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Boosting Legume Consumption While Cutting Down on Red Meat Safely Maintains Bone Health and Protein Levels

A study at the University of Helsinki revealed that substituting red and processed meat with food products based on peas and faba beans ensures adequate amino acid intake and does not adversely affect bone metabolism.

Docent Suvi Itkonen from the Faculty of Agriculture and Forestry stated that reducing red and processed meat intake to the upper limit recommended by the Planetary Health Diet while increasing the consumption of locally grown legumes, such as peas and faba beans, does not compromise protein nutrition or bone health. The research, known as the BeanMan study, involved 102 Finnish men who followed a specified diet for six weeks.

In the study, one group of participants consumed 760 grams of red and processed meat weekly, making up 25% of their total protein intake, aligning with Finnish men’s average protein consumption. Another group had legume-based products, primarily peas and faba beans, which accounted for 20% of their protein intake. Additionally, this group’s red and processed meat consumption was limited to 200 grams per week, adhering to the upper limit set by the Planetary Health Diet and constituting 5% of the total protein intake. Participants were instructed to maintain their usual diet but refrained from consuming any other red or processed meats or legumes outside of those provided by the study.

The researchers observed no significant differences between the two dietary groups regarding bone formation or resorption markers. Both groups’ calcium and vitamin D intakes were consistent with current dietary guidelines, and their intake of essential amino acids and proteins met the recommended levels.

Itkonen also highlighted the environmental benefits of reducing red meat consumption. With plant-based diets gaining popularity and the recent updates to the Nordic Nutrition Recommendations, there is an emphasis on limiting meat and moderating dairy consumption. Itkonen noted that while the study participants continued consuming dairy products as part of their usual diet, maintaining adequate calcium and vitamin D levels is crucial for bone health, significantly if dairy intake is reduced. Alternatives include plant-based beverages and yoghurt-like products fortified with these nutrients or, if necessary, dietary supplements to compensate for the reduced dairy consumption.

More information: Suvi T. Itkonen et al, Effects of partial replacement of red and processed meat with non-soya legumes on bone and mineral metabolism and amino acid intakes in BeanMan randomised clinical trial, British Journal Of Nutrition. DOI: 10.1017/S0007114523001514

Journal information: British Journal Of Nutrition Provided by University of Helsinki

Elderly Demographics: Healthcare Funding Relies on Public Perception of Benefits and Risks

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Healthcare is essential for all individuals and becomes increasingly critical as people age due to heightened health risks and associated costs. Many nations have implemented universal healthcare systems, funded predominantly through taxes and insurance, to ensure everyone can access necessary health services. However, with an ageing population resulting from declining fertility rates and extended life expectancy, the financial strain on these systems has intensified significantly. This scenario poses a formidable challenge to governments: convincing citizens to increase their contributions towards health insurance to maintain system viability.

The pivotal study conducted by Associate Professor Tomoko Matsumoto and Junior Associate Professor Daiki Kishishita at the Tokyo University of Science, Japan, and published in the European Journal of Political Economy on 8 August 2024, holds significant implications for policymakers and governments. The study explores the potential of informing individuals about the personal future benefits they might reap from the healthcare system as a strategy for persuasion. The researchers were driven by the understanding that ageing-related health risks are universal, cutting across all socioeconomic groups. Despite this, there is a notable lack of public awareness about government fiscal policies related to healthcare and the personal advantages these policies provide. The team posited that enhancing individual knowledge about these personal benefits could bolster political support for higher healthcare contributions.

To investigate this, the researchers designed a two-period overlapping generations model. They hypothesized that increased awareness about future personal benefits could heighten public willingness to pay more towards health insurance. This hypothesis was tested against concerns about the fiscal sustainability of healthcare systems burdened by an ageing demographic. An online survey experiment was conducted with 4,367 participants in Japan, predominantly under the age of 75. Participants were randomly assigned to receive information about future personal benefits (Framing S) or current benefits to older adults (Framing N). Those in Framing S were further divided, with some receiving additional information about fiscal risks.

The results of the survey were revealing. In Framing S, where the focus was on future personal benefits, 81% of participants initially underestimated the benefits of the public healthcare system, indicating that their expectations might rise upon receiving accurate benefit information. However, overall, providing information about future benefits did not significantly sway participants towards supporting an increase in health insurance contributions. Notably, for those initially unaware of the fiscal challenges facing the system, learning about these challenges negated any initial increase in support caused by awareness of personal benefits.

In contrast, Framing N, which did not emphasize personal benefits, showed that merely informing participants about benefits without a personal focus had minimal impact on their willingness to support higher health insurance contributions. This was especially true for those aware of the system’s fiscal difficulties, where support decreased.

These findings have profound implications for policymakers and governments, especially in countries grappling with the challenges posed by an ageing population and strained public healthcare systems. The research suggests that for public support to increase for higher health insurance contributions, individuals must not only be informed about the future benefits they stand to gain but must also trust in the fiscal sustainability of the healthcare system. This trust could potentially be fostered through the implementation of robust fiscal consolidation policies aimed at stabilizing public finances. Drs. Matsumoto and Kishishita conclude that building confidence in the future benefits of the healthcare system, underpinned by sound fiscal policies, is crucial for securing broader public support for sustaining healthcare funding. This research provides a hopeful and optimistic guide for future policy decisions in the healthcare sector.

More information: Daiki Kishishita et al, Self-benefits, fiscal risk, and political support for the public healthcare system, European Journal of Political Economy. DOI: 10.1016/j.ejpoleco.2024.102597

Journal information: European Journal of Political Economy Provided by Tokyo University of Science

Reducing Processed Meat Consumption Yields Numerous Health Advantages

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According to new research, reducing processed meat consumption by approximately one-third could help prevent over 350,000 cases of diabetes in the US within a decade.

A research team’s findings suggest that reducing processed meat intake among US adults by 30%—equivalent to about ten slices of bacon weekly—could also significantly decrease cardiovascular disease and colorectal cancer cases.

This team, comprising experts from the University of Edinburgh’s Global Academy of Agriculture and Food Systems and the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, has devised a simulation tool to assess the health impacts of lowering the consumption of processed and unprocessed red meat.

Historically, numerous studies have established a correlation between high processed meat consumption and an increased risk of chronic diseases; however, few have assessed the impact across multiple health outcomes. Although some earlier studies have indicated that unprocessed red meat might contribute to the risk of chronic diseases, the evidence remains inconclusive.

Using data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) national health survey, the researchers created a simulated, representative sample of the US adult population through a technique known as microsimulation.

This innovative microsimulation is the first to estimate the health effects of varying reductions in the consumption of processed and unprocessed red meat—ranging from 5 to 100%—on various health outcomes across the US.

The study quantified the potential reductions in adults’ risk of developing diabetes, cardiovascular disease, colorectal cancer, and even death from these conditions. The analysis was conducted on the overall population and examined separately by age, sex, household income, and ethnicity.

The research found that a 30% reduction in processed meat consumption could not only prevent over 350,000 diabetes cases but also reduce cardiovascular disease and colorectal cancer cases by 92,500 and 53,300, respectively, over ten years.

Particularly notable health benefits were observed among white males and individuals with annual household incomes ranging from $25,000 to $55,000.

The study also explored the effects of solely reducing unprocessed red meat intake and the combined reduction of both meat types.

A 30% decrease in processed and unprocessed red meat consumption could prevent an estimated 1,073,400 diabetes cases, 382,400 cardiovascular disease cases, and 84,400 colorectal cancer cases.

Reducing unprocessed red meat intake by 30%—equivalent to consuming one fewer quarter-pound beef burger per week—could reduce over 732,000 diabetes cases and decrease cardiovascular disease and colorectal cancer cases by 291,500 and 32,200, respectively.

The findings highlighted that more excellent disease prevention could be achieved by reducing unprocessed red meat intake rather than processed meat. This is likely because the average daily consumption of unprocessed red meat is higher than that of processed meat—47 g per day compared to 29g per day.

Given the relatively sparse data on the impact of unprocessed red meat on chronic disease risk, the researchers caution that these findings should be interpreted carefully and underscore the need for further research.

The study, published in The Lancet Planetary Health journal, received funding from The Wellcome Trust.

Professor Lindsay Jaacks, Personal Chair of Global Health and Nutrition at the University of Edinburgh and co-author of the study, emphasised that cutting meat consumption is recommended by national and international organisations, such as the Climate Change Committee in the UK and the United Nations Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), to mitigate greenhouse gas emissions. She noted that the research supports the notion that dietary changes could confer substantial health benefits in the US, thus presenting a dual benefit for human health and the environment.

More information: Joe Kennedy et al, Estimated effects of reductions in processed meat consumption and unprocessed red meat consumption on occurrences of type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, colorectal cancer, and mortality in the USA: a microsimulation study, The Lancet Planetary Health. DOI: 10.1016/S2542-5196(24)00118-9

Journal information: The Lancet Planetary Health Provided by University of Edinburgh

Depression Relief Through Walking, Jogging, Yoga, and Strength Training

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An evidence review published by The BMJ today suggests that walking, jogging, yoga, and strength training may be among the most effective exercises for alleviating depression, whether practised alone or combined with established treatments like psychotherapy and medication. Even lower-intensity activities such as walking or yoga have shown benefits, but the findings indicate that more vigorous exercise may yield more significant improvements in mood. The authors caution that confidence in results could be higher, necessitating further high-quality research. Nonetheless, they propose that these forms of exercise should be considered as core treatments for depression alongside other therapeutic interventions.

The World Health Organization estimates that over 300 million people worldwide suffer from depression, and exercise is often recommended in conjunction with psychotherapy and drugs. However, treatment guidelines and previous reviews of the evidence have not always been consistent in recommending the best way to prescribe exercise for depression. To resolve this uncertainty, researchers analysed databases, searching for randomised trials comparing exercise as a treatment for depression with established therapies such as SSRI antidepressants and cognitive behavioural therapy, active control groups like usual care, and untreated control groups.

The review identified 218 trials involving 14,170 participants, all assessed for bias. Information on the exercise interventions’ type, intensity, and frequency was recorded. At the same time, other potentially influential factors, such as sex, age, baseline levels of depression, and existing conditions, were considered. The results revealed significant reductions in depression for dance and moderate reductions for walking or jogging, yoga, strength training, mixed aerobic exercises, tai chi, and qigong, compared with active controls. Additionally, exercise combined with SSRIs or psychotherapy produced moderate, clinically meaningful benefits, suggesting an added advantage when exercise is used alongside these treatments.

Interestingly, walking and jogging were effective for both men and women. At the same time, strength training appeared more beneficial for women, and yoga or qigong was more effective for men. The analysis also showed that yoga benefited older adults, while strength training worked best for younger individuals. While lighter activities like walking and yoga provided clinically meaningful improvements, more vigorous exercises, such as running and interval training, produced more significant benefits. These effects were consistent across individuals with different health conditions and varying levels of depression.

Despite the positive findings, the authors note that the quality of the evidence remains low, and only a few trials monitored participants for periods longer than a year. They also acknowledge that many patients with depression may face barriers to participating in exercise, whether due to physical, psychological, or social factors. Nevertheless, the authors suggest that the combination of social interaction, mindfulness, and exposure to green spaces may play a role in the positive effects observed. They argue that their findings support the inclusion of exercise, particularly vigorous activity, in clinical guidelines for treating depression.

In a linked editorial, Juan Ángel Bellón from the University of Malaga highlights that primary care clinicians can now recommend exercise, psychotherapy, or antidepressants as standalone options for adults with mild to moderate depression. He acknowledges that engaging in regular exercise can be incredibly challenging for people with depression and calls for further studies using real-world data to evaluate the effectiveness of physical activity programmes for this population. Bellón also points out that the European Union has recently committed to promoting exercise across member states and urges health services, local authorities, and national governments to ensure that individualised and supervised exercise programmes are accessible to everyone.

More information: Michael Noetel et al, Effect of exercise for depression: systematic review and network meta-analysis of randomised controlled trials, The BMJ. DOI: 10.1136/bmj-2023-075847

Journal information: The BMJ Provided by BMJ Group

Safeguard Your Teeth Using Fruits: Antimicrobial Properties Discovered in Biomass Compounds

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Periodontal disease, commonly known as gum disease, is an inflammatory ailment precipitated by infections from periodontal pathogenic bacteria. This condition affects oral health by damaging the gum tissue and bone supporting the teeth. It has broader implications for overall health, potentially contributing to cardiovascular and respiratory diseases. Effective oral hygiene is paramount in preventing periodontal disease; however, a significant challenge arises with most oral hygiene products available. These products, predominantly disinfectants, tend to be highly irritating due to their intense chemical compositions, rendering them unsuitable for specific populations. Specifically, young children and the elderly, who are at increased risk of developing periodontal disease, often find these products too harsh, necessitating the development of milder yet effective alternatives.

Addressing this gap, Professor Shigeki Kamitani from the Graduate School of Human Life and Ecology at Osaka Metropolitan University led a pioneering research team to explore more suitable antibacterial options that people of all ages could safely use. Their research focused on identifying and verifying the antibacterial effects of various compounds that could inhibit the growth of Porphyromonas gingivalis, a key bacterium implicated in the onset and progression of periodontal disease.

Prunin laurate (Pru-C12) and its analogues stood out among the seven different compounds tested. These compounds, derived from biomass such as citrus plants and coconut components, were evaluated for their efficacy in stifling the growth of harmful bacteria. The results were promising, indicating that Pru-C12 not only effectively inhibited bacterial growth but also showcased the highest antimicrobial effect among the compounds tested.

Pru-C12’s properties are particularly noteworthy; it is tasteless and hypoallergenic, making it an ideal candidate for daily oral hygiene routines without the risk of sensory irritation or allergic reactions. Professor Kamitani emphasized the potential of Pru-C12, stating, “Pru-C12 is not only effective but also user-friendly, posing minimal risk of irritation. Its hypoallergenic nature makes it a suitable option for even the most sensitive users.” He also reassured that the affordability of Pru-C12 could make it an accessible option for widespread use should further testing confirm its safety and efficacy in humans.

Looking ahead, the research team is poised to conduct extensive clinical trials to establish the safety profile of Pru-C12 in human subjects. If these trials yield positive results, Pru-C12 could indeed revolutionize preventive oral care. By providing a non-irritating, effective antibacterial treatment that is accessible and affordable, Pru-C12 offers a beacon of hope for public health, potentially reducing the prevalence of periodontal disease across diverse populations.

More information: Erika Wada et al, Prunin Laurate Derived from Natural Substances Shows Antibacterial Activity against the Periodontal Pathogen Porphyromonas gingivalis, Foods. DOI: 10.3390/foods13121917

Journal information: Foods Provided by Osaka Metropolitan University

Therapeutic Interventions Between Children and Parents Offer Biological Healing for Traumatized Youth

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A new study from UC San Francisco has revealed that psychotherapy sessions involving caregivers could help prevent serious diseases later in life for young children who have experienced significant trauma. While previous research demonstrated the psychological benefits of dyadic, child-parent trauma treatment lasting up to nine years, this study marks the first time a biological benefit has been identified. Researchers focused on a biomarker termed “age acceleration,” which measures how fast a person’s body is ageing relative to their chronological age. This “epigenetic clock” runs faster for individuals exposed to early childhood trauma, increasing their risk for diseases like heart disease, cancer, obesity, and asthma in adulthood.

The study examined two groups of Bay Area children aged 2 to 6 who had undergone traumatic experiences. Both groups showed similar rates of biological age acceleration at the start of the study. However, one group received up to 20 weekly sessions of Child-Parent Psychotherapy (CPP), a therapeutic programme developed by Dr Alicia Lieberman, director of UCSF’s Child Trauma Research Program. The other group did not receive this therapy. The results were notable: the 45 children who participated in CPP therapy experienced less age acceleration than the 110 children who did not. Although the differences were modest, they are still significant. As Dr Nicole Bush, senior author of the study, explained, even small biological changes in early childhood can lead to substantial differences in health outcomes later in life.

The majority of children in the treatment group (over 80%) and two-thirds of the comparison group were Latinx, an essential aspect since families of colour and low-income households are more frequently exposed to trauma than white families with higher incomes yet are often underrepresented in medical research. Dr Lieberman highlighted that the children in this study had experienced higher levels of trauma than is typical for such research, which adds weight to the findings. These children had encountered severe traumas, such as the loss of a parent, maltreatment, or exposure to community violence. On average, the children had experienced five traumatic events before turning six. This is particularly significant as previous research shows that experiencing four or more traumatic events before the age of 18 increases the risk of developing one of the ten leading causes of death as an adult.

The children’s parents had also endured significant trauma, averaging 13 traumatic events. This history of trauma can make it more difficult for parents to regulate their emotions and actions in response to their children’s challenging behaviours, Dr Lieberman explained. In CPP, therapists incorporate therapeutic play to help children process emotions related to their trauma while also helping parents understand the connection between their children’s behaviours and their past experiences. Additionally, CPP aims to strengthen the parent-child bond by encouraging positive social interactions.

“When both the parent and child have experienced trauma, it intensifies the trauma’s impact,” Lieberman explained. “Our approach focuses on healing the relationship between the parent and child, as well as addressing their trauma in therapy sessions together. Relationships are the cornerstone of health, beginning in early childhood.” Dr Allie Sullivan, co-author of the study, added that many parents feel powerless when their children are exposed to trauma, but this study offers reassurance. “Parents have the capacity and strength to protect their children from adversity,” she said.

The researchers stressed the importance of early intervention, particularly before age five, when the brain undergoes its most rapid development. Early interventions can have a lasting impact on both mental and physical health. Recognising this, California’s Department of Health Care Services has introduced benefits to support family therapy and dyadic care for young Medi-Cal patients, beginning at birth. Hospitals like Zuckerberg San Francisco General have been at the forefront of providing this care and advising medical practices across the state on how to offer and be reimbursed.

Ultimately, the researchers hope that this study underscores the value of therapy-based approaches to treating family trauma, shifting away from an over-reliance on medication. Dr Bush highlighted the broader implications, noting, “Bringing families together, acknowledging the trauma, and fostering an environment of emotional safety and healing can lead to biological repair with the potential to benefit both mental and physical health across the lifespan. We hope policymakers and practitioners take notice of this.”

More information: Alexandra D. W. Sullivan et al, Intervening After Trauma: Child–Parent Psychotherapy Treatment Is Associated With Lower Pediatric Epigenetic Age Acceleration, Psychological Science. DOI: 10.1177/09567976241260247

Journal information: Psychological Science Provided by University of California – San Francisco

Virginia Tech Scientists Create Tool for Evaluating Optimal Hydration Guidelines

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Adequate water consumption is crucial for maintaining human health and overall well-being. However, the global rise in the intake of sugary drinks has contributed to a surge in health-related issues, including obesity, Type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, and tooth decay. In response to this growing problem, Virginia Tech researchers studied the comprehensiveness and clarity of healthy beverage guidelines in countries that have enacted sugary beverage tax policies between 2000 and 2023. They focused on understanding how well these national dietary guidelines encourage individuals to replace sugary drinks, like sodas, with healthier alternatives, such as water.

To aid governments in promoting healthier hydration practices, the Virginia Tech team developed an innovative tool that assigns a healthy hydration recommendation score. This score is based on clarity, justification, actionability, specificity, and visual content of the guidelines. Governments can use this tool to improve their public health messages, encouraging water consumption while discouraging sugary beverage intake. Drinking water instead of sugary drinks helps reduce the risk of obesity and other serious health problems, making it essential to reinforce clear, actionable hydration guidelines.

Nicole Leary, the lead researcher and a PhD candidate in the Department of Human Nutrition, Foods, and Exercise, emphasised the importance of aligning sugary beverage tax policies with national food-based dietary guidelines that promote water and other nutritious drinks, such as milk and 100 per cent fruit juice. “We examined how robust dietary guidelines could complement other strategies, such as policies, systems, and environmental changes, to help governments promote coherent policies and socially normalise water as the default healthy beverage,” said Leary. The study’s findings demonstrate that robust and clear hydration guidelines can be vital to global health improvement efforts.

The researchers recommend that governments take active steps to develop and promote healthy solid hydration guidelines to mitigate the risks associated with sugary beverage consumption. Among their additional recommendations are ensuring people drink at least eight glasses of water daily, limiting the intake of sugary drinks such as sodas, fruit-flavoured drinks, energy drinks, and sports drinks, and enacting taxes on sugar-sweetened beverages. Such taxes should be earmarked for health promotion programmes and media campaigns encouraging water consumption. They also advise limiting the intake of beverages containing artificial or zero-calorie sweeteners, which are often promoted as healthier alternatives.

This research, recently published in Nutrients and partly funded by Vivica Kraak’s USDA National Institute for Food and Agriculture Hatch Research Project, examined 93 countries implementing sugary beverage taxes by 2023. Of those, 58 countries had food-based dietary guidelines in place, and the researchers found that 48 of these countries had complementary messages that encouraged water consumption while discouraging sugary drinks. The study used a healthy hydration recommendation score of 0 to 12, factoring in message clarity, access, justification, actions, specificity, and visual content.

Countries like Bolivia, Peru, and Brunei scored the highest regarding hydration guidelines, while the United States received a moderate score of 7. The upcoming 2025 edition of the Dietary Guidelines for Americans and the USDA’s MyPlate initiative may strengthen the focus on water consumption across the lifespan, starting at birth and continuing through old age, to support healthy ageing. Associate professor and senior researcher Vivica Kraak stressed the importance of promoting water at every meal, noting that governments should ensure that national dietary guidelines align with sugary beverage tax policies. This research could have significant implications for organisations such as the Food and Agriculture Organization and the World Health Organization in supporting countries to develop culturally adapted, evidence-based dietary guidelines that encourage healthy hydration and normalising clean, safe, and free water as the default beverage.

More information: Nicole Leary et al, An Evaluation of Healthy Hydration Recommendations for 93 Countries with Sugary Beverage Tax Legislation Globally, 2000–2023, Nutrients. DOI: 10.3390/nu16142264

Journal information: Nutrients Provided by Virginia Tech

Semaglutide, a weight loss medication, linked to decreased COVID-19 mortality in Brigham-conducted research

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An international study led by Brigham and Women’s Hospital, part of the Mass General Brigham healthcare system, reveals that patients receiving weekly injections of the weight loss drug semaglutide experienced a lower likelihood of death from any cause, including cardiovascular diseases and infections such as COVID-19. This research, known as the SELECT Trial, was supported by Novo Nordisk and examined the impacts of semaglutide compared to placebo on mortality among over 17,000 individuals with heart conditions who were also overweight or obese from October 2018 to March 2023. The findings, which showed a 19% reduction in overall mortality and 15% and 23% decreases in deaths due to cardiovascular issues and other causes, were presented at the 2024 European Society of Cardiology Congress and published concurrently in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology.

Benjamin M. Scirica, MD MPH, the study’s corresponding author and director of quality initiatives at the Cardiovascular Division of Brigham and Women’s Hospital and a Professor of Medicine at Harvard Medical School, expressed surprise at the results. He noted that the trial commenced before the outbreak of COVID-19 and did not initially aim to investigate pandemic-related outcomes. However, the emergence of the pandemic highlighted significant findings, notably that semaglutide not only reduced the risk of cardiovascular deaths but also non-cardiovascular ones, notably those related to COVID-19. This unexpected benefit suggests that this class of drugs might have broader applications than previously thought.

The most frequent non-cardiovascular cause of death among the study participants was infection, with those on semaglutide showing a lower rate of severe complications or fatalities from COVID-19 despite similar infection rates compared to those on placebo. The specific reasons why semaglutide provides these benefits remain unclear, whether they are related to weight loss or other factors. These preliminary observations from a large-scale, multinational study indicate a need for further research to confirm these findings and explore the underlying mechanisms. Upcoming studies will continue to assess how this drug and others in its class can benefit patients beyond their known effects.

More information: Benjamin M. Scirica et al, The Effect of Semaglutide on Mortality and COVID-19–Related Deaths: An Analysis From the SELECT Trial, Journal of the American College of Cardiology. DOI: 10.1016/j.jacc.2024.08.007

Journal information: Journal of the American College of Cardiology Provided by Brigham and Women’s Hospital

Nearly Two-Thirds of UK Adolescents’ Caloric Intake Comes from Ultra-Processed Foods

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Recent research from the Universities of Cambridge and Bristol has highlighted that around two-thirds of the daily caloric intake of UK adolescents comes from ultra-processed foods (UPFs). This consumption is notably high among adolescents from socioeconomically deprived backgrounds, those who are white, and younger age groups. Ultra-processed foods use industrial ingredients and methods, often containing additives such as preservatives, sweeteners, colourings, flavourings, and emulsifiers. These foods are typically poor in nutritional quality, featuring high levels of added sugars, saturated fats, and sodium, while low in fibre, protein, and essential micronutrients. UPFs have been identified as significant contributors to the global rise in major health issues, including obesity, type 2 diabetes, and cancer.

The global trends indicate an increase in the availability and sale of UPFs, correlating with a rise in consumption among adolescents. The researchers aimed to understand this pattern in the UK by analysing four-day food diaries of nearly 3,000 adolescents from the UK National Diet and Nutrition Survey from 2008/09 to 2018/19. They found that UPFs constituted an average of 66% of the adolescents’ energy intake during this period, with a slight decrease from 68% in 2008/09 to 63% in 2018/19.

The study also examined how factors such as parental occupation, ethnicity, and regional location within the UK influence UPF consumption patterns. Findings showed that adolescents from less affluent backgrounds consumed a higher percentage of their calories from UPFs than those from wealthier backgrounds. Moreover, non-white adolescents had a lower rate of caloric intake from UPFs compared to white adolescents. Geographical differences were also evident, with those living in North England consuming more UPFs than those in South and London. Additionally, the data suggested a decrease in UPF consumption with age, as 18-year-olds consumed a lower percentage of their calories from UPFs compared to 11-year-olds.

The study’s lead author, Dr Yanaina Chavez-Ugalde from the Medical Research Council (MRC) Epidemiology Unit at the University of Cambridge, emphasised that many factors, including home environment, marketing, and peer influence, influence adolescent food choices. She highlighted the importance of adolescence as a critical period for forming long-term dietary habits. She noted that the predominant consumption of UPFs is far from ideal, given their potential adverse health impacts.

Dr Esther van Sluijs and Dr Zoi Toumpakari, joint senior authors, noted that UPFs often provide a convenient and cost-effective solution for time- and income-constrained families, albeit at the cost of poor nutritional value. This, they argued, contributes to the observed health disparities across childhood and adolescence. They hope that the insights gained from this study will help policymakers develop more effective interventions to reduce the consumption of UPFs among youth, aiming to mitigate the negative health impacts associated with these foods and improve public health outcomes.

More information: Irazu Yanaina Chavez-Ugalde et al, Ultra-processed food consumption in UK adolescents: distribution, trends, and sociodemographic correlates using the National Diet and Nutrition Survey 2008/09 to 2018/19, European Journal of Nutrition. DOI: 10.1007/s00394-024-03458-z

Journal information: European Journal of Nutrition Provided by University of Cambridge

The Influence of Physical Fitness and Lifestyle on Biological Ageing

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“Physical Fitness and Lifestyles Associated with Biological Aging” delves into an increasingly pertinent topic amidst a globally ageing population. The editorial sheds light on the need for a paradigm shift in healthcare strategies—from a traditional disease-oriented approach to more comprehensive interventional strategies targeting the ageing process. This shift is advocated by the burgeoning field of geroscience, which proposes that slowing down the biological mechanisms of ageing could preempt the onset of multiple age-related diseases. This hypothesis is gaining empirical support with advancements in the identification of biomarkers of ageing, driven by progressive improvements in measurement techniques such as various ‘omics’ technologies and analytical methods, including bioinformatics.

The researchers, Takuji Kawamura, Radak Zsolt, Mitsuru Higuchi, and Kumpei Tanisawa from the Faculty of Sport Sciences at Waseda University, along with their colleagues at the Research Center for Molecular Exercise Science at the Hungarian University of Sports Science, highlight the crucial intersection of cardiorespiratory fitness (CRF) and the biological markers of ageing, specifically DNA methylation (DNAm) ageing clocks. They argue for establishing fitness reference values that could serve as benchmarks to help delay the ageing process. The article further discusses findings from their recent study, titled “Associations between cardiorespiratory fitness and lifestyle-related factors with DNA methylation-based ageing clocks in older men: WASEDA’S Health Study.” This study is pivotal as it links quantifiable changes in DNA methylation patterns directly to variations in cardiorespiratory fitness and lifestyle choices among older adults, illustrating how specific lifestyle modifications could alter molecular biomarkers that reflect biological ageing processes.

The significance of their findings is encapsulated in the researchers’ concluding remarks: “Our study reinforces the geroscience concept that active lifestyle choices may impact quantifiable molecular biomarkers that capture biological ageing.” This statement highlights the potential of proactive lifestyle adjustments in influencing biological ageing. It underscores the importance of integrating fitness into daily routines as a strategic approach to extending health span.

Furthermore, the editorial emphasizes the broader implications of these findings for public health policies. By establishing a scientific basis for recommending certain fitness levels and lifestyle choices, policymakers can better design programs that promote healthy ageing among populations. This could lead to reduced healthcare costs associated with age-related diseases and improved quality of life for the elderly. The research serves as a call to action for continued investment in geroscience research to unlock a more comprehensive understanding of the ageing process, which could eventually lead to more effective ageing interventions.

This comprehensive approach to studying ageing opens new avenues for scientific exploration. It offers practical insights that could be translated into everyday health practices and public health strategies, marking a significant step forward in our approach to ageing and longevity.

More information: Takuji Kawamura et al, Physical fitness and lifestyles associated with biological aging, Aging-US. DOI: 10.18632/aging.206031

Journal information: Aging-US Provided by Impact Journals LLC

Millions around the globe lack essential micronutrients necessary for human health

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According to a new study by researchers at Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, UC Santa Barbara, and the Global Alliance for Improved Nutrition, over half of the global population fails to meet the recommended intake levels of several essential micronutrients, including calcium, iron, and vitamins C and E. This pioneering research, slated for publication in The Lancet Global Health on August 29, offers the first global estimates of deficient consumption for 15 critical micronutrients, thereby marking a significant advancement in our understanding of nutritional deficits worldwide.

Micronutrient deficiencies are among the most prevalent forms of malnutrition worldwide, each associated with severe health repercussions. These range from negative impacts on pregnancy outcomes to increased risks of blindness and heightened vulnerability to infectious diseases. Previous studies have quantified the availability and consumption of these nutrients but have yet to evaluate whether these intakes satisfy the health requirements, especially distinguishing between the needs of males and females throughout various stages of life.

Chris Free, co-lead author and research professor at UCSB emphasizes the importance of their study, noting its novelty in estimating the inadequacy of micronutrient intakes across 34 age-sex groups in almost every country globally. Moreover, the research team has made their methodologies and findings readily accessible to both the academic community and practitioners, thereby facilitating further research and intervention planning.

The study leveraged data from the Global Dietary Database, the World Bank, and dietary recall surveys from 31 countries, assessing the nutritional needs against actual intakes among populations spanning 185 countries. The analysis covered both genders across 17 age groups, from newborns to older adults over 80, and examined 15 essential vitamins and minerals.

The results revealed widespread deficiencies, with significant gaps in the intake of iodine (68% of the global population), vitamin E (67%), calcium (66%), and iron (65%). Other nutrients like riboflavin, folate, and vitamins C and B6 also showed high levels of inadequacy, while niacin and selenium were among the less deficient nutrients. Interestingly, the study found inadequate intakes were generally higher among women than men for certain nutrients like iodine, vitamin B12, iron, and selenium, which were within the same demographic and regional brackets. Conversely, deficiencies in nutrients such as calcium, niacin, thiamin, zinc, magnesium, and several vitamins were more prevalent among men.

Patterns of deficiency varied significantly with sex. However, age also played a crucial role, especially in the 10-30-year age bracket, which showed deficient calcium intake levels, notably in South and East Asia and sub-Saharan Africa. North America, Europe, and Central Asia also recorded low levels of calcium intake.

Ty Beal, a senior technical specialist at GAIN, described the findings as alarming. They indicate that the scope of micronutrient deficiencies is even more extensive than previously recognized, affecting people across all geographic and economic categories. These deficiencies severely hinder health outcomes and limit human potential on a global scale.

Christopher Golden, senior author and associate professor of nutrition and planetary health at Harvard Chan School, underscored the enormity of the public health challenge posed by these findings. He emphasized the urgent need for health practitioners and policymakers to develop and implement targeted dietary interventions to address these deficiencies. The study also highlighted the limitations imposed by the lack of comprehensive data on individual dietary intakes globally, which could hinder the depth of future research and the effectiveness of interventions.

More information: Simone Passarelli et al, Global estimation of dietary micronutrient inadequacies: a modelling analysis, The Lancet Global Health. DOI: 10.1016/S2214-109X(24)00276-6

Journal information: The Lancet Global Health Provided by Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health

Age-Related Changes in Brain Function and Peripheral Vascular Health

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The journal Aging, referred to in MEDLINE/PubMed as “Aging (Albany NY)” and as “Aging-US” by Web of Science, recently published a review in Volume 16, Issue 10, under the title “Peripheral vascular dysfunction and the aging brain.”

Ageing stands as the predominant non-modifiable risk factor for numerous diseases, notably cardiovascular diseases (CVD), which are the principal cause of death globally. In this new review, researchers Devin Wahl and Zachary S. Clayton from Colorado State University and the University of Colorado highlight compelling evidence that CVD is a significant factor in diminishing brain health and increasing the incidence of all-cause dementia as age progresses.

The review elucidates that CVD is intricately connected with both peripheral and cerebral vascular dysfunction, which are significant factors in the onset and advancement of all forms of dementia. These dysfunctions are primarily propelled by heightened levels of oxidative stress, such as reactive oxygen species (ROS).

There is growing evidence that various fundamental ageing mechanisms, or the so-called “hallmarks” of ageing, which include chronic low-grade inflammation, mitochondrial dysfunction, cellular senescence, and deregulated nutrient sensing, play a critical role in the excessive production of ROS. These mechanisms are prevalent in both peripheral and cerebral vascular dysfunction. Consequently, addressing these mechanisms to mitigate ROS-induced oxidative stress and enhance vascular function in the periphery and brain could be a practical approach to lower the risk of dementia associated with ageing. Explorations into how lifestyle modifications like aerobic exercise, dietary changes, and specific pharmacological interventions—both natural and synthetic—interact with these ageing hallmarks to bolster vascular health could offer a promising avenue for mitigating dementia risk in the elderly.

The principal aim of this review is to dissect the mechanistic relationships between peripheral vascular dysfunction, cerebral vascular dysfunction, and the decline in brain health associated with ageing. Providing insights into these connections and evaluating non-invasive methods to assess vascular health in ageing individuals may pave the way for novel strategies in evaluating dementia risk among older adults.

More information: Devin Wahl et al, Peripheral vascular dysfunction and the aging brain, Aging-US. DOI: 10.1007/s00394-023-03123-x

Journal information: Aging-US Provided by Impact Journals LLC