daily dietary intake of rural and urban subjects was below the recommended dietary allowances. Physical performance of both groups of the women showed a decline with a decrease in Hb concentration. A significant and positive correlation of Hb status was observed with grip strength and vital capacity while a negative association was witnessed with blood pressure and pulse rate in both the rural and urban women . Anaemia among these women may be attributed to inadequate dietary intake, illiteracy, and poor access to health services.
Key words: Anaemia, haemoglobin concentration, Jat women, physical performance
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A cross-sectional study was undertaken on 600 Jat women (rural=300, urban=300), aged 40 to 70 years from Haryana state in North India. The aim of the study was to determine the prevalence of anaemia and the dietary intake of rural and urban middle-aged (40-59 years) and older (60 & above) Jat women. The findings indicated that all the subjects exhibited a decline in the mean values of haemoglobin (Hb) concentration with advancement in age. The mean blood Hb concentration of urban middle-aged and older women was 10.1±1.3g/dl and 9.91.4g/dl respectively, which was higher than their rural counterparts at all age groups, although the differences were statistically non-significant ( p >0.05). The overall prevalence of anaemia reached 88.7% (rural women= 91.3%, urban women =86%). Daily dietary intake of rural and urban subjects was below the recommended dietary allowances. Physical performance of both groups of the women showed a decline with a decrease in Hb concentration. A significant and positive correlation of Hb status was observed with grip strength and vital capacity while a negative association was witnessed with blood pressure and pulse rate in both the rural and urban women . Anaemia among these women may be attributed to inadequate dietary intake, illiteracy, and poor access to health services.
Key words: Anaemia, haemoglobin concentration, Jat women, physical performance
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Obesity among Mongolian Adults from Urban and Rural
Areas
Otgontuya D, Khor GL, Lye MS & Norhaizan ME
ABSTRACT
Shifts in lifestyles and eating patterns have led to an increasing prevalence of chronic non-communicable diseases in the adult population in Mongolia. This article reports the prevalence of obesity, abdominal obesity and body fat among 408 Mongolian adults aged 25 years and above. The subjects included 61.2% from urban areas and 38.8% from rural areas, reflective of the 60: 40 urban rural ratio in the general population. Anthropometric measurements were taken according to standard methods. Classification of overweight/obesity was based on body mass index of WHO while abdominal obesity was based on WPRO for Asians. Men made up 47.8% (200) and women 52.2% (218) of the sample. The mean age of the subjects was 46.7±12.7 years. About one-third (32.8%) of the subjects were overweight and 10.5% obese. A higher proportion of women (13.3%) than men were obese (7.5%). The age groups of 35-54 years in men and 55-64 years in women showed the highest prevalence of overweight. Prevalence of abdominal obesity was found in 46.5% of the men and in 65.1% of the women. Women aged 55-64 years had the highest proportion (78.4%) of abdominal obesity. In terms of body fat, 20.0 % and 51.5% of the men had high and very high levels of body fat respectively, while among the women, 15.1% and 55.5% respectively had high and very high levels of body fat. Mongolian adults face serious risk of cardiovascular diseases and other aspects of ill-health brought about by obesity. Prevention and control of obesity should be targeted as an urgent public health agenda in Mongolia.
Key words: Mongolian adults, obesity, rural areas, urban areas
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Shifts in lifestyles and eating patterns have led to an increasing prevalence of chronic non-communicable diseases in the adult population in Mongolia. This article reports the prevalence of obesity, abdominal obesity and body fat among 408 Mongolian adults aged 25 years and above. The subjects included 61.2% from urban areas and 38.8% from rural areas, reflective of the 60: 40 urban rural ratio in the general population. Anthropometric measurements were taken according to standard methods. Classification of overweight/obesity was based on body mass index of WHO while abdominal obesity was based on WPRO for Asians. Men made up 47.8% (200) and women 52.2% (218) of the sample. The mean age of the subjects was 46.7±12.7 years. About one-third (32.8%) of the subjects were overweight and 10.5% obese. A higher proportion of women (13.3%) than men were obese (7.5%). The age groups of 35-54 years in men and 55-64 years in women showed the highest prevalence of overweight. Prevalence of abdominal obesity was found in 46.5% of the men and in 65.1% of the women. Women aged 55-64 years had the highest proportion (78.4%) of abdominal obesity. In terms of body fat, 20.0 % and 51.5% of the men had high and very high levels of body fat respectively, while among the women, 15.1% and 55.5% respectively had high and very high levels of body fat. Mongolian adults face serious risk of cardiovascular diseases and other aspects of ill-health brought about by obesity. Prevention and control of obesity should be targeted as an urgent public health agenda in Mongolia.
Key words: Mongolian adults, obesity, rural areas, urban areas
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Relation of Dietary Fat Intake Perception to Nutritional
Status and Psychosocial Factors
Yong HY, Zalilah MS & Yap LD
ABSTRACT
Excess dietary fat intake is associated with many chronic diseases. This cross- sectional study determines the differences in nutritional status and diet-related psychosocial factors by accuracy levels of dietary fat intake perceptions among adults. A total of 202 Universiti Putra Malaysia staff (20-55 years old) volunteered to participate in the study. Dietary fat accuracy levels (under-estimate, accurate and over-estimate) were determined by assessing actual fat intake through 24- hour diet recall and self-rated fat intake. Diet-related psychosocial factors assessed were perceived risks, intention to change, outcome expectancies and perceived barriers. About half (49.5%) of the respondents were classified as accurate estimators, while 35.6% and 14.9% were under-estimators and over-estimators, respectively. Dietary fat intake differed significantly between the dietary fat accuracy groups with under-estimators having the highest amount of dietary fat intake (F=17.10; p <0.001) and percentage of fat calories (F=103.99 + 0.533%, p <0.001). Over-estimators had the highest mean BMI (F=3.11, p <0.05) compared to other groups. Among the fat accuracy groups, under-estimators reported the least barriers to eating low fat foods (F= 3.671, p<0.05). There were no significant differences in waist circumference, energy intake, perceived disease risks, intention to change and outcome expectancies among the dietary fat accuracy groups. These findings suggest that inaccurate perceptions of dietary fat intake should not be overlooked as one of the cognitive barriers to dietary change and factors that influence nutritional status among adults.
Key words: Dietary fat intake perception, nutritional status, psychosocial factors
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Excess dietary fat intake is associated with many chronic diseases. This cross- sectional study determines the differences in nutritional status and diet-related psychosocial factors by accuracy levels of dietary fat intake perceptions among adults. A total of 202 Universiti Putra Malaysia staff (20-55 years old) volunteered to participate in the study. Dietary fat accuracy levels (under-estimate, accurate and over-estimate) were determined by assessing actual fat intake through 24- hour diet recall and self-rated fat intake. Diet-related psychosocial factors assessed were perceived risks, intention to change, outcome expectancies and perceived barriers. About half (49.5%) of the respondents were classified as accurate estimators, while 35.6% and 14.9% were under-estimators and over-estimators, respectively. Dietary fat intake differed significantly between the dietary fat accuracy groups with under-estimators having the highest amount of dietary fat intake (F=17.10; p <0.001) and percentage of fat calories (F=103.99 + 0.533%, p <0.001). Over-estimators had the highest mean BMI (F=3.11, p <0.05) compared to other groups. Among the fat accuracy groups, under-estimators reported the least barriers to eating low fat foods (F= 3.671, p<0.05). There were no significant differences in waist circumference, energy intake, perceived disease risks, intention to change and outcome expectancies among the dietary fat accuracy groups. These findings suggest that inaccurate perceptions of dietary fat intake should not be overlooked as one of the cognitive barriers to dietary change and factors that influence nutritional status among adults.
Key words: Dietary fat intake perception, nutritional status, psychosocial factors
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Iron Status of Adolescent Girls (10-15 years) Attending a
Government School in Jaipur City, Rajasthan, India
Goyle A & Prakash S
ABSTRACT
Iron deficiency anaemia is widely prevalent amongst women and children in India. The present work was designed to be an intervention study with nutrient fortified biscuits to ameliorate the micronutrient status of adolescent girls from a low socio-economic background. The baseline data on iron status of 109 adolescent girls (10-15 years) studying in a government school in Jaipur city, India are presented here. The iron status of adolescent girls was determined through haemoglobin, serum iron and serum ferritin levels. The results revealed that 96.3% of the adolescent girls suffered from anaemia, 31.2% of whom had mild deficiency and 65.1% had moderate deficiency. Anaemia was more prevalent in the older age groups. About 31% of the subjects had normal levels while the rest (69%) had low levels of serum iron. Similarly, about 75% of the subjects had low serum ferritin levels. Conclusively, anaemia was highly prevalent in the studied population and the adolescent girls had low haemoglobin, serum iron and serum ferritin levels. It is recommended that the school system be used for micronutrient supplementation to improve their nutritional status as the students are more regimented here for distribution of nutrient fortified food products.
Key words: Adolescent girls, haemoglobin, iron status, serum ferritin, serum iron
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Iron deficiency anaemia is widely prevalent amongst women and children in India. The present work was designed to be an intervention study with nutrient fortified biscuits to ameliorate the micronutrient status of adolescent girls from a low socio-economic background. The baseline data on iron status of 109 adolescent girls (10-15 years) studying in a government school in Jaipur city, India are presented here. The iron status of adolescent girls was determined through haemoglobin, serum iron and serum ferritin levels. The results revealed that 96.3% of the adolescent girls suffered from anaemia, 31.2% of whom had mild deficiency and 65.1% had moderate deficiency. Anaemia was more prevalent in the older age groups. About 31% of the subjects had normal levels while the rest (69%) had low levels of serum iron. Similarly, about 75% of the subjects had low serum ferritin levels. Conclusively, anaemia was highly prevalent in the studied population and the adolescent girls had low haemoglobin, serum iron and serum ferritin levels. It is recommended that the school system be used for micronutrient supplementation to improve their nutritional status as the students are more regimented here for distribution of nutrient fortified food products.
Key words: Adolescent girls, haemoglobin, iron status, serum ferritin, serum iron
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Determination of Phytate, Iron, Zinc, Calcium Contents and
Their Molar Ratios in Commonly Consumed Raw and
Prepared Food in Malaysia
Norhaizan ME & Nor Faizadatul Ain AW
ABSTRACT
The inhibitory effect of phytate on the bioavailability of iron, zinc and calcium was determined by measuring their molar ratios. A total of 29 food samples consisting of 12 rice and rice products, 5 wheat and wheat products, 5 grains and cereal based products and 7 different popular varieties of cooked rice and rice products were selected. The phytate content was analysed using anion-exchange chromatography whereas mineral contents were analysed using atomic absorption spectrophotometry(AAS). One-way ANOVA test was used to statistically analyse the mean difference between the phytate and mineral contents between the food group samples. In general, results show that cooked products have lower content of phytate and minerals as compared to raw products. This could be due to the influence of the cooking method on phytate and mineral content in the food. Based on one-way ANOVA test, there were no significant difference in phytate and zinc content between four food groups ( p >0.05). Significant differences were found only in iron and calcium content ( p <0.05). Of the 29 food samples, 25 food samples had a phytate/iron molar ratio > 1, 5 food samples had a phytate/zinc molar ratio > 15 and 23 food samples had a phytate/ calcium molar ratio of 0.24. These results show that although many of the food samples analysed had high mineral content, the high phytate content may impair the bioavailability of the mineral in the body.
Key words: Calcium, iron, molar ratios, raw and prepared food, phytate, zinc,
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The inhibitory effect of phytate on the bioavailability of iron, zinc and calcium was determined by measuring their molar ratios. A total of 29 food samples consisting of 12 rice and rice products, 5 wheat and wheat products, 5 grains and cereal based products and 7 different popular varieties of cooked rice and rice products were selected. The phytate content was analysed using anion-exchange chromatography whereas mineral contents were analysed using atomic absorption spectrophotometry(AAS). One-way ANOVA test was used to statistically analyse the mean difference between the phytate and mineral contents between the food group samples. In general, results show that cooked products have lower content of phytate and minerals as compared to raw products. This could be due to the influence of the cooking method on phytate and mineral content in the food. Based on one-way ANOVA test, there were no significant difference in phytate and zinc content between four food groups ( p >0.05). Significant differences were found only in iron and calcium content ( p <0.05). Of the 29 food samples, 25 food samples had a phytate/iron molar ratio > 1, 5 food samples had a phytate/zinc molar ratio > 15 and 23 food samples had a phytate/ calcium molar ratio of 0.24. These results show that although many of the food samples analysed had high mineral content, the high phytate content may impair the bioavailability of the mineral in the body.
Key words: Calcium, iron, molar ratios, raw and prepared food, phytate, zinc,
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Antimicrobial Activity of
Emilia sonchifolia
DC
.,
Tridax
procumbens
L
.
and
Vernonia cinerea
L
.
of
Asteracea
Family:
Potential as Food Preservatives
Yoga Latha L, Darah I, Sasidharan S & Jain K
ABSTRACT
Chemical preservatives have been used in the food industry for many years. However, with increased health concerns, consumers prefer additive-free products or food preservatives based on natural products. This study evaluated antimicrobial activities of extracts from Emilia sonchifolia L. (Common name: lilac tassel flower) , Tridax procumbens L. (Common name: tridax daisy) and Vernonia cinerea L. (Common name: Sahadevi) , belonging to the Asteracea family, to explore their potential for use against general food spoilage and human pathogens so that new food preservatives may be developed. Three methanol extracts of these plants were tested in vitro against 20 bacterial species, 3 yeast species, and 12 filamentous fungi by the agar diffusion and broth dilution methods. The V. cinerea extract was found to be most effective against all of the tested organisms and the methanol fraction showed the most significant ( p < 0.05) antimicrobial activity among all the soluble fractions tested. The minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs) of extracts determined by the broth dilution method ranged from 1.56 to 100.00mg/mL. The MIC of methanol fraction was the lowest in comparison to the other four extracts. The study findings indicate that bioactive natural products from these plants may be isolated for further testing as leads in the development of new pharmaceuticals in food preservation as well as natural plant-based medicine.
Key words: Antimicrobial activity, food preservation, plant extracts
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Chemical preservatives have been used in the food industry for many years. However, with increased health concerns, consumers prefer additive-free products or food preservatives based on natural products. This study evaluated antimicrobial activities of extracts from Emilia sonchifolia L. (Common name: lilac tassel flower) , Tridax procumbens L. (Common name: tridax daisy) and Vernonia cinerea L. (Common name: Sahadevi) , belonging to the Asteracea family, to explore their potential for use against general food spoilage and human pathogens so that new food preservatives may be developed. Three methanol extracts of these plants were tested in vitro against 20 bacterial species, 3 yeast species, and 12 filamentous fungi by the agar diffusion and broth dilution methods. The V. cinerea extract was found to be most effective against all of the tested organisms and the methanol fraction showed the most significant ( p < 0.05) antimicrobial activity among all the soluble fractions tested. The minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs) of extracts determined by the broth dilution method ranged from 1.56 to 100.00mg/mL. The MIC of methanol fraction was the lowest in comparison to the other four extracts. The study findings indicate that bioactive natural products from these plants may be isolated for further testing as leads in the development of new pharmaceuticals in food preservation as well as natural plant-based medicine.
Key words: Antimicrobial activity, food preservation, plant extracts
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Proximate Composition and Functional Properties of
Mushroom Flours from
Ganoderma spp., Omphalotus olearius
(DC.) Sing. and
Hebeloma mesophaeum
(Pers.) Quél. Used in
Nasarawa State, Nigeria
Aremu MO, Basu SK, Gyar SD, Goyal A, Bhowmik PK & Datta Banik S
ABSTRACT
The proximate composition and functional properties of three edible mushroom ( Ganoderma spp. , Omphalotus olearius (DC.) Sing. and Hebeloma mesophaeum (Pers.) Quél.) flours used in Nasarawa state, Nigaria were investigated using standard analytical techniques. The samples contained crude protein in the range of 18.5% in Omphalotus olearius to 21.5% in Ganoderma spp. Crude fat varied with values ranging from 6.9% in Ganoderma spp. to 8.7% in Omphalotus olearius . Other proximate composition values were in the following ranges: moisture content 10.0 – 11.1%, ash 7.3 – 8.3%, crude fibre 2.8 – 3.5% and carbohydrate (by difference) 50.3 – 50.9%. The range values of functional properties were: foaming capacity 101.8 – 131.5%, foaming stability 51.0 – 54.0%, water absorption capacity 260.0 – 390.0%, oil absorption capacity 450 – 480%, oil emulsion capacity 57.3 – 61.0mLg–1 , least gelation concentration 12.0 – 14.0% and bulk density 230.0 – 410.0gmL–1 . The results showed that these nutrient rich mushroom flours under investigation may prove useful in the formulation of different food products where foaming, emulsification, retention of flavour and palatability as well as gel formation are required.
Key words: Proximate, functional properties, mushrooms, gelation
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The proximate composition and functional properties of three edible mushroom ( Ganoderma spp. , Omphalotus olearius (DC.) Sing. and Hebeloma mesophaeum (Pers.) Quél.) flours used in Nasarawa state, Nigaria were investigated using standard analytical techniques. The samples contained crude protein in the range of 18.5% in Omphalotus olearius to 21.5% in Ganoderma spp. Crude fat varied with values ranging from 6.9% in Ganoderma spp. to 8.7% in Omphalotus olearius . Other proximate composition values were in the following ranges: moisture content 10.0 – 11.1%, ash 7.3 – 8.3%, crude fibre 2.8 – 3.5% and carbohydrate (by difference) 50.3 – 50.9%. The range values of functional properties were: foaming capacity 101.8 – 131.5%, foaming stability 51.0 – 54.0%, water absorption capacity 260.0 – 390.0%, oil absorption capacity 450 – 480%, oil emulsion capacity 57.3 – 61.0mLg–1 , least gelation concentration 12.0 – 14.0% and bulk density 230.0 – 410.0gmL–1 . The results showed that these nutrient rich mushroom flours under investigation may prove useful in the formulation of different food products where foaming, emulsification, retention of flavour and palatability as well as gel formation are required.
Key words: Proximate, functional properties, mushrooms, gelation
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Supplement
Abstracts of the 24th Scietific Conference of the Nutrition Society of Malaysia, 2009
Malaysian Journal of Nutrition
Volume 15 No.3, 2009
Table of Content
REVIEW
SHORT COMMUNICATIONS