RESUMEN

Plant-based foods are increasing in popularity as more and more people are concerned about personal and planetary health. The consumption of plant-based dairy alternatives (PBDAs) has assumed a more significant dietary role in populations shifting to more sustainable eating habits. Plant-based drinks (PBDs) made from soya and other legumes have ample protein levels. PBDs that are appropriately fortified have adequate levels of important vitamins and minerals comparable to dairy milk. For the PBDs examined, the greenhouse gas emissions were diminished by 59-71% per 250 mL, and the land use and eutrophication impact was markedly less than the levels displayed by dairy milk. The water usage for the oat and soya drinks, but not rice drinks, was substantially lower compared to dairy milk. When one substitutes the 250 mL serving of dairy milk allowed within the EAT Lancet Planetary Health Diet for a fortified plant-based drink, we found that the nutritional status is not compromised but the environmental footprint is reduced. Combining a nutrient density score with an environmental index can easily lead to a misclassification of food when the full nutrition profile is not utilized or only a selection of environmental factors is used. Many PBDAs have been categorized as ultra-processed foods (UPFs). Such a classification, with the implied adverse nutritional and health associations, is inconsistent with current findings regarding the nutritional quality of such products and may discourage people from transitioning to a plant-based diet with its health and environmental advantages.

Asunto(s)

Dieta , Estado Nutricional , Humanos , Dieta Saludable , Estado de Salud , Valor Nutritivo , Productos Lácteos

RESUMEN

Concerns for human and planetary health have led to a shift towards healthier plant-based diets. Plant-based dairy alternatives (PBDA) have experienced exponential market growth due to their lower environmental impact compared to dairy products. However, questions have arisen regarding their suitability as dairy substitutes and their role in food-based dietary guidelines (FBDG). Our study aimed to analyse the nutritional profiles of leading PBDA across Europe and compare them with their dairy counterparts. We examined the nutritional profiles of 309 unflavoured PBDA representing the European market leaders, including 249 plant-based drinks (PBD) and 52 plant-based alternatives to yogurt (PBAY). PBD and PBAY, excluding coconut varieties, were low in saturated fat (<1 g per serving). Seventy percent of PBDA were unsweetened, and most had sugar levels comparable to dairy. Except for soya varieties, PBDA protein levels were lower than dairy. Organic PBDA lacked micronutrients due to legal restrictions on fortification. Among non-organic PBDA, 76% were fortified with calcium, 66% with vitamin D, and 60% with vitamin B12. Less than half were fortified with vitamin B2, and a few with iodine (11%) and vitamin A (6%). PBAY were less frequently fortified compared to PBD. PBDA displayed a favourable macronutrient profile despite lower protein levels, which would be compensated for by other protein-dense foods in a usual mixed diet. Enhancing fortification consistency with dairy-associated micronutrients would address concerns regarding PBDA's integration into FBDG. Our analysis supports the inclusion of fortified PBDA in environmentally sustainable FBDG for healthy populations.

Asunto(s)

Bebidas , Yogur , Micronutrientes , Europa (Continente) , Humanos , Análisis de los Alimentos

RESUMEN

There is a growing interest in non-dairy alternatives fueled by concerns about personal health and the health of the planet. Sales of non-dairy frozen desserts have increased along with other non-dairy alternatives such as plant-based beverages, cheeses, yogurts and creamers. The aim of this study was to conduct a cross-sectional survey of plant-based frozen desserts to determine their nutritional content. A total of 358 plant-based frozen desserts were analyzed from the nutrition label listed on the commercial container. The various products were based upon coconut (n = 126), oat milk (n = 63), almonds (n = 42), cashews (n = 25), soy (n = 11), macadamia milk (n = 9), olive oil (n = 8), faba bean (n = 8), canola oil (n = 8), rice milk (n = 6), sunflower milk (n = 6), avocado (n = 5), pea protein (n = 5) and various fruits, nuts and mixed blends (n = 36). While 90% of the frozen desserts had high sugar levels, 73% had high levels of saturated fat (due to the presence of coconut oil) and only one in four had high levels of fat. None of the products were fortified with calcium, vitamin D or B12, but one in six products had iron levels/serving of at least 10% of Daily Value (DV) and 1 in 6 had protein levels/serving similar to regular dairy ice cream. Food manufacturers need to produce new non-dairy frozen desserts that are more nutritious, since few brands (such as those based upon avocado, apple and hemp protein, or fava bean) presently provide consumers choices with lower saturated fat and sugar levels and/or higher protein levels.

Asunto(s)

Calcio , Proteínas de Guisantes , Animales , Aceite de Coco , Estudios Transversales , Hierro , Leche , Aceite de Oliva , Aceite de Brassica napus , Azúcares , Vitamina D

RESUMEN

With the growing interest in non-dairy products, there has been a surge of interest in consumers seeking plant-based cheese alternatives spurred by a desire to improve individual health and achieve a more sustainable food supply. The aim of this study was to conduct a cross-sectional survey of non-dairy cheese alternatives available in the United States and to evaluate their nutritional content. A total of 245 non-dairy plant-based cheese alternatives were analyzed using their nutritional facts labels. The various cheese alternatives were based upon coconut oil (n = 106), cashews and coconut (n = 61), cashews (n = 35), oats (n = 16), almonds (n = 7), soy (n = 6), palm fruit oil (n = 5), and other blends (n = 9). Only 3% of these cheese alternatives had 5 g or more of protein, while 19%, 14%, and 1% were fortified with calcium, vitamin B12, and vitamin D, respectively. Almost 60% had high levels of saturated fat, while 15% had low sodium levels. The products based on cashews alone more commonly had the highest protein levels and the lowest sodium and saturated fat levels. Those containing coconut oil more commonly had higher saturated fat and sodium levels and were most frequently fortified with vitamin B12. Few of these products could be considered good dietary sources of either protein or calcium.

Asunto(s)

Queso , Calcio de la Dieta , Estudios Transversales , Dieta , Estados Unidos , Vitaminas

RESUMEN

PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to investigate the feasibility and effectiveness of a gender-specific intervention targeted to adolescent males to reduce sexual risks. METHOD: This study used a randomized clinical trial comparing a broad-based male empowerment curriculum with a no-treatment control group. The sample (N = 580) was recruited from schools and was implemented in community-based settings mostly in an after-school context. Assessments were conducted at baseline, postintervention, and 3 months follow-up time periods. RESULTS: There were significant differences between the two groups favoring the intervention group on several of the outcome indicators, including condom technical skills, attitudes toward women, social skills, peer assertiveness, and attitudes toward consent. Quality of implementation was rated high, and qualitative data suggest themes that reflect key lessons emphasized in the curriculum. CONCLUSIONS: Gender-specific programs for adolescent males can help reduce indicators that are related to sexual risk reduction. More long-term follow-up is needed to assess impact on sexual behaviors. Efforts directed at male populations should continue to be researched for potential in reducing sexual risks.

Asunto(s)

Conocimientos, Actitudes y Práctica en Salud , Conducta Sexual , Adolescente , Condones , Femenino , Humanos , Masculino , Asunción de Riesgos , Instituciones Académicas

RESUMEN

Plant-based diets, defined here as including both vegan and lacto-ovo-vegetarian diets, are growing in popularity throughout the Western world for various reasons, including concerns for human health and the health of the planet. Plant-based diets are more environmentally sustainable than meat-based diets and have a reduced environmental impact, including producing lower levels of greenhouse gas emissions. Dietary guidelines are normally formulated to enhance the health of society, reduce the risk of chronic diseases, and prevent nutritional deficiencies. We reviewed the scientific data on plant-based diets to summarize their preventative and therapeutic role in cardiovascular disease, cancer, diabetes, obesity, and osteoporosis. Consuming plant-based diets is safe and effective for all stages of the life cycle, from pregnancy and lactation, to childhood, to old age. Plant-based diets, which are high in fiber and polyphenolics, are also associated with a diverse gut microbiota, producing metabolites that have anti-inflammatory functions that may help manage disease processes. Concerns about the adequate intake of a number of nutrients, including vitamin B12, calcium, vitamin D, iron, zinc, and omega-3 fats, are discussed. The use of fortified foods and/or supplements as well as appropriate food choices are outlined for each nutrient. Finally, guidelines are suggested for health professionals working with clients consuming plant-based diets.

Asunto(s)

Enfermedad Crónica/prevención & control , Dieta Vegana/normas , Dieta Vegetariana/normas , Dietética/normas , Política Nutricional , Adolescente , Adulto , Anciano , Niño , Femenino , Humanos , Masculino , Persona de Mediana Edad , Guías de Práctica Clínica como Asunto , Embarazo , Adulto Joven

RESUMEN

Yogurt is considered a healthy, nutritious food in many cultures. With a significant number of people experiencing dairy intolerance, and support for a more sustainable diet, consumer demand for dairy alternatives has surged. The aim of this study was to conduct a cross-sectional survey of plant-based yogurt alternatives to assess their nutritional content and health profile. A total of 249 non-dairy yogurt alternatives were analyzed from the nutrition label listed on the commercial package. The various yogurt alternatives contained extracts of coconut (n = 79), almonds (n = 62), other nuts or seeds (n = 20), oats (n = 20), legumes (n = 16), and mixed blends (n = 52). At least one-third of the yogurt alternatives had 5 g or more of protein/serving. Only 45% of the yogurt alternatives had calcium levels fortified to at least 10% of daily value (DV), while only about one in five had adequate vitamin D and B12 fortification at the 10% DV level. One-half of the yogurt alternatives had high sugar levels, while 93% were low in sodium. Except for the coconut-based products, the yogurts were not high in fat or saturated fat. The yogurt alternatives were not fortified as frequently or to the same levels as the corresponding non-dairy, plant-based beverages.

Asunto(s)

Dieta Vegetariana/estadística & datos numéricos , Alimentos Fortificados/análisis , Valor Nutritivo , Yogur/análisis , Humanos , Estados Unidos

RESUMEN

We aimed to investigate the relationship between the pre-gestational consumption of ultra-processed foods (UPF) and the risk of gestational diabetes (GDM). We carried out a prospective study among 3730 Spanish women of the SUN cohort who reported at least one pregnancy after baseline recruitment. Cases of GDM were identified among women with a confirmed diagnosis of GDM. UPF consumption was assessed through a validated, semi-quantitative food frequency questionnaire and the frequency of UPF consumption was categorized in tertiles. We identified 186 cases of GDM. In the pooled sample, we did not observe a significant association of UPF with the risk of GDM. When we stratified by age, the multivariate OR for the third tertile of UPF consumption compared with the lowest one was 2.05 (95% CI 1.03, 4.07) in women aged ≥30 years at baseline (Ptrend = 0.041). The association remained significant in a sensitivity analysis after changing many of our assumptions and adjusting for additional confounders. No association between a higher UPF consumption and GDM risk was observed in women aged 18-29 years. The pre-gestational UPF consumption may be a risk factor for GDM, especially in women aged 30 years or more. Confirmatory studies are needed to validate these findings.

Asunto(s)

Diabetes Gestacional/epidemiología , Comida Rápida/efectos adversos , Adolescente , Adulto , Estudios de Cohortes , Femenino , Humanos , Incidencia , Embarazo , Estudios Prospectivos , Medición de Riesgo , Factores de Riesgo , Encuestas y Cuestionarios , Adulto Joven

RESUMEN

Concerns about environmental impact and sustainability, animal welfare, and personal health issues have fueled consumer demand for dairy alternatives. The aim of this study was to conduct a cross-sectional survey of plant-based non-dairy beverages from three different continents (USA, Australia, and Western Europe) to assess their nutritional content and health profile. A total of 148 non-dairy beverages were analyzed from the nutrition label and ingredients listed on the commercial package or from the information located on the website of the manufacturer or retailer. The different types of beverages were extracts of nuts or seeds (n = 49), grains (n = 38), legumes (n = 36), coconut (n = 10), and mixed blends (n = 15). On average, the plant-based beverages generally scored well in terms of not containing high levels of sodium, saturated fat, or calories. Over half of the beverages were fortified with calcium to levels equal to or greater than that of dairy milk. The protein content varied from 0 to 10 g/serving. Levels of vitamin D and B12 fortification were quite low. Consumers should be informed of the nutritional profile and potential health benefits of plant-based dairy alternatives as the nutritional content can vary greatly between the different types of beverages.

Asunto(s)

Dieta Vegetariana , Alimentos Fortificados/análisis , Sustitutos de la Leche/química , Extractos Vegetales/análisis , Australia , Calcio de la Dieta/análisis , Estudios Transversales , Europa (Continente) , Fabaceae , Humanos , Valor Nutritivo , Nueces , Semillas , Estados Unidos , Vitamina B 12/análisis , Vitamina D/análisis

RESUMEN

A growing number of people are seeking a non-dairy plant-based beverage both for their personal health, and for the health of the planet. The aim of this study was to conduct a cross-sectional survey of single-serve plant-based beverages to assess their nutritional content and health profile. A total of 51 non-dairy plant-based beverages were analyzed from the nutrition label listed on the commercial package. The various beverages contained extracts of soy (n = 14), almonds (n = 13), oats (n = 12), peas (n = 7), banana (n = 2), coconut (n = 2), and rice (n = 1). Almost one-half (45%) of the single-serve beverages had 5 g or more of protein/serving. A total of 75% and 65% of the single-serve beverages had calcium and vitamin B12 levels, respectively, fortified to at least 20% of the Daily Value (DV), while only 28% had vitamin D fortification at the 20% DV level. Two-thirds of the single-serve beverages had high sugar levels, while 39% were low in sodium, 63% were low in fat, and 96% were low in saturated fat. The single-serve plant-based beverages had more protein, calcium, vitamin B12, and sugar but less fat than the non-dairy, multi-serve plant-based beverages/ serving. A limited number of single-serve beverages met the requirements of school meal programs.

Asunto(s)

Bebidas/análisis , Análisis de los Alimentos , Sustitutos de la Leche/química , Nutrientes/análisis , Valor Nutritivo , Productos Vegetales/análisis , Calcio de la Dieta/análisis , Estudios Transversales , Proteínas en la Dieta/análisis , Etiquetado de Alimentos , Embalaje de Alimentos , Comidas , Ingesta Diaria Recomendada , Instituciones Académicas , Vitamina B 12/análisis , Vitamina D/análisis

RESUMEN

Current dietary patterns are negatively affecting both the environment and people's health. Healthy diets are generally more environmentally friendly. However, few studies have focused on the health consequences of diets with low environmental impact. We analyzed differences in the dietary composition (types of food, macro- and micro-nutrients) of those diets with high and low environmental impact, according to greenhouse gas emission and resources use (water, land and energy) using data from a Spanish cohort (17,387 participants), collected by means of a validated food frequency questionnaire. Cox analyses were used to assess the association of dietary environmental impact with total mortality risk. At a given level of energy intake, diets with lower environmental impact contained higher amounts of plant-based foods and lower levels of animal-derived products. Less polluting diets involved higher amounts of polyunsaturated fats and dietary fiber and lower amounts of saturated fats and sodium. However, diets associated with less environmental damage also contained more added sugars, but lower levels of vitamin B12, zinc and calcium. We did not detect any association between dietary environmental impact and risk of mortality. Diets should not only produce minimal environmental impact, but the maximum overall benefits for all key dimensions encompassed in sustainable diets.

Asunto(s)

Dieta Saludable/estadística & datos numéricos , Ambiente , Análisis de los Alimentos/estadística & datos numéricos , Gases de Efecto Invernadero/análisis , Valor Nutritivo , Adulto , Encuestas sobre Dietas , Dieta Saludable/mortalidad , Ingestión de Energía , Conducta Alimentaria , Femenino , Humanos , Masculino , Micronutrientes/análisis , Nutrientes/análisis , Modelos de Riesgos Proporcionales , España , Adulto Joven

RESUMEN

Home visitation research remains on the forefront as policy makers look to evidence for programs they believe are worthy of investment, particularly in terms of child abuse prevention. A randomized controlled trial (N = 245) of the Healthy Families Arizona home visitation program was conducted. Outcomes were assessed across several key domains related to child abuse and neglect: safety and resources, parenting attitudes and behaviors, health and maternal outcomes, and mental health and coping. Findings revealed significant differences between the groups at both 6-month and 1-year follow-up assessments on use of resources, mobilizing resources, home environment, subsequent pregnancy, positive affect, and problem solving favoring the Healthy Families group. A significant difference was also found between the groups on total violence measured at the 1-year follow-up favoring the Healthy Families group. A qualitative linguistic inquiry and word count analysis was conducted of parent's descriptions of their children and their parenting experiences. Results again revealed significant differences between the groups in narrative descriptions that favored the Healthy Families group. Implications of these findings are discussed in light of the existing evidence for home visitation programs.

Asunto(s)

Familia , Promoción de la Salud , Adaptación Psicológica , Arizona , Lista de Verificación , Maltrato a los Niños/prevención & control , Preescolar , Investigación Participativa Basada en la Comunidad , Práctica Clínica Basada en la Evidencia , Femenino , Estudios de Seguimiento , Visita Domiciliaria , Humanos , Masculino , Salud Mental , Responsabilidad Parental , Evaluación de Programas y Proyectos de Salud , Seguridad

RESUMEN

Nowadays, people consume high amount of packaged foods. The US Environmental Protection Agency encourages buying packaged products that have a reduced impact on the environment, however, the literature discussing the environmental impact of food packaging is scarce. Therefore, our goal was to perform an assessment of the greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions of the materials used for the packaging of foods, and to determine whether the size of the products, the main material used, and the commercial brand have any effect on this. We also studied the relative contribution of the packaging compared with the food production. Additionally, we checked the generalizability of our findings in relation to other environmental impacts. We performed life cycle analyses of the primary packaging materials used in six frequently consumed packaged breakfast products, produced in three different sizes, with three diverse packaging materials and by three brands. Data were reported per serving. For any food product, we observed a significant difference in GHG emissions per serving according to packaging size, packaging materials and commercial brand. The environmental impact of the packaging was constantly lower than that from the food production. The same trends could be observed for other environmental impacts. Altogether, when selecting sustainable packaged foods, food production is of primary importance, but one cannot underestimate the impact of different packaging sizes, materials and brands.

Asunto(s)

Ambiente , Embalaje de Alimentos , Monitoreo del Ambiente , Residuos

RESUMEN

Chia seeds (Salvia hispanica) provide an unusually high content of α-linolenic acid with several potential health benefits, but few studies have examined the long-term intake of n-3 fatty acid-rich plant foods such as chia. In this work, we investigated some of the effects of a diet containing 10% chia seeds versus a conventional isocaloric diet for 10 and 13 months on body measurements, musculoskeletal system, the liver, and the intestines of 20 male Sprague-Dawley rats assigned into two groups. The n-6/n-3 ratios for the control and chia diets were 7.46 and 1.07, respectively. For the first 10 months of the diet, the body parameters and weights were similar, but at 13 months, the bone mineral content (BMC) of the chia-fed rats was significantly higher than that of the controls whether in total or proximal areas of the left tibia. Also, significant positive correlations were found between the age of the chia group and the bone mineral density, BMC, weight of the musculoskeletal system, final body weight, and skin weight. Liver and intestinal examinations showed improved morphology associated with lower lipid deposit in hepatocytes and increased intestinal muscle layers and crypt size in the chia group. This study provides new data suggesting the potential benefits associated with the long-term intake of chia seeds.

Asunto(s)

Dieta , Ácidos Grasos Omega-3/uso terapéutico , Enfermedades Intestinales/prevención & control , Hepatopatías/prevención & control , Osteoporosis/prevención & control , Salvia , Semillas , Absorciometría de Fotón , Animales , Densidad Ósea , Desarrollo Óseo , Huesos/diagnóstico por imagen , Ácidos Grasos Omega-3/administración & dosificación , Ácidos Grasos Omega-3/análisis , Enfermedades Intestinales/patología , Mucosa Intestinal/citología , Mucosa Intestinal/crecimiento & desarrollo , Mucosa Intestinal/patología , Intestino Delgado/citología , Intestino Delgado/crecimiento & desarrollo , Intestino Delgado/patología , Hígado/citología , Hígado/crecimiento & desarrollo , Hígado/patología , Hepatopatías/patología , Masculino , Valor Nutritivo , Osteoporosis/diagnóstico por imagen , Distribución Aleatoria , Ratas Sprague-Dawley , Salvia/química , Semillas/química , Factores de Tiempo

RESUMEN

PURPOSE: Adolescent females continue to face health consequences associated with risky sexual behaviors such as unintended pregnancies and sexually transmitted diseases. The purpose of this study was to investigate the efficacy of a gender-specific intervention targeted to early adolescent females. METHOD: This study used an intent to treat randomized clinical trial comparing a broad-based female empowerment curriculum with a dose-matched science and technology female leadership curriculum. The sample ( N = 801) was recruited from schools and was implemented in community-based settings mostly in an after school context. Assessments were conducted at baseline, postintervention, 6-, and 18-month follow-up time periods. RESULTS: Both groups in the study obtained good implementation and engagement. The average attendance rate was 81% of program sessions. There were significant differences between the two groups favoring the intervention group on measures of sexually transmitted disease knowledge and condom technical skills. On a measure of condom self-efficacy, there was a significant trend. At the postassessment, there was a significant difference on the intentions to reduce sexual risk behaviors. Both the intervention and control groups made gains on the self-assertive behavior scale. CONCLUSIONS: Gender-specific programs for early adolescent females can help reduce indicators that are related to sexual risk reduction. More long-term follow-up is needed to assess impact on sexual behaviors. Efforts directed at a younger population of females should continue to be researched for potential in reducing sexual risks.

Asunto(s)

Poder Psicológico , Conducta de Reducción del Riesgo , Conducta Sexual , Adolescente , Salud del Adolescente , Niño , Femenino , Humanos , Evaluación de Resultado en la Atención de Salud , Factores de Riesgo

RESUMEN

PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to evaluate breastfeeding practices of teen mothers in a pre- and postnatal education and support program. STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS: We studied breastfeeding practices of primarily Hispanic and non-Hispanic White teen mothers who participated in the Teen Outreach Pregnancy Services (TOPS) program, which promoted breastfeeding through prenatal programming and postpartum support. Analyses identified the most common reasons participants had not breastfed and, for those who initiated breastfeeding, the most common reasons they stopped. RESULTS: Participants (g = 314) reported on whether and for how long they breastfed. Nearly all participants reported initiating breastfeeding but few breastfed to 6 months. For the most part, reasons they reported stopping breastfeeding paralleled those previously reported for adult mothers across the first several months of motherhood. CLINICAL IMPLICATIONS: We found that teen mothers can initiate breastfeeding at high rates. Results highlight areas in which teen mothers' knowledge and skills can be supported to promote breastfeeding duration, including pain management and better recognizing infant cues. Our findings expand limited previous research investigating reasons that teen mothers who initiate breastfeeding stop before 6 months.

Asunto(s)

Lactancia Materna/psicología , Madres/psicología , Adolescente , Lactancia Materna/métodos , Lactancia Materna/estadística & datos numéricos , Femenino , Hispánicos o Latinos/psicología , Hispánicos o Latinos/estadística & datos numéricos , Humanos , Recién Nacido , Madres/estadística & datos numéricos , Embarazo , Embarazo en Adolescencia/psicología , Embarazo en Adolescencia/estadística & datos numéricos , Evaluación de Programas y Proyectos de Salud/métodos , Apoyo Social , Sudoeste de Estados Unidos , Encuestas y Cuestionarios

RESUMEN

Global health agencies estimate an increase of chronic diseases in South America. Nevertheless, few studies have investigated chronic diseases and their risk factors in the perspective of multimorbidity. This research aimed to identify these aspects in a primary health care setting of central Argentina. The Pan America version of the STEP wise approach surveillance (STEPS) instrument of the World Health Organization was applied to 1044 participants, 365 men and 679 women, with a mean age of 43 years. High prevalence of overweight (33.5%), obesity (35.2%), central obesity (54%), dyslipidemia (43.5%), metabolic syndrome (21.1%), low intake of fruit and vegetables (91.8%), low levels of physical activity (71.5%), risky alcohol consumption (28%), and smoking (22.5%) were detected. Hypertension and diabetes were the most prevalent chronic conditions and the total prevalence of multimorbidity was 33.1%, with 2, 3, 4, 5 and 6 chronic conditions found in 19.9%, 9.1%, 2.6%, 1.1% and 0.4% of the population, respectively. Multimorbidity affected 6.4% of the young, 31.7% of the adults, and 60.6% of the elderly, and was more prevalent among women, and in participants with lower levels of education. Having multimorbidity was significantly associated with obesity, central obesity, and higher concentrations of total blood cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, triglycerides, and glucose. A website was made available to the participants in order to share the experimental results and health-promoting information.

Asunto(s)

Enfermedad Crónica/epidemiología , Atención Primaria de Salud/estadística & datos numéricos , Adolescente , Adulto , Anciano , Consumo de Bebidas Alcohólicas/epidemiología , Argentina/epidemiología , Colesterol/sangre , Comorbilidad , Estudios Transversales , Diabetes Mellitus/epidemiología , Dislipidemias/epidemiología , Ejercicio Físico , Femenino , Frutas , Humanos , Hipertensión/epidemiología , Internet , Estilo de Vida , Lipoproteínas LDL , Masculino , Síndrome Metabólico/epidemiología , Persona de Mediana Edad , Obesidad/epidemiología , Sobrepeso/epidemiología , Prevalencia , Factores de Riesgo , Fumar/epidemiología , Triglicéridos/sangre , Verduras , Adulto Joven

RESUMEN

It is the position of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics that appropriately planned vegetarian, including vegan, diets are healthful, nutritionally adequate, and may provide health benefits for the prevention and treatment of certain diseases. These diets are appropriate for all stages of the life cycle, including pregnancy, lactation, infancy, childhood, adolescence, older adulthood, and for athletes. Plant-based diets are more environmentally sustainable than diets rich in animal products because they use fewer natural resources and are associated with much less environmental damage. Vegetarians and vegans are at reduced risk of certain health conditions, including ischemic heart disease, type 2 diabetes, hypertension, certain types of cancer, and obesity. Low intake of saturated fat and high intakes of vegetables, fruits, whole grains, legumes, soy products, nuts, and seeds (all rich in fiber and phytochemicals) are characteristics of vegetarian and vegan diets that produce lower total and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels and better serum glucose control. These factors contribute to reduction of chronic disease. Vegans need reliable sources of vitamin B-12, such as fortified foods or supplements.

Asunto(s)

Dieta Vegetariana , Dietética , Sociedades Científicas , Diabetes Mellitus Tipo 2/prevención & control , Humanos , Hipertensión/prevención & control , Isquemia Miocárdica/prevención & control , Neoplasias/prevención & control , Necesidades Nutricionales , Obesidad/prevención & control

RESUMEN

Cancer is the second most important non-communicable disease worldwide and disproportionately impacts low- to middle-income countries. Diet in combination with other lifestyle habits seems to modify the risk for some cancers but little is known about South Americans. Food habits of Argentinean men pre- and post-diagnosis of prostate cancer (n = 326) were assessed along with other lifestyle factors. We studied whether any of the behaviors and risk factors for prostate cancer were found in men with other cancers (n = 394), compared with control subjects (n = 629). Before diagnosis, both cases reported a greater mean consumption of meats and fats and lower intakes of fruits, green vegetables, cruciferous vegetables, legumes, nuts, seeds, and whole grains than the controls (all p < 0.001). After diagnosis, cases significantly reduced the intake of meats and fats, and reported other dietary modifications with increased consumption of fish, fruits (including red fruits in prostate cancer), cruciferous vegetables, legumes, nuts, and black tea (all p < 0.001). Additional lifestyle aspects significantly predominant in cases included a reduced quality of sleep, emotional stress, low physical activity, tobacco smoking, alcohol consumption, living in rural areas, and being exposed to environmental contaminants. Argentinian men were predisposed to modify their unhealthy dietary habits and other lifestyle factors after cancer diagnosis.

Asunto(s)

Dieta/efectos adversos , Conducta Alimentaria , Conductas Relacionadas con la Salud , Conocimientos, Actitudes y Práctica en Salud , Estilo de Vida Saludable , Estilo de Vida , Motivación , Neoplasias de la Próstata/psicología , Conducta de Reducción del Riesgo , Anciano , Argentina/epidemiología , Estudios de Casos y Controles , Dieta Saludable , Humanos , Masculino , Persona de Mediana Edad , Neoplasias de la Próstata/diagnóstico , Neoplasias de la Próstata/epidemiología , Neoplasias de la Próstata/prevención & control , Medición de Riesgo , Factores de Riesgo

RESUMEN

Vegetarians who eat a varied and well balanced diet are not at any greater risk of iron deficiency anaemia than non-vegetarians. A diet rich in wholegrains, legumes, nuts, seeds, dried fruits, iron-fortified cereals and green leafy vegetables provides an adequate iron intake. Vitamin C and other organic acids enhance non-haem iron absorption, a process that is carefully regulated by the gut. People with low iron stores or higher physiological need for iron will tend to absorb more iron and excrete less. Research to date on iron absorption has not been designed to accurately measure absorption rates in typical Western vegetarians with low ferritin levels.

Asunto(s)

Dieta Vegetariana , Hierro de la Dieta , Humanos , Hierro de la Dieta/metabolismo , Necesidades Nutricionales