Asia Pacific journal of clinical nutrition
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Asia Pac J Clin Nutr · Jan 2012
Randomized Controlled TrialEffects of omega-3 fatty acids supplementation on serum adiponectin levels and some metabolic risk factors in women with polycystic ovary syndrome.
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a common female endocrine disorder associated with several risk factors of type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular diseases. The objectives of this study were to investigate the effects of omega-3 fatty acids on serum adiponectin levels and some metabolic risk factors in PCOS patients. ⋯ Omega-3 fatty acids had some beneficial effects on serum adiponectin levels, insulin resistance and lipid profile in PCOS patients and may contribute to the improvement of metabolic complications in these patients.
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Asia Pac J Clin Nutr · Jan 2012
Sugary beverage intakes and obesity prevalence among junior high school students in Beijing - a cross-sectional research on SSBs intake.
Excessive consumption of sugar-sweetened beverages (SSBs) may increase the risk of obesity. Data in regards to the consumption of SSBs is insufficient in the Chinese population, especially in middle school students experiencing rapid nutritional transition. We aimed to describe the consumption of SSBs among junior high school students and explore the relationship between SSB intake and adolescents' overweight/obesity in Beijing. ⋯ Among middle school students in Beijing, prevalence of obesity is more severe than that of overweight. Sugar-sweetened beverages have been the most popular drinks, and consumption of SSBs has a positive association with levels of overweight/obesity among male students.
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Asia Pac J Clin Nutr · Jan 2011
The nutritional status of iron, folate, and vitamin B-12 of Buddhist vegetarians.
Nutritional status of iron, folate, and vitamin B-12 in vegetarians were assessed and compared with those of non- vegetarians in Korea. The vegetarian subjects were 54 Buddhist nuns who ate no animal source food except for dairy products. The non-vegetarians were divided into two groups: 31 Catholic nuns and 31 female college students. ⋯ In order to achieve an optimal iron status, both an adequate amount of iron intake and its bioavailability should be considered. Sufficient intake of vegetables and fruits was reflected in adequate serum folate status. Korean laver can be a good source of vitamin B-12 for vegetarians.
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Asia Pac J Clin Nutr · Jan 2011
ReviewHarmonisation of food labelling regulations in Southeast Asia: benefits, challenges and implications.
In the globalised world of the 21st century, issues of food and nutrition labelling are of pre-eminent importance. Several international bodies, including the World Health Organisation and World Trade Organisation, are encouraging countries to harmonise their food and nutrition regulations with international standards, guidelines and recommendations such as those for Codex Alimentarius. Through harmonisation, these organisations envisage fewer barriers to trade and freer movement of food products between countries, which would open doors to new markets and opportunities for the food industry. ⋯ Moreover, the harmonisation process is complex and sporadic in light of the tasks that countries have to undertake; for example, updating legislation, strengthening administrative capabilities and establishing analytical laboratories. This review discusses the legislation and regulations that govern food and nutrition labelling in Southeast Asia, and highlights the discrepancies that exist in this regard, their origin and consequences. It also gives an account of the current status of harmonising labelling of pre-packaged foodstuffs in the region and explains the subsequent benefits, challenges and implications for governments, the food industry and consumers.
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Asia Pac J Clin Nutr · Jan 2011
Randomized Controlled TrialFortified juice drink improved iron and zinc status of schoolchildren.
Energy and micronutrient deficiency remain prevalent among Filipino children. Juice drinks are commonly consumed and could be a viable vehicle for fortification to supplement the nutrient gap. This study determined the effects of a newly developed non-carbonated fortified juice drink on the iron, zinc and nutritional status of schoolchildren. ⋯ At endline, mean plasma zinc in the fortified group has significantly increased by 20 μg/dL from a baseline value of 83.9 μg/dL to 103.9 μg/dL, while the non-fortified group remained at similar levels with baseline. Basal weight and height significantly increased among all children at endline. The fortified juice drink was effective in reducing the prevalence of anemia and improved the zinc status of children.