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Nutrients
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Evidence from Nutritional Epidemiology: Food Consumption, Environment and Human Health
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Evidence from Nutritional Epidemiology: Food Consumption, Environment and Human Health

A special issue of Nutrients (ISSN 2072-6643). This special issue belongs to the section "Nutritional Epidemiology".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: closed (20 March 2024) | Viewed by 8966

Special Issue Editors

Dr. Manuela Chiavarini

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
Department of Biomedical Sciences and Public Health, Section of Hygiene, Preventive Medicine and Public Health, Polytechnic University of the Marche Region, Ancona, Italy
Interests: heterocyclic amines (hcas); meat intake; colorectal cancer; colorectal adenomas; cancer prevention; dietary
Dr. Roberto Fabiani

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
Department of Chemistry, Biology and Biotechnology, University of Perugia, Via del Giochetto, 06126 Perugia, Italy
Interests: cancer chemoprevention; nutrition; olive oil; polyphenols; natural bioactive compounds; antioxidants; oxidative stress; genotoxicity; mutagenicity; apoptosis; cell cycle regulation
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

Nutritional epidemiology is the application of epidemiological methods to the study of how diet is related to health and disease in human populations. The dietary health burden is increasing, and the premature deaths related to dietary risks are not in line with global health goals. Dietary habits are changing worldwide due to aspects such as migration phenomena, the use of fortified foods and extreme diets (e.g., ketogenic, vegetarian). In addition to the increase of disease burden, some of these new dietary habits cause also an increment of the environmental impact. From the One Health perspective, it is important to consider the issue of co-benefits (synergies between health and environmental policies) at the center of prevention activities. Indeed, whereas meat consumption increases the risk of cardiovascular diseases and tumors, livestock farms have a large impact on both air pollution (production of greenhouse gases) and climate change. In fact, the main dietary patterns globally and in most individual regions are neither healthy nor sustainable. The foods associated with improved adult health also often have low environmental impacts, indicating that the same dietary transitions may lower incidences of non-communicable diseases and may also help to meet environmental sustainability targets. Accordingly, a healthy nutritional intervention improves both human health and environmental quality. In this Special Issue, we will try to answer this question: “How does food choice impact human health and the environment?” In the past, nutritional epidemiological findings guided dietary recommendations for the prevention of chronic diseases and cancers. Today, the role of nutritional epidemiology is directed to reduce diet-related deaths from non-communicable diseases, induce dietary changes towards healthy and sustainable diets, preserve human and planetary health, and identify dietary patterns meeting recommendations for healthy and sustainable diets.

This Special Issue will focus on how food choice impacts human health and the environment.

Particularly welcome will be high-quality evidence on the following: (i) the potential role of food and diet in human health or disease, (ii) the changing of food consumption and its impact in human and environmental health, and (iii) the interaction between food production systems and our diets as a crucial role in sustainability.

This Special Issue of Nutrients, entitled “Evidence from Nutritional Epidemiology: Food Consumption, Environment and Human Health”, welcomes original research papers and reviews of the literature concerning this important topic.

Dr. Manuela Chiavarini
Dr. Roberto Fabiani
Guest Editors

Manuscript Submission Information

Manuscripts should be submitted online at www.mdpi.com by registering and logging in to this website. Once you are registered, click here to go to the submission form. Manuscripts can be submitted until the deadline. All submissions that pass pre-check are peer-reviewed. Accepted papers will be published continuously in the journal (as soon as accepted) and will be listed together on the special issue website. Research articles, review articles as well as short communications are invited. For planned papers, a title and short abstract (about 100 words) can be sent to the Editorial Office for announcement on this website.

Submitted manuscripts should not have been published previously, nor be under consideration for publication elsewhere (except conference proceedings papers). All manuscripts are thoroughly refereed through a single-blind peer-review process. A guide for authors and other relevant information for submission of manuscripts is available on the Instructions for Authors page. Nutrients is an international peer-reviewed open access semimonthly journal published by MDPI.

Please visit the Instructions for Authors page before submitting a manuscript. The Article Processing Charge (APC) for publication in this open access journal is 2900 CHF (Swiss Francs). Submitted papers should be well formatted and use good English. Authors may use MDPI's English editing service prior to publication or during author revisions.

Keywords

  • health burden
  • fortified foods
  • extreme diets
  • air pollution
  • sustainable diets
  • environment
  • non-communicable diseases
  • nutritional epidemiology

Published Papers (6 papers)

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Research

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17 pages, 825 KiB  
Article
Exploring Lifestyle and Dietary Patterns in Pregnancy and Their Impact on Health: A Comparative Analysis of Two Distinct Groups 10 Years Apart
by Andreea-Maria Mitran, Andreea Gherasim, Otilia Niță, Laura Mihalache, Lidia Iuliana Arhire, Oana Cioancă, Dumitru Gafițanu and Alina Delia Popa
Nutrients 2024, 16(3), 377; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu16030377 - 27 Jan 2024
Viewed by 1538
Abstract
The significance of dietary patterns during pregnancy is highlighted by accumulating evidence, emphasizing their pivotal role in promoting a healthy pregnancy for both the mother and the child. This study aimed to assess the current dietary patterns of pregnant women, compare the energy [...] Read more.
The significance of dietary patterns during pregnancy is highlighted by accumulating evidence, emphasizing their pivotal role in promoting a healthy pregnancy for both the mother and the child. This study aimed to assess the current dietary patterns of pregnant women, compare the energy and nutrient intake of two distinct groups with a 10-year interval, and identify changes in dietary patterns. EPIC FFQ was applied, and its data were interpreted with the FETA program version 6 (CAMB/PQ/6/1205). By means of principal component analysis, three different food patterns were identified in each study group: vegetarian, balanced, and traditional (2013); and prudent, vegetarian, and modern (2023). Analyzing the relationship between food groups and gestational weight, we found that gestational weight gain in 2013 was positively correlated with eggs and egg dishes and milk and milk products, whereas in 2023, gestational weight gain was positively correlated with fats and oils, non-alcoholic beverages, and the modern pattern. Additionally, in 2023, pre-gestational BMI correlated positively with eggs and egg dishes. The balanced pattern emerged as a predictor for a lower likelihood of inadequate gestational weight gain in both groups. Furthermore, normal and overweight pregnant women showed a reduced likelihood of excessive gestational weight gain. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Evidence from Nutritional Epidemiology: Food Consumption, Environment and Human Health)
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22 pages, 619 KiB  
Article
Usual Nutrient Intake Distribution and Prevalence of Nutrient Intake Inadequacy among Japanese Children and Adults: A Nationwide Study Based on 8-Day Dietary Records
by Nana Shinozaki, Kentaro Murakami, Shizuko Masayasu and Satoshi Sasaki
Nutrients 2023, 15(24), 5113; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu15245113 - 14 Dec 2023
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2211
Abstract
In this cross-sectional study, we evaluated nutrient intake adequacy in 4450 Japanese people aged 1–79 years. Dietary data was collected through non-consecutive 8-day weighed dietary records. Usual nutrient intakes from foods and beverages were estimated using the Multiple Source Method. Participant proportions with [...] Read more.
In this cross-sectional study, we evaluated nutrient intake adequacy in 4450 Japanese people aged 1–79 years. Dietary data was collected through non-consecutive 8-day weighed dietary records. Usual nutrient intakes from foods and beverages were estimated using the Multiple Source Method. Participant proportions with intakes below and above the Japanese Dietary Reference Intakes (2020) were calculated. Usual intakes of most nutrients were below the Estimated Average Requirement; calcium showed a high percentage of inadequacy across all sex and age groups (29–88%), and iron showed a high inadequacy among females aged 12–64 years (79–95%). The percentages of energy from protein and carbohydrates, dietary fibre, and potassium were typically below the lower limit of the Tentative Dietary Goal for Preventing Lifestyle-related Diseases (DG). Furthermore, over 20% of the participants exceeded the upper limit of the DG for the percentages of energy from total and saturated fats, and over 88% exceeded the upper limit of the DG for sodium. Japanese children and adults could improve their nutrient intake by increasing calcium, iron, dietary fibre, and potassium and reducing total and saturated fats and sodium. These findings can inform policies and interventions to improve nutrient intake in Japan. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Evidence from Nutritional Epidemiology: Food Consumption, Environment and Human Health)
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13 pages, 356 KiB  
Article
Proposition of an Energy Intake Estimating Scale through Item Response Theory
by Victor Nogueira da Cruz Silveira, Ana Karina Teixeira da Cunha França, Cleber Lopes Campelo, Patrícia Maria Abreu Machado and Alcione Miranda dos Santos
Nutrients 2023, 15(21), 4511; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu15214511 - 24 Oct 2023
Viewed by 837
Abstract
Background: Traditional methods for assessing individual energy consumption often involve lengthy and intricate procedures. This study aims to introduce an Energy Consumption Estimation Scale, utilizing Item Response Theory (IRT) for adolescents aged 18–19 years. Methods: This psychometric investigation applies IRT to 93 items [...] Read more.
Background: Traditional methods for assessing individual energy consumption often involve lengthy and intricate procedures. This study aims to introduce an Energy Consumption Estimation Scale, utilizing Item Response Theory (IRT) for adolescents aged 18–19 years. Methods: This psychometric investigation applies IRT to 93 items extracted from a validated food frequency questionnaire. The study encompasses a representative sample of 2515 adolescents from the São Luís birth cohort in Brazil. The latent trait, energy intake, is derived using IRT and subsequently validated through hierarchical multiple linear regression modeling. Significance was established at p < 0.05. Results: A Samejima’s model was successfully fitted (CFI and TLI > 0.9 and RMSEA < 0.08), effectively capturing variations across all energy consumption levels. Factors associated with the latent trait demonstrate consistent behavioral patterns. Adolescents with higher energy intake exhibited increased consumption of dairy products, artificially sweetened beverages, and seasonal fruits and vegetables. Conclusions: The proposed Energy Consumption Estimation Scale demonstrates a reliable measurement of energy intake and serves as a practical and concise alternative for assessing energy consumption among adolescents. These findings suggest the potential for adapting similar models for different age groups and incorporating diverse food items based on the obtained results. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Evidence from Nutritional Epidemiology: Food Consumption, Environment and Human Health)
17 pages, 307 KiB  
Article
Level of Fruit and Vegetable Intake and Its Relationship with Risk for Malnutrition in China’s Adult Labor Force: China Nutrition and Health Surveillance, 2015–2017
by Qiya Guo, Hongyun Fang, Liyun Zhao, Lahong Ju, Xiaoli Xu and Dongmei Yu
Nutrients 2023, 15(6), 1431; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu15061431 - 16 Mar 2023
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1717
Abstract
The purpose of this study was to analyze the fruit and vegetable intake status and examine both potential risk and protective action factors in the Chinese labor force population, while investigating the association between fruit and vegetable intake and malnutrition in this population. [...] Read more.
The purpose of this study was to analyze the fruit and vegetable intake status and examine both potential risk and protective action factors in the Chinese labor force population, while investigating the association between fruit and vegetable intake and malnutrition in this population. Data were derived from a population-based cross-sectional survey, the China Nutrition and Health Surveillance, 2015–2017. Sociodemographic information, physical measurements, and dietary intake data were collected. A total of 45,459 survey respondents aged 18–64 years old were included in the analysis. Fruit and vegetable consumption data were assessed by a food frequency questionnaire (FFQ), and the average daily intake was calculated. In 2015, the daily intake of fresh fruits, fresh vegetables, and combined fruits and vegetables among the Chinese labor force was 64.3 g, 210.0 g, and 330.0 g (median), respectively. Compared with the Dietary Guidelines for Chinese Residents (2022), 79.9% and 53.0% were at risk of inadequate fruit and vegetable intake, while 55.2% were at risk of inadequate intake of combined fruits and vegetables compared with the WHO recommendation. Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that female gender, higher educational level, and higher income were protective factors for adequate fruit intake, while increasing age and living in the southern region were protective factors for adequate vegetable intake. The results confirmed that increasing vegetable intake helped urban labor force maintain normal BMI and control overweight. Increased fruit consumption may reduce the risk of underweight, but no clear negative association with overweight and obesity was observed. In conclusion, the consumption of fresh fruits and vegetables by the Chinese labor force was inadequate, especially for fruits. Interventions are needed to promote the daily intake of fruits and vegetables in this population. In addition, further in-depth studies in this area are recommended in populations with different health status. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Evidence from Nutritional Epidemiology: Food Consumption, Environment and Human Health)

Review

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19 pages, 1902 KiB  
Review
Adherence to Data-Driven Dietary Patterns and Lung Cancer Risk: A Systematic Review and Dose–Response Meta-Analysis
by Roberto Fabiani, Gianandrea La Porta, Laura Li Cavoli, Patrizia Rosignoli and Manuela Chiavarini
Nutrients 2023, 15(20), 4406; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu15204406 - 17 Oct 2023
Viewed by 1379
Abstract
The effect of dietary patterns on lung cancer risk is currently debated. In this study, we evaluated the association between different “a posteriori” dietary patterns and lung cancer risk. The search was carried out (February 2023) through Scopus, Web of Science, and PubMed [...] Read more.
The effect of dietary patterns on lung cancer risk is currently debated. In this study, we evaluated the association between different “a posteriori” dietary patterns and lung cancer risk. The search was carried out (February 2023) through Scopus, Web of Science, and PubMed databases. Meta-analysis was performed by a random-effects model using risk values (RR and OR) extracted from the 12 selected studies. Two main dietary patterns were identified and named “Western/meat” and “Healthy/prudent”. The highest adherence to the “Western/meat” dietary pattern significantly increased the lung cancer risk (OR = 1.39; 95% CI: 1.17–1.65; p = 0.0002) while the highest adherence to the “Healthy/prudent” pattern reduced it (OR = 0.65; 95% CI: 0.51–0.83; p = 0.001). A linear trend between both dietary patterns and lung cancer risk was observed. However, a statistically significant inverse dose–response trend was found only for the “Healthy/prudent” dietary pattern (regression coefficient = −0.0031, p = 0.003). Subgroup analyses showed that the “Western/meat” pattern significantly increased the lung cancer risk in former (n = 4) (OR = 1.93, 95% CI: 1.11–3.36) and current smokers (n = 7) (OR = 1.35, 95% CI: 1.06–1.71). Similarly, the “Healthy/prudent” pattern exerts a protective effect on former (n = 4) (OR = 0.61, 95% CI: 0.44–0.85) and current smokers (n = 8) (OR = 0.64, 95% CI: 0.46–0.88). For both dietary patterns, no significant effect was observed on never-smokers. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Evidence from Nutritional Epidemiology: Food Consumption, Environment and Human Health)
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Other

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29 pages, 1288 KiB  
Systematic Review
Malnutrition-Related Health Outcomes in Older Adults with Hip Fractures: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
by Manuela Chiavarini, Giorgia Maria Ricciotti, Anita Genga, Maria Ilaria Faggi, Alessia Rinaldi, Oriana Dunia Toscano, Marcello Mario D’Errico and Pamela Barbadoro
Nutrients 2024, 16(7), 1069; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu16071069 - 05 Apr 2024
Viewed by 603
Abstract
Hip fracture is a common condition in older adults, leading to disability and mortality. Several studies have demonstrated the association between nutritional status and the risk of a negative health outcome after fractures. In this systematic review, we evaluated the association between malnutrition [...] Read more.
Hip fracture is a common condition in older adults, leading to disability and mortality. Several studies have demonstrated the association between nutritional status and the risk of a negative health outcome after fractures. In this systematic review, we evaluated the association between malnutrition and mortality, changes in mobility/living arrangements, and postoperative complications, such as delirium, in older patients with hip fractures. A literature search on the PubMed, Web of Science, and Scopus databases, up to September 2023, was conducted to identify all studies involving older subjects that reported an association between MNA/GNRI/PNI/CONUT and health outcome after hip fracture. Meta-analysis was performed by a random-effects model using risk values (RR, OR, and HR) extracted from the 14 eligible selected studies. Malnutrition significantly increased the risk of any analyzed adverse outcome by 70% at 1 month, and up to 250% at 1 year. Malnutrition significantly increased delirium risk by 275% (OR = 2.75; 95% CI 1.80–4.18; p ≤ 0.05), mortality risk by 342% (OR = 3.42; 95% CI 2.14–5.48; p ≤ 0.05), mortality hazard risk by 351% (HR = 3.51; 95% CI 1.63–7.55; p ≤ 0.05) at 1 month, and transfer-to-more-supported-living-arrangements risk by 218% (OR = 2.18; 95% CI 1.58–3.01; p ≤ 0.05), and declined mobility risk by 41% (OR = 1.41; 95% CI 1.14–1.75; p ≤ 0.05), mortality risk by 368% (OR = 3.68; 95% CI 3.00–4.52; p ≤ 0.05), and mortality hazard risk by 234% (HR = 2.34; 95% CI 1.91–2.87; p ≤ 0.05) at 1 year. Malnutrition of older patients increases the risk of death and worsens mobility and independence after hip fractures. The results of the present study highlight the importance of nutritional status evaluation of older subjects with hip fractures in order to prevent potential adverse outcomes (Registration No: CRD42023468751). Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Evidence from Nutritional Epidemiology: Food Consumption, Environment and Human Health)
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