MJN 2011 Issues
Malaysian Journal of Nutrition
Volume 17 No.1, 2011
Table of Content
Development, Validity and Reproducibility of a Food Frequency Questionnaire in Pregnancy for the Universiti Sains Malaysia Birth Cohort Study
Loy SL, Marhazlina M, Nor Azwany Y & Hamid Jan JM
ABSTRACT
Introduction: This study aimed to develop and examine the validity and reproducibility of a semi-quantitative food frequency questionnaire (FFQ) among Malay pregnant women in Kelantan, Malaysia.
Methods: A total of 177 Malay pregnant women participated in the validation study while 85 of them participated in the reproducibility study which was carried out in the antenatal clinic of Universiti Sains Malaysia Hospital. The newly developed FFQ was validated against two 24-hour dietary recalls (DR). The FFQ was repeated 20 to 28 days apart.
Results: Results showed that the FFQ moderately over estimated the nutrient and food intakes compared to the DR. Spearman correlation coefficients for nutrients ranged from 0.24 (fat) to 0.61 (calcium) and for foods, ranged from 0.13 (organ meats, onion and garlic) to 0.57 (malt drink). For nutrients, 72 to 85% of women were classified into the correct quartiles from the FFQ and the DR while for foods, 67 to 85% of women were classified correctly. Bland-Altman plot showed relatively good agreement between these two dietary methods. The intra-class correlation (ICC) was used to estimate reproducibility. It ranged from 0.75 (vitamin C) to 0.94 (phosphorus) for nutrients while it ranged from 0.73 (confectionary) to 0.96 (coffee) for foods.
Conclusion: On average, at least 90% of pregnant women were correctly classified into the quartiles for nutrients and foods from the two sets of the FFQ. The FFQ presented acceptable reproducibility and appears to be a valid tool for categorising pregnant women according to dietary intake.
Key words: Assessment of nutritional status, diet, food frequency questionnaire, maternal nutrition.
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Introduction: This study aimed to develop and examine the validity and reproducibility of a semi-quantitative food frequency questionnaire (FFQ) among Malay pregnant women in Kelantan, Malaysia.
Methods: A total of 177 Malay pregnant women participated in the validation study while 85 of them participated in the reproducibility study which was carried out in the antenatal clinic of Universiti Sains Malaysia Hospital. The newly developed FFQ was validated against two 24-hour dietary recalls (DR). The FFQ was repeated 20 to 28 days apart.
Results: Results showed that the FFQ moderately over estimated the nutrient and food intakes compared to the DR. Spearman correlation coefficients for nutrients ranged from 0.24 (fat) to 0.61 (calcium) and for foods, ranged from 0.13 (organ meats, onion and garlic) to 0.57 (malt drink). For nutrients, 72 to 85% of women were classified into the correct quartiles from the FFQ and the DR while for foods, 67 to 85% of women were classified correctly. Bland-Altman plot showed relatively good agreement between these two dietary methods. The intra-class correlation (ICC) was used to estimate reproducibility. It ranged from 0.75 (vitamin C) to 0.94 (phosphorus) for nutrients while it ranged from 0.73 (confectionary) to 0.96 (coffee) for foods.
Conclusion: On average, at least 90% of pregnant women were correctly classified into the quartiles for nutrients and foods from the two sets of the FFQ. The FFQ presented acceptable reproducibility and appears to be a valid tool for categorising pregnant women according to dietary intake.
Key words: Assessment of nutritional status, diet, food frequency questionnaire, maternal nutrition.
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Nutritional Status of Children Living with HIV and Receiving Antiretroviral (ARV) Medication in the Klang Valley, Malaysia
Mohd. Nasir MT, Yeo J, Huang MSL, Kamarul Azahar MR, Koh MT & Khor GL
ABSTRACT
Introduction: Nutrition and HIV are closely related. Any immune impairment as a result of HIV leads to malnutrition, which in turn, can also lead to reduced immunity, thus contributing to a more rapid progression to AIDS.
Methods: This cross-sectional study determined the nutritional status of children living with HIV and are receiving antiretroviral medication in the Klang Valley. A total of 95 children aged one to eighteen years old were recruited between September 2008 and February 2009. Data collected included socio-economic status, anthropometric measurements, dietary intake, medical history and serum levels of selected micronutrients specific for immunity.
Results: The mean age of the children was 8.4±3.9 years and the mean duration on antiretroviral medications was 68.3±38.3 months. Anthropometric assessment found that 9.5% of the children were underweight and 31.6% were overweight. In contrast, 20.8% were stunted and 14.6% severely stunted. Biochemical indicators showed that 10.4% had deficiency in vitamin A while 12.5% had deficiency in selenium. Total cholesterol and HDL-C levels were found to be low in 30.5% and 10.5% of the children respectively.
Conclusion: Dietary assessment showed almost all the children did not achieve the recommended energy intake for their age groups and almost half of the children did not achieve the RNI for selenium and vitamin A. This study provides an insight on the nutritional status of children living with HIV.
Key words: Antiretroviral (ARV), Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV), lipid profile, micronutrients, nutritional status
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Introduction: Nutrition and HIV are closely related. Any immune impairment as a result of HIV leads to malnutrition, which in turn, can also lead to reduced immunity, thus contributing to a more rapid progression to AIDS.
Methods: This cross-sectional study determined the nutritional status of children living with HIV and are receiving antiretroviral medication in the Klang Valley. A total of 95 children aged one to eighteen years old were recruited between September 2008 and February 2009. Data collected included socio-economic status, anthropometric measurements, dietary intake, medical history and serum levels of selected micronutrients specific for immunity.
Results: The mean age of the children was 8.4±3.9 years and the mean duration on antiretroviral medications was 68.3±38.3 months. Anthropometric assessment found that 9.5% of the children were underweight and 31.6% were overweight. In contrast, 20.8% were stunted and 14.6% severely stunted. Biochemical indicators showed that 10.4% had deficiency in vitamin A while 12.5% had deficiency in selenium. Total cholesterol and HDL-C levels were found to be low in 30.5% and 10.5% of the children respectively.
Conclusion: Dietary assessment showed almost all the children did not achieve the recommended energy intake for their age groups and almost half of the children did not achieve the RNI for selenium and vitamin A. This study provides an insight on the nutritional status of children living with HIV.
Key words: Antiretroviral (ARV), Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV), lipid profile, micronutrients, nutritional status
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Food Preferences and Dietary Intakes of Filipino Adolescents in Metro Manila, The Philippines
Magbuhat, Rizza Marie T, Borazon, Elaine Q & Villarino, Blanca J
ABSTRACT
Introduction: This study examined differences in food preferences and dietary intake among male and female Filipino adolescents of different nutritional status as measured by body mass index (BMI).
Methods: One hundred and twenty 13-17-year olds from various schools and communities in Metro Manila, The Philippines were selected through quota sampling with BMI, sex and age as criteria. Data on mean dietary intake and food preference were collected using pretested instruments - a 3-day food record and a food preference questionnaire, respectively. Resulting values were analysed using one-way ANOVA, Bonferroni test and Pearson’s product-moment and Spearman’s correlation using SAS Enterprise Guide versio n 2.
Results: Preference for cereals prepared with added sugar or fat (ρ=0.21, p= .0240), and low fat meat (ρ=0.18, p=0.420) were found to be positively correlated with BMI, while preference for fruits that are high in vitamin A (ρ= -0.18, p=0.430) was negatively correlated with the said variable. Overweight respondents gave lower and significantly different preference scores to donut (p=.02780), banana cue (p=.0489) and mayonnaise (p=.0291). Respondents of different nutritional status also had statistically different intakes of fibre, calcium and phosphorus, corresponding with the positive correlation of fibre (ρ=0.25231, p=0.0054), calcium (ρ=0.2529, p=0.0134) and phosphorus (ρ=0.25887,p=0.0043) intake with BMI. With respect to sex, male respondents gave statistically higher preference for French fries (p=.0370), tofu (p=.0005), garlic (p=.0190) and mussels (p=.0023). Also, males have significantly higher intakes of energy and carbohydrate than female respondents.
Conclusion: Results suggest that food preferences should be considered in the nutritional care management of malnourished adolescents.
Key words: Adolescents, dietary intake, food preferences, The Philippines
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Introduction: This study examined differences in food preferences and dietary intake among male and female Filipino adolescents of different nutritional status as measured by body mass index (BMI).
Methods: One hundred and twenty 13-17-year olds from various schools and communities in Metro Manila, The Philippines were selected through quota sampling with BMI, sex and age as criteria. Data on mean dietary intake and food preference were collected using pretested instruments - a 3-day food record and a food preference questionnaire, respectively. Resulting values were analysed using one-way ANOVA, Bonferroni test and Pearson’s product-moment and Spearman’s correlation using SAS Enterprise Guide versio n 2.
Results: Preference for cereals prepared with added sugar or fat (ρ=0.21, p= .0240), and low fat meat (ρ=0.18, p=0.420) were found to be positively correlated with BMI, while preference for fruits that are high in vitamin A (ρ= -0.18, p=0.430) was negatively correlated with the said variable. Overweight respondents gave lower and significantly different preference scores to donut (p=.02780), banana cue (p=.0489) and mayonnaise (p=.0291). Respondents of different nutritional status also had statistically different intakes of fibre, calcium and phosphorus, corresponding with the positive correlation of fibre (ρ=0.25231, p=0.0054), calcium (ρ=0.2529, p=0.0134) and phosphorus (ρ=0.25887,p=0.0043) intake with BMI. With respect to sex, male respondents gave statistically higher preference for French fries (p=.0370), tofu (p=.0005), garlic (p=.0190) and mussels (p=.0023). Also, males have significantly higher intakes of energy and carbohydrate than female respondents.
Conclusion: Results suggest that food preferences should be considered in the nutritional care management of malnourished adolescents.
Key words: Adolescents, dietary intake, food preferences, The Philippines
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Assessing the Resting Energy Expenditure of Cancer Patients in the Penang General Hospital
Khor SM & Mohd Baidi B
ABSTRACT
Introduction: Malnutrition is common in cancer patients. Generally, it is believed that the resting energy expenditure (REE) is elevated in cancer patients and this contributes to the development of malnutrition. Thus, to be able to assess the REE is important in planning adequate nutrition support.
Methods: A cross-sectional study was carried out to assess the REE in patients with solid tumour (n=25), leukemia (n=25) and healthy subjects (n=50) by using the indirect calorimetry method under standard conditions.
Results: There was no significant difference between the measured REE among patients with solid tumour, leukemia and the control group (p=0.534). By contrast, there was a significant difference between the REE/kg FFM in solid tumour patients compared to the leukemia group and the healthy subjects, (p=0.049 and p=0.002). The REE derived from the Harris Benedict Equation was found to be significantly higher than the measured REE. The stress factor for patients with solid tumour was 1.35 and that for leukemia patients was 1.36.
Conclusion: The REE/kg FFM in the cancer patients undergoing anticancer therapy appeared to be higher than expected compared to healthy subjects. The Harris Benedict Equation (HBE) was found to over-estimate the REE of cancer patients in the study. As the total energy expenditure (TEE) is estimated by multiplying the REE with the stress factor and physical activity factor, the overestimated REE from HBE will further increase the risk of overfeeding in this population.
Key words: Cancer patients, resting energy expenditure
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Introduction: Malnutrition is common in cancer patients. Generally, it is believed that the resting energy expenditure (REE) is elevated in cancer patients and this contributes to the development of malnutrition. Thus, to be able to assess the REE is important in planning adequate nutrition support.
Methods: A cross-sectional study was carried out to assess the REE in patients with solid tumour (n=25), leukemia (n=25) and healthy subjects (n=50) by using the indirect calorimetry method under standard conditions.
Results: There was no significant difference between the measured REE among patients with solid tumour, leukemia and the control group (p=0.534). By contrast, there was a significant difference between the REE/kg FFM in solid tumour patients compared to the leukemia group and the healthy subjects, (p=0.049 and p=0.002). The REE derived from the Harris Benedict Equation was found to be significantly higher than the measured REE. The stress factor for patients with solid tumour was 1.35 and that for leukemia patients was 1.36.
Conclusion: The REE/kg FFM in the cancer patients undergoing anticancer therapy appeared to be higher than expected compared to healthy subjects. The Harris Benedict Equation (HBE) was found to over-estimate the REE of cancer patients in the study. As the total energy expenditure (TEE) is estimated by multiplying the REE with the stress factor and physical activity factor, the overestimated REE from HBE will further increase the risk of overfeeding in this population.
Key words: Cancer patients, resting energy expenditure
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Body Weight Satisfaction: Association with Weight Control Practices among Type 2 Diabetic Patients
Noor Salihah Z, Lua PL & Nik Mazlan M
ABSTRACT
Introduction: The recommendation to lose weight has been the guiding principle in the treatment of type 2 diabetic patients. However, to facilitate this process, it is vital to understand factors associated with personal feelings about body weight and related behaviour.
Methods: The objectives of this cross-sectional study were (1) to determine mean BMI and weight of satisfaction and (2) to measure the association between body weight satisfaction vs. sex, BMI, glycaemic control (as measured by Fasting Blood Glucose (FBG), and attempts to lose weight among type 2 diabetic patients. Descriptive statistics and non-parametric tests were employed (SPSS 16). A total of 67 subjects were recruited from Klinik Kesihatan Bandar Kuantan (age = 54.1 ± 8.1 years; female = 62.7%; Malay = 73.1%; overweight/obese = 62.7%) who completed a set of self-administered questionnaires.
Results: The mean BMI and weight of satisfaction were 27.9 ± 5.3 kg/m2 and 62.7 ± 10.9kg respectively. A greater proportion of women (65.0%) reported dissatisfaction with their body weight. Patients with higher BMI generally reported greater dissatisfaction with body weight compared to those with lesser BMI (p = 0.090). There was no significant difference in the glycaemic control of patients who were satisfied or dissatisfied with their weight (p=0.839). There was also no significant association between body weight satisfaction and diet (p = 0.957), physical activity (p = 0.517) or both (p = 0.734).
Conclusion: This study implies that body weight satisfaction alone is not a strong factor that may drive type 2 diabetic patients to control their body weight.
Key words: Body weight satisfaction, type 2 diabetics, weight control practices
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Introduction: The recommendation to lose weight has been the guiding principle in the treatment of type 2 diabetic patients. However, to facilitate this process, it is vital to understand factors associated with personal feelings about body weight and related behaviour.
Methods: The objectives of this cross-sectional study were (1) to determine mean BMI and weight of satisfaction and (2) to measure the association between body weight satisfaction vs. sex, BMI, glycaemic control (as measured by Fasting Blood Glucose (FBG), and attempts to lose weight among type 2 diabetic patients. Descriptive statistics and non-parametric tests were employed (SPSS 16). A total of 67 subjects were recruited from Klinik Kesihatan Bandar Kuantan (age = 54.1 ± 8.1 years; female = 62.7%; Malay = 73.1%; overweight/obese = 62.7%) who completed a set of self-administered questionnaires.
Results: The mean BMI and weight of satisfaction were 27.9 ± 5.3 kg/m2 and 62.7 ± 10.9kg respectively. A greater proportion of women (65.0%) reported dissatisfaction with their body weight. Patients with higher BMI generally reported greater dissatisfaction with body weight compared to those with lesser BMI (p = 0.090). There was no significant difference in the glycaemic control of patients who were satisfied or dissatisfied with their weight (p=0.839). There was also no significant association between body weight satisfaction and diet (p = 0.957), physical activity (p = 0.517) or both (p = 0.734).
Conclusion: This study implies that body weight satisfaction alone is not a strong factor that may drive type 2 diabetic patients to control their body weight.
Key words: Body weight satisfaction, type 2 diabetics, weight control practices
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Gender Differences in Body Mass Index, Body Weight Perception and Weight Loss Strategies among Undergraduates in Universiti Malaysia Sarawak
Kuan PX, Ho HL, Shuhaili MS, Siti AA & Gudum HR
ABSTRACT
Introduction: This study was carried out among undergraduate students in Universiti Malaysia Sarawak with the objective of examining gender differences in body mass index (BMI), body weight perception, eating attitudes and weight- loss strategies.
Methods: Subjects consisted of 600 undergraduates (300 males and 300 females) recruited from the various faculties between September 2008 until mid-November 2008. The Original Figure Rating Scale: Body Weight Perception, Body Shape Questionnaire (BSQ) and Eating Attitudes Test-26 (EAT-26) were used as assessment tools.
Results: Overall, 52.8% of students had normal BMI, with approximately an equal number of both sexes. More males than females were overweight (33.7%), while more females were underweight (25.3%). Males were more likely to perceive themselves as overweight, and fail to see themselves as underweight. More than half of the females preferred their ideal figure to be underweight, whereas about 30% males chose an overweight figure as their ideal model. Females were generally more concerned about body weight, body shape and eating than males. They diet more frequently, had self-induced vomiting, and used laxatives and exercise as their weight-loss strategies.
Conclusion: Issues pertaining to body weight perception, eating attitudes and weight-loss strategies exist with differences among male and female undergraduates. Thus, in order to correct misperceptions among young adults, a more tailored intervention programme and more in-depth studies into the various factors involved are required.
Key words: BMI, body weight perception, eating attitudes, gender differences, weight loss strategies
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Introduction: This study was carried out among undergraduate students in Universiti Malaysia Sarawak with the objective of examining gender differences in body mass index (BMI), body weight perception, eating attitudes and weight- loss strategies.
Methods: Subjects consisted of 600 undergraduates (300 males and 300 females) recruited from the various faculties between September 2008 until mid-November 2008. The Original Figure Rating Scale: Body Weight Perception, Body Shape Questionnaire (BSQ) and Eating Attitudes Test-26 (EAT-26) were used as assessment tools.
Results: Overall, 52.8% of students had normal BMI, with approximately an equal number of both sexes. More males than females were overweight (33.7%), while more females were underweight (25.3%). Males were more likely to perceive themselves as overweight, and fail to see themselves as underweight. More than half of the females preferred their ideal figure to be underweight, whereas about 30% males chose an overweight figure as their ideal model. Females were generally more concerned about body weight, body shape and eating than males. They diet more frequently, had self-induced vomiting, and used laxatives and exercise as their weight-loss strategies.
Conclusion: Issues pertaining to body weight perception, eating attitudes and weight-loss strategies exist with differences among male and female undergraduates. Thus, in order to correct misperceptions among young adults, a more tailored intervention programme and more in-depth studies into the various factors involved are required.
Key words: BMI, body weight perception, eating attitudes, gender differences, weight loss strategies
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In vitro Inhibitory Potential of Selected Malaysian Plants Against Key Enzymes Involved in Hyperglycemia and Hypertension
Loh SP & Hadira O
ABSTRACT
Introduction: This study was conducted to determine the inhibitory potential of selected Malaysian plants against key enzymes related to type 2 diabetes and hypertension.
Methods: The samples investigated were pucuk ubi (Manihot esculenta), pucuk betik (Carica papaya), ulam raja (Cosmos caudatus), pegaga (Centella asiatica) and kacang botol (Psophocarpus tetragonolobus). The inhibitory potential of hexane and dichloromethane extracts against the enzymes were determined by using α-amylase, α-glucosidase and angiotensin I-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibition assay.
Results: In α-amylase inhibition assay, the inhibitory potential was highest in pucuk ubi for both hexane (59.22%) and dichloromethane extract (54.15%). Hexane extract of pucuk ubi (95.01%) and dichloromethane extract of kacang botol (38.94%) showed the highest inhibitory potential against α-glucosidase,while in ACE inhibition assay, the inhibitory potential was highest in hexane extract of pegaga (48.45%) and dichloromethane extract of pucuk betik (59.77%).
Conclusion: This study suggests a nutraceutical potential of some of these plants for hyperglycemia and hypertension prevention associated with type 2 diabetes.
Key words: Carica papaya, Centella asiatica, Cosmos caudatus, Manihot esculenta, Psophocarpus tetragonolobus, in vitro inhibitory potential
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Introduction: This study was conducted to determine the inhibitory potential of selected Malaysian plants against key enzymes related to type 2 diabetes and hypertension.
Methods: The samples investigated were pucuk ubi (Manihot esculenta), pucuk betik (Carica papaya), ulam raja (Cosmos caudatus), pegaga (Centella asiatica) and kacang botol (Psophocarpus tetragonolobus). The inhibitory potential of hexane and dichloromethane extracts against the enzymes were determined by using α-amylase, α-glucosidase and angiotensin I-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibition assay.
Results: In α-amylase inhibition assay, the inhibitory potential was highest in pucuk ubi for both hexane (59.22%) and dichloromethane extract (54.15%). Hexane extract of pucuk ubi (95.01%) and dichloromethane extract of kacang botol (38.94%) showed the highest inhibitory potential against α-glucosidase,while in ACE inhibition assay, the inhibitory potential was highest in hexane extract of pegaga (48.45%) and dichloromethane extract of pucuk betik (59.77%).
Conclusion: This study suggests a nutraceutical potential of some of these plants for hyperglycemia and hypertension prevention associated with type 2 diabetes.
Key words: Carica papaya, Centella asiatica, Cosmos caudatus, Manihot esculenta, Psophocarpus tetragonolobus, in vitro inhibitory potential
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Dietary Practices among Overweight and Obese Chinese Children in Kota Bharu, Kelantan
Soo, KL, Wan Abdul Manan WM, Abdul Manaf H & Lee, YY
ABSTRACT
Introduction: Obesity and chronic diseases have been increasing since the last few decades alongside rapid economic development in developed and developing countries. The alarming increase in the prevalence of childhood obesity had been shown by many epidemiological studies worldwide. The aims of this study were to determine the prevalence of overweight and obesity among Chinese school children in Kota Bharu, Kelantan, and to map the association between dietary practices and their nutritional status.
Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted on 278 school children aged 10 to 12 years old (144 boys and 134 girls) studying in a Chinese primary school in Kota Bharu.
Results: The survey revealed that while only 1.4% (n=4) were overweight, 23.4% (n=65) of the children were obese. A total of 67.7% (n=44) of the obese children were boys. The overweight and obese children (n=70) were compared with a randomly selected group of normal weight children (n=70). Dietary assessment showed that protein, fat and total calorie intake were significantly higher among the overweight group (p<0.05). A significantly higher proportion of the normal weight children (85.7%) took breakfast daily or at least 4 days per week compared to the overweight groups (59.4%) (p<0.05).
Conclusion: The prevalence of obesity among school children in the study is a matter of concern. These findings may be useful in targeting programmes and strategies for prevention and intervention of childhood obesity.
Key words: Chinese, obesity, school children
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Introduction: Obesity and chronic diseases have been increasing since the last few decades alongside rapid economic development in developed and developing countries. The alarming increase in the prevalence of childhood obesity had been shown by many epidemiological studies worldwide. The aims of this study were to determine the prevalence of overweight and obesity among Chinese school children in Kota Bharu, Kelantan, and to map the association between dietary practices and their nutritional status.
Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted on 278 school children aged 10 to 12 years old (144 boys and 134 girls) studying in a Chinese primary school in Kota Bharu.
Results: The survey revealed that while only 1.4% (n=4) were overweight, 23.4% (n=65) of the children were obese. A total of 67.7% (n=44) of the obese children were boys. The overweight and obese children (n=70) were compared with a randomly selected group of normal weight children (n=70). Dietary assessment showed that protein, fat and total calorie intake were significantly higher among the overweight group (p<0.05). A significantly higher proportion of the normal weight children (85.7%) took breakfast daily or at least 4 days per week compared to the overweight groups (59.4%) (p<0.05).
Conclusion: The prevalence of obesity among school children in the study is a matter of concern. These findings may be useful in targeting programmes and strategies for prevention and intervention of childhood obesity.
Key words: Chinese, obesity, school children
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Sri Lankan Rice Mixed Meals: Effect on Glycaemic Index and Contribution to Daily Dietary Fibre Requirement
Hettiaratchi UPK, Ekanayake S & Welihinda J
ABSTRACT
Introduction: The glycaemic index (GI) concept ranks starchy foods according to the blood glucose responses following ingestion. When considering commonly consumed Sri Lankan meals, only a few can be categorised as low GI. However, a significant negative correlation between the GI of Sri Lankan meals and fibre content has been observed indicating the potential to reduce the GI of meals by incorporating naturally occurring sources of fibre. Thus, the objective of this study was to study the effect of increased edible quantities of fibre on the GI of rice meals consumed in Sri Lanka.
Methods: Meal 1 consisted of rice with several meal accompaniments (lentil curry, boiled egg, coconut gravy and Centella asiatica (gotukola ) leaves salad). Meal 2 contained similar constituents as meal 1 and a Lasia spinosa (kohila ) rhizome salad. The composition of meal 3 was similar to meal 2 but contained Trichosanthes cucumerina (snake gourd) salad instead of Lasia spinosa salad. Meal 3 contained similar fibre contents as meal 1 and similar meal size as meal 2. The glycaemic indices of the three meals were determined with healthy individuals (n=10, age =20-30 yrs, BMI=24±3 kg/m2) using bread as the standard.
Results: Meals 1 and 3 contained total dietary fibre (TDF) contents of 15.2g. Meal 2 contained 16.3g TDF. The GI values of the three meals were 63±5, 57±5, 61±5 respectively and were not significantly different from one another (p>0.05). The GI of the rice mixed meal 2 was reduced by 9% when total edible dietary fibre content of the actual meal was increased by 7.2%.
Conclusion: The study results show that the GI of rice mixed meals may be reduced by including naturally occurring sources of fibre with starchy staples while fulfilling daily dietary fibre requirement of an adult at low cost.
Key words: Centella asiatica, dietary fibre, glycaemic index, Lasia spinosa, rice meals
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Introduction: The glycaemic index (GI) concept ranks starchy foods according to the blood glucose responses following ingestion. When considering commonly consumed Sri Lankan meals, only a few can be categorised as low GI. However, a significant negative correlation between the GI of Sri Lankan meals and fibre content has been observed indicating the potential to reduce the GI of meals by incorporating naturally occurring sources of fibre. Thus, the objective of this study was to study the effect of increased edible quantities of fibre on the GI of rice meals consumed in Sri Lanka.
Methods: Meal 1 consisted of rice with several meal accompaniments (lentil curry, boiled egg, coconut gravy and Centella asiatica (gotukola ) leaves salad). Meal 2 contained similar constituents as meal 1 and a Lasia spinosa (kohila ) rhizome salad. The composition of meal 3 was similar to meal 2 but contained Trichosanthes cucumerina (snake gourd) salad instead of Lasia spinosa salad. Meal 3 contained similar fibre contents as meal 1 and similar meal size as meal 2. The glycaemic indices of the three meals were determined with healthy individuals (n=10, age =20-30 yrs, BMI=24±3 kg/m2) using bread as the standard.
Results: Meals 1 and 3 contained total dietary fibre (TDF) contents of 15.2g. Meal 2 contained 16.3g TDF. The GI values of the three meals were 63±5, 57±5, 61±5 respectively and were not significantly different from one another (p>0.05). The GI of the rice mixed meal 2 was reduced by 9% when total edible dietary fibre content of the actual meal was increased by 7.2%.
Conclusion: The study results show that the GI of rice mixed meals may be reduced by including naturally occurring sources of fibre with starchy staples while fulfilling daily dietary fibre requirement of an adult at low cost.
Key words: Centella asiatica, dietary fibre, glycaemic index, Lasia spinosa, rice meals
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Socio-economic Determinants of Severe and Moderate Stunting among Under-Five Children of Rural Bangladesh
Mostafa Kamal SM
ABSTRACT
Introduction: Malnutrition among under-five children is a chronic problem in developing countries. This study explores the socio-economic determinants of severe and moderate stunting among under-five children of rural Bangladesh.
Methods: The study used data from the 2007 Bangladesh Demographic and Health Survey. Cross-sectional and multinomial logistic regression analyses were used to assess the effect of the socio-demographic variables on moderate and severe stunting over normal among the children.
Results: Findings revealed that over two-fifths of the children were stunted, of which 26.3% were moderately stunted and 15.1% were severely stunted. The multivariate multinomial logistic regression analysis yielded significantly increased risk of severe stunting (OR=2.53, 95% CI=1.34-4.79) and moderate stunting (OR=2.37, 95% CI=1.47-3.83) over normal among children with a thinner mother. Region, father’s education, toilet facilities, child’s age, birth order of children and wealth index were also important determinants of children’s nutritional status.
Conclusion: Development and poverty alleviation programmes should focus on the disadvantaged rural segments of people to improve their nutritional status.
Key words: Bangladesh, nutritional status, multinomial regression, rural children
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Introduction: Malnutrition among under-five children is a chronic problem in developing countries. This study explores the socio-economic determinants of severe and moderate stunting among under-five children of rural Bangladesh.
Methods: The study used data from the 2007 Bangladesh Demographic and Health Survey. Cross-sectional and multinomial logistic regression analyses were used to assess the effect of the socio-demographic variables on moderate and severe stunting over normal among the children.
Results: Findings revealed that over two-fifths of the children were stunted, of which 26.3% were moderately stunted and 15.1% were severely stunted. The multivariate multinomial logistic regression analysis yielded significantly increased risk of severe stunting (OR=2.53, 95% CI=1.34-4.79) and moderate stunting (OR=2.37, 95% CI=1.47-3.83) over normal among children with a thinner mother. Region, father’s education, toilet facilities, child’s age, birth order of children and wealth index were also important determinants of children’s nutritional status.
Conclusion: Development and poverty alleviation programmes should focus on the disadvantaged rural segments of people to improve their nutritional status.
Key words: Bangladesh, nutritional status, multinomial regression, rural children
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Effect of Trans Fatty Acids Intake on Blood Lipid Profile of Workers in East Kalimantan, Indonesia
Sartika RAD
ABSTRACT
Introduction: In experiencing epidemiologic transition, Indonesia faces emerging nutrition problems.
Methods: Among the dietary lifestyle changes over the years is the rising consumption of fats and oils, including trans fatty acids. Intake of these fatty acids from ruminant meats, hydrogenated vegetable oils and fried foods is known to have detrimental effects on serum lipoprotein cholesterol levels. The purpose of this study was to determine the effects of trans fatty acid intake on blood lipid profile. A prospective cohort study was conducted on 388 workers at an on-shore oil company in East Kalimantan.
Results: The mean intake of trans fatty acid was 0.48% of the total dietary calories. Fried foods contributed most to the total trans fatty acid consumed at 0.20% of the total calories. Trans fatty acid intake from ruminant products, and margarine/hydrogenated vegetable oil products were 0.09% and 0.06% of calories, respectively. The high consumption of fried foods is associated with risks of hypertriglyceridemia (RR: 1.41, 95%CI 1.06; 1.86), high ratio of total cholesterol/HDL-C (RR: 1.98, 95%CI 1.00; 3.98) and dyslipidemia (RR: 1.35, 95%CI 1.00;1.84). Every additional one percent of saturated fatty acid intake is associated with an increase in trans fatty acids amounting to 0.03% of total calories (r = 0.320, p=0.000).
Conclusion: These results suggest that a reduction in consumption of fried foods will be of benefit as it will reduce intake of both saturated and trans fatty acids. Further studies are recommended to determine the intake of trans fatty acids and their health effects on other population groups in Indonesia.
Key words: Blood lipid profile, fried foods, Indonesian workers, trans fatty acids
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Introduction: In experiencing epidemiologic transition, Indonesia faces emerging nutrition problems.
Methods: Among the dietary lifestyle changes over the years is the rising consumption of fats and oils, including trans fatty acids. Intake of these fatty acids from ruminant meats, hydrogenated vegetable oils and fried foods is known to have detrimental effects on serum lipoprotein cholesterol levels. The purpose of this study was to determine the effects of trans fatty acid intake on blood lipid profile. A prospective cohort study was conducted on 388 workers at an on-shore oil company in East Kalimantan.
Results: The mean intake of trans fatty acid was 0.48% of the total dietary calories. Fried foods contributed most to the total trans fatty acid consumed at 0.20% of the total calories. Trans fatty acid intake from ruminant products, and margarine/hydrogenated vegetable oil products were 0.09% and 0.06% of calories, respectively. The high consumption of fried foods is associated with risks of hypertriglyceridemia (RR: 1.41, 95%CI 1.06; 1.86), high ratio of total cholesterol/HDL-C (RR: 1.98, 95%CI 1.00; 3.98) and dyslipidemia (RR: 1.35, 95%CI 1.00;1.84). Every additional one percent of saturated fatty acid intake is associated with an increase in trans fatty acids amounting to 0.03% of total calories (r = 0.320, p=0.000).
Conclusion: These results suggest that a reduction in consumption of fried foods will be of benefit as it will reduce intake of both saturated and trans fatty acids. Further studies are recommended to determine the intake of trans fatty acids and their health effects on other population groups in Indonesia.
Key words: Blood lipid profile, fried foods, Indonesian workers, trans fatty acids
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REVIEW
Type 2 Diabetes in the Sultanate of Oman
Al-Shookri A, Khor GL, Chan YM, Loke S C & Al-Maskari M
ABSTRACT
During the past four decades, Oman has undergone a rapid socioe-conomic and epidemiological transition leading to a substantial reduction in the prevalence of various communicable diseases, including vaccine-preventable diseases. Health care planning together with the commitment of policy makers has been a critical factor in this reduction. However, with rapid social and economic growth, lifestyle-related non communicable diseases have emerged as new health challenges to the country. Diabetes and obesity are leading risks posed by the chronic diseases. The burden of diabetes has increased sharply in Oman over the last decade, rising from 8.3% in 1991 to 11.6% in 2000 among adults aged 20 years and older. The World Health Organization (WHO) predicted an increase of 190% in the number of subjects living with diabetes in Oman over the next 20 years, rising from 75,000 in 2000 to 217,000 in 2025. There is a lack of awareness of the major risk factors for diabetes mellitus in the Omani population generally. As education is often the most significant predictor of knowledge regarding risk factors, complications and the prevention of diabetes, health promotion in Oman is deemed critical, along with other prevention and control measures. Suitable prevention strategies for reducing the prevalence of diabetes in Oman are discussed. Recommendations are made for reforms in the current health care system; otherwise, diabetes will constitute a major drain on Oman’s human and financial resources, threatening the advances in health and longevity achieved over the past decades.
Key words: Non-communicable diseases, Oman, type 2 diabetes
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During the past four decades, Oman has undergone a rapid socioe-conomic and epidemiological transition leading to a substantial reduction in the prevalence of various communicable diseases, including vaccine-preventable diseases. Health care planning together with the commitment of policy makers has been a critical factor in this reduction. However, with rapid social and economic growth, lifestyle-related non communicable diseases have emerged as new health challenges to the country. Diabetes and obesity are leading risks posed by the chronic diseases. The burden of diabetes has increased sharply in Oman over the last decade, rising from 8.3% in 1991 to 11.6% in 2000 among adults aged 20 years and older. The World Health Organization (WHO) predicted an increase of 190% in the number of subjects living with diabetes in Oman over the next 20 years, rising from 75,000 in 2000 to 217,000 in 2025. There is a lack of awareness of the major risk factors for diabetes mellitus in the Omani population generally. As education is often the most significant predictor of knowledge regarding risk factors, complications and the prevention of diabetes, health promotion in Oman is deemed critical, along with other prevention and control measures. Suitable prevention strategies for reducing the prevalence of diabetes in Oman are discussed. Recommendations are made for reforms in the current health care system; otherwise, diabetes will constitute a major drain on Oman’s human and financial resources, threatening the advances in health and longevity achieved over the past decades.
Key words: Non-communicable diseases, Oman, type 2 diabetes
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Malaysian Journal of Nutrition
Volume 17 No.2, 2011
Table of Content
Efficacy of Multi-micronutrient Fortified Biscuits on Urinary Iodine Levels of Adolescent Girls from Jaipur, India
Goyle A & Prakash S
ABSTRACT
Introduction: Iodine deficiency disorders are a public health problem in India. The aim of the study was to examine the effect of multi-micronutrient-fortified biscuits on urinary iodine levels of adolescent girls (n=51, 10-16 years) studying in a government school in Jaipur city, India.
Methods: The study was designed as an intervention study. Biscuits fortified with 150 mcg iodine, 30 mg iron, 100 mcg folic acid, 600 mcg vitamin A and 40 mg vitamin C were provided daily to the subjects on all working days over a 4-month period. The iodine status of the adolescent girls was determined through urinary iodine levels.
Results: Supplementation with biscuits resulted in a significant increase in the mean urinary iodine level from 118.2 to 157.2 mcg/l and in the median value from 121 to 149 mcg/l. Prior to the intervention, 21.6% of the subjects had mild iodine deficiency but at the end of the intervention period, all the girls were iodine sufficient. Hence, iodine supplementation using biscuits resulted in improved iodine status of Indian adolescent girls.
Conclusion: It is, therefore, recommended that the school system be used for micronutrient supplementation interventions to improve the nutritional status of children and adolescents as there is more regimentation in a school setting for distribution of nutrient fortified food products to students.
Key words: Adolescent girls, India, iodine-fortified biscuits, urinary iodine levels
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Introduction: Iodine deficiency disorders are a public health problem in India. The aim of the study was to examine the effect of multi-micronutrient-fortified biscuits on urinary iodine levels of adolescent girls (n=51, 10-16 years) studying in a government school in Jaipur city, India.
Methods: The study was designed as an intervention study. Biscuits fortified with 150 mcg iodine, 30 mg iron, 100 mcg folic acid, 600 mcg vitamin A and 40 mg vitamin C were provided daily to the subjects on all working days over a 4-month period. The iodine status of the adolescent girls was determined through urinary iodine levels.
Results: Supplementation with biscuits resulted in a significant increase in the mean urinary iodine level from 118.2 to 157.2 mcg/l and in the median value from 121 to 149 mcg/l. Prior to the intervention, 21.6% of the subjects had mild iodine deficiency but at the end of the intervention period, all the girls were iodine sufficient. Hence, iodine supplementation using biscuits resulted in improved iodine status of Indian adolescent girls.
Conclusion: It is, therefore, recommended that the school system be used for micronutrient supplementation interventions to improve the nutritional status of children and adolescents as there is more regimentation in a school setting for distribution of nutrient fortified food products to students.
Key words: Adolescent girls, India, iodine-fortified biscuits, urinary iodine levels
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Familial and Socio-environmental Predictors of Overweight and Obesity among Primary School Children in Selangor and Kuala Lumpur
Serene Tung EH, Shamarina S & Mohd Nasir MT
ABSTRACT
Introduction: A cross-sectional study was conducted to determine the familial and socio-environmental predictors of overweight and obesity among 1430, 9-12 year-old primary school children and their parents in Selangor and Kuala Lumpur.
Methodology: Body weight and height were measured and body mass index was calculated. Modified Child Feeding (CFQ) and Determinants of Adolescent Social Well-being and Health (DASH) questionnaires were used to measure familial and socio-environmental factors.
Results: A total of 17.9% of the children were overweight while 16.0% were obese. Positive relationships were found between child’s BMI and parent’s BMI (r = 0.129, p<0.01), concern about child’s weight (r = 0.125, p<0.01) and restriction (r = 0.057, p<0.05) to unhealthy foods. However, negative relationships were found between child’s BMI with pressure to eat (r = -0.135, p<0.01) and neighbourhood safety perception (r = -0.053, p<0.05). The logistic regression analysis showed that being male (Exp (β) = 0.538; 95% CI = 0.421-0.687), higher parent’s BMI (Exp (β) = 1.055; 95% CI = 1.028-1.082), higher concern about child’s weight (Exp (β) = 1.082; 95% CI = 1.030 - 1.127), low pressure to eat (Exp (β) = 0.857; 95% CI = 0.801-0.916) and low perception of neighbourhood safety (Exp (β) = 0.951; 95% CI = 0.913-0.990) were significantly associated with increased risk of overweight.
Conclusion: Parents should be the main target for education to modify children’s weight status. Further research should be carried out to understand the mechanism of influence of parents and the socio-environment on child’s health.
Key words: Child feeding practices, childhood obesity, neighbourhood safety, pressure to eat, restrictions
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Introduction: A cross-sectional study was conducted to determine the familial and socio-environmental predictors of overweight and obesity among 1430, 9-12 year-old primary school children and their parents in Selangor and Kuala Lumpur.
Methodology: Body weight and height were measured and body mass index was calculated. Modified Child Feeding (CFQ) and Determinants of Adolescent Social Well-being and Health (DASH) questionnaires were used to measure familial and socio-environmental factors.
Results: A total of 17.9% of the children were overweight while 16.0% were obese. Positive relationships were found between child’s BMI and parent’s BMI (r = 0.129, p<0.01), concern about child’s weight (r = 0.125, p<0.01) and restriction (r = 0.057, p<0.05) to unhealthy foods. However, negative relationships were found between child’s BMI with pressure to eat (r = -0.135, p<0.01) and neighbourhood safety perception (r = -0.053, p<0.05). The logistic regression analysis showed that being male (Exp (β) = 0.538; 95% CI = 0.421-0.687), higher parent’s BMI (Exp (β) = 1.055; 95% CI = 1.028-1.082), higher concern about child’s weight (Exp (β) = 1.082; 95% CI = 1.030 - 1.127), low pressure to eat (Exp (β) = 0.857; 95% CI = 0.801-0.916) and low perception of neighbourhood safety (Exp (β) = 0.951; 95% CI = 0.913-0.990) were significantly associated with increased risk of overweight.
Conclusion: Parents should be the main target for education to modify children’s weight status. Further research should be carried out to understand the mechanism of influence of parents and the socio-environment on child’s health.
Key words: Child feeding practices, childhood obesity, neighbourhood safety, pressure to eat, restrictions
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Influence of Food Intake and Eating Habits on Hypertension Control among Outpatients at a Government Health Clinic in the Klang Valley, Malaysia
Suzana S, Azlinda A, Hin S L, Khor W H & Zahara Z, Sa’ida Munira J & Norliza M
ABSTRACT
Introduction: In Malaysia, hypertension prevalence has increased from 13% in 1996 to 43% in 2006 based on the Third National Health and Morbidity Survey.
Methods: Recognising the importance of hypertension control to prevent cardiovascular morbidity and mortality, a cross-sectional study was carried out to assess factors influencing blood pressure among 74 hypertensive adults (22 men, 52 women, mean age 61.1 ± 8.8 years old) attending an outpatient clinic of a government health clinic in Klang Valley. Subjects were interviewed to obtain information on social and health, physical activity level and food intake using Diet History Questionnaire (DHQ) and Food Frequency Questionnaire (FFQ). Anthropometric measurements including weight, height, waist circumference and percentage of body fat were also conducted.
Results: The majority of the subjects (71.6%) had poor hypertension control as determined using blood pressure. Women aged 30-59 years old had a higher mean diastolic blood pressure (87.3 ± 11.6 mmHg) than women aged > 60 years old (78.5 ± 9.5 mmHg) (p<0.05). Most of the men (36.4%) achieved three out of six Medical Nutrition Therapy (MNT) for Hypertension Recommendations as outlined by the Malaysian Dietitians’ Association. About one-third (30.8%) of the women achieved two out of six of the guidelines. High sodium intake (adjusted OR 3.501, 95% CI 1.116-10.985, p<0.05), daily consumption of coffee (adjusted OR 0.302, 95% CI 0.093-0.983, p< 0.05) and less intake of milk (adjusted OR 3.328, 95% CI 1.055-10.493, p<0.05) were associated with uncontrolled hypertension.
Conclusion: Three quarters of the subjects had unsatisfactory hypertensive control and was related to food intake and eating habits including high salt diet, coffee consumption and inadequate milk intake were unsatisfactory. There is a need to implement a nutrition intervention programme based on MNT to achieve good hypertensive control among subjects.
Key words: Blood pressure, food intake, health clinic, hypertensive, risk factors
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Introduction: In Malaysia, hypertension prevalence has increased from 13% in 1996 to 43% in 2006 based on the Third National Health and Morbidity Survey.
Methods: Recognising the importance of hypertension control to prevent cardiovascular morbidity and mortality, a cross-sectional study was carried out to assess factors influencing blood pressure among 74 hypertensive adults (22 men, 52 women, mean age 61.1 ± 8.8 years old) attending an outpatient clinic of a government health clinic in Klang Valley. Subjects were interviewed to obtain information on social and health, physical activity level and food intake using Diet History Questionnaire (DHQ) and Food Frequency Questionnaire (FFQ). Anthropometric measurements including weight, height, waist circumference and percentage of body fat were also conducted.
Results: The majority of the subjects (71.6%) had poor hypertension control as determined using blood pressure. Women aged 30-59 years old had a higher mean diastolic blood pressure (87.3 ± 11.6 mmHg) than women aged > 60 years old (78.5 ± 9.5 mmHg) (p<0.05). Most of the men (36.4%) achieved three out of six Medical Nutrition Therapy (MNT) for Hypertension Recommendations as outlined by the Malaysian Dietitians’ Association. About one-third (30.8%) of the women achieved two out of six of the guidelines. High sodium intake (adjusted OR 3.501, 95% CI 1.116-10.985, p<0.05), daily consumption of coffee (adjusted OR 0.302, 95% CI 0.093-0.983, p< 0.05) and less intake of milk (adjusted OR 3.328, 95% CI 1.055-10.493, p<0.05) were associated with uncontrolled hypertension.
Conclusion: Three quarters of the subjects had unsatisfactory hypertensive control and was related to food intake and eating habits including high salt diet, coffee consumption and inadequate milk intake were unsatisfactory. There is a need to implement a nutrition intervention programme based on MNT to achieve good hypertensive control among subjects.
Key words: Blood pressure, food intake, health clinic, hypertensive, risk factors
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Determination of Factors Associated with Physical Activity Levels among Adolescents Attending School in Kuantan, Malaysia
Dan SP, Mohd Nasir MT & Zalilah MS
ABSTRACT
Introduction: Findings from the National Health and Morbidity Survey III (MOH, 2008) indicate a 43.7% prevalence of physical inactivity among Malaysian adults. This sedentary lifestyle can also be observed among children and adolescents.
Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted to determine factors associated with physical activity levels of four hundred, 13 year-old adolescents in Kuantan, Pahang. Data on socio-demographic, health-related, and psychosocial factors were collected using a self-administered questionnaire while physical activity level was assessed using the Physical Activity Questionnaire for Older Children (PAQ-C).
Results: About one-third of the respondents were in the low physical activity level category, 61.5% were in the moderate category and only 3.0% of the adolescents were in the high physical activity level category. Males were more physically active than females (χ2=23.667, p=0.0001) with female adolescents (45.1%) twice as likely as male adolescents (22.1%) to be in the low physical activity level category. The associations between physical activity level with socio-demographic and health-related factors, perception of weight status and body parts satisfaction were not significant. However, physical activity was found to be positively correlated with physical activity self-efficacy (r=0.496,p=0.0001), peer influence (r=0.468, p=0.0001), family influence (r=0.298, p=0.0001) and beliefs in physical activity outcomes (r=0.207, p=0.0001). Negative relationships were found between physical activity with depression (r=-0.116, p=0.021) and body size discrepancy (r=-0.143, p<0.01). Respondents who had a better perception of their current health status were more physically active (χ2=21.062, p=0.0001). Multivariate analyses for the prediction of physical activity showed that physical activity self-efficacy, sex and peer influence were the most significant contributors in explaining physical activity among adolescents.
Conclusion: Physical activity interventions should include psychosocial components as mediator variables in interventions designed to promote regular physical activity in adolescence.
Key words: Adolescents, physical activity, psychosocial factors, health-related factors and socio-demographic factors
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Introduction: Findings from the National Health and Morbidity Survey III (MOH, 2008) indicate a 43.7% prevalence of physical inactivity among Malaysian adults. This sedentary lifestyle can also be observed among children and adolescents.
Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted to determine factors associated with physical activity levels of four hundred, 13 year-old adolescents in Kuantan, Pahang. Data on socio-demographic, health-related, and psychosocial factors were collected using a self-administered questionnaire while physical activity level was assessed using the Physical Activity Questionnaire for Older Children (PAQ-C).
Results: About one-third of the respondents were in the low physical activity level category, 61.5% were in the moderate category and only 3.0% of the adolescents were in the high physical activity level category. Males were more physically active than females (χ2=23.667, p=0.0001) with female adolescents (45.1%) twice as likely as male adolescents (22.1%) to be in the low physical activity level category. The associations between physical activity level with socio-demographic and health-related factors, perception of weight status and body parts satisfaction were not significant. However, physical activity was found to be positively correlated with physical activity self-efficacy (r=0.496,p=0.0001), peer influence (r=0.468, p=0.0001), family influence (r=0.298, p=0.0001) and beliefs in physical activity outcomes (r=0.207, p=0.0001). Negative relationships were found between physical activity with depression (r=-0.116, p=0.021) and body size discrepancy (r=-0.143, p<0.01). Respondents who had a better perception of their current health status were more physically active (χ2=21.062, p=0.0001). Multivariate analyses for the prediction of physical activity showed that physical activity self-efficacy, sex and peer influence were the most significant contributors in explaining physical activity among adolescents.
Conclusion: Physical activity interventions should include psychosocial components as mediator variables in interventions designed to promote regular physical activity in adolescence.
Key words: Adolescents, physical activity, psychosocial factors, health-related factors and socio-demographic factors
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Effect of Gender and Nutritional Status on Academic Achievement and Cognitive Function among Primary School Children in a Rural District in Malaysia
Hamid Jan JM, Amal K Mitra, Hasmiza H, Pim CD, Ng LO & Wan Manan WM
ABSTRACT
Introduction: The aim of this study was to investigate the relationship between gender, birth weight, nutritional status, and iron status of children with their academic performance and cognitive function.
Methods: Two hundred and forty-nine children, seven to nine years of age, were recruited by systematic sampling from six primary schools in a rural area in Malaysia. Cognitive function was assessed by using Raven’s Coloured Progressive Matrices (R-CPM). Academic performance of the children was recorded from their school final examination results in four subjects including Malay language, English, Mathematics, and Science. Birth weight was recorded from the birth certificate, and nutritional status was determined by weight-for-age z score and height-for-age z score.
Results: Girls had a significantly higher score in all the academic tests, but a lower cognitive score compared to boys. Nutritional status was found to be correlated significantly with academic performance. Academic and cognitive function scores were also found to be correlated significantly with birth weight, parents’ education, and family income. In a multivariate analysis, gender remained the significant predictor of academic function, and iron status and haemoglobin were the significant predictors of cognitive function, after controlling for other variables.
Conclusion: The study showed that girls performed better academically than boys in rural Malaysia. Nutritional status, parents’ education and family income could be additional modifiable factors to improve academic performance of the children. More attention is needed to improve academic achievements of boys at their early school years.
Key words: Academic performance, birth weight, cognitive function, gender, iron status
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Introduction: The aim of this study was to investigate the relationship between gender, birth weight, nutritional status, and iron status of children with their academic performance and cognitive function.
Methods: Two hundred and forty-nine children, seven to nine years of age, were recruited by systematic sampling from six primary schools in a rural area in Malaysia. Cognitive function was assessed by using Raven’s Coloured Progressive Matrices (R-CPM). Academic performance of the children was recorded from their school final examination results in four subjects including Malay language, English, Mathematics, and Science. Birth weight was recorded from the birth certificate, and nutritional status was determined by weight-for-age z score and height-for-age z score.
Results: Girls had a significantly higher score in all the academic tests, but a lower cognitive score compared to boys. Nutritional status was found to be correlated significantly with academic performance. Academic and cognitive function scores were also found to be correlated significantly with birth weight, parents’ education, and family income. In a multivariate analysis, gender remained the significant predictor of academic function, and iron status and haemoglobin were the significant predictors of cognitive function, after controlling for other variables.
Conclusion: The study showed that girls performed better academically than boys in rural Malaysia. Nutritional status, parents’ education and family income could be additional modifiable factors to improve academic performance of the children. More attention is needed to improve academic achievements of boys at their early school years.
Key words: Academic performance, birth weight, cognitive function, gender, iron status
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No Association of Peptide Tyrosine-Tyrosine (PYY) Gene R72T Variant with Obesity in the Kampar Health Clinic Cohort, Malaysia
Chan PM, Fan SH & Say YH
ABSTRACT
Introduction: Peptide Tyrosine-Tyrosine (PYY) is a 36-amino acid peptide hormone released post-prandially from the endocrine cells in the intestinal tract to suppress pancreatic secretions and eventually reduce appetite. The R72T variant in the PYY gene (rs1058046) has been associated with increased susceptibility to obesity. Therefore, the objective of this study was to investigate the association of this variant with obesity and its related anthropometric measurements among the Kampar Health Clinic cohort, Malaysia.
Methods: A total of 197 (78 males, 119 females; 98 non-obese, 99 obese) subjects were recruited by convenience sampling and anthropometric measurements were taken. Genotyping was performed using Stu I Polymerase Chain Reaction-Restriction Fragment Length Polymorphism (PCR-RFLP), revealing 61 RR, 94 RT and 42 TT subjects.
Results: Most of the obese subjects had the RT genotype (50.5%), while only 18.2% were TT. PYY R72T genotypes and alleles had no association with obesity (p=0.535; 0.074, respectively), gender (p=0.767; p=0.100, respectively) but were associated with ethnicity (p=0.003; p=0.002, respectively). Among the 13 anthropometric measurements taken, significant difference was only found in Waist Circumference (WC) and Visceral Fat Level (VFL) among the alleles, suggesting that subjects with T allele will have an increment of 1.82 cm in WC and 1.32% in VFL.
Conclusion: The R72T variant in PYY gene was not associated with obesity and most of its related anthropometric measurements. This suggests that other genes and/or environmental factors like dietary habits and lifestyle factors may be the contributors of obesity.
Key words: Anthropometric measurements, Malaysia, obesity, Peptide Tyrosine-Tyrosine, single nucleotide polymorphism
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Introduction: Peptide Tyrosine-Tyrosine (PYY) is a 36-amino acid peptide hormone released post-prandially from the endocrine cells in the intestinal tract to suppress pancreatic secretions and eventually reduce appetite. The R72T variant in the PYY gene (rs1058046) has been associated with increased susceptibility to obesity. Therefore, the objective of this study was to investigate the association of this variant with obesity and its related anthropometric measurements among the Kampar Health Clinic cohort, Malaysia.
Methods: A total of 197 (78 males, 119 females; 98 non-obese, 99 obese) subjects were recruited by convenience sampling and anthropometric measurements were taken. Genotyping was performed using Stu I Polymerase Chain Reaction-Restriction Fragment Length Polymorphism (PCR-RFLP), revealing 61 RR, 94 RT and 42 TT subjects.
Results: Most of the obese subjects had the RT genotype (50.5%), while only 18.2% were TT. PYY R72T genotypes and alleles had no association with obesity (p=0.535; 0.074, respectively), gender (p=0.767; p=0.100, respectively) but were associated with ethnicity (p=0.003; p=0.002, respectively). Among the 13 anthropometric measurements taken, significant difference was only found in Waist Circumference (WC) and Visceral Fat Level (VFL) among the alleles, suggesting that subjects with T allele will have an increment of 1.82 cm in WC and 1.32% in VFL.
Conclusion: The R72T variant in PYY gene was not associated with obesity and most of its related anthropometric measurements. This suggests that other genes and/or environmental factors like dietary habits and lifestyle factors may be the contributors of obesity.
Key words: Anthropometric measurements, Malaysia, obesity, Peptide Tyrosine-Tyrosine, single nucleotide polymorphism
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Differences in Eating Behaviours, Dietary Intake and Body Weight Status between Male and Female Malaysian University Students
Gan WY, Mohd Nasir MT*, Zalilah MS & Hazizi AS
ABSTRACT
Introduction: University students are potentially important targets for the promotion of healthy lifestyles as this may reduce the risks of lifestyle-related disorders later in life. This cross-sectional study examined differences in eating behaviours, dietary intake, weight status, and body composition between male and female university students.
Methods: A total of 584 students (59.4% females and 40.6% males) aged 20.6±1.4 years from four Malaysian universities in the Klang Valley participated in this study. Participants completed the Eating Behaviours Questionnaire and two-day 24-hour dietary recall. Body weight, height, waist circumference and percentage of body fat were measured.
Results: About 14.3% of males and 22.4% of females were underweight, while 14.0% of males and 12.3% of females were overweight and obese. A majority of the participants (73.8% males and 74.6% females) skipped at least one meal daily in the past seven days. Breakfast was the most frequently skipped meal. Both males and females frequently snacked during morning tea time. Fruits and biscuits were the most frequently consumed snack items. More than half of the participants did not meet the Malaysian Recommended Nutrient Intake (RNI) for energy, vitamin C, thiamine, riboflavin, niacin, iron (females only), and calcium. Significantly more males than females achieved the RNI levels for energy, protein and iron intakes.
Conclusion: This study highlights the presence of unhealthy eating behaviours, inadequate nutrient intake, and a high prevalence of underweight among university students. Energy and nutrient intakes differed between the sexes. Therefore, promoting healthy eating among young adults is crucial to achieve a healthy nutritional status.
Key words: Dietary intake, eating behaviours, nutritional status, university students
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Introduction: University students are potentially important targets for the promotion of healthy lifestyles as this may reduce the risks of lifestyle-related disorders later in life. This cross-sectional study examined differences in eating behaviours, dietary intake, weight status, and body composition between male and female university students.
Methods: A total of 584 students (59.4% females and 40.6% males) aged 20.6±1.4 years from four Malaysian universities in the Klang Valley participated in this study. Participants completed the Eating Behaviours Questionnaire and two-day 24-hour dietary recall. Body weight, height, waist circumference and percentage of body fat were measured.
Results: About 14.3% of males and 22.4% of females were underweight, while 14.0% of males and 12.3% of females were overweight and obese. A majority of the participants (73.8% males and 74.6% females) skipped at least one meal daily in the past seven days. Breakfast was the most frequently skipped meal. Both males and females frequently snacked during morning tea time. Fruits and biscuits were the most frequently consumed snack items. More than half of the participants did not meet the Malaysian Recommended Nutrient Intake (RNI) for energy, vitamin C, thiamine, riboflavin, niacin, iron (females only), and calcium. Significantly more males than females achieved the RNI levels for energy, protein and iron intakes.
Conclusion: This study highlights the presence of unhealthy eating behaviours, inadequate nutrient intake, and a high prevalence of underweight among university students. Energy and nutrient intakes differed between the sexes. Therefore, promoting healthy eating among young adults is crucial to achieve a healthy nutritional status.
Key words: Dietary intake, eating behaviours, nutritional status, university students
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The Malaysian Childhood Obesity Treatment Trial (MASCOT)
Sharifah WW, Nur Hana H, Ruzita AT, Roslee R & Reilly JJ
ABSTRACT
Introduction: The present study describes a randomised controlled trial (RCT) based on a novel, generalisable intervention for childhood obesity, comparing the intervention with a no-treatment control group.
Methods: The Malaysian Childhood Obesity Treatment Trial (MASCOT) was a single-blind RCT of a dietetic treatment for childhood obesity in children of primary school age (7 to 11 years old) in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. The MASCOT comprising eight sessions, of an 8-hour family-centred group treatment programme is described, based on behavioural change techniques. The study sample was characterised by BMI z-score, health related quality of life reported by participants and their parents (PedsQL questionnaire), objectively measured habitual physical activity and sedentary behaviour (Actigraph accelerometry)
Results: The MASCOT sample of 107 children was characterised by a low quality of life, mean total score on PedsQL 67.7 (4.5) as reported by the children, and 66.0 (16.4) as reported by their parents. The children spent, on average, 89% of their waking day on sedentary activity, and 1% of the day in moderate-vigorous intensity physical activity, equivalent to only around 8 minutes/day.
Conclusion: Obese children in the MASCOT study had an impaired quality of life, high levels of sedentary behaviour and very low levels of physical activity.
Key words: BMI, childhood obesity, obesity treatment, physical activity, quality of life, sedentary behaviour
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Introduction: The present study describes a randomised controlled trial (RCT) based on a novel, generalisable intervention for childhood obesity, comparing the intervention with a no-treatment control group.
Methods: The Malaysian Childhood Obesity Treatment Trial (MASCOT) was a single-blind RCT of a dietetic treatment for childhood obesity in children of primary school age (7 to 11 years old) in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. The MASCOT comprising eight sessions, of an 8-hour family-centred group treatment programme is described, based on behavioural change techniques. The study sample was characterised by BMI z-score, health related quality of life reported by participants and their parents (PedsQL questionnaire), objectively measured habitual physical activity and sedentary behaviour (Actigraph accelerometry)
Results: The MASCOT sample of 107 children was characterised by a low quality of life, mean total score on PedsQL 67.7 (4.5) as reported by the children, and 66.0 (16.4) as reported by their parents. The children spent, on average, 89% of their waking day on sedentary activity, and 1% of the day in moderate-vigorous intensity physical activity, equivalent to only around 8 minutes/day.
Conclusion: Obese children in the MASCOT study had an impaired quality of life, high levels of sedentary behaviour and very low levels of physical activity.
Key words: BMI, childhood obesity, obesity treatment, physical activity, quality of life, sedentary behaviour
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Effects of Fortified Lysine on the Amino Acid Profile and Sensory Qualities of Deep-Fried and Dried Noodles
Polpuech C, Chavasit V, Srichakwal P & Paniangvait P
ABSTRACT
Introduction: Lysine fortification of wheat flour has been used toward reducing protein energy malnutrition in developing countries.
Methods: The feasibility of fortifying instant noodles with lysine was evaluated based on sensory qualities and the residual lysine content. Fifty grams of deep-fried and dried instant noodles were fortified with 0.23 and 0.21 g lysine, respectively. The production temperatures used for deep-frying were 165-175oC and for drying, 80-105oC; these are the temperatures used in the industrial production of both kinds of noodles. Lysine fortification was then performed at the local factories using the commercial production lines and packaging for both types of instant noodles. Both fortified and unfortified deep-fried and dried instant noodles were stored at 50oC under fluorescent light for 2 and 4 months, respectively.
Results: The fortified products were tested for residual lysine content and sensory qualities as compared with unfortified noodles. The results show fortified products from the tested processing temperatures were all accepted. After storage, significant losses of lysine were not found in both types of noodles analysed. The lysine-fortified noodles had amino acid scores of 102% and 122%, respectively. After 2 months, the sensory quality of fortified deep-fried noodles was still acceptable; however, the dried noodles turned to an unacceptable dark colour.
Conclusion: This study shows that it is feasible to fortify deep-fried instant noodles with lysine, though lysine fortification exhibited an undesirable colour in the dried instant noodles after storage.
Key words: Fortification, instant noodles, lysine, sensory quality
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Introduction: Lysine fortification of wheat flour has been used toward reducing protein energy malnutrition in developing countries.
Methods: The feasibility of fortifying instant noodles with lysine was evaluated based on sensory qualities and the residual lysine content. Fifty grams of deep-fried and dried instant noodles were fortified with 0.23 and 0.21 g lysine, respectively. The production temperatures used for deep-frying were 165-175oC and for drying, 80-105oC; these are the temperatures used in the industrial production of both kinds of noodles. Lysine fortification was then performed at the local factories using the commercial production lines and packaging for both types of instant noodles. Both fortified and unfortified deep-fried and dried instant noodles were stored at 50oC under fluorescent light for 2 and 4 months, respectively.
Results: The fortified products were tested for residual lysine content and sensory qualities as compared with unfortified noodles. The results show fortified products from the tested processing temperatures were all accepted. After storage, significant losses of lysine were not found in both types of noodles analysed. The lysine-fortified noodles had amino acid scores of 102% and 122%, respectively. After 2 months, the sensory quality of fortified deep-fried noodles was still acceptable; however, the dried noodles turned to an unacceptable dark colour.
Conclusion: This study shows that it is feasible to fortify deep-fried instant noodles with lysine, though lysine fortification exhibited an undesirable colour in the dried instant noodles after storage.
Key words: Fortification, instant noodles, lysine, sensory quality
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MTHFR C677T Polymorphism, Homocysteine and B-Vitamins Status in a Sample of Chinese and Malay Subjects in Universiti Putra Malaysia
Choo SC, Loh SP, Khor GL, Sabariah MN & Rozita R
ABSTRACT
Introduction: Methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR) C677T is involved in folate and homocysteine metabolism. Disruption in the activity of this enzyme will alter their levels in the body.
Methods: This study assessed MTHFR C677T polymorphism and its relationship with serum homocysteine and B-vitamins levels in a sample of Chinese and Malays subjects in UPM, Serdang. One hundred subjects were randomly selected from among the university population. Folate, vitamin B12, B6, and homocysteine levels were determined using MBA, ECLIA, and HPLC, respectively. PCR coupled with HinfI digestion was used for detection of MTHFR C677T polymorphism.
Results: The frequency of T allele was higher in the Chinese subjects (0.40) compared to the Malay (0.14). Folate, vitamin B12 and B6 levels were highest in the wild genotype in both ethnic groups. Subjects with heterozygous and homozygous genotype showed the highest homocysteine levels. The serum folate and homocysteine were mainly affected by homozygous genotype.
Conclusion: MTHFR C677T polymorphism plays an important role in influencing the folate and homocysteine metabolism.
Key words: Chinese, folate, homocysteine, Malay, MTHFR C677T
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Introduction: Methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR) C677T is involved in folate and homocysteine metabolism. Disruption in the activity of this enzyme will alter their levels in the body.
Methods: This study assessed MTHFR C677T polymorphism and its relationship with serum homocysteine and B-vitamins levels in a sample of Chinese and Malays subjects in UPM, Serdang. One hundred subjects were randomly selected from among the university population. Folate, vitamin B12, B6, and homocysteine levels were determined using MBA, ECLIA, and HPLC, respectively. PCR coupled with HinfI digestion was used for detection of MTHFR C677T polymorphism.
Results: The frequency of T allele was higher in the Chinese subjects (0.40) compared to the Malay (0.14). Folate, vitamin B12 and B6 levels were highest in the wild genotype in both ethnic groups. Subjects with heterozygous and homozygous genotype showed the highest homocysteine levels. The serum folate and homocysteine were mainly affected by homozygous genotype.
Conclusion: MTHFR C677T polymorphism plays an important role in influencing the folate and homocysteine metabolism.
Key words: Chinese, folate, homocysteine, Malay, MTHFR C677T
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Review
Chocolate: Food for Moods
Wong SY& Lua PL
ABSTRACT
Introduction: Chocolate is a popular food and its consumption has long been associated with enjoyment and pleasure. The effect of chocolate on mood too has long been recognised. Chocolate is thought to have interactions with neurotransmitters which contribute to mood modulation and appetite regulation. However, the evidence in chocolate and mood studies remains highly controversial. As more is known about the influence of chocolate on mood, the reasons for these effects appear increasingly complex and inter-related.
Methods: We reviewed chocolate’s properties and the principal hypotheses addressing its mood altering propensities.
Results: The relationship between chocolate and mood are highly complex, combining psychopharmacological components, nutritional and sensory characteristics of the food. Individual and situational differences on chocolate consumption may also exert influence on mood and the mixed results in previous research indicate that the direction of the association remains unclear.
Conclusion: The association between chocolate consumption and emotions warrants further multi-prong investigations to substantiate chocolate’s mood alterating propensity.
Key words: Chocolate, mood, nutrients, oro-sensory aspects, pharmacological effects
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Introduction: Chocolate is a popular food and its consumption has long been associated with enjoyment and pleasure. The effect of chocolate on mood too has long been recognised. Chocolate is thought to have interactions with neurotransmitters which contribute to mood modulation and appetite regulation. However, the evidence in chocolate and mood studies remains highly controversial. As more is known about the influence of chocolate on mood, the reasons for these effects appear increasingly complex and inter-related.
Methods: We reviewed chocolate’s properties and the principal hypotheses addressing its mood altering propensities.
Results: The relationship between chocolate and mood are highly complex, combining psychopharmacological components, nutritional and sensory characteristics of the food. Individual and situational differences on chocolate consumption may also exert influence on mood and the mixed results in previous research indicate that the direction of the association remains unclear.
Conclusion: The association between chocolate consumption and emotions warrants further multi-prong investigations to substantiate chocolate’s mood alterating propensity.
Key words: Chocolate, mood, nutrients, oro-sensory aspects, pharmacological effects
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Short Communication
Major Inorganic Elements in Tap Water Samples in Peninsular Malaysia
Azrina A, Khoo HE, Idris MA, Amin I & Razman MR
ABSTRACT
Introduction: Quality drinking water should be free from harmful levels of impurities such as heavy metals and other inorganic elements.
Methods: Samples of tap water collected from 24 locations in Peninsular Malaysia were determined for inorganic element content. Minerals and heavy metals were analysed by spectroscopy methods, while non-metal elements were analysed using test kits.
Results: Minerals and heavy metals determined were sodium, magnesium, potassium, calcium, chromium, manganese, iron, nickel, copper, zinc, arsenic, cadmium and lead while the non-metal elements were fluoride, chloride, nitrate and sulphate. Most of the inorganic elements found in the samples were below the maximum permitted levels recommended by inter-national drinking water standard limits, except for iron and manganese. Iron concentration of tap water from one of the locations was higher than the standard limit.
Conclusion: In general, tap water from different parts of Peninsular Malaysia had low concentrations of heavy metals and inorganic elements.
Key words: Heavy metals, inorganic elements, minerals, Peninsular Malaysia, tap water
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Introduction: Quality drinking water should be free from harmful levels of impurities such as heavy metals and other inorganic elements.
Methods: Samples of tap water collected from 24 locations in Peninsular Malaysia were determined for inorganic element content. Minerals and heavy metals were analysed by spectroscopy methods, while non-metal elements were analysed using test kits.
Results: Minerals and heavy metals determined were sodium, magnesium, potassium, calcium, chromium, manganese, iron, nickel, copper, zinc, arsenic, cadmium and lead while the non-metal elements were fluoride, chloride, nitrate and sulphate. Most of the inorganic elements found in the samples were below the maximum permitted levels recommended by inter-national drinking water standard limits, except for iron and manganese. Iron concentration of tap water from one of the locations was higher than the standard limit.
Conclusion: In general, tap water from different parts of Peninsular Malaysia had low concentrations of heavy metals and inorganic elements.
Key words: Heavy metals, inorganic elements, minerals, Peninsular Malaysia, tap water
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Malaysian Journal of Nutrition
Volume 17 No.3, 2011
Table of Content
Editorial
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Correlates of Physical Activity Level among Hemodialysis Patients in Selangor, Malaysia
Wong SW, Chan YM & Lim TS
ABSTRACT
Introduction: There is mounting evidence demonstrating the importance of adequate physical activity to promote better well-being among hemodialysis patients. Available data pertaining to the levels of physical activity and its determinants among hemodialysis patients is, however, scarce in Malaysia. The objectives of this study are hence to determine the levels of physical activity and it associated factors among hemodialysis patients.
Methods: A total of 70 subjects were recruited from three dialysis centres in Selangor. A face-to-face interview was conducted to obtain socio-demographic data and subjects’ knowledge on dietary sources. Medical history, biochemical parameters and weight status were obtained from medical records. Physical activity level (PAL) was assessed using the Global Physical Activity Questionnaire (GPAQ).
Results: A total of 81.4% and 18.6% of the respondents had low and moderate PALs, respectively. Thus, none of the respondents had high PAL. Serum creatinine, education level, personal income and knowledge score on potassium-related medical complications were factors found to correlate significantly with PAL. Multiple linear regression analysis showed that higher PAL was predicted by a lower knowledge score on dietary sodium source, higher education and higher serum creatinine.
Conclusion: Despite consistent documentation of the potential positive impact of physical exercise on hemodialysis outcomes, the level of physical activity remains low among these patients. It is hoped that these findings can add to the existing body of knowledge and serve as a supporting document for the formulation of appropriate interventions to improve the status of physical activity among hemodialysis patients in Malaysia.
Key words: Determinants, hemodialysis patients, physical activity
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Introduction: There is mounting evidence demonstrating the importance of adequate physical activity to promote better well-being among hemodialysis patients. Available data pertaining to the levels of physical activity and its determinants among hemodialysis patients is, however, scarce in Malaysia. The objectives of this study are hence to determine the levels of physical activity and it associated factors among hemodialysis patients.
Methods: A total of 70 subjects were recruited from three dialysis centres in Selangor. A face-to-face interview was conducted to obtain socio-demographic data and subjects’ knowledge on dietary sources. Medical history, biochemical parameters and weight status were obtained from medical records. Physical activity level (PAL) was assessed using the Global Physical Activity Questionnaire (GPAQ).
Results: A total of 81.4% and 18.6% of the respondents had low and moderate PALs, respectively. Thus, none of the respondents had high PAL. Serum creatinine, education level, personal income and knowledge score on potassium-related medical complications were factors found to correlate significantly with PAL. Multiple linear regression analysis showed that higher PAL was predicted by a lower knowledge score on dietary sodium source, higher education and higher serum creatinine.
Conclusion: Despite consistent documentation of the potential positive impact of physical exercise on hemodialysis outcomes, the level of physical activity remains low among these patients. It is hoped that these findings can add to the existing body of knowledge and serve as a supporting document for the formulation of appropriate interventions to improve the status of physical activity among hemodialysis patients in Malaysia.
Key words: Determinants, hemodialysis patients, physical activity
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Dietary Compliance and its Association with Glycemic Control among Poorly Controlled Type 2 Diabetic Outpatients in Hospital Universiti Sains Malaysia
Tan SL, Juliana S & Sakinah H
ABSTRACT
Introduction: Compliance with medical nutrition therapy is important to improve patient outcomes. The purpose of this study was to determine dietary compliance and its association with glycemic control among outpatients with poorly controlled type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) in Hospital Universiti Sains Malaysia (HUSM).
Methods: In this cross-sectional study, patients who had a glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1c) level of at least 6.5%, after attending a diet counseling session at the Outpatient Dietetic Clinic, HUSM, were enrolled. Out of 150 diabetic patients reviewed between 2006 and 2008, 61 adults (32 men and 29 women) agreed to participate in this study. A questionnaire-based interview was used to collect socio-demographic, clinical and diabetes self-care data. The patient’s dietary compliance rate was determined by the Summary of Diabetes Self-Care Activities (SDSCA) measure. Anthropometric and biological measurements were also taken.
Results: Only 16.4% of the respondents adhered to the dietary regimen provided by dietitians. Among the 7 dietary self-care behaviours, item number 6 (eat lots of food high in dietary fibre such as vegetable or oats) had the highest compliant rate (54.1%); whereas item number 3 (eat five or more servings of fruits and vegetables per day) had the lowest compliant rate (23.0%). There was a significant association between gender (p=0.037) and fasting blood sugar (FBS) (p=0.007) with the compliance status.
Conclusion: Dietary non-compliance is still common among T2DM patients. Dietitians need to improve their skills and use more effective intervention approaches in providing dietary counseling to patients.
Key words: Dietary compliance, diet counseling, type 2 diabetes mellitus
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Introduction: Compliance with medical nutrition therapy is important to improve patient outcomes. The purpose of this study was to determine dietary compliance and its association with glycemic control among outpatients with poorly controlled type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) in Hospital Universiti Sains Malaysia (HUSM).
Methods: In this cross-sectional study, patients who had a glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1c) level of at least 6.5%, after attending a diet counseling session at the Outpatient Dietetic Clinic, HUSM, were enrolled. Out of 150 diabetic patients reviewed between 2006 and 2008, 61 adults (32 men and 29 women) agreed to participate in this study. A questionnaire-based interview was used to collect socio-demographic, clinical and diabetes self-care data. The patient’s dietary compliance rate was determined by the Summary of Diabetes Self-Care Activities (SDSCA) measure. Anthropometric and biological measurements were also taken.
Results: Only 16.4% of the respondents adhered to the dietary regimen provided by dietitians. Among the 7 dietary self-care behaviours, item number 6 (eat lots of food high in dietary fibre such as vegetable or oats) had the highest compliant rate (54.1%); whereas item number 3 (eat five or more servings of fruits and vegetables per day) had the lowest compliant rate (23.0%). There was a significant association between gender (p=0.037) and fasting blood sugar (FBS) (p=0.007) with the compliance status.
Conclusion: Dietary non-compliance is still common among T2DM patients. Dietitians need to improve their skills and use more effective intervention approaches in providing dietary counseling to patients.
Key words: Dietary compliance, diet counseling, type 2 diabetes mellitus
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Prevalence and Causes of Low Birth Weight in India
Bharati P, Pal M, Bandyopadhyay M, Bhakta A, Chakraborty S & Bharati P
ABSTRACT
Introduction: The aims of the study are (i) to understand inter-zone and inter-state variation of low birth weight (LBW) and (ii) to determine the key variables to reduce LBW in India.
Methods: Using the latest National Family Health Survey (NFHS) data of 2005-06 which showed the percentage distribution of LBW infants, ANOVA and post-hoc test were performed to determine the spatial variation of birth weight. The covariates which influence LBW fell into three categories: (i) social variables which included location, mother’s education, religion, access of mothers to newspapers, television and family structure; (ii) economic variable namely, the wealth index, and (iii) biological variables which consisted of sex of the children, birth order, and mother’s body mass index (BMI). Three models of Logistic regression were carried out to examine the influence of the combinations of these direct and indirect factors.
Results: In India, nearly 20% of new borns have LBW. Males have less frequency of LBW than females. The North-east zone has the lowest prevalence of LBW while the north zone has the highest. Mother’s education, access to TV and nuclear family, and intake of iron tablets are the most important socio-economic influences on the determination of birth weight in India.
Conclusion: It is essential to provide proper diet and nutritional care of mothers during pregnancy. Increased education of mothers through programmes in TV and newspapers articles have significant roles to play in reducing LBW in India.
Key words: ANOVA, India, logistic regression, low birth weight, socioeconomic factors
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Introduction: The aims of the study are (i) to understand inter-zone and inter-state variation of low birth weight (LBW) and (ii) to determine the key variables to reduce LBW in India.
Methods: Using the latest National Family Health Survey (NFHS) data of 2005-06 which showed the percentage distribution of LBW infants, ANOVA and post-hoc test were performed to determine the spatial variation of birth weight. The covariates which influence LBW fell into three categories: (i) social variables which included location, mother’s education, religion, access of mothers to newspapers, television and family structure; (ii) economic variable namely, the wealth index, and (iii) biological variables which consisted of sex of the children, birth order, and mother’s body mass index (BMI). Three models of Logistic regression were carried out to examine the influence of the combinations of these direct and indirect factors.
Results: In India, nearly 20% of new borns have LBW. Males have less frequency of LBW than females. The North-east zone has the lowest prevalence of LBW while the north zone has the highest. Mother’s education, access to TV and nuclear family, and intake of iron tablets are the most important socio-economic influences on the determination of birth weight in India.
Conclusion: It is essential to provide proper diet and nutritional care of mothers during pregnancy. Increased education of mothers through programmes in TV and newspapers articles have significant roles to play in reducing LBW in India.
Key words: ANOVA, India, logistic regression, low birth weight, socioeconomic factors
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Socio-Demographic and Psychosocial Factors Associated with Physical Activity of Working Woman in Petaling Jaya, Malaysia
Siti Affira K, Mohd Nasir MT, Hazizi AS & Kandiah M
ABSTRACT
Introduction: This study was conducted on 215 working women from four private corporate companies in a suburb in Malaysia to determine the factors related to their physical activity levels.
Methods: Data were collected using a questionnaire which included socio-demographic characteristics, the International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ), perceived barriers and benefits to physical activity, self-efficacy to physical activity and an 8-item questionnaire on current behavioral stage of physical activity.
Results: The majority of the respondents were Malay (81.9%) with 10.2% being Chinese and 7.9% Indian. Most of the respondents were executives (64.2%), while the rest were non-executives (24.7%) and managers (11.2%). The mean weight, height, BMI and waist circumference were 59.4±13.1kg, 1.6±0.6m, 23.7±4.8kg/m² and 77.0±12.1cm respectively. In this sample, 24.7% and 7.9% were overweight and obese respectively, while 34% were at risk of abdominal obesity. A total of 28.8% of the respondents had low physical activity level, while 48.8% and 22.3% were in the moderate and high physical activity categories respectively. An association was found between monthly income (χ2=110.17; p<0.05) and current behavioral stage of physical activity (χ2=27.527; p<0.05) with physical activity, but no relationship was found between job category and physical activity category (χ2=8.940; p>0.05). Physical activity category was also positively correlated with perceived barriers (r=0.227,p<0.05) and benefits to physical activity (r=0.280, p<0.05). However, physical activity was not associated with self-efficacy to physical activity.
Conclusion: In this sample of working women, socio-demographic and psychosocial factors (except self-efficacy to physical activity) were found to have an association with physical activity level of the respondents. Further studies should be conducted to confirm these findings in the general working women population.
Key words: Physical activity, psychosocial factors, socio-demographic factors working women
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Introduction: This study was conducted on 215 working women from four private corporate companies in a suburb in Malaysia to determine the factors related to their physical activity levels.
Methods: Data were collected using a questionnaire which included socio-demographic characteristics, the International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ), perceived barriers and benefits to physical activity, self-efficacy to physical activity and an 8-item questionnaire on current behavioral stage of physical activity.
Results: The majority of the respondents were Malay (81.9%) with 10.2% being Chinese and 7.9% Indian. Most of the respondents were executives (64.2%), while the rest were non-executives (24.7%) and managers (11.2%). The mean weight, height, BMI and waist circumference were 59.4±13.1kg, 1.6±0.6m, 23.7±4.8kg/m² and 77.0±12.1cm respectively. In this sample, 24.7% and 7.9% were overweight and obese respectively, while 34% were at risk of abdominal obesity. A total of 28.8% of the respondents had low physical activity level, while 48.8% and 22.3% were in the moderate and high physical activity categories respectively. An association was found between monthly income (χ2=110.17; p<0.05) and current behavioral stage of physical activity (χ2=27.527; p<0.05) with physical activity, but no relationship was found between job category and physical activity category (χ2=8.940; p>0.05). Physical activity category was also positively correlated with perceived barriers (r=0.227,p<0.05) and benefits to physical activity (r=0.280, p<0.05). However, physical activity was not associated with self-efficacy to physical activity.
Conclusion: In this sample of working women, socio-demographic and psychosocial factors (except self-efficacy to physical activity) were found to have an association with physical activity level of the respondents. Further studies should be conducted to confirm these findings in the general working women population.
Key words: Physical activity, psychosocial factors, socio-demographic factors working women
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Physical Activity, Eating Behaviour and Body Image Perception among Young Adolescents in Kuantan, Pahang, Malaysia
Farah Wahida Z, Mohd Nasir MT & Hazizi AS
ABSTRACT
Introduction: A cross-sectional study was conducted to determine physical activity, eating behaviour, body weight management knowledge, perception of body image and their association with body weight status of adolescents.
Methods: Respondents were 360 adolescents, aged between 13 to 14 years, from six randomly selected secondary schools in Kuantan, Pahang. Physical activity, eating behaviour, body weight management knowledge and perception of body image were measured by the Physical Activity Questionnaire for Older Children (PAQ-C), Eating Attitude Test-26 (EAT-26), Weight Management Knowledge Inventory (WMKI) and Contour Drawing Rating Scale (CDRS), respectively.
Results: Almost half of the respondents were categorised as having a normal BMI, while 30.3% were severely thin and thin and 20.3% were overweight and obese. Mean physical activity score was 2.06 + 0.45 with more males (35.0%) being physically active than females (17.3%). Mean eating behaviour score was 15.41+10.37, with 27.8% of the respondents being at-risk for eating disorders. Mean weight management knowledge score was 5.35+1.80, with more females (77.7%) having higher mean scores than males (42.3%). Further, mean discrepancy score for body image perception was 1.24+0.99, with 78.1% of the respondents being dissatisfied with their current body size. Positive associations were found between eating behaviour (r=0.28, p<0.05) and body image (r=0.35, p<0.05) with BMI. Respondents with high eating behaviour scores and body image discrepancy scores were more likely to have greater BMI.
Conclusion: This study shows the need for healthy eating and body image intervention programmes to prevent overweight and obesity problems among adolescents.
Key words: Physical activity, eating behaviour, body weight management, body image perception, adolescents
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Introduction: A cross-sectional study was conducted to determine physical activity, eating behaviour, body weight management knowledge, perception of body image and their association with body weight status of adolescents.
Methods: Respondents were 360 adolescents, aged between 13 to 14 years, from six randomly selected secondary schools in Kuantan, Pahang. Physical activity, eating behaviour, body weight management knowledge and perception of body image were measured by the Physical Activity Questionnaire for Older Children (PAQ-C), Eating Attitude Test-26 (EAT-26), Weight Management Knowledge Inventory (WMKI) and Contour Drawing Rating Scale (CDRS), respectively.
Results: Almost half of the respondents were categorised as having a normal BMI, while 30.3% were severely thin and thin and 20.3% were overweight and obese. Mean physical activity score was 2.06 + 0.45 with more males (35.0%) being physically active than females (17.3%). Mean eating behaviour score was 15.41+10.37, with 27.8% of the respondents being at-risk for eating disorders. Mean weight management knowledge score was 5.35+1.80, with more females (77.7%) having higher mean scores than males (42.3%). Further, mean discrepancy score for body image perception was 1.24+0.99, with 78.1% of the respondents being dissatisfied with their current body size. Positive associations were found between eating behaviour (r=0.28, p<0.05) and body image (r=0.35, p<0.05) with BMI. Respondents with high eating behaviour scores and body image discrepancy scores were more likely to have greater BMI.
Conclusion: This study shows the need for healthy eating and body image intervention programmes to prevent overweight and obesity problems among adolescents.
Key words: Physical activity, eating behaviour, body weight management, body image perception, adolescents
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Dietary Trans Fatty Acids Intake and its Relation to Dyslipidemia in a Sample of Adults in Depok City, West Java, Indonesia
Ratu Ayu Dewi Sartika
ABSTRACT
Introduction: The Basic Health Research of the Ministry of Health Indonesia in 2008 reported that the single most important cause of death was stroke, in both urban and rural populations. The risk factors underlying the cause of death are associated with hypertension, obesity and dyslipidemia. The purpose of this study was to determine the mean intake of trans fatty acids and its relation to dyslipidemia in a sample of Indonesian adults.
Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted on a total of 180 adult male and female respondents aged 35-60 years living in rural and urban areas of Depok city, West Java. Dietary intake was assessed by means of 24-hour recall and semi-quantitative FFQ
Results: The mean intake of trans fatty acids was 0.48% of total calories (urban 0.40% and rural 0.55%). The prevalence of dyslipidemia in the rural and urban subjects were 61.1% and 66.7%, respectively. There was a statistically significant relationship between trans fatty acids intake and hypercholesterolemia and hypertrigly-ceridemia.
Conclusion: The intake of trans fatty acid among the Indonesian adults studied was half the recommended level. The high prevalence of dyslipidemia found indicates the need for intervention to reduce the rising incidence of cardiovascular diseases in Indonesia.
Key words: Dyslipidemia, trans fatty acids intake, Indonesia
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Introduction: The Basic Health Research of the Ministry of Health Indonesia in 2008 reported that the single most important cause of death was stroke, in both urban and rural populations. The risk factors underlying the cause of death are associated with hypertension, obesity and dyslipidemia. The purpose of this study was to determine the mean intake of trans fatty acids and its relation to dyslipidemia in a sample of Indonesian adults.
Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted on a total of 180 adult male and female respondents aged 35-60 years living in rural and urban areas of Depok city, West Java. Dietary intake was assessed by means of 24-hour recall and semi-quantitative FFQ
Results: The mean intake of trans fatty acids was 0.48% of total calories (urban 0.40% and rural 0.55%). The prevalence of dyslipidemia in the rural and urban subjects were 61.1% and 66.7%, respectively. There was a statistically significant relationship between trans fatty acids intake and hypercholesterolemia and hypertrigly-ceridemia.
Conclusion: The intake of trans fatty acid among the Indonesian adults studied was half the recommended level. The high prevalence of dyslipidemia found indicates the need for intervention to reduce the rising incidence of cardiovascular diseases in Indonesia.
Key words: Dyslipidemia, trans fatty acids intake, Indonesia
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Impact of Nutrition Education on Knowledge and Haemoglobin Status of Hill Women in Uttarakhand State of India
Upadhyay S, Kumar AR, Raghuvanshi RS & Singh BB
ABSTRACT
Introduction: This study aimed to examine the impact of the use of single vs. combination of media on nutritional knowledge and haemoglobin status of women in a rural hill area in Uttarakhand State, India.
Methods: Women from three villages were selected randomly and divided into three groups namely, print media group (n=59), multimedia group (n=53) and control group (n=111). The print media group was exposed to nutrition education through the use of calendars on anaemia for 60 days; the multimedia group was given nutrition education through a combination of media including calendars, video films, and group discussions for 60 days.
Results: At pre-exposure stage, 62.7% of the women in the print media group, 67.9 % of the multimedia group, and 66.7 % of the control group had a low nutrition knowledge level. After exposure, the print media group and the multimedia group showed a significant rise in nutrition knowledge, with the multimedia group scoring significantly higher than the print media group. Overall, 69.1% of the women were anaemic with mean haemoglobin concentration of 10.74 + 0.86 g/dl. A non-significant rise in mean haemoglobin concentrations in the experimental groups was found at post-exposure stage.
Conclusion: Calendars and video films are effective in increasing nutrition knowledge of illiterate hill women. Use of mass media programmes of longer duration should be encouraged to combat the nutritional problems of rural communities.
Key words: Anaemia, haemoglobin, multimedia, nutrition education, print media
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Introduction: This study aimed to examine the impact of the use of single vs. combination of media on nutritional knowledge and haemoglobin status of women in a rural hill area in Uttarakhand State, India.
Methods: Women from three villages were selected randomly and divided into three groups namely, print media group (n=59), multimedia group (n=53) and control group (n=111). The print media group was exposed to nutrition education through the use of calendars on anaemia for 60 days; the multimedia group was given nutrition education through a combination of media including calendars, video films, and group discussions for 60 days.
Results: At pre-exposure stage, 62.7% of the women in the print media group, 67.9 % of the multimedia group, and 66.7 % of the control group had a low nutrition knowledge level. After exposure, the print media group and the multimedia group showed a significant rise in nutrition knowledge, with the multimedia group scoring significantly higher than the print media group. Overall, 69.1% of the women were anaemic with mean haemoglobin concentration of 10.74 + 0.86 g/dl. A non-significant rise in mean haemoglobin concentrations in the experimental groups was found at post-exposure stage.
Conclusion: Calendars and video films are effective in increasing nutrition knowledge of illiterate hill women. Use of mass media programmes of longer duration should be encouraged to combat the nutritional problems of rural communities.
Key words: Anaemia, haemoglobin, multimedia, nutrition education, print media
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Impact of Okra (Abelmoschus esculentus) Seed Flour on Nutrients, Functional Properties and Zinc Bioavailability of Plantain Flour
Adetuyi FO & Adelabu HA
ABSTRACT
Introduction: In Nigeria, nursing mothers are advised to give their infants plantain flour paste ‘amala ogede’ with ‘ewedu’ Corchorus olitorius soup during the process of weaning. Over-matured okra is typically discarded resulting in substantial post-harvest waste; the seed could be processed into okra seed flour for the fortification of plantain flour. The aim of this study is to evaluate the effect of the addition of okra seed flour on the nutrients, functional properties, minerals and zinc bioavailability of plantain flour.
Methods: Okra seed flour was used to fortify plantain flour in the ratio 90:10, 80:20 and 70:30.
Results: The addition of okra seed flour to the plantain flour resulted in a significant increase in the protein, fat, fibre and ash content of the fortified plantain flour, while that of moisture and carbohydrate decreased. The mineral levels of Zn, K and Fe increased significantly while the calcium content decreased. The calculated phytate - zinc molar ratio and [Ca][Phytate]/[Zn] molar ratio of the fortified plantain flour were below the critical levels.
Conclusion: The study showed that fortifying plantain flour with okra seed flour resulted in an increase in several nutrients, rendering the zinc more bioavailable. This fortified food has potential as a complimentary food in Nigeria.
Key words: Complimentary food, okra seed flour, plantain flour, phytate, zinc bioavailability
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Introduction: In Nigeria, nursing mothers are advised to give their infants plantain flour paste ‘amala ogede’ with ‘ewedu’ Corchorus olitorius soup during the process of weaning. Over-matured okra is typically discarded resulting in substantial post-harvest waste; the seed could be processed into okra seed flour for the fortification of plantain flour. The aim of this study is to evaluate the effect of the addition of okra seed flour on the nutrients, functional properties, minerals and zinc bioavailability of plantain flour.
Methods: Okra seed flour was used to fortify plantain flour in the ratio 90:10, 80:20 and 70:30.
Results: The addition of okra seed flour to the plantain flour resulted in a significant increase in the protein, fat, fibre and ash content of the fortified plantain flour, while that of moisture and carbohydrate decreased. The mineral levels of Zn, K and Fe increased significantly while the calcium content decreased. The calculated phytate - zinc molar ratio and [Ca][Phytate]/[Zn] molar ratio of the fortified plantain flour were below the critical levels.
Conclusion: The study showed that fortifying plantain flour with okra seed flour resulted in an increase in several nutrients, rendering the zinc more bioavailable. This fortified food has potential as a complimentary food in Nigeria.
Key words: Complimentary food, okra seed flour, plantain flour, phytate, zinc bioavailability
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Antioxidant and Cytotoxicity Effect of Rice Bran Phytic Acid as an Anticancer Agent on Ovarian, Breast and Liver Cancer Cell Lines
Norhaizan ME, Ng SK2, Norashareena MS & Abdah MA
ABSTRACT
Introduction: Phytic acid (PA) has been shown to have positive nutritional benefits. There are also claims that it is able to prevent cancer through its antioxidant capability. This study investigated antioxidant activity and cytotoxic effect of PA extracted from rice bran against selected cancer cell lines (i.e. ovarian, breast and liver cancer).
Methods: Cytotoxicity activity of PA was investigated using MTS [3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-5-(3-carboxymethoxyphenyl)-2-(4-sulfophenyl)]-2H-tetrazolium, inner salt] assay while the antioxidant activity of PA extract, commercial PA and butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT) was determined by using five different assays: ferric thiocyanate (FTC) and thiobarbituric acid (TBA) assay, β-carotene bleaching method, DPPH radical scavenging assay and ferric reducing antioxidant power(FRAP) assay.
Results: PA extracted from rice bran induced marked growth inhibition in ovary, breast and liver cancer cells with 50% growth inhibition concentration (IC50) values of 3.45, 3.78 and 1.66 mM, respectively but exhibited no sensitivity towards a normal cell line (3T3). The PA extract was also found to exert antioxidant activity when tested using the FTC, TBA, FRAP and β-carotene bleaching methods but antioxidant activity could not be attributed to scavenging free radical species as measured by DPPH radical scavenging assay.
Conclusion: The PA extract from rice bran displayed safe and promising anticancer properties in selected cancer cell lines and it is believed that its antioxidant capability is the likely contributor to the observed anticancer properties.
Key words: Anti-cancer, antioxidant, phytic acid, rice bran
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Introduction: Phytic acid (PA) has been shown to have positive nutritional benefits. There are also claims that it is able to prevent cancer through its antioxidant capability. This study investigated antioxidant activity and cytotoxic effect of PA extracted from rice bran against selected cancer cell lines (i.e. ovarian, breast and liver cancer).
Methods: Cytotoxicity activity of PA was investigated using MTS [3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-5-(3-carboxymethoxyphenyl)-2-(4-sulfophenyl)]-2H-tetrazolium, inner salt] assay while the antioxidant activity of PA extract, commercial PA and butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT) was determined by using five different assays: ferric thiocyanate (FTC) and thiobarbituric acid (TBA) assay, β-carotene bleaching method, DPPH radical scavenging assay and ferric reducing antioxidant power(FRAP) assay.
Results: PA extracted from rice bran induced marked growth inhibition in ovary, breast and liver cancer cells with 50% growth inhibition concentration (IC50) values of 3.45, 3.78 and 1.66 mM, respectively but exhibited no sensitivity towards a normal cell line (3T3). The PA extract was also found to exert antioxidant activity when tested using the FTC, TBA, FRAP and β-carotene bleaching methods but antioxidant activity could not be attributed to scavenging free radical species as measured by DPPH radical scavenging assay.
Conclusion: The PA extract from rice bran displayed safe and promising anticancer properties in selected cancer cell lines and it is believed that its antioxidant capability is the likely contributor to the observed anticancer properties.
Key words: Anti-cancer, antioxidant, phytic acid, rice bran
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Antioxidant Capacity and Total Phenol Content of Commonly Consumed Selected Vegetables of Bangladesh
Sharmin H, Nazma S, Md. Mohiduzzaman & Cadi PB
ABSTRACT
Introduction: The purpose of the study was to determine the antioxidant capacity (AC) and total phenolic content (TPC) of selected commonly consumed Bangladeshi vegetables and herbs.
Methods: Hydrophilic extracts from edible portions of ten vegetables and two herbs were analysed. The total phenolic amount ranged from 27.65 ± 1.45mg to 1.08 ± 0.15 Gallic Acid Equivalent (GAE)/g on a fresh weight (FW) basis. Contents of total phenol were determined spectrophotometrically according to the Folin-Ciocalteau method and the anti-oxidant capacity was determined by 2,2-diphenyl-1-1-picrylhydrazyl radical scavenging activity (DPPH-RSA).
Results: Antioxidant capacity varied from 8328.80 ± 29.15 to 0.61 ± 0.19 μ mol Trolox Equivalent (TE)/g of FW. Ipomoea leaves showed the highest AC (8328.80 ± 29.15 μ mol TE/g), while the lowest AC (0.61 ± 0.19 μ mol TE/g) was seen in radish. A linear relationship was observed between Trolox Equivalent Antioxidant Capacity (TEAC) values and total phenol. Antioxidant capacity of the assayed samples correlated significantly and positively with total phenolic content (R2 = 0.814, p<0.01). Vegetables with high polyphenol like Ipomoea leaves and mint showed high AC with the exception of raw banana which demonstrated moderate AC though it contained high TPC. Moderate TPC vegetables like amaranths and coriander leaves did not show substantial AC.
Conclusion: The data indicates that indigenous vegetables containing high polyphenols may be a potential source of dietary antioxidants.
Key words: Anti-oxidant capacity, DPPH radical scavenging activity, total phenol, vegetables
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Introduction: The purpose of the study was to determine the antioxidant capacity (AC) and total phenolic content (TPC) of selected commonly consumed Bangladeshi vegetables and herbs.
Methods: Hydrophilic extracts from edible portions of ten vegetables and two herbs were analysed. The total phenolic amount ranged from 27.65 ± 1.45mg to 1.08 ± 0.15 Gallic Acid Equivalent (GAE)/g on a fresh weight (FW) basis. Contents of total phenol were determined spectrophotometrically according to the Folin-Ciocalteau method and the anti-oxidant capacity was determined by 2,2-diphenyl-1-1-picrylhydrazyl radical scavenging activity (DPPH-RSA).
Results: Antioxidant capacity varied from 8328.80 ± 29.15 to 0.61 ± 0.19 μ mol Trolox Equivalent (TE)/g of FW. Ipomoea leaves showed the highest AC (8328.80 ± 29.15 μ mol TE/g), while the lowest AC (0.61 ± 0.19 μ mol TE/g) was seen in radish. A linear relationship was observed between Trolox Equivalent Antioxidant Capacity (TEAC) values and total phenol. Antioxidant capacity of the assayed samples correlated significantly and positively with total phenolic content (R2 = 0.814, p<0.01). Vegetables with high polyphenol like Ipomoea leaves and mint showed high AC with the exception of raw banana which demonstrated moderate AC though it contained high TPC. Moderate TPC vegetables like amaranths and coriander leaves did not show substantial AC.
Conclusion: The data indicates that indigenous vegetables containing high polyphenols may be a potential source of dietary antioxidants.
Key words: Anti-oxidant capacity, DPPH radical scavenging activity, total phenol, vegetables
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SHORT COMMUNICATIONS
Influence of Socio-demographic Factors on Physical Activity Participation in a Sample of Adults in Penang, Malaysia
Cheah YK
ABSTRACT
Introduction: Given the importance of physical activity to health, this study investigated the socio-demographic determinants of physical activity participation in a sample of adults in Penang.
Methods: Through convenience sampling, a total of 398 adults agreed to answer a prepared questionnaire on their socio-demographic background and physical activity participation. The data were analysed using the binary logit model. Frequent physical activity participation is defined as taking part more than 11 times in leisure-time physical activity such as swimming and jogging, each time lasting more than 15 minutes in a typical month, whereas participation that is less than the frequency and time duration specified above is referred to as infrequent physical activity.
Results: Age, male, being Chinese, high educational attainment, self-rated excellent health status and presence of family illnesses are positively associated with the likelihood of frequent participation in physical activity. On the contrary, being married, having low income and residing in rural areas are inversely related with the propensity of frequent physical activity participation.
Conclusion: The majority in this sample of adults do not participate in physical activity frequently, and the reasons given include lack of health awareness, limited leisure time, budget constraints, and lack of sports amenities.
Key words: Physical activity participation, socio-demographic determinants
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Introduction: Given the importance of physical activity to health, this study investigated the socio-demographic determinants of physical activity participation in a sample of adults in Penang.
Methods: Through convenience sampling, a total of 398 adults agreed to answer a prepared questionnaire on their socio-demographic background and physical activity participation. The data were analysed using the binary logit model. Frequent physical activity participation is defined as taking part more than 11 times in leisure-time physical activity such as swimming and jogging, each time lasting more than 15 minutes in a typical month, whereas participation that is less than the frequency and time duration specified above is referred to as infrequent physical activity.
Results: Age, male, being Chinese, high educational attainment, self-rated excellent health status and presence of family illnesses are positively associated with the likelihood of frequent participation in physical activity. On the contrary, being married, having low income and residing in rural areas are inversely related with the propensity of frequent physical activity participation.
Conclusion: The majority in this sample of adults do not participate in physical activity frequently, and the reasons given include lack of health awareness, limited leisure time, budget constraints, and lack of sports amenities.
Key words: Physical activity participation, socio-demographic determinants
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SHORT COMMUNICATIONS
Glycemic Index Determination of Vegetable and Fruits in Healthy Bangladeshi Subjects
Fatema K, Sumi N, Rahman F, Kobura K & Ali L
ABSTRACT
Introduction: Fruits and vegetables are an important part of the diet especially for their complex carbohydrates, dietary fibre and micronutrients. The present study investigated the glycemic index (GI) of a vegetable [carrot (Daucas carota)] and fruits [banana (Chapa kola) Musa Sp. and plum (Bau kul) Zizyphus mauritiana] of Bangladeshi origin.
Methods: Fourteen healthy Bangladeshi subjects, comprising 7 males and, 7 females, with mean age of 26 ± 3 years, BMI 22 ± 3 kg/m2, waist-hip ratio of 0.89 ± 0.01 and 0.84 ± 0.04 respectively for males and females. Under a cross-over design, they consumed equi-carbohydrate amounts (25 g of total available carbohydrate) of the test foods and two times glucose as reference food (25 g of total carbohydrate), with a run in period of 7 days between the consecutive items. Serum glucose levels were determined at 0, 30, 60, 90, and 120 min. The GIs was calculated.
Results: The carrot, banana and plum samples showed significantly lower serum glucose values (incremental area under the curve 30.4 + 12.6, 37.3 + 19.2 and 41.8 + 20.7 respectively) than glucose (132.7±36.0). The carrot showed a lower GI value than banana and plum respectively (23 ± 9, 30 ± 18 and 32 ± 15).
Conclusion: The vegetable and fruit samples tested of Bangladesh origin were shown to have comparatively low GI values.
Key words: Carbohydrate, diet, fruits, glycemic index, glycemic load, vegetables
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Introduction: Fruits and vegetables are an important part of the diet especially for their complex carbohydrates, dietary fibre and micronutrients. The present study investigated the glycemic index (GI) of a vegetable [carrot (Daucas carota)] and fruits [banana (Chapa kola) Musa Sp. and plum (Bau kul) Zizyphus mauritiana] of Bangladeshi origin.
Methods: Fourteen healthy Bangladeshi subjects, comprising 7 males and, 7 females, with mean age of 26 ± 3 years, BMI 22 ± 3 kg/m2, waist-hip ratio of 0.89 ± 0.01 and 0.84 ± 0.04 respectively for males and females. Under a cross-over design, they consumed equi-carbohydrate amounts (25 g of total available carbohydrate) of the test foods and two times glucose as reference food (25 g of total carbohydrate), with a run in period of 7 days between the consecutive items. Serum glucose levels were determined at 0, 30, 60, 90, and 120 min. The GIs was calculated.
Results: The carrot, banana and plum samples showed significantly lower serum glucose values (incremental area under the curve 30.4 + 12.6, 37.3 + 19.2 and 41.8 + 20.7 respectively) than glucose (132.7±36.0). The carrot showed a lower GI value than banana and plum respectively (23 ± 9, 30 ± 18 and 32 ± 15).
Conclusion: The vegetable and fruit samples tested of Bangladesh origin were shown to have comparatively low GI values.
Key words: Carbohydrate, diet, fruits, glycemic index, glycemic load, vegetables
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