Showing papers in "European Journal of Clinical Nutrition in 1997"

Effect of soluble or partly soluble dietary fibres supplementation on absorption and balance of calcium, magnesium, iron and zinc in healthy young men

Abstract: Objectives: This study is aimed at investigating the effect of feeding a soluble or partly soluble fibre rich-diet on the apparent absorption and balance of calcium, magnesium, iron and zinc in healthy young men, by using a chemical balance technique. Study design: Nine healthy young men were given a control diet or the same diet complemented with either inulin (soluble) or sugar beet fibre (partly soluble) during 28 d periods according to a 3×3 latin square design with three repetitions. During the 20 d adaptation period to fibre ingestion, experimental fibres were incorporated into bread (60%) and liquid foods (40%) up to a maximum of 40 g/d. Ca, Mg, Fe and Zn were measured in diets and in a 8 d urine and faecal composites to assess mineral absorption and balance. Results: The dietary mineral intake provided (mg/d) 859±196 of Ca; 311±43 of Mg; 11.6±1.7 of Fe; and 11.1±1.6 of Zn from the control diet. The apparent absorption of minerals from the control diet was (%) Ca: 21.3±12.5; Mg: 46.3±10.9; Fe: 21.8±12.3 and Zn: 14.0±14.5 (mean±s.d.). Ingestion of inulin significantly increased the apparent absorption and the balance of Ca. Sugar beet fibre ingestion resulted in a significant increase in Ca intake and balance, without modification its apparent absorption. Apparent absorption and balance of Mg, Fe and Zn were not significantly altered by the ingestion of either experimental fibre. Conclusions: Addition of the two experimental fibres (inulin or sugar beet fibre) to normal mixed diets can improve Ca balance without adverse effects on other mineral retention. Sponsorship: This project was supported by the French Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Foods (programme Aliment #2002-Aliment Demain; No. 906335). The authors acknowledge the societe Agro Industries, Recherche et Developpement (Mr R. De Baynast) who supplied them with the experimental fibres.

Paleolithic nutrition revisited: a twelve-year retrospective on its nature and implications.

Abstract: Review Paleolithic nutrition revisited: A twelve-year retrospective on its nature and implications

Influences on food choice perceived to be important by nationally-representative samples of adults in the European Union

Abstract: OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this baseline survey was to obtain comparable data on perceived influences on food choice from EU member countries as the starting point for EU healthy eating promotion campaigns and programmes.DESIGN: A cross-sectional study in which quota-controlled, nationally-representative samples of approximately 1000 adults from each country completed a face-to-face interview-assisted questionnaire.SETTING: The survey was conducted between October 1995 and February 1996 in the 15 member states of the European Union.SUBJECTS: 14331 subjects (aged 15 y upwards) completed the questionnaire. Data were weighted by population size for each country and by sex, age and regional distribution within each member state.RESULTS: The five most important factors influencing consumers food choice were 'quality or freshness' (74%), 'price' (43%), 'taste' (38%), 'trying to eat healthy' (32%) and 'family preferences' (29%). Subjects in different categories (age, sex, education and employment status) selected different factors as having major influence on their food choice. Demographic factors seemed to have greater effects on perceived influences than culture (country): 'quality/freshness', 'price', 'trying to eat healthy', 'family preferences' seemed to be most important in women, 'taste' and 'habit' in males. Females and older and more educated subjects were more likely than other subjects to select 'trying to eat healthy' as having a major influence. 'Price' seemed most important in unemployed and retired subjects.

Inulin and oligofructose do not influence the absorption of cholesterol, or the excretion of cholesterol, Ca, Mg, Zn, Fe, or bile acids but increases energy excretion in ileostomy subjects

Abstract: Inulin and oligofructose do not influence the absorption of cholesterol, or the excretion of cholesterol, Ca, Mg, Zn, Fe, or bile acids but increases energy excretion in ileostomy subjects

Effect of increasing breast milk docosahexaenoic acid on plasma and erythrocyte phospholipid fatty acids and neural indices of exclusively breast fed infants

Abstract: Objectives: To determine the effect of increasing docosahexaenoic acid (DHA, 22: 6 n-3) in breast milk on infant fatty acid profiles. A secondary aim was to examine aspects of neural development. Design and Setting Double blind, placebo controlled study of infants recruited from postnatal wards at Flinders Medical Centre. Subjects: Fifty-two healthy term infants who were breast fed for at least 12 weeks and were from middle class families. Intervention: Breast milk with DHA concentrations that ranged from 0.1–1.7% of total fatty acids. This was achieved by supplementation of the maternal diet for the first 12 weeks post partum. Results: Breast milk DHA was related to infant plasma (r=0.89, P<0.001) and erythrocyte (r=0.88, P<0.001) phospholipids in a saturable curvilinear manner so that breast milk DHA above 0.8% of total fatty acids resulted in little further increase in infant plasma or erythrocyte DHA levels. The rise in plasma and erythrocyte DHA was approximated by a fall in total n-6 polyunsaturated fatty acids. We could detect no relationship between visual evoked potential acuity (measured at 12 and 16 weeks) of infants by either the dietary grouping or the DHA status of individuals. A stepwise multiple regression showed that infant erythrocyte DHA at 12 weeks and home stimulation were the only independent factors associated with Bayley's MDI at 1 y (adjusted model r2=0.18, P<0.005); while at 2 y gender and social score of the spouse were the only significant predictors of Bayley's MDI (adjusted model r2=0.22, P<0.005). Conclusions: Increasing breast milk DHA levels caused a dose dependent saturable increase in infant plasma and erythrocyte phospholipid DHA. There were no long-term effects of infant DHA status on indices of neurodevelopment. Sponsorship: Financial support was provided by Martek Biosciences, MD, USA and the National Health and Medical Research Council, Australia.

High dose exercise does not increase hunger or energy intake in free living males

Abstract: Objective: To examine the effects of a high dose (two high-intensity exercise sessions) of exercise on energy intake (EI) and subjective states (hunger and mood). Design: Using a within subjects design, there were two treatment conditions, each of two consecutive days. Setting: The Human Appetite Research Unit at Leeds University Psychology Department. Subjects: Eight lean males who were regular exercisers were recruited from the student/staff population of Leeds University. Interventions: The effects of the high dose of exercise on Ex1 were compared with the effects on the day immediately after exercise (Ex2) and two consecutive days of no exercise (R1 and R2). EI was monitored using self-record food diaries and subjective states were tracked using a new Electronic Appetite Rating System (EARS). Heart rate and physical activity were also measured. Results: Feelings of hunger were not elevated by the high dose of exercise on Ex1 or on the day after exercise (Ex2). In fact, average daily feeling of hunger on Ex1 was significantly lower compared with the average daily feeling of hunger on Ex2 (t=3.15, d.f.=7, P<0.05), but not when compared with R1 or R2. EI and macronutrient intakes were not different on Ex1, Ex2, R1 or R2. Therefore, there was no increase in EI on Ex1 or Ex2 to account for the measured increase in exercise-induced energy expenditure (1200 kcal). Continuously monitored heart rate and activity profiles indicated that there was no difference in activity during the non-exercise periods between the four days. Conclusions: This study indicates that a high dose of exercise in one day failed to have any effect on EI within the same day or on the day immediately after exercise, compared with days of no exercise. These results demonstrate that an acute but substantial increase in energy expenditure (EE) due to intense exercise does not automatically increase hunger or EI within 48 h. This indicates the absence of any strong coupling between EE and EI in the short-term, probably as a result of food intake being held in place by environmental contingencies and short-term pre-absorptive physiological responses arising from eating itself. Sponsorship: This experiment was supported by the Biotechnology and Biological Science Research Council (BBSRC) F02501.

Folate intake in Europe: recommended, actual and desired intake.

Abstract: Objectives: To evaluate possible inconsistencies between recommended, actual and desired folate intake in European adult populations. Design: Review of dietary recommendations, of food consumption surveys, and of intervention and observational studies relating folate intake to the risk of neural tube defects and plasma homocysteine levels. Results: In Europe, mean dietary folate intake in adults is 291 μg/d (range 197–326) for men and 247 μg/d (range 168–320) for women. The recommended intakes vary between 200–300 μg/d (men) and 170–300 μg/d (women). However, women with a previous pregnancy affected by a neural tube defect (NTD), are recommended to take 4000 μg/d of supplemental folic acid when planning a subsequent pregnancy. For those without a history of NTD, the use of 400 μg/d of supplemental folic acid is the best option to prevent the occurrence of NTDs. A daily dose of 650 μg supplemental folic acid normalises elevated plasma homocysteine levels, which is a risk factor for cardiovascular diseases. A dietary folate intake of at least 350 μg/d is desired to prevent an increase in plasma homocysteine levels of the adult population in general. Conclusions: Mean dietary folate intake in Europe is in line with recommendations, but the desired dietary intake of <350 µg/d is only reached by a small part of studied European populations. It is considered unethical to investigate whether supplements with a dose lower than 400 μg/d of folic acid are also protective against NTDs. However, research to establish the lowest effective dose of dietary folate/supplemental folic acid to optimise homocysteine levels and research on the bioavailability of folate is required. This will enable the choice of a strategy to achieve desired folate intakes in the general population. In the meantime, consumption of plant foods like vegetables, fruits, and cereals should be stimulated to reach the desired level of 350 μg of dietary folate per day.

A 7-day activity diary for assessment of daily energy expenditure validated by the doubly labelled water method in adolescents.

Abstract: Objectives: To validate the use of an activity diary and predicted BMR for assessment of daily total energy expenditure (TEE) and physical activity level (PAL=TEE/BMR) in adolescents. Design: TEE and PAL estimated from activity diary records kept for seven days and BMR predicted from age, gender and body weight were compared with the results of doubly labelled water (DLW) measurements and indirect calorimetry performed during the same time period. Setting: The Unit of Paediatric Physiology of the Department of Clinical Physiology, University Hospital, Uppsala, Sweden. Subjects: Fifty randomly selected 15 y old adolescents (25 boys and 25 girls). Results: The mean difference between TEE estimated in all adolescents by the activity diary and by DLW methods was +1.2%. The limits of agreement (mean difference ±2 s.d.) were −3.47 and +3.77 MJ/d, equivalent to a coefficient of variation of 15%. The mean difference between PAL assessed by activity diary records and by DLW measurements was +0.001, and the limits of agreement between the two methods were ±0.54. Conclusions: The results imply that the activity diary method provides a close estimate of TEE and PAL in population groups. Sponsorship: The Swedish Medical Research Council (Project no. 10379), Uppsala University, and the University Hospital of Uppsala.

Bioavailability of iron.

Abstract: The body requires iron (Fe) for the synthesis of the oxygen transport proteins haemoglobin and myoglobin, and for the formation of haem enzymes, and other Fe-containing enzymes, which participate in electron transfer and oxidation-reduction reactions. Fe is absorbed by an active, saturable process, primarily in the duodenum (Charlton and Bothwell, 1983), and is moved across the mucosal cell and serosal membrane into the blood where it is transported by transferrin to the cells or to the bone marrow for erythropoeisis. The body regulates iron homeostasis by controlling absorption and not by modifying excretion as with most other metals; absorption is increased during deficiency and decreased when erythropoeisis is depressed. The body has a limited capacity to excrete Fe and that in excess of needs is stored as ferritin or haemosiderin in the liver, spleen and bone marrow. Each day the adult male requires about 1 mg of Fe to replace that which is lost in epithelial cells, gut secretions, urine and skin. In menstruating women this can be increased to about 1.4 mg/d (Hercberg et al, 1987).

Increasing prevalence of underreporting does not necessarily distort dietary surveys.

Abstract: Objectives: To study the magnitude of and trends in energy underreporting and to compare food consumption, nutrient intake and socioeconomic characteristics of underreporters to those of other Finnish adults. Design: Cardioavscular risk factor surveys in 1982 and 1992 using a 3 d food record. Underreporting was defined as energy intake lower than 1.27*BMR, since energy intake <1.27*BMR is improbable. Setting: Four areas in Finland, both rural and urban. Subjects: 1746 men and 1921 women, aged 25–64 y. Results: Proportion of underreporters has increased from 33% in 1982 to 46% in 1992 among women and from 27% in 1982 to 42% in 1992 among men. In a logistic regression model, BMI over 25 kg/m2, female gender, age over 45 y and high educational level predicted underreporting. Shares of energy intake from fat, carbhoydrates, protein and alcohol remained the same whether or not underreporters were excluded. However, underreporters consumed significantly higher proportion of vegetables, fish, meat, potatoes, fruit and berries and less fat than others. In the 1992 data the absolute intake of most micronutrients increased and micronutrient densities decreased when underreporters were excluded. Conclusions: The proportion of underreporters has grown from 1982 to 1992. Results expressed as a percentage of energy intake are not affected by the exclusion of underreporters. In contrast, micronutrient intakes, both absolute and energy density values, were distorted by underreporting. Underreporting should be taken into account in future studies. Sponsorship: National Public Health Institute.

Maternal and neonatal essential fatty acid status in phospholipids: an international comparative study.

Abstract: Department of Human Biology, Maastricht University, The Netherlands. OBJECTIVE: To investigate whether the steady decline in the maternal essential fatty acids (EFA) status during pregnancy observed in Dutch pregnant women is a local or general phenomenon. DESIGN: The EFA status was measured during uncomplicated, singleton pregnancy of healthy women from the Netherlands, Hungary, Finland, England and Ecuador. In addition, the EFA status of their neonates were measured at birth. Fatty acid profiles were analyzed in phospholipids isolated from maternal plasma and from umbilical plasma and cord vessel walls. RESULTS: Considerable differences between these centers were observed in the maternal EFA levels and EFA status indexes. However, the change in the absolute as well as relative amounts of the EFAs followed a similar course in the five populations during pregnancy. The neonatal EFA profiles reflected the differences found in maternal plasma during pregnancy and shortly after delivery. Comparable correlations were found, particularly, between the neonatal and the maternal n-3 fatty acids in the participating groups. CONCLUSIONS: It seems that the reduction in maternal EFA status during pregnancy is a general phenomenon, and is largely independent of differences in dietary habits and ethnic origin. Since the lowest values for certain maternal EFAs in a given country were significantly higher than the highest value of these EFAs throughout pregnancy in other countries, the functional implications of the pregnancy-associated reduction in the maternal EFA status for the fetal and neonatal development is not obvious and needs to be further elucidated. Publication Types: Multicenter Study

Definitions of 'healthy' eating: A pan-EU survey of consumer attitudes to food, nutrition and health

Abstract: Objective To describe the perceptions of a healthy diet across Europe and to explore the socio-cultural factors that influence these perceptions. Design A cross-sectional study in which quota-controlled, nationally-representative samples of approximately 1000 adults from each country completed a face-to-face interview-assisted questionnaire. Setting The survey was conducted between October 1995 and February 1996 in the 15 member states of the European Union. Subjects 14331 subjects (aged 15 y upwards) completed the questionnaire. Data were weighted by population size for each country and by sex, age and regional distribution within each member state. Results Responses were grouped into broad categories; overall 80% (specific country rates varied from 67-91%) of respondents mentioned either more fruit and vegetables or less fat, fatty foods, or a low fat diet, or balance and variety. The effects of age, gender and level of education were also explored: educational level appeared to have the strongest influence on perceptions of a healthy diet. Respondents who mentioned the family as a key influence on food choice, were more likely to mention eating more fruit and vegetables as part of a healthy diet. Respondents who stated that they did not have any source of information about diet were less likely to mention balance and variety or less fat or more vegetables. Conclusions The results of the present study suggest that many people defined healthy eating in a way which would suggest that the healthy dietary guidelines are having some impact. The results also show, however, that there may be specific groups who are missed by current national campaigns, and that any European wide campaigns to change attitudes about healthy eating need to consider the baseline perception of healthy eating reported here.

Difficulties in trying to eat healthier: descriptive analysis of perceived barriers for healthy eating.

Abstract: Objective To determine the factors which are perceived to be important barriers to healthy eating among European adults. Design A cross sectional study in which quota-controlled, nationally-representative samples of approximately 1000 adults from each country completed a face-to-face interview-assisted questionnaire. Setting The survey was conducted between October 1995 and February 1996 in the 15 member states of the European Union. Subjects 14,331 subjects (aged 15 y upwards) completed the questionnaire. Data were weighted by population size for each country and by sex, age and regional distribution within each member state. Results The study demonstrates a great variability in the perceived barriers to healthy eating between different EU countries. Lack of time was the most frequently mentioned difficulty among EU subjects for not following nutritional advice (24% of total EU sample). This barrier was frequently reported by the younger and the higher education people. Other frequently reported barriers were giving up favourite foods (23%) and willpower (18%). Thus healthy diets do not appear to be viewed as an easy or attractive alternative to current diets. There was wide geographical variation in the number of subjects mentioning price as an important barrier to healthy eating (15% in overall EU sample) ranging from less than 10% in Germany and Italy to 23% in the UK and 24% in Luxembourg.

Validation of dietary intakes of protein and energy against 24 hour urinary N and DLW energy expenditure in middle-aged women, retired men and post-obese subjects : Comparisons with validation against presumed energy requirements

Abstract: Objectives: To compare validation of reported dietary intakes from weighed records against urinary nitrogen excretion and energy expenditure measured by DLW, and to examine the utility of the Goldberg cut-off for EI:BMR in the identification of under-reporters. Design: Energy (EI) and nitrogen (protein) intake (NI) were measured by 16 d of weighed diet records collected over 1 y. They were validated against urinary nitrogen excretion in 5–8 (mean 6.0) 24 h urine collections and total energy expenditure (EE) measured by doubly labelled water (DLW). Basal metabolic rate (BMR) as measured by whole body calorimetry in women or bedside ventilated hood (Deltatrac) in men. Individual subjects were identified as under-reporters if Urine N:NI was >1.00 or if EI:EE was <0.79. The agreement between the two ratios in detecting under-reporting was examined. The results from the direct validation by DLW were also compared with validation using the Goldberg cut-off for EI:BMR (). Subjects: Eighteen women aged 50–65 y and 27 men aged 55–87 y were selected from participants in two larger dietary surveys as representing the full range of dietary reporting as measured by Urine N:NI. Data from a previous study of 11 post-obese subjects were also included. Results: The two ratios, Urine N:NI and EI:EE, were significantly related (r=−0.48, P<0.01). Using the above cut-offs, seven (4F, 3M) subjects were identified as under-reporters by both methods, one (1M) by Urine N:NI only and 8 (3F, 5M) by EI:EE only. There was close agreement in post-obese subjects where 6 subjects showed a substantial degree of under-reporting by both methods (r=−0.87, P<0.001). The correlation between direct validation by DLW and EI:BMRest was 0.65 (P<0.001). Some limitations of the Goldberg cut-off for identifying individual under-reporters were demonstrated. Conclusions: EI:EE provides an estimate of the degree of under-reporting of energy at the group and individual level. Urine N:NI identifies under-reporting of protein intake and the most obvious under-reporters of energy, but is probably of lesser value in estimating the overall degree of under-reporting of energy at group level. Good validation by EI:BMR depends on knowledge of physical activity at both group and individual level. However, the correlation of 0.65 between EI:EE and EI:BMRest suggests that EI:BMR could be usefully incorporated into analysis of data from epidemiological studies. Validation measures consisting of at least predicted EI:BMR ratios and urinary measures should be incorporated into dietary surveys. Sponsorship: This work was funded by the Ministry of Agriculture Fisheries and Food, the Medical Research Council, the Cancer Research Council and the Swedish Medical Research Council and the Henning and Johan Throne-Holst Foundation.

Dietary assessment in Whitehall II: The influence of reporting bias on apparent socioeconomic variation in nutrient intakes

Abstract: Dietary assessment in Whitehall II: The influence of reporting bias on apparent socioeconomic variation in nutrient intakes

A new look at dietary carbohydrate: chemistry, physiology and health

Abstract: Correction to: European Journal of Clinical Nutrition (1997) 51, 417–423; doi:10.1038/sj.ejcn.1600427 Since the publication of this paper, the authors have noticed that one of the author names was incorrectly listed as K Hermonsen. The correct name is shown above. The authors apologize for any inconvenience caused.

Comparison of body composition methods: a literature analysis.

Abstract: UKK Institute, POB 30, FIN-33501, Tampere, Finland. OBJECTIVE: To examine the comparability of different methods to assess percentage body fat (BF%) against underwater weighing (UWW). DESIGN: A meta-analysis on 54 papers, published in 1985-96, on healthy, adult Caucasians. METHODS: The mean BF% from different studies were treated as single data points. In addition to UWW, the studies included one or more of the following methods: 3- or 4-component model, dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA), dual-energy photon absorptiometry, isotope dilution, bioimpedance (BIA), skinfolds or near-infrared interactance (NIR). Within each of the methods, the analyses were done separately for different mathematical functions, techniques or instruments. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Bias (mean difference) and error (s.d. of difference) between BF% measured by UWW and the other methods. RESULTS: The 4-component model gave 0.6 (95% confidence interval for the mean, CI: 0.1 to 1.2) BF% higher results than UWW. Also the 3-component model with body density and total body water (+1.4 BF%, 95% CI: +0.3 to +2.6), deuterium dilution (+1.5 BF%, 95% CI: +0.7 to +2.3), DXA by Norland (+7.2 BF%, 95% CI: 2.6 to 11.8) and BIA by Lukaski et al. (+2.0 BF%, 95% CI: 0.2 to 3.8) overestimated BF%, whereas BIA by Valhalla Scientific (-2.6 BF%, 95% CI: -4.5 to -0.6) and skinfold equations by Jackson et al. (-1.20, 95% CI: -2.3 to -0.1) showed a relative underestimation. The mean bias for the skinfold equation by Durnin & Womersley, against UWW, was 0.0 BF% (95% CI: -1.3 to 1.3). The correlation between the size of measurement and the mean difference was significant for only NIR (r = -0.77, P = 0.003). CONCLUSIONS: The difference between any method and UWW is dependent on the study. However, some methods have a systematical tendency for relative over- or underestimation of BF%. Publication Types: Review Review Literature

Serum phospholipid fatty acid composition and habitual intake of marine foods registered by a semi-quantitative food frequency questionnaire.

Abstract: Objective: To examine the relation between consumption of fish and fish products registered by a comprehensive food frequency questionnaire and the composition of fatty acids in serum phospholipids. Design: Cross-section study. Setting: Cardiovascular screening centre in Trondheim, Mid-Norway. Subjects: Of 256 eligible women 242 agreed to participate in the present study. Altogether 234 middle-aged women (91.4%) completed the questionnaire and gave a valid blood sample. Results: Total frequency consumption of fish for dinner showed only weak association with serum phospholipid fatty acid composition. In separate analyses of lean and fatty fish, consumption of fatty fish was negatively associated with n-6 and positively associated with n-3 fatty acids in serum phospholipids, while no significant associations were found for lean fish consumption. Cod liver oil consumption was strongly related to the phospholipid fatty acid composition. The associations improved moderately when adding portion size information. Spearman’s correlation coefficient between dietary intake of eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and serum phospholipid EPA was 0.58, and Spearman’s correlation coefficient between intake of docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and serum phospholipid DHA was 0.53. Conclusions: This study suggests that in populations with a high consumption of fish and cod liver oil, habitual intake can be reflected in serum phospholipids. However, as the fat content of fish is highly variable, separate registration of lean and fatty fish consumption is needed. Sponsorship: Erna and Olav Aakre’s Foundation, Tromso, and the Norwegian Cancer Society (E96071).

Plasma total homocysteine in a representative sample of 972 British men and women aged 65 and over

Abstract: OBJECTIVES: To provide a reference range for plasma total homocysteine (tHcy), an independent risk factor for vascular disease, and to explore relationships with nutritional indices for people aged 65 y and over, in the UK National Diet and Nutrition Survey (NDNS). DESIGN: The survey procedures described in the National Diet and Nutrition Survey Report (1997) included a health-and-lifestyle interview, a four-day weighed diet record, anthropometric and blood pressure measurements and a fasting blood sample for biochemical indices, including tHcy. SETTING: Eighty randomly selected postcode sectors from mainland Britain during 1995-1996. SUBJECTS: Of 2060 people interviewed, 1527 were visited by the nurse, 1276 gave a blood sample and 972 had tHcy measured. About 80% were in their own homes and the remainder were in nursing homes or similar institutions. RESULTS: Significant cross-sectional relationships, both univariate and multivariate were found between tHcy and index concentrations of folate and vitamin B12 (P < 0.0001), and between tHcy and plasma creatinine, urea, calcium, zinc, alpha 1-antichymotrypsin, lutein and cysteine (P = 0.013 to < 0.0001). Dietary nutrient analyses showed an association with folate intake. tHcy was also correlated with age and with domicile (free-living or institution), with history of vascular disease and with use of four classes of drugs, two of which are prescribed for vascular diseases. There was a north-south gradient in tHcy (P = 0.005), and also in food choices, blood micronutrient indices and vascular disease prevalence. CONCLUSIONS: The concentrations of tHcy found in this study provide a reference range for people aged 65 y and over, in mainland Britain. tHcy is a valuable functional index of micronutrient status and intakes for British people aged 65 y and over, which can assist the development of health-promotion strategies.

Serum selenium, plasma glutathione (GSH) and erythrocyte glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px)-levels in asymptomatic versus symptomatic human immunodeficiency virus-1 (HIV-1)-infection.

Abstract: Serum selenium, plasma glutathione (GSH) and erythrocyte glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px)-levels in asymptomatic versus symptomatic human immunodeficiency virus-1 (HIV-1)-infection

A new look at dietary carbohydrate: chemistry, physiology and health. Paris Carbohydrate Group.

Abstract: The current view of dietary carbohydrates as simply providing us with energy is outdated. Because of their varied chemistry and physical form the rate and extent to which the different types are digested in and absorbed from the small intestine varies. This in turn leads to affects on satiety, blood glucose and insulin, protein glycosylation, lipids and bile acids. Some carbohydrates reach the colon where they are fermented and affect many aspects of large bowel function, colonocyte and hepatic metabolism. A new framework for classifying and measuring food carbohydrates is needed to allow a greater understanding of the role of individual species in health and to inform the public of their importance. A classification based primarily on molecular size (degree of polymerisation) into sugars, oligosaccharides and polysaccharides, is suggested, with sub-groups identified by the nature of the monosaccharides. Greater knowledge of the chemical and physical properties of carbohydrates allow a more precise relation with physiology and health to be drawn. The Carbohydrate Group met in Paris in December 1995 at the invitation of Gerard Pascal, Director of CNERNA. Financial support for the meeting was provided by CNERNA.

Bioavailability of vitamin B12.

Abstract: Bioavailability Study Fifteen adult male guinea pigs were assigned to each of two groups Ascorbic Acid (average weight 213 ± 15 g). They were fed an ascorbic acid deficient diet (Bioserve Inc.) for a period of one month. They were then fed USP Ascorbic acid and Citrus Extract (25.0%). There were three sub-groups in each group which were fed graded doses of USP (8, 16 and 32 mg) three times a week dissolved in Gatorade. At the end of the supplementation period, the animals were sacrificed and blood withdrawn for conversion into serum and analysis by fluorometry (Clin. Chim. Acta., 25, 161, 1969). Statistics were done using a two tailed t-test. The concentrations of Vitamin C in the serum of the different groups are listed in the following table. Form of vitamin C Dose (mg) Average Vitamin C Serum (mg/100 ml) USP 8 0.124 ± 0.021 USP 16 0.132 ± 0.006 USP 32 0.137 ± 0.017 Citrus Extract 8 0.136 ± 0.016 Citrus Extract 16 0.149 ± 0.021 Citrus Extract 32 0.172 ± 0.033

Could a satellite-based navigation system (GPS) be used to assess the physical activity of individuals on earth?

Abstract: Could a satellite-based navigation system (GPS) be used to assess the physical activity of individuals on earth?

Relationship between maternal nutritional status and infant's weight and body proportions at birth.

Abstract: Objectives: To examine maternal nutritional status and its relationship to infant weight and body proportions. Design: Retrospective study of births from January–December 1990. Setting: University Hospital of the West Indies, Jamaica. Subjects: Records for 2394 live, singleton births, between 200–305 d gestation. Main outcome measures: Birth weight, crown heel length, head circumference, ponderal index, head circumference:length ratio, placental weight, placental:birth weight ratio. Results: Mothers who were lighter had babies who had lower birth weight, were shorter, had smaller heads and had a higher HC:L ratio. Shorter and thinner women had babies who had lower birth weights, were shorter, had smaller heads and lighter placentas. Thinner women also had babies with a lower placental:birth weight ratio, and their BMI’s were not linearly related to ponderal index and HC:L ratio. Women whose first trimester Hb levels were 12.5 g/dl. In the second and third trimester Hb levels were negatively associated with birth weight, crown heel length, head circumference, placenta weight and ponderal index. Conclusions: The data support the hypothesis that poor maternal nutrition is associated with foetal growth restraint. Poor maternal nutrition as indicated by low weight, height, and BMI are associated with smaller, shorter babies with smaller heads. Haemoglobin levels > 12.5 g/dl in pregnancy are associated with lighter, shorter, thinner babies, with smaller heads.

Supplementation with wine phenolic compounds increases the antioxidant capacity of plasma and vitamin E of low-density lipoprotein without changing the lipoprotein Cu(2+)-oxidizability: possible explanation by phenolic location.

Abstract: Objectives: To evaluate the effect of the red wine phenolic compound (RWPC) dietary supplementation without alcohol interference on: (1) some of the biochemical characteristics of LDL, (2) the oxidative susceptibility of LDL and (3) the antioxidant capacity of total plasma (Pl-AOC). In order to account for discrepancies between the three series of data, the in vitro stability of the association of phenolic compounds and LDL was tested. Design: An intervention study with 20 volunteers. Each served as his own control. Cu2+-oxidizability of LDL and Pl-AOC were tested on blood samples before and after dietary supplementation. Cu2+-oxidizability of LDL was also tested by co-incubation in the presence of RWPC or phenolic acids with or without extensive dialysis. Setting: The Laboratory of Lipid Biochemistry and Biology, School of Medicine, and the Laboratory of Metabolic Diseases, Lapeyronie Hospital, University of Montpellier, France. Subjects: Healthy males, nonsmokers and moderate drinkers, submitted to a dietary regimen deprived of vitamin E and C for a period of 10 d before supplementation. They also abstained from alcohol, wine, fruit juices, coffee, tea and cola beverages during this period. Intervention: Six 0.33 g capsules/d (namely two capsules at each meal) of a preparation of red wine phenolic compounds in a dry powder form were given to the volunteers over a period of two weeks. Blood samples were drawn in fasting conditions at day 0 and day 14 of the supplementation period. Results: Supplementation led to: (1) in LDL, a significant increase in vitamin E content (n=20, P=0.01) or vitamin E/total fatty acid bis-allylic carbon number ratio (n=20, P=0.006) without modification in the other biochemical characteristics or Cu2+-oxidizability; (2) in plasma, a significant increase in the antioxidant capacity (n=11, P=0.01). In vitro studies showed that RWPC or sinapic, caffeic or ferulic acids incubated in the presence of LDL increased the protection of the lipoparticle against oxidation (caffeic>sinapic>ferulic). This effect, however, was totally lost after extensive dialysis. Conclusions: The enhancing effect of the RWPC supplementation on Pl-AOC may be due to a phenolic-compound action both in the aqueous phase of plasma and at the surface of lipoprotein particles. Surface location possibly explains the enhancing-sparing effect of supplementation on LDL vitamin E and the absence of effect on dialysed-LDL oxidizability. Sponsorship: Supported by a grant from the Scientific Committee ‘Vin et Sante: Pathologies Vasculaires’.

Evidence for age-related differences in the fatty acid composition of human adipose tissue, independent of diet

Abstract: Department of Applied Statistics, University of Reading, Harry Pitt Building, Whiteknights Road, PO Box 240, Reading, RG6 6FNObjective: To test the null-hypothesis that no age difference in adipose tissue fatty acid composition existsindependent of dietary fat intake.Design: A cross-sectional survey of coronary heart disease risk factors, the Scottish Heart Health Study,provided needle biopsy adipose tissue fatty acid data and food frequency-derived dietary data.Setting: Twenty-two Scottish Districts between 1984 and 1986.Subjects: A total of 10359 men and women aged 40–59 y were randomly recruited in sex and five-year agebands from GP lists. A sub-set of 2308 men and 2049 women (42%) provided satisfactory adipose tissue anddietary data.Main outcome measures: Multiple regression analysis (adjusting for dietary fats, body mass index and smoking,with and without menopause status for women) of the relationship between individual fatty acids in adiposetissue and age, and between age and the ratio of linoleic acid (C18:2, n-6) to gamma-linolenic acid (C18:3, n-6)as an indicator of D-6 desaturase activity.Results: Sex-consistent changes with age occurred for linoleate (adjusted regression slope s.e. for men70.299 0.1339 and for women 70.504 0.1731) and gamma-linolenate (adjusted regression slope s.e. formen 70.141 0.0341 and for women 70.154 0.0469) both P<0.0001. These changes gave rise to asignificant increase (P0.005) in the C18:2, n-6 to C18:3, n-6 ratio with age. Dihomo-gamma-linolenic acid(C20:3, n-6) and docosahexa- plus docosapentaenoic acids (C22:5⁄C22:6, n-3) also increased significantly withage (P0.01). For the latter, the adjusted regression slopes were far greater for women (0.596 0.0575) thanmen (0.131 0.0417).Conclusions: The results show that ageing does influence adipose tissue fatty acid composition independent ofdiet. The sex differences may partially be due to inadequate adjustment for changes in sex hormone status inmales with ageing. Using the current indicator, a decline in the rate limiting step of delta-6 desaturation appearedto occur with age, and was greater in women than in men. These results may indicate that an increase in dietarygamma-linolenic acid (C18:3, n-6) is necessary with age to offset the relative imbalance between PUFA levelswhich appears to occur. However, any direct health benefit regarding the common diseases of ageing from such astrategy still remain to be clarified.Sponsorship: The Scottish Office Home and Health Department funded the Scottish Heart Health Study. CBSthanks Scotia Pharmaceuticals Limited for financial support.Descriptors: ageing; diet; essential fatty acids; menopause; sex differences.

Eating habits, food and health related attitudes and beliefs reported by French students.

Abstract: OBJECTIVES: To assess eating habits and some food related behaviours, beliefs and knowledge in educated young French adults. DESIGN: A standardized questionnaire administered in university classes. SETTING: University or ‘Grandes Ecoles’ of Paris and Dijon. SUBJECTS: 660 male and female French students. INTERVENTIONS: International survey; questionnaire composed of three major sections: (1) Health-related attitudes such as substances used, dieting, health practices; (2) Beliefs concerning behaviour and health, including eating habits; (3) Knowledge, namely relevance of factors to diseases such as cancer or cardiovascular diseases. RESULTS: Gender, self-perception of body size, BMI and attempts to lose weight affected a number of behaviours. Average BMI corresponded to standard values. ’Healthy’ behaviours were often reported such as: avoiding fat and cholesterol, efforts to eat fruit and fiber. The French students showed a low frequency of snacking and a high regularity in having breakfast, especially respondents with lower BMI (females ≤23 and males ≤24.5 kg/m2). Beliefs about the importance of behaviours were closely associated with the performance of the behaviours. Awareness of the role of eating factors in cardiovascular diseases was observed. CONCLUSION: The meal and snack pattern in French students is very close to the traditional model. More food- and health-related behaviours and attitudes are reported by women than men. Some of them could be due to a genuine motivation for prevention and health in females or else to a greater wish to be thin. ‘Desire to lose weight’ is often reported although BMI values are normally low in this young population. Beliefs in the importance of a behaviour for health are correlated with the reported performance of the behaviours. SPONSORSHIP: Data entry was supported in part through the Commission of the European Communities, Medical and Health Research programme, Concerted Action on Breakdown in Human Adaptation: Quantification of Parameters.