Kefir has beneficial effects on the gut microbiota and has potential health benefits due to its antioxidant, antimicrobial, and immunomodulatory properties.
Objectives
The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of kefir consumption on health outcomes.
Methods
In this randomized controlled trial, involving 65 volunteers, participants in the kefir group consumed 250 mL of lactose-free kefir daily for 6 wk. Anthropometric measurements, diet quality, biochemical blood parameters, gastrointestinal health, mental health and sleep health, immunity, systemic inflammation, and physical activity were evaluated before and after kefir intervention.
Results
The results revealed a significant decrease in gastrointestinal symptoms, along with reduced serum cholesterol, creatinine, and uric acid concentrations, after kefir intervention (P < 0.05). However, no significant improvement in immunity or inflammation markers was observed. Despite positive changes in serum glucose, C-reactive protein, sleep quality, and mental health scores in the kefir group, the differences were not statistically significant (P > 0.05). The increase in various body parameters in the kefir group was significant (P < 0.05).
Conclusions
Although kefir has potential health benefits, the small sample size of healthy young adults may have limited the significance of the expected improvements.
{"title":"Effects of Kefir Consumption on Gastrointestinal Health, Biochemical Parameters, Sleep, and Mental Well-Being in Healthy Young Adults: a Randomized Controlled Trial","authors":"Hande Bakırhan , Fatmanur Ozyurek Arpa , Merve Pehlivan , Indrani Kalkan","doi":"10.1016/j.tjnut.2025.11.016","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.tjnut.2025.11.016","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Background</h3><div>Kefir has beneficial effects on the gut microbiota and has potential health benefits due to its antioxidant, antimicrobial, and immunomodulatory properties.</div></div><div><h3>Objectives</h3><div>The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of kefir consumption on health outcomes.</div></div><div><h3>Methods</h3><div>In this randomized controlled trial, involving 65 volunteers, participants in the kefir group consumed 250 mL of lactose-free kefir daily for 6 wk. Anthropometric measurements, diet quality, biochemical blood parameters, gastrointestinal health, mental health and sleep health, immunity, systemic inflammation, and physical activity were evaluated before and after kefir intervention.</div></div><div><h3>Results</h3><div>The results revealed a significant decrease in gastrointestinal symptoms, along with reduced serum cholesterol, creatinine, and uric acid concentrations, after kefir intervention (<em>P</em> < 0.05). However, no significant improvement in immunity or inflammation markers was observed. Despite positive changes in serum glucose, C-reactive protein, sleep quality, and mental health scores in the kefir group, the differences were not statistically significant (<em>P</em> > 0.05). The increase in various body parameters in the kefir group was significant (<em>P</em> < 0.05).</div></div><div><h3>Conclusions</h3><div>Although kefir has potential health benefits, the small sample size of healthy young adults may have limited the significance of the expected improvements.</div><div>Clinical Trials Registry (<span><span>https://clinicaltrials.gov/</span><svg><path></path></svg></span>): Clinical Trials identifier NCT06612164.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":16620,"journal":{"name":"Journal of Nutrition","volume":"156 1","pages":"Article 101247"},"PeriodicalIF":3.8,"publicationDate":"2026-01-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145634933","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":3,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Recent findings have revealed that high soy food consumption may prevent cardiovascular diseases. However, their role in preventing atrial fibrillation (AF) remains unexplored.
Objectives
This study aimed to investigate the association between soy foods and their nutrients, such as isoflavones and vitamin K, and AF incidence.
Methods
This population-based prospective cohort study included 5,278 males and females aged 30–90 who completed food frequency questionnaires at the baseline survey. AF was diagnosed using 12-lead electrocardiography, medical checkups, medical records, and death certificates. Multivariable-adjusted Cox regression analysis was used to calculate the hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) of AF incidence across tertiles of residual method energy-adjusted intake of soy foods (natto, miso, and tofu), soybeans, isoflavones, and vitamin K.
Results
During 66,487 person-years of follow-up (mean: 12.6 y), 222 participants developed AF. Compared with the lowest tertile of natto intake group (T1), we observed a decreased risk of AF in the highest tertile of the natto intake group (T3) in females (HR: 0.44; 95% CI: 0.24, 0.80). In contrast, there was no association between natto intake and AF risk in males (T3 compared with T1: HR: 0.97; 95% CI: 0.65, 1.43). An inverse association between moderate miso intake was only observed in males. A 67% decrease (HR: 0.33; 95% CI: 0.15, 0.71) in AF risk was observed in females in the highest vitamin K intake tertile compared with that in the lowest tertile. We found no association between the intake of total soy foods, tofu, soybeans, and isoflavones and AF risk in males or females.
Conclusions
Higher intakes of natto and vitamin K were associated with a decreased AF risk in females.
{"title":"Association of Soy Foods, Soybeans, Isoflavones, and Vitamin K Intake and the Risk of Atrial Fibrillation: A Prospective Cohort Study","authors":"Paramita Khairan , Yuka Kato , Ahmed Arafa , Yoko M Nakao , Masayuki Teramoto , Koutatsu Maruyama , Yoshihiro Kokubo","doi":"10.1016/j.tjnut.2025.11.021","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.tjnut.2025.11.021","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Background</h3><div>Recent findings have revealed that high soy food consumption may prevent cardiovascular diseases. However, their role in preventing atrial fibrillation (AF) remains unexplored.</div></div><div><h3>Objectives</h3><div>This study aimed to investigate the association between soy foods and their nutrients, such as isoflavones and vitamin K, and AF incidence.</div></div><div><h3>Methods</h3><div>This population-based prospective cohort study included 5,278 males and females aged 30–90 who completed food frequency questionnaires at the baseline survey. AF was diagnosed using 12-lead electrocardiography, medical checkups, medical records, and death certificates. Multivariable-adjusted Cox regression analysis was used to calculate the hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) of AF incidence across tertiles of residual method energy-adjusted intake of soy foods (natto, miso, and tofu), soybeans, isoflavones, and vitamin K.</div></div><div><h3>Results</h3><div>During 66,487 person-years of follow-up (mean: 12.6 y), 222 participants developed AF. Compared with the lowest tertile of natto intake group (T1), we observed a decreased risk of AF in the highest tertile of the natto intake group (T3) in females (HR: 0.44; 95% CI: 0.24, 0.80). In contrast, there was no association between natto intake and AF risk in males (T3 compared with T1: HR: 0.97; 95% CI: 0.65, 1.43). An inverse association between moderate miso intake was only observed in males. A 67% decrease (HR: 0.33; 95% CI: 0.15, 0.71) in AF risk was observed in females in the highest vitamin K intake tertile compared with that in the lowest tertile. We found no association between the intake of total soy foods, tofu, soybeans, and isoflavones and AF risk in males or females.</div></div><div><h3>Conclusions</h3><div>Higher intakes of natto and vitamin K were associated with a decreased AF risk in females.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":16620,"journal":{"name":"Journal of Nutrition","volume":"156 1","pages":"Article 101252"},"PeriodicalIF":3.8,"publicationDate":"2026-01-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145634870","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":3,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2026-01-01DOI: 10.1016/j.tjnut.2025.10.033
Shengnan Li , Mingyan Jing , Maryna Plaksii , Shusheng Zhao , Lucien GJ Cayer , Chengbo Yang , James D House , Harold M Aukema
Background
Including fish oil (FO) in laying hen diets is an attractive strategy to increase egg and tissue omega (ω)-3 PUFA, while simultaneously protecting hens from potential immune challenges.
Objectives
This study compared effects of a standard hen diet with FO containing EPA and DHA on plasma oxylipins and splenic cytokine expression in LPS-challenged layers.
Methods
Twenty-four 40-wk-old Dekalb White layers were randomly assigned to either control (no EPA or DHA) or FO (0.4 g/100 g EPA and DHA) diets. After 6 wk, hens were challenged with LPS (8 mg/kg body weight; i.v.) or saline 2 h before termination. PUFA were analyzed by GC, free oxylipins by HPLC/MS/MS, and splenic cytokines by quantitative reverse transcriptase–polymerase chain reaction. Data were analyzed by principal component analysis and analysis of variance.
Results
Yolk, liver, and plasma were enriched in ω-3 PUFA and reduced in ω-6 PUFA in FO group. Interestingly, LPS increased liver α-linolenic acid (ALA) and plasma ALA and DHA in FO-fed hens (P < 0.05). FO-fed hens exhibited higher plasma EPA and DHA oxylipins, and lower ω-6 oxylipins. Because of an interaction with FO, LPS increased ∼14% of oxylipins in control hens, particularly octadecanoids from ALA and linoleic acid, whereas in FO-fed hens, LPS decreased ∼31% of oxylipins derived from ω-6 and also from ω-3 PUFA (P < 0.05). Consistent with these putatively anti-inflammatory effects, FO decreased oxylipins associated with higher soluble epoxide hydrolase activity in saline-treated hens. However, FO increased these oxylipins in LPS-treated hens (P < 0.05). LPS induced the expression of splenic cytokines, and this was not altered by diet.
Conclusions
Dietary EPA and DHA enrich ω-3 PUFA in yolk, liver, and plasma of layers, and modulate plasma oxylipins. Whether oxylipin changes mediate or are a consequence of FO effects on LPS-induced inflammation remains to be elucidated.
{"title":"Dietary Effects of Fish Oil Containing EPA and DHA on Performance, Fatty Acid Deposition, Plasma Oxylipins, and Cytokines in Response to LPS Challenge in Laying Hens","authors":"Shengnan Li , Mingyan Jing , Maryna Plaksii , Shusheng Zhao , Lucien GJ Cayer , Chengbo Yang , James D House , Harold M Aukema","doi":"10.1016/j.tjnut.2025.10.033","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.tjnut.2025.10.033","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Background</h3><div>Including fish oil (FO) in laying hen diets is an attractive strategy to increase egg and tissue omega (ω)-3 PUFA, while simultaneously protecting hens from potential immune challenges.</div></div><div><h3>Objectives</h3><div>This study compared effects of a standard hen diet with FO containing EPA and DHA on plasma oxylipins and splenic cytokine expression in LPS-challenged layers.</div></div><div><h3>Methods</h3><div>Twenty-four 40-wk-old Dekalb White layers were randomly assigned to either control (no EPA or DHA) or FO (0.4 g/100 g EPA and DHA) diets. After 6 wk, hens were challenged with LPS (8 mg/kg body weight; i.v.) or saline 2 h before termination. PUFA were analyzed by GC, free oxylipins by HPLC/MS/MS, and splenic cytokines by quantitative reverse transcriptase–polymerase chain reaction. Data were analyzed by principal component analysis and analysis of variance.</div></div><div><h3>Results</h3><div>Yolk, liver, and plasma were enriched in ω-3 PUFA and reduced in ω-6 PUFA in FO group. Interestingly, LPS increased liver α-linolenic acid (ALA) and plasma ALA and DHA in FO-fed hens (<em>P</em> < 0.05). FO-fed hens exhibited higher plasma EPA and DHA oxylipins, and lower ω-6 oxylipins. Because of an interaction with FO, LPS increased ∼14% of oxylipins in control hens, particularly octadecanoids from ALA and linoleic acid, whereas in FO-fed hens, LPS decreased ∼31% of oxylipins derived from ω-6 and also from ω-3 PUFA (<em>P</em> < 0.05). Consistent with these putatively anti-inflammatory effects, FO decreased oxylipins associated with higher soluble epoxide hydrolase activity in saline-treated hens. However, FO increased these oxylipins in LPS-treated hens (<em>P</em> < 0.05). LPS induced the expression of splenic cytokines, and this was not altered by diet.</div></div><div><h3>Conclusions</h3><div>Dietary EPA and DHA enrich ω-3 PUFA in yolk, liver, and plasma of layers, and modulate plasma oxylipins. Whether oxylipin changes mediate or are a consequence of FO effects on LPS-induced inflammation remains to be elucidated.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":16620,"journal":{"name":"Journal of Nutrition","volume":"156 1","pages":"Article 101220"},"PeriodicalIF":3.8,"publicationDate":"2026-01-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145422239","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":3,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2026-01-01DOI: 10.1016/j.tjnut.2025.11.008
Fusta Azupogo , Charles D Arnold , Lilia Bliznashka , Nyabasi Makori , Calista N Njau , Evangelista Malindisa , Kidola Jeremiah , Joyce Kinabo , Deanna K Olney , Sonja Y Hess
Background
Dietary inadequacies among women of reproductive age (WRA) increase malnutrition and disease risk.
Objectives
We characterized food group and nutrient adequacies among WRA in rural Tanzania.
Methods
Baseline data (collected October 2023–January 2024) from a cluster-randomized controlled trial in Arusha and Kilimanjaro regions were analyzed. Dietary intake among WRA (n = 2594) was assessed using a 24-h dietary recall with the OpenDRS approach, an open-source 24-h recall for mobile devices. This was repeated in a subsample (n = 520, 20%) to adjust for day-to-day variations in individual intake. The National Cancer Institute method was employed to estimate usual energy and nutrient intakes. Micronutrient adequacy was defined as intake greater than or equal to the harmonized average requirements (H-ARs). The mean probability of adequacy (MPA) was calculated as the average adequacy across 11 micronutrients.
Results
On average, women were 38.3 ± 6.2 y old; 19% were lactating, and 4% were pregnant. The mean daily energy intake was 2415 kcal/d [95% confidence interval (CI): 1937, 2895], with carbohydrates contributing 62% to daily energy intake. The mean intake of fruit and vegetables (F&V) was 279 g/d (95% CI: 201, 365), of which fruit was 35 g/d (95% CI: 2, 118) and vegetables 245 g/d (95% CI: 168, 328). Staples contributed half of the daily energy intake. About 1% of participants met calcium and vitamin B12 requirements, whereas 42%, 49%, 68%, and 72% met adequacy for vitamin C, folate, zinc, and iron, respectively. Most women met the H-ARs for riboflavin, niacin, thiamine, vitamin B6, and vitamin A. MPA was 65 (±2.3% standard error), with vegetables, pulses, animal-source foods (ASF), and staples being key micronutrient sources.
Conclusions
Substantial nutrient inadequacies exist among WRA in rural Northern Tanzania due to high cereal intake and low intake of F&V and ASF. Addressing these gaps requires targeted interventions, improved dietary diversity, increased intake of F&V and ASF, and enhanced food security through local production and social safety nets.
{"title":"Dietary Intake and Nutrient Adequacies among Women of Reproductive Age in Northern Tanzania: A Cross-Sectional Study","authors":"Fusta Azupogo , Charles D Arnold , Lilia Bliznashka , Nyabasi Makori , Calista N Njau , Evangelista Malindisa , Kidola Jeremiah , Joyce Kinabo , Deanna K Olney , Sonja Y Hess","doi":"10.1016/j.tjnut.2025.11.008","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.tjnut.2025.11.008","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Background</h3><div>Dietary inadequacies among women of reproductive age (WRA) increase malnutrition and disease risk.</div></div><div><h3>Objectives</h3><div>We characterized food group and nutrient adequacies among WRA in rural Tanzania.</div></div><div><h3>Methods</h3><div>Baseline data (collected October 2023–January 2024) from a cluster-randomized controlled trial in Arusha and Kilimanjaro regions were analyzed. Dietary intake among WRA (<em>n =</em> 2594) was assessed using a 24-h dietary recall with the OpenDRS approach, an open-source 24-h recall for mobile devices. This was repeated in a subsample (<em>n =</em> 520, 20%) to adjust for day-to-day variations in individual intake. The National Cancer Institute method was employed to estimate usual energy and nutrient intakes. Micronutrient adequacy was defined as intake greater than or equal to the harmonized average requirements (H-ARs). The mean probability of adequacy (MPA) was calculated as the average adequacy across 11 micronutrients.</div></div><div><h3>Results</h3><div>On average, women were 38.3 ± 6.2 y old; 19% were lactating, and 4% were pregnant. The mean daily energy intake was 2415 kcal/d [95% confidence interval (CI): 1937, 2895], with carbohydrates contributing 62% to daily energy intake. The mean intake of fruit and vegetables (F&V) was 279 g/d (95% CI: 201, 365), of which fruit was 35 g/d (95% CI: 2, 118) and vegetables 245 g/d (95% CI: 168, 328). Staples contributed half of the daily energy intake. About 1% of participants met calcium and vitamin B<sub>12</sub> requirements, whereas 42%, 49%, 68%, and 72% met adequacy for vitamin C, folate, zinc, and iron, respectively. Most women met the H-ARs for riboflavin, niacin, thiamine, vitamin B6, and vitamin A. MPA was 65 (±2.3% standard error), with vegetables, pulses, animal-source foods (ASF), and staples being key micronutrient sources.</div></div><div><h3>Conclusions</h3><div>Substantial nutrient inadequacies exist among WRA in rural Northern Tanzania due to high cereal intake and low intake of F&V and ASF. Addressing these gaps requires targeted interventions, improved dietary diversity, increased intake of F&V and ASF, and enhanced food security through local production and social safety nets.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":16620,"journal":{"name":"Journal of Nutrition","volume":"156 1","pages":"Article 101238"},"PeriodicalIF":3.8,"publicationDate":"2026-01-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145523646","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":3,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2026-01-01DOI: 10.1016/j.tjnut.2025.10.040
Joel L Prowting , Emily C Fraschetti , Tania J Pereira , Jessica AL Tucker , Sara Gagnon , Nicholas Cheng , Heather Edgell , David C Wright , Panagiota Klentrou , Christopher GR Perry , Andrea R Josse
Background
Dairy products are important sources of macro/micronutrients and contain bioactive components with anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and musculoskeletal supporting properties. Few studies have assessed the short-term effect of consuming a variety of wholefood dairy products (as opposed to single foods/nutrients) on a range of interrelated inflammatory, metabolic, antioxidant and vascular outcomes.
Objectives
To compare these physiological outcomes after 6 wks of a high mixed-dairy diet compared with 6 wks of a low dairy diet.
Methods
Using a randomly assigned crossover design, 30 adults (18 females/12 males) with overweight/obesity (OW/OB) (BMI: 32.0 ± 4.5 kg/m2] and pre-existing cardiometabolic disease risk factors completed two 6-wk dietary intervention conditions in random order (separated by a ≥4-wk washout); 1) a high-dairy (HD) diet (3 servings/d of a mix of low-fat milk, Skyr yogurt, full-fat cheddar cheese) and 2) their habitually low-dairy (LD) diet (≤1 serving/d). At baseline and then 6 wks later, fasted blood samples were collected, body composition was assessed, and vascular measurements were taken.
Results
After controlling for age, BMI, sequence and period, there were no condition∗time interactions for interleukin-6 (IL-6; primary endpoint); however, there were condition∗time interactions for tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α; P = 0.042), and IL-4 (P = 0.026) such that they decreased and increased, respectively, on the HD diet compared with the LD diet. No other condition∗time interactions were observed for the other outcomes but we did observe sex∗condition interactions for IL-6 (P = 0.011), TNF-α (P < 0.001), triglycerides (P = 0.014), and diastolic blood pressure (P = 0.045), which were higher during the HD condition in males.
Conclusions
Increasing mixed dairy product intake for 6 wks favorably modulated some cytokines in the absence of metabolic, vascular, body weight, or fat changes. Differences in biomarker concentrations in relation to dairy intake and/or exercise may also be influenced by sex; however, this should be further explored. Overall, increased dairy intake may help ameliorate inflammation in individuals with OW/OB and cardiometabolic dysfunction.
This trial was registered at clinicaltrials.gov as NCT04902417.
{"title":"Inflammatory Cytokine Responses to 6 Wks of Increased Dairy Intake in Individuals with Overweight and Obesity–A Randomized Crossover Trial","authors":"Joel L Prowting , Emily C Fraschetti , Tania J Pereira , Jessica AL Tucker , Sara Gagnon , Nicholas Cheng , Heather Edgell , David C Wright , Panagiota Klentrou , Christopher GR Perry , Andrea R Josse","doi":"10.1016/j.tjnut.2025.10.040","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.tjnut.2025.10.040","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Background</h3><div>Dairy products are important sources of macro/micronutrients and contain bioactive components with anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and musculoskeletal supporting properties. Few studies have assessed the short-term effect of consuming a variety of wholefood dairy products (as opposed to single foods/nutrients) on a range of interrelated inflammatory, metabolic, antioxidant and vascular outcomes.</div></div><div><h3>Objectives</h3><div>To compare these physiological outcomes after 6 wks of a high mixed-dairy diet compared with 6 wks of a low dairy diet.</div></div><div><h3>Methods</h3><div>Using a randomly assigned crossover design, 30 adults (18 females/12 males) with overweight/obesity (OW/OB) (BMI: 32.0 ± 4.5 kg/m<sup>2</sup>] and pre-existing cardiometabolic disease risk factors completed two 6-wk dietary intervention conditions in random order (separated by a ≥4-wk washout); <em>1</em>) a high-dairy (HD) diet (3 servings/d of a mix of low-fat milk, Skyr yogurt, full-fat cheddar cheese) and <em>2</em>) their habitually low-dairy (LD) diet (≤1 serving/d). At baseline and then 6 wks later, fasted blood samples were collected, body composition was assessed, and vascular measurements were taken.</div></div><div><h3>Results</h3><div>After controlling for age, BMI, sequence and period, there were no condition∗time interactions for interleukin-6 (IL-6; primary endpoint); however, there were condition∗time interactions for tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α; <em>P</em> = 0.042), and IL-4 (<em>P</em> = 0.026) such that they decreased and increased, respectively, on the HD diet compared with the LD diet. No other condition∗time interactions were observed for the other outcomes but we did observe sex∗condition interactions for IL-6 (<em>P</em> = 0.011), TNF-α (<em>P</em> < 0.001), triglycerides (<em>P</em> = 0.014), and diastolic blood pressure (<em>P</em> = 0.045), which were higher during the HD condition in males.</div></div><div><h3>Conclusions</h3><div>Increasing mixed dairy product intake for 6 wks favorably modulated some cytokines in the absence of metabolic, vascular, body weight, or fat changes. Differences in biomarker concentrations in relation to dairy intake and/or exercise may also be influenced by sex; however, this should be further explored. Overall, increased dairy intake may help ameliorate inflammation in individuals with OW/OB and cardiometabolic dysfunction.</div><div>This trial was registered at <span><span>clinicaltrials.gov</span><svg><path></path></svg></span> as NCT04902417.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":16620,"journal":{"name":"Journal of Nutrition","volume":"156 1","pages":"Article 101227"},"PeriodicalIF":3.8,"publicationDate":"2026-01-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145426811","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":3,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
The controlling nutritional status (CONUT) score and prognostic nutritional index (PNI) are objective and convenient screening tools for the early detection of poor immune/nutritional status. Previous studies have shown that these indices are predictors of all-cause mortality in patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD). However, their prognostic value for mortality associated with factors beyond conventional cardiovascular (CV) risk factors has not been evaluated.
Objectives
This study aims to determine whether the addition of the CONUT score and PNI to conventional CV risk factors improves the prediction of all-cause mortality in a prospective cohort of patients with CKD.
Methods
We studied 2773 patients with CKD who were not undergoing dialysis. The patients were allocated to groups according to their CONUT score (low, mild, or moderate-to-high) and tertiles of PNI (T1–T3). Cox proportional hazard models were used to evaluate the relationships between these indices and all-cause mortality. Harrell’s concordance index, net reclassification improvement (NRI), and integrated discrimination improvement (IDI) were used to assess the predictive values of the CONUT score and PNI, when added to the basic risk model, which was composed of conventional CV risk factors.
Results
During a median follow-up of 4.2 y, mortality from any cause occurred in 241 patients. Multivariable-adjusted Cox analyses yielded hazard ratios (HRs) [95% confidence intervals (CIs)] for the CONUT score for the mild and moderate-to-high groups of 1.38 (0.94, 2.03) and 1.98 (1.29, 3.05), respectively, compared with the low group. In addition, the HRs (95% CIs) for T1 and T2 for PNI were 1.94 (1.29, 2.92) and 0.95 (0.61, 1.48), respectively, compared with T3. The C-statistic, NRI, and IDI significantly increased when the CONUT score and PNI were added to the basic risk model.
Conclusions
In patients with CKD, the CONUT score and PNI enhance the predictive value of conventional CV risk factors for all-cause mortality.
{"title":"Prognostic Value of Controlling Nutritional Status Score and Prognostic Nutritional Index for All-Cause Mortality in Patients with Chronic Kidney Disease: The Fukuoka Kidney Disease Registry Study","authors":"Naoki Haruyama , Masaru Nakayama , Shigeru Tanaka , Susumu Tsuda , Ryota Yoshitomi , Akiko Fukui , Kazuhiko Tsuruya , Takanari Kitazono , Toshiaki Nakano","doi":"10.1016/j.tjnut.2025.11.002","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.tjnut.2025.11.002","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Background</h3><div>The controlling nutritional status (CONUT) score and prognostic nutritional index (PNI) are objective and convenient screening tools for the early detection of poor immune/nutritional status. Previous studies have shown that these indices are predictors of all-cause mortality in patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD). However, their prognostic value for mortality associated with factors beyond conventional cardiovascular (CV) risk factors has not been evaluated.</div></div><div><h3>Objectives</h3><div>This study aims to determine whether the addition of the CONUT score and PNI to conventional CV risk factors improves the prediction of all-cause mortality in a prospective cohort of patients with CKD.</div></div><div><h3>Methods</h3><div>We studied 2773 patients with CKD who were not undergoing dialysis. The patients were allocated to groups according to their CONUT score (low, mild, or moderate-to-high) and tertiles of PNI (T1–T3). Cox proportional hazard models were used to evaluate the relationships between these indices and all-cause mortality. Harrell’s concordance index, net reclassification improvement (NRI), and integrated discrimination improvement (IDI) were used to assess the predictive values of the CONUT score and PNI, when added to the basic risk model, which was composed of conventional CV risk factors.</div></div><div><h3>Results</h3><div>During a median follow-up of 4.2 y, mortality from any cause occurred in 241 patients. Multivariable-adjusted Cox analyses yielded hazard ratios (HRs) [95% confidence intervals (CIs)] for the CONUT score for the mild and moderate-to-high groups of 1.38 (0.94, 2.03) and 1.98 (1.29, 3.05), respectively, compared with the low group. In addition, the HRs (95% CIs) for T1 and T2 for PNI were 1.94 (1.29, 2.92) and 0.95 (0.61, 1.48), respectively, compared with T3. The C-statistic, NRI, and IDI significantly increased when the CONUT score and PNI were added to the basic risk model.</div></div><div><h3>Conclusions</h3><div>In patients with CKD, the CONUT score and PNI enhance the predictive value of conventional CV risk factors for all-cause mortality.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":16620,"journal":{"name":"Journal of Nutrition","volume":"156 1","pages":"Article 101231"},"PeriodicalIF":3.8,"publicationDate":"2026-01-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145513085","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":3,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2026-01-01DOI: 10.1016/j.tjnut.2025.11.004
Jessica Avila-Prado , Michael H Green , Joanne Balmer Green , Veronica Lopez-Teros
Background
Practical and accurate methods for quantifying vitamin A (VA) absorption in humans are needed.
Objectives
The objectives were to determine VA absorption in humans by applying compartmental modeling to postprandial plasma retinyl ester (RE) kinetic data obtained using a carefully designed controlled feeding protocol.
Methods
After collection of baseline fasting blood, 3 healthy young adult women ingested 1.91 μmol unlabeled VA and a breakfast of 145 g fat-/VA-free yogurt mixed with 7 g canola oil. Blood was collected every 30 min for 8 h, with subjects consuming snacks of 2 g canola oil mixed with 18 g yogurt every 30 min until 4 h, followed by a VA-free lunch at 4.5 h. Plasma RE were analyzed by high-performance liquid chromatography and data (corrected for baseline RE) were analyzed using Simulation, Analysis and Modeling software.
Results
Plasma RE was above baseline at 30 min postdosing, reaching a maximum at 90, 150, and 180 min in the 3 subjects. Plasma RE then declined at different rates, almost reaching baseline values by 8 h. To fit these data, we developed a complex, physiologically realistic compartmental model with 12 compartments and (initially) 10 adjustable parameters. After evaluating the uniqueness of initial estimates for VA absorption, we determined final model-predicted values of 72%, 81%, and 78%, respectively, for the 3 women.
Conclusions
We conclude that VA absorption efficiency can be estimated in humans by applying compartmental modeling to postprandial plasma RE kinetic data obtained under a controlled feeding protocol and with the collection of a sufficient number of serial blood samples. Additional work is needed to refine this approach so that one can confidently identify a unique value for VA absorption in human subjects.
背景：需要实用和准确的方法来定量人体维生素A （VA）的吸收。目的：目的是通过对精心设计的控制喂养方案获得的餐后血浆视黄醇酯（RE）动力学数据应用室室模型来确定人对VA的吸收。方法：采集基线空腹血后，3名健康年轻成年女性摄入1.91 μmol未标记的VA，早餐为145 g无脂肪/VA酸奶和7 g菜籽油。每30分钟采集一次血液，持续8小时，每30分钟食用2g菜籽油混合18 g酸奶的零食，直到4小时，然后在4.5小时吃一顿不含va的午餐。用HPLC分析血浆RE，并使用Simulation， Analysis and Modeling软件分析数据（根据基线RE进行校正）。结果：血浆RE在给药后30min高于基线，在90min、150min和180min达到最大值。然后血浆RE以不同的速率下降，在8小时后几乎达到基线值。为了拟合这些数据，我们开发了一个复杂的、生理上真实的室室模型，该模型有12个室室和（最初）10个可调参数。在评估了VA吸收初始估计的独特性之后，我们确定了三位女性的最终模型预测值分别为72%、81%和78%。结论：我们得出的结论是，通过对餐后血浆RE动力学数据进行室室建模，并在控制喂养方案下收集足够数量的连续血液样本，可以估计人类的VA吸收效率。需要进一步的工作来完善这种方法，以便人们可以自信地确定人体VA吸收的独特值。
{"title":"Estimating Vitamin A Absorption Using Compartmental Modeling of Plasma Retinyl Ester Kinetics in Humans","authors":"Jessica Avila-Prado , Michael H Green , Joanne Balmer Green , Veronica Lopez-Teros","doi":"10.1016/j.tjnut.2025.11.004","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.tjnut.2025.11.004","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Background</h3><div>Practical and accurate methods for quantifying vitamin A (VA) absorption in humans are needed.</div></div><div><h3>Objectives</h3><div>The objectives were to determine VA absorption in humans by applying compartmental modeling to postprandial plasma retinyl ester (RE) kinetic data obtained using a carefully designed controlled feeding protocol.</div></div><div><h3>Methods</h3><div>After collection of baseline fasting blood, 3 healthy young adult women ingested 1.91 μmol unlabeled VA and a breakfast of 145 g fat-/VA-free yogurt mixed with 7 g canola oil. Blood was collected every 30 min for 8 h, with subjects consuming snacks of 2 g canola oil mixed with 18 g yogurt every 30 min until 4 h, followed by a VA-free lunch at 4.5 h. Plasma RE were analyzed by high-performance liquid chromatography and data (corrected for baseline RE) were analyzed using Simulation, Analysis and Modeling software.</div></div><div><h3>Results</h3><div>Plasma RE was above baseline at 30 min postdosing, reaching a maximum at 90, 150, and 180 min in the 3 subjects. Plasma RE then declined at different rates, almost reaching baseline values by 8 h. To fit these data, we developed a complex, physiologically realistic compartmental model with 12 compartments and (initially) 10 adjustable parameters. After evaluating the uniqueness of initial estimates for VA absorption, we determined final model-predicted values of 72%, 81%, and 78%, respectively, for the 3 women.</div></div><div><h3>Conclusions</h3><div>We conclude that VA absorption efficiency can be estimated in humans by applying compartmental modeling to postprandial plasma RE kinetic data obtained under a controlled feeding protocol and with the collection of a sufficient number of serial blood samples. Additional work is needed to refine this approach so that one can confidently identify a unique value for VA absorption in human subjects.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":16620,"journal":{"name":"Journal of Nutrition","volume":"156 1","pages":"Article 101234"},"PeriodicalIF":3.8,"publicationDate":"2026-01-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145513121","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":3,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2026-01-01DOI: 10.1016/j.tjnut.2025.11.015
Katherine E Daiy , Victoria Bertacchi , Courtney C Choy , Lupesina Vesi , Kima Savusa , Jyothi Alex Abraham , Christina Soti-Ulberg , Take Naseri , Janet E Williams , Mark A McGuire , Michelle K McGuire , Claudia R Valeggia , Nicola L Hawley
Background
Human diet is changing rapidly around the world, and literature suggests that diet impacts human microbiomes. It is unclear whether maternal nutrient intake is associated with the milk and infant gastrointestinal (gut) microbiomes in nutritionally transitioning populations where wide dietary variability may uniquely shape microbial exposures and responses.
Objectives
We examine how maternal nutrient intake is associated with the human milk and infant fecal microbiomes in Samoa, a nutritionally transitioning nation.
Methods
Exclusively breastfeeding Samoan mother–infant dyads (n = 100) were recruited between 2 and 4 mo postpartum across urban, peri-urban, and rural regions to capture the nutrition transition. Daily energy-adjusted maternal nutrient intake was assessed using 24-h diet recalls. Human milk and infant fecal microbiomes were characterized through 16S rRNA gene sequencing.
Results
Total lipid (β = 0.002, P = 0.037) and saturated fatty acid intakes (β = 0.005, P = 0.020) were positively associated with evenness in milk, whereas protein intake was positively associated with richness (β = 0.232, P = 0.010) and Stenotrophomonas (β = 0.001, q = 0.022) in milk. Polyunsaturated fatty acid intake was positively associated with Shannon diversity (β = 0.034, P = 0.023), evenness (β = 0.007, P = 0.011), and Clostridium (β = 0.006, q = 6.904 × 10–5) in infant feces. Fiber intake was negatively associated with Shannon diversity (β = −0.023, P = 0.008) and evenness (β = −0.004, P = 0.023) in infant feces. Nutrient intake was not associated with overall bacterial compositions of either milk or infant feces (P > 0.05).
Conclusions
In Samoa, maternal nutrient intake is linked with the diversity and individual taxa of milk and infant feces, but was not associated with overall microbiome composition. Effects of changing maternal diet on maternal and infant microbiomes may therefore contribute to health outcomes associated with the nutrition transition.
背景：世界各地的人类饮食正在迅速变化，文献表明饮食会影响人类的微生物群。目前尚不清楚，在营养过渡人群中，母亲的营养摄入是否与牛奶和婴儿胃肠道微生物组有关，在这些人群中，广泛的饮食变化可能独特地塑造微生物暴露和反应。目的：我们研究如何产妇营养摄入与人乳和婴儿粪便微生物组在萨摩亚，一个营养转型的国家。方法：在产后2-4个月，在城市、城郊和农村地区招募纯母乳喂养的萨摩亚母子对（n=100），以捕捉营养转变。采用24小时饮食回顾法评估每日能量调整后的母亲营养摄入量。通过16S rRNA基因测序对人乳和婴儿粪便微生物组进行了表征。结果：总脂肪（β = 0.002, p = 0.037）和饱和脂肪酸摄入量（β = 0.005, p = 0.020）与牛奶中的均匀度呈正相关，蛋白质摄入量与牛奶中的丰富度（β = 0.232, p = 0.010）和窄养单胞菌（β = 0.001, q = 0.022）呈正相关。多不饱和脂肪酸摄入与婴儿粪便中的Shannon多样性（β= 0.034, p = 0.023）、均匀性（β= 0.007, p = 0.011）和梭状芽胞杆菌（β= 0.006, q = 6.904 × 10-5）呈正相关。纤维摄入量与婴儿粪便香农多样性（β = -0.023, p = 0.008）和均匀度（β = -0.004, p = 0.023）呈负相关。营养摄入与乳汁或婴儿粪便的总细菌组成无关（p < 0.05）。结论：在萨摩亚，母亲的营养摄入与乳汁和婴儿粪便的多样性和个别分类群有关，但与总体微生物组组成无关。因此，改变产妇饮食对母婴微生物组的影响可能有助于与营养转变相关的健康结果。
{"title":"Associations among Maternal Nutrient Intake and Infant Fecal and Human Milk Microbiomes in Exclusively Breastfeeding Samoan Mother–Infant Dyads","authors":"Katherine E Daiy , Victoria Bertacchi , Courtney C Choy , Lupesina Vesi , Kima Savusa , Jyothi Alex Abraham , Christina Soti-Ulberg , Take Naseri , Janet E Williams , Mark A McGuire , Michelle K McGuire , Claudia R Valeggia , Nicola L Hawley","doi":"10.1016/j.tjnut.2025.11.015","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.tjnut.2025.11.015","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Background</h3><div>Human diet is changing rapidly around the world, and literature suggests that diet impacts human microbiomes. It is unclear whether maternal nutrient intake is associated with the milk and infant gastrointestinal (gut) microbiomes in nutritionally transitioning populations where wide dietary variability may uniquely shape microbial exposures and responses.</div></div><div><h3>Objectives</h3><div>We examine how maternal nutrient intake is associated with the human milk and infant fecal microbiomes in Samoa, a nutritionally transitioning nation.</div></div><div><h3>Methods</h3><div>Exclusively breastfeeding Samoan mother–infant dyads (<em>n</em> = 100) were recruited between 2 and 4 mo postpartum across urban, peri-urban, and rural regions to capture the nutrition transition. Daily energy-adjusted maternal nutrient intake was assessed using 24-h diet recalls. Human milk and infant fecal microbiomes were characterized through 16S rRNA gene sequencing.</div></div><div><h3>Results</h3><div>Total lipid (<em>β</em> = 0.002, <em>P =</em> 0.037) and saturated fatty acid intakes (<em>β</em> = 0.005, <em>P</em> = 0.020) were positively associated with evenness in milk, whereas protein intake was positively associated with richness (<em>β</em> = 0.232, <em>P</em> = 0.010) and <em>Stenotrophomonas</em> (<em>β</em> = 0.001, <em>q</em> = 0.022) in milk. Polyunsaturated fatty acid intake was positively associated with Shannon diversity (<em>β</em> = 0.034, <em>P</em> = 0.023), evenness (<em>β</em> = 0.007, <em>P</em> = 0.011), and <em>Clostridium</em> (<em>β</em> = 0.006, <em>q</em> = 6.904 × 10<sup>–5</sup>) in infant feces. Fiber intake was negatively associated with Shannon diversity (<em>β</em> = −0.023, <em>P</em> = 0.008) and evenness (<em>β</em> = −0.004, <em>P</em> = 0.023) in infant feces. Nutrient intake was not associated with overall bacterial compositions of either milk or infant feces (<em>P</em> > 0.05).</div></div><div><h3>Conclusions</h3><div>In Samoa, maternal nutrient intake is linked with the diversity and individual taxa of milk and infant feces, but was not associated with overall microbiome composition. Effects of changing maternal diet on maternal and infant microbiomes may therefore contribute to health outcomes associated with the nutrition transition.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":16620,"journal":{"name":"Journal of Nutrition","volume":"156 1","pages":"Article 101246"},"PeriodicalIF":3.8,"publicationDate":"2026-01-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145634947","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":3,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2026-01-01DOI: 10.1016/j.tjnut.2025.10.036
Indu Dhar , Gard FT Svingen , Arve Ulvik , Espen Ø Bjørnestad , Jørn V Sagen , Ottar K Nygård
Background
Low concentrations of biologically active B6 vitamer, pyridoxal 5'-phosphate (PLP) are associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD). Vitamin A (Vit-A) promotes lipid homeostasis and the transport cholesterol. Vit-A may also stimulate the intracellular transport of PLP.
Objectives
This study aimed to investigate whether Vit-A is associated with variations in the relationship of systemic B6-vitamers with incident acute myocardial infarctions (AMIs).
Methods
A total of 4091 patients undergoing elective coronary angiography for suspected stable angina pectoris were studied. Associations of different plasma B6 vitamers, including PLP, pyridoxal (PL), 4-pyridoxic acid (PA), and PA/PL ratio with the risk of AMI according to median concentrations of Vit-A, were explored in Cox regression models.
Results
Serum Vit-A demonstrated positive associations with PLP and PA/PL ratio at baseline (P < 0.001 for both). During a median follow-up of 7.5 y, 521 (12.7%) patients suffered an AMI. In age and sex-adjusted analyses, plasma PLP, PA, and PA/PL ratio showed an overall association with incident AMI {hazard ratio (HR) [95% confidence interval (CI)] per SD: 0.90 [0.82, 0.99; P = 0.02], 1.14 [1.05, 1.23; P < 0.001], and 1.28 [1.18, 1.39; P < 0.001], respectively}. However, low plasma PLP and high PA/PL ratio were associated with an increased risk of AMI primarily among patients with high compared with low Vit-A concentrations [HR (95% CI) per SD: 0.77 (0.68, 0.88; P < 0.001, P-interaction = 0.002) and 1.36 (1.23, 1.49; P < 0.001, P-interaction = 0.05), respectively]. The interactions persisted after multivariable adjustment (both P-interactions ≤ 0.04).
Conclusions
The relationship between vitamin B6 indexes and AMI risk varied according to serum Vit-A concentrations. Additional research is needed to clarify the importance of Vit-A and B6 bioavailability in atherosclerotic CVD.
This trial was registered at clinicaltrials.gov as NCT00354081.
{"title":"Serum Vitamin A Is Associated with Variations in the Relationship between Plasma B6 Vitamers and Cardiovascular Disease Risk","authors":"Indu Dhar , Gard FT Svingen , Arve Ulvik , Espen Ø Bjørnestad , Jørn V Sagen , Ottar K Nygård","doi":"10.1016/j.tjnut.2025.10.036","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.tjnut.2025.10.036","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Background</h3><div>Low concentrations of biologically active B6 vitamer, pyridoxal 5'-phosphate (PLP) are associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD). Vitamin A (Vit-A) promotes lipid homeostasis and the transport cholesterol. Vit-A may also stimulate the intracellular transport of PLP.</div></div><div><h3>Objectives</h3><div>This study aimed to investigate whether Vit-A is associated with variations in the relationship of systemic B6-vitamers with incident acute myocardial infarctions (AMIs).</div></div><div><h3>Methods</h3><div>A total of 4091 patients undergoing elective coronary angiography for suspected stable angina pectoris were studied. Associations of different plasma B6 vitamers, including PLP, pyridoxal (PL), 4-pyridoxic acid (PA), and PA/PL ratio with the risk of AMI according to median concentrations of Vit-A, were explored in Cox regression models.</div></div><div><h3>Results</h3><div>Serum Vit-A demonstrated positive associations with PLP and PA/PL ratio at baseline (<em>P <</em> 0.001 for both). During a median follow-up of 7.5 y, 521 (12.7%) patients suffered an AMI. In age and sex-adjusted analyses, plasma PLP, PA, and PA/PL ratio showed an overall association with incident AMI {hazard ratio (HR) [95% confidence interval (CI)] per SD: 0.90 [0.82, 0.99; <em>P</em> = 0.02], 1.14 [1.05, 1.23; <em>P <</em> 0.001], and 1.28 [1.18, 1.39; <em>P <</em> 0.001], respectively}. However, low plasma PLP and high PA/PL ratio were associated with an increased risk of AMI primarily among patients with high compared with low Vit-A concentrations [HR (95% CI) per SD: 0.77 (0.68, 0.88; <em>P</em> < 0.001, <em>P</em>-interaction = 0.002) and 1.36 (1.23, 1.49; <em>P <</em> 0.001, <em>P</em>-interaction = 0.05), respectively]. The interactions persisted after multivariable adjustment (both <em>P-</em>interactions ≤ 0.04).</div></div><div><h3>Conclusions</h3><div>The relationship between vitamin B6 indexes and AMI risk varied according to serum Vit-A concentrations. Additional research is needed to clarify the importance of Vit-A and B6 bioavailability in atherosclerotic CVD.</div><div>This trial was registered at clinicaltrials.gov as NCT00354081.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":16620,"journal":{"name":"Journal of Nutrition","volume":"156 1","pages":"Article 101223"},"PeriodicalIF":3.8,"publicationDate":"2026-01-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145426809","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":3,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2026-01-01DOI: 10.1016/j.tjnut.2025.10.043
Lillian C Levy , Ximena Perez-Velazco
Food insecurity remains a persistent and inequitable public health issue in the United States, disproportionately affecting low-income households, communities of color, and rural populations. Despite an abundant national food supply, systemic barriers to accessing nutritious food continue to undermine health equity. As food insecurity rates climb in the postpandemic period and the 2025 Farm Bill was recently reauthorized, this policy moment presents a critical opportunity to reassess the United States’ food system. This narrative review synthesizes recent literature at the intersection of food insecurity, nutrition policy, and public health, with the objective of evaluating how current agricultural subsidies and nutrition assistance programs shape dietary quality and chronic disease risk. Drawing from a range of peer-reviewed studies and federal reports, the review explores the economic and structural conditions that influence food affordability, consumption patterns, and health outcomes. Findings highlight 3 key takeaways: first, food insecurity is consistently linked to poor diet quality and higher risks of cardiometabolic disease, obesity, and mental health issues across the life course. Second, agricultural subsidies disproportionately support commodity crops used in ultraprocessed foods, whereas investments in fruits and vegetables remain limited—perpetuating a cost gap that discourages healthy eating. Third, although nutrition assistance programs such as the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program and the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children play a vital role in alleviating food hardship, they face structural limitations that hinder their ability to address upstream drivers of poor dietary intake. Together, these insights underscore the urgent need to realign United States’ food and nutrition policies toward equity, prevention, and affordability. By strengthening support for nutrition-sensitive agriculture and expanding access to healthy foods, policymakers can reduce chronic disease burdens and promote long-term improvements in population health. This review aims to inform forward-looking policy solutions that address food insecurity not just as an issue of hunger, but as a fundamental determinant of public health.
{"title":"Impacts of Nutrition Policy on Food Insecurity and Individual Health in the United States: A Narrative Review","authors":"Lillian C Levy , Ximena Perez-Velazco","doi":"10.1016/j.tjnut.2025.10.043","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.tjnut.2025.10.043","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>Food insecurity remains a persistent and inequitable public health issue in the United States, disproportionately affecting low-income households, communities of color, and rural populations. Despite an abundant national food supply, systemic barriers to accessing nutritious food continue to undermine health equity. As food insecurity rates climb in the postpandemic period and the 2025 Farm Bill was recently reauthorized, this policy moment presents a critical opportunity to reassess the United States’ food system. This narrative review synthesizes recent literature at the intersection of food insecurity, nutrition policy, and public health, with the objective of evaluating how current agricultural subsidies and nutrition assistance programs shape dietary quality and chronic disease risk. Drawing from a range of peer-reviewed studies and federal reports, the review explores the economic and structural conditions that influence food affordability, consumption patterns, and health outcomes. Findings highlight 3 key takeaways: first, food insecurity is consistently linked to poor diet quality and higher risks of cardiometabolic disease, obesity, and mental health issues across the life course. Second, agricultural subsidies disproportionately support commodity crops used in ultraprocessed foods, whereas investments in fruits and vegetables remain limited—perpetuating a cost gap that discourages healthy eating. Third, although nutrition assistance programs such as the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program and the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children play a vital role in alleviating food hardship, they face structural limitations that hinder their ability to address upstream drivers of poor dietary intake. Together, these insights underscore the urgent need to realign United States’ food and nutrition policies toward equity, prevention, and affordability. By strengthening support for nutrition-sensitive agriculture and expanding access to healthy foods, policymakers can reduce chronic disease burdens and promote long-term improvements in population health. This review aims to inform forward-looking policy solutions that address food insecurity not just as an issue of hunger, but as a fundamental determinant of public health.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":16620,"journal":{"name":"Journal of Nutrition","volume":"156 1","pages":"Article 101233"},"PeriodicalIF":3.8,"publicationDate":"2026-01-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145505126","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":3,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
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