Department of Nutrition and Dietetics

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    Beneficial effect of long-chain n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid supplementation on tuberculosis in mice
    (Elsevier, 2021) Nienaber, A.; Oztur, M.; Dolman, R.C.; Zandberg, L.; Hayford, F.E.A.; Brombacher, F.; Blaauw, R.; Smuts, C.M.; Pariha, S.P.; Malan, L.
    Intakes of the omega-3 essential fatty acids (n-3 EFAs) are low in the general adult population, with high n-6/n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid (PUFA) ratios and the accompanying suboptimal n-3 PUFA status. Eicosapentaenoic (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) have antibacterial and inflammation-resolving effects in tuberculosis (TB). However, whether switching to a diet with optimum n-3 EFA intake after the infection has comparable benefits has not been investigated. We aimed to compare the effects of a diet with sufficient n-3 EFA content in an acceptable n-6/n-3 PUFA ratio for rodents ((n-3)eFAS group) with those on the same diet supplemented with EPA and DHA (EPA/DHA group) in Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb)-infected C3HeB/FeJ mice with a low n-3 PUFA status. Mice were conditioned on an n-3 PUFA-deficient diet with a high n-6/n-3 PUFA ratio for 6 weeks before Mtb infection and randomized to either (n-3)eFAS or EPA/DHA diets 1 week post-infection for 3 weeks. At endpoint, EPA and DHA compositions were higher and arachidonic acid, osbond acid, and total n-6 LCPUFAs lower in all lipid pools measured in the EPA/DHA group (all P < 0.001). Percentage body weight gain was higher (P = 0.017) and lung bacterial load lower (P < 0.001) in the EPA/DHA group. Additionally, the EPA/DHA group had a more pro-resolving lung lipid mediator profile and lower lung in IL-1α and IL-1β concentrations (P = 0.023, P = 0.049). Inverse correlations were found between the lung and peripheral blood mononuclear cell EPA and DHA and selected pro-inflammatory cytokines. These are the first findings that indicate that EPA/DHA supplementation provides benefits superior to a diet with sufficient n-3 EFAs concerning bacterial killing, weight gain and lung inflammation resolution in Mtb-infected mice with a low n-3 PUFA status. Therefore, EPA and DHA may be worth considering as adjunct TB treatment.
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    Coconut oil and palm oil’s role in nutrition, health and national development: A review
    (Ghana Medical Journal, 2016-09) Boateng, L.; Ansong, R.; Owusu, W.B.; Steiner-Asiedu, M.
    Coconut and palm oils which were the major sources of dietary fats for centuries in most of West Africa have been branded as unhealthy highly saturated fats. Their consumption has been peddled to supposedly raise the level of blood cholesterol, thereby increasing the risk of coronary heart disease. This adverse view has led to a reduction in their consumption in West Africa and they have been substituted for imported vegetable oils. Recent information however, indicates some beneficial effects of these oils particularly their roles in nutrition, health and national development. There is the need for a better understanding of their effects on health, nutritional status and national development. This paper therefore attempts to review the roles which coconut and palm oils play in these respects in developing countries, as a means of advocating for a return to their use in local diets.
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    Weight loss practices among newly enrolling clients in a commercial weight loss program in Ghana
    (2016-03) Ayisi-Addo, S.; Ayisi-Addo, S.; Ohemeng, A.
    Background: In Ghana, obesity is showing a rising trend and there are weight loss initiatives being practised by individuals. However, the levels of commitment to such programs and the reasons for discontinuing have not been assessed. The objectives of this study were to investigate the weight loss practices of participants and reasons for quitting chosen weight loss programs. Methods: This was a cross-sectional study involving 50 subjects conveniently selected from people who were enrolling into a commercial weight loss program. A questionnaire was used to collect data on past weight loss practices and reasons for abandoning chosen programs. Data analysis was conducted using simple frequency and descriptive tests of the Excel software. Results: More than half of the subjects (66%) had undertaken a weight loss practice before enrolment in study. Of these, 88.5% abandoned the strategy before the achievement of their desired weight goal. The three common programs that were practised were internet based diets (67.9%), commercial weight loss shakes (42.9%) and exercises (28.6%). Reasons given for abandoning programs included lack of sustainability (50%), lack of determination on the part of the client (15%), boredom with program (10%), not achieving desired results (10%), safety concerns (10%), and getting pregnant (5%). Conclusions: The findings suggest that future weight loss programs can be effective and have reduced attrition rates if they are designed to achieve sustainable dietary and other lifestyle changes, as well as boost motivation for weight loss.
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    Contributions of Dietary Protein and Zinc Deficiencies to Protein Energy Malnutrition
    (Ghana Medical Journal, 1990-03) Asibey-Berko, E.
    Some degree of zinc deficiency seems present in all cases of Protein-Energy malnutrition. Protein Energy Malnutrition (PEM) was induced in male Wister rats fed either adequate (30ppm) or moderately deficient levels of zinc (6ppm) in diets containing either 0.4 01' 20% spray-dried egg white. The protein-deficient rats developed PEM with oedema in 4 - 5 weeks regardless of their dietary zinc level. Except for disorders of the brain, protein deficiency was the major cause of most PEM signs - loss of appetite, growth failure, oedema, water accumulation in the liver, hypalbuminaemia and mortality. Dietary zinc deficiency aggravated some of these to a small extent. Dietary zinc alone accounted for elevations of brain iron and sodium in both PEM and non PEM rats. This suggests that zinc deficiency may significantly contribute to some of the symptoms of PEM.
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    Importance of Bulinus Globosus Snails in the Transmission of Urinary Schistosomiasis in Eight Villages in Southern Ghana.
    (Ghana Medical Journal, 1999-06) Aryeetey, M.E.; Wagatsuma, Y.; Yeboah, G.K.; Asante, M.; Mensah, G.; Kojima, S.
    Snail survey was carried OUI al water contact siles (WCSs) of 8 villages in southern Ghana 10 establish freshwater snails responsible for schistosomiasis transmission in the area. Bulinus globosus, one of the intermediate host snails of Schistosoma haematobium was found at the WCSs in all 8 villages although those infected were identified at sites in 5 of the villages. The snails were confined to the Densu river itself, its tributaries (streams) and ponds. These snails were found during the minor rainy season. at the beginning of and during the dry season. They were found to be focal in distribution. Also found in the Densu river and the ponds were uninfected Biomphalaria pfeifferi snails. In addition to those indicated above, non·schistosome transmitting snails were also found.
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    Prevalence of Childhood Overweight/Obesity in Basic School in Accra
    (Ghana medical journal, 2012-09) Mohammed, H.; Vuvor, F.
    Background: This study intends to determine the prevalence of obesity among children in the University Primary School, Legon. It also intends to determine relationship between the prevalence of obesity in children and socio-economic status of their parents and the most endemic age group. Method: The study was conducted using 270 students sampled at random in the basic school. Children’s height, weight and skin fold measurement were taken. Children’s parent’s socio-economic status was assessed using close and open-ended questionnaires administered to parents. Data obtained was then analyzed using SPSS software. Results: Prevalence of obesity in the university primary school was found to be 10.9% with higher prevalence in girls (15.0%) than in boys (7.2%) (Pvalue= 0.001). There was higher prevalence among children from high socioeconomic background (21 – 23%) with least prevalence in those from low socioeconomic homes (10 – 20%) though this was not significant (p-value=0.23). Girls showed a higher body fat composition between 10 –12years, whiles boys showed higher body fat stores between 8 – 10 years old. Increasing mother educational level reduced prevalence of child obesity (p-value=0.043) but this was not seen in increasing fathers’ educational level (pvalue= 0.261). Conclusions: The prevalence of obesity in children in University primary school was very high and worrying. The prevalence increased with socio-economic status and it is more common in females than males. It was recommended that similar study should be expanded nationwide.
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    The nutritional implications of oral contraceptives on women
    (Asian Network for Scientific Information, 2016) Maduforo, A.N.; Yakubu, T.; Okwy-Nweke, C.P.; Onoja, I.U.; Okwara, C.C.
    Oral contraceptives are used bya large proportion of women to prevent pregnancy and alsoforfamily planning purposes. This review focused on the effects of oral contraceptives on micronutrient (vitamins and minerals) status of users. Several studies have investigated whether or not women on oral contraceptives need different amounts of some vitamins and minerals. These studies have shown that the key nutrients affected by oral contraceptives include folic acid, vitamins B2, B6, B12, vitamin C, A and E and the minerals: iron, copper, magnesium, sodium, selenium and zinc. The levels of these micronutrients in the blood of women who use oral contraceptives compared to women who do not, have been the focus of most research. Taking appropriate dietary supplements is recommended to be the initial intervention approach by clinicians since several factors such as bioavailability, malabsorption, inadequate consumption, unhealthy lifestyles and pathological conditions can interfere more with the dietary sources of these micronutrients. Review on the food sources of the lacking nutrients and the dietary management of nutritional deficiencies were also documented in this review. © Asian Network for Scientific Information, 2016.
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    3.6 Million Neonatal Deaths-What Is Progressing and What Is Not?
    (Seminars in Perinatology, 2010-12) Lawn, J.E.; Kerber, K.; Enweronu-Laryea, C.; Cousens, S.
    Each year 3.6 million infants are estimated to die in the first 4 weeks of life (neonatal period)-but the majority continue to die at home, uncounted. This article reviews progress for newborn health globally, with a focus on the countries in which most deaths occur-what data do we have to guide accelerated efforts? All regions are advancing, but the level of decrease in neonatal mortality differs by region, country, and within countries. Progress also differs by the main causes of neonatal death. Three major causes of neonatal deaths (infections, complications of preterm birth, and intrapartum-related neonatal deaths or "birth asphyxia") account for more than 80% of all neonatal deaths globally. The most rapid reductions have been made in reducing neonatal tetanus, and there has been apparent progress towards reducing neonatal infections. Limited, if any, reduction has been made in reducing global deaths from preterm birth and for intrapartum-related neonatal deaths. High-impact, feasible interventions to address these 3 causes are summarized in this article, along with estimates of potential for lives saved. A major gap is reaching mothers and babies at birth and in the early postnatal period. There are promising community-based service delivery models that have been tested mainly in research studies in Asia that are now being adapted and evaluated at scale and also being tested through a network of African implementation research trials. To meet Millennium Development Goal 4, more can and must be done to address neonatal deaths. A critical step is improving the quantity, quality and use of data to select and implement the most effective interventions and strengthen existing programs, especially at district level. © 2010 Elsevier Inc.
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    Analysis of fatty acids in Ghee and olive oil and their probable causal effect in lipoid pneumonia
    (Medical Journal of Indonesia, 2010-11) Mirghani, Z.; Zein, T.; Annoble, S.; Winter, J.; Mostafa, R.
    Aim: To analyze and identify the fatty acids found in homemade ghee and in olive oil and compare those to fatty acids found in bronchoalevolar lavage of children with lipoid pneumonia. Methods: The fatty acids found in homemade fat ”Ghee” and olive oil were analyzed by gas chromatography. Methyl ester derivatives suitable for GC analysis were prepared directly from olive oil or from Ghee using anhydrous methanolic-HCl. Bronchoscopy and bronchoalevolar lavage was performed in eight children aged between 2 and 4 years, all with history of using homemade ghee and/or olive oil in the recumbent position. Results: The analysis of fatty acids in Ghee and olive oil show similar gas chromatographic pattern as those of bronchoalevolar lavage. Conclusion: The three fatty acids responsible for the deleterious effects of lipoid pneumonia were identified. Lipoid pneumonia should be one of the differentials diagnosis in children presenting with respiratory distress. © 2010, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Indonesia. All rights reserved.
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    Late-pregnancy salivary cortisol concentrations of Ghanaian women participating in a randomized controlled trial of prenatal lipid-based nutrient supplements
    (American Society for Nutrition, 2016) Oaks, B.M.; Laugero, K.D.; Stewart, C.P.; Adu-Afarwuah, S.; Lartey, A.; Ashorn, P.; Vosti, S.A.; Dewey, K.G.
    Background: High circulating cortisol is associated with miscarriage, preterm birth, and low birth weight. Research in nonpregnant individuals suggests that improved nutrition may lower cortisol concentrations. It is unknown whether nutritional supplementation during pregnancy lowers cortisol. Objective: Our objective was to determine whether women receiving a lipid-based nutrient supplement (LNS) throughout pregnancy would have lower salivary cortisol at 36 wk gestation compared with women receiving other nutrient supplements. Methods: We conducted a randomized controlled trial in 1320 pregnant Ghanaian women at ≤20 wk gestation who were assigned to receive daily throughout pregnancy: 1) 60 mg iron + 400 mg folic acid (IFA), 2) multiple micronutrients (MMNs), or 3) 20 g LNS (containing 118 kcal, 22 micronutrients, and protein). Morning salivary cortisol was collected from a subsample at baseline and at 28 and 36 wk gestation. Results: A total of 758 women had cortisol measurements at 28 or 36 wk gestation. Salivary cortisol at 36 wk gestation did not differ between groups and was (mean ± SE) 7.97 ± 0.199 in the IFA group, 7.84 ± 0.191 in theMMN group, and 7.77 ± 0.199 nmol/L in the LNS group, when adjusted for baseline cortisol, time of waking, and time between waking and saliva collection (P = 0.67). Therewas an interaction between supplementation group andwomen's age (continuous variable, P-interaction = 0.03); and when agewas dichotomized by themedian, significant differences in salivary cortisol concentrations between groups were seen in women≤26 y of age (IFA = 8.23 ± 0.284 nmol/L, MMN= 8.20 ± 0.274 nmol/L, and LNS = 7.44 ± 0.284 nmol/L; P = 0.03) but not in women > 26 y old (IFA = 7.71 ± 0.281 nmol/L, MMN = 7.50 ± 0.274 nmol/L, and LNS = 8.08 ± 0.281 nmol/L; P = 0.13). Conclusions: We conclude that supplementation with LNSs or MMNs during pregnancy did not affect the cortisol concentration in the study population as a whole, in comparison with IFA, but that LNS consumption among younger women may lead to lower cortisol at 36 wk gestation. This trial was registered at clinicaltrials.gov as NCT00970866. © 2016 American Society for Nutrition.