M.S. - Nutritional Sciences

Permanent URI for this collectionhttps://hdl.handle.net/10125/2118

Browse

Now showing 1 - 20 of 47

The role of astaxanthin in adipocyte biology
(University of Hawai'i at Manoa, 2025) Toncan, Fiorenzo; Lee, Mi-Jeong MJ; Nutrition
Adipose tissues play a critical role in the regulation of systemic health. Astaxanthin (Ast), a natural antioxidant and anti-inflammatory compound, has been suggested to influence adipose tissue health. However, its role in regulation of proliferation of human adipose-derived stem cells (hASCs) and their differentiation into adipocytes is not well understood. This thesis examined how Ast affected hASC proliferation, adipogenic differentiation, and underlying signaling pathways. We found that Ast alone did not exhibit any effects on hASC proliferation or pro inflammatory signaling activities. However, Astaxanthin (Ast) blocked the actions of TNFα, a pro-inflammatory cytokine increased in obesity, thereby rescuing hASCs from its inhibition of proliferation and induction of proinflammatory signaling activity. At low doses (0.01 – 0.1 μM), Ast promoted adipogenesis in hASCs, indicated by upregulation of adipogenic protein markers and lipid accumulation. We showed that Ast enhanced adipogenesis through suppression of the anti-adipogenic Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway, which led to the induction of key adipogenic transcription factors, C/EBPα and PPARγ. However, higher doses of Ast (2 – 10 μM) reduced adipogenesis and exhibited possible cytotoxicity. Our data demonstrated that physiologically achievable levels of Ast not only blocked TNFα-suppression of proliferation in hASCs but also enhanced their differentiation into adipocytes. These findings suggest that Ast may support hyperplastic growth of adipose tissues, which could ameliorate adipose tissue dysfunctions in obesity, providing protective effects against obesity-associated cardiometabolic disorders.
A QUALITATIVE EXAMINATION OF MOTHER’S OPINIONS REGARDING POTENTIAL INTERVENTION STRATEGIES FOR HEALTHY COMPLEMENTARY FEEDING PRACTICES AMONG NATIVE HAWAIIAN INFANTS RESIDING IN HAWAI‘I.
(University of Hawai'i at Manoa, 2023) Dentinger, Amanda Paige; Fialkowski Revilla, Marie K.; Nutritional Sciences
Healthy complementary feeding practices influence long-term health and well-being. This is particularly important in populations like Native Hawaiians who experience greater health disparities than other population groups. Culturally appropriate health promotion programs focused on early infant feeding are needed in the Native Hawaiian community. This study sought to identify appropriate messages and strategies conceptualized using the Pilinahā Indigenous Framework for Health on early infant feeding in the Native Hawaiian community. Participants in this qualitative study were recruited from a larger longitudinal study, Exploring Dietary Diversity of Native Hawaiian Infants. Participants were asked to take part in optional focus groups to share their ideas on strategies and messages for healthy complementary feeding practices. Focus groups were conducted until theme saturation was achieved. In-depth interviews were also included as a complement to the data collected in the focus groups. Transcripts were analyzed by two independent researchers and a code book was established. Themes were identified and then categorized within the four connections of the Pilinahā Indigenous Framework for Health. Participants were approximately 32 years old, with the majority living with their spouse/partner and child(ren), having a college degree or higher and were employed. Data from four focus groups (n=8) and three one-on-one interviews (n=3) were contextualized using the Pilinahā framework to see the interconnectedness of themes. Connection to self was observed through educational components. Connection to community was practiced through the involvement of family, the community, health care professionals, and farmers when it came to creating a service or program that would assist Native Hawaiian mothers in providing healthy complementary foods to their infants. Sharing experiences, social media platforms, incentives, building relationships and supplemental nutrition programs were also observed in the connection to the community. Connection to place was observed through accessibility, convenience as well as components of ‘food as medicine.’ Connection to the Past, Present and Future was observed through the importance of promoting and integrating traditional practices. This study identified strategies and messages operationalized through the Pilinahā Indigenous Framework for Health. This study will inform the development of programs focused on healthy early infant feeding in the Native Hawaiian community. This is beneficial because of the insight on the strategies and messages needed for Native Hawaiian mothers to provide healthy complementary foods to their infants, which can be used to inform the directions for future research and program development. Identifying strategies specific to Native Hawaiians is the first step to creating intentional and integral programs that encourage healthy complementary feeding practices.
Systematic Review On The Relationship Between Social Media Content, Body Dissatisfaction, And Disordered Eating Behaviors In US Adolescents
(University of Hawaii at Manoa, 2022) Garrido, Samantha; Esquivel, Monica K.; Nutritional Sciences
Adolescence demonstrates the onset of puberty with both physical and emotional changes in girls and boys. Physical changes during puberty (i.e., changes in lean body mass and adipose tissue) can negatively impact body image. In addition, peer influence and the desire to look and be the same as others can lead to negative body image and body dissatisfaction. Both negative body image and body dissatisfaction can lead to the development of disordered eating patterns and eventually clinically diagnosed eating disorders. The addition of social media into this dynamic can further influence negative body image and disordered eating behaviors. Social media use among adolescents is growing exponentially with the development of several social media platforms that target children and teenagers. Recently, studies conducted by Facebook and others have found associations between social media use and negative health variables such as body dissatisfaction, disordered eating behaviors, and eating disorders. However, little published research is available on the type of content, social media platforms, and other contextual factors related to these observed association between social media, body dissatisfaction, disordered eating behaviors and eating disorders. To bridge this gap in knowledge, a systematic review was conducted to review all available literature on the relationship between social media use and the prevalence of body dissatisfaction, disordered eating behaviors and eating disorders among adolescents in the United States. Five databases (CINAHL, PsychINFO, Psychological & Behavioral Sciences Collection, PubMed Medline, & Web of Science) were searched using a search strategy informed by University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa library liaisons. The search resulted in 1,291 articles. Articles were reviewed for duplicates, and 766 articles were included in the abstract review after removing duplicates and exclusion criteria set by this systematic review. After completing the abstract review, 23 articles were identified for full-text review, which resulted in the inclusion of 7 articles1-7 being included in this systematic review. Of the 7 articles identified, 52-6 demonstrated a statistically significant relationship between social media and negative health variables that included disordered eating behaviors and/or body dissatisfaction. Two articles1,7 did not find a statistically significant relationship between social media use and negative health variables, stating inadequate measurement tools such as self-reported questionnaires and non-diagnostic criteria for diagnosing an eating disorder. A quality assessment for each article was also conducted using the Joan Brigg Institute (JBI) Checklist for quality of cross-sectional studies, with a score of 2 or less on this checklist indicated an acceptable range for quality of evidence presented. Only 2 articles3,7 had a score of 2 or less, which indicates a lack of high quality evidence among a majority of studies identified in this review. This systematic review identified 5 articles2-6 that found a statistically significant relationship between social media and negative health variables such as disordered eating behaviors and body dissatisfaction, however only 2 of these articles3,7 were considered high quality. While statistically significant associations could be found between social media and negative health variables, the evidence of these articles supporting this relationship is of low quality, indicating a need for further research in this topic to understand the true influence of social media on disordered eating, body dissatisfaction, and eating disorders in adolescents in the United States.
Impact of TGFβ signaling on adipose tissue biology
(University of Hawaii at Manoa, 2022) Lofquist, Sydney; Lee, Mi-Jeong; Nutritional Sciences
The dysfunction of adipose tissue is a hallmark step in the development of metabolic diseases in obese individuals. Transforming growth factor-beta (TGFβ) ligands are higher in the serum and adipose tissue in obesity and activated TGFβ signaling is known to contribute to adipose tissue dysfunctions. However, the molecular pathways through which TGFβ regulate proliferation and myofibroblast differentiation of human adipose stem cells (hASCs) as well as metabolic and endocrine functions of human adipocytes has not been elucidated. Using a siRNA-mediated knockdown of SMAD2 and SMAD3, two downstream effector molecules, we analyzed their roles in mediating TGFβ signaling on proliferation and myofibroblast-like cell differentiation in hASCs. We also assessed the impact of TGFβ signaling on the adipokine and metabolic profile of human adipocytes using chemical inhibitors SB431542 and SIS3. Our results showed that both SMAD2 and SMAD3 significantly increased the proliferation of hASCs (p<0.001) without impacting alpha-smooth muscle actin expression, a marker of myofibroblasts. Inhibition of endogenous TGFβ signaling improved the adipokine profile of adipocytes by increasing adiponectin (p<0.001) while decreasing leptin (p<0.05) and interleukin-6 (p<0.05) secretion. Addition of TGFβ1 promoted a proinflammatory profile by increasing leptin (p<0.01) and interleukin-6 (p<0.01) secretion and inhibiting adiponectin secretion (p<0.01). Inhibition of TGFβ signaling decreased lipolysis (p<0.01) and tended to decrease lipid droplet size while enhancing mitochondrial intensity without significantly affecting OXPHOS expression in adipocytes. Our data indicates that proliferation of hASCs is not differentially regulated by SMAD2 and SMAD3 and that high TGFβ signaling contributes to adipose tissue dysfunction by increasing proliferation of adipose progenitors as well as inducing pathogenic endocrine and metabolic profiles.
Dietary Patterns Among East Asian Children Living in the US Affiliated Pacific Region
(University of Hawaii at Manoa, 2021) Mau, Geneva Chi Ching; Revilla, Marie K. F.; Nutritional Sciences
Background: Childhood obesity is an increasingly global epidemic that has become a public health concern. The three largest groups of Asian Americans are of East Asian descent (Chinese, Korean, and Japanese) which will be the population of focus in this study. East Asian children may be prone to being overweight or obese due to nutrition transition and acculturation. The 2020-2025 Dietary Guidelines for Americans (DGA) identified that a healthy dietary pattern is higher in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, low- and nonfat dairy seafood, legumes, and nuts. A traditional East Asian dietary pattern includes rice, noodles, seafood or animal protein and vegetables. Limited research suggests that the dietary patterns of Asian American children have changed consuming more refined grains, fast food, sugar sweetened beverages, dairy, and meat. However, there has been less research examining the dietary patterns of East Asian children. Objective: The purpose of this study was to examine dietary patterns in East Asian children ages 2-8 living in the United States Affiliated Pacific (USAP) Region. Methods: A secondary analysis was conducted using data from the Children’s Healthy Living Program. Reduced rank regression was conducted to determine foods that were being consumed by East Asian children. The food variables that were analyzed included added sugars, cheese, milk, total milk, yogurt, citrus fruits, melons, and berries, other fruits, fruits, non-whole grains, total grain, whole grain, eggs, fish and shellfish, frankfurters, sausage, and luncheon meats, meat, total meat, nuts and seeds, poultry, soybean products, orange vegetables, dark green vegetables, dry beans and peas, other vegetables, white potatoes, other starchy vegetables, tomatoes, total vegetables, and discretionary solid fat weighted for weekday/weekend days. Only factor loadings above |0.2| were considered. Binary logistic regression was used to analyze the relationship between dietary patterns and overweight/obesity (OWOB) and waist-to-height ratio (WHtR). All models were adjusted for sex and age. Results: The reduced rank regression did not reveal foods that depict a traditional East Asian diet. Dietary pattern 1 loaded on added sugars, milk products, non-whole refined grains, whole grains, meat, and discretionary solid fat. Dietary pattern 2 loaded positively on added sugars and negatively loaded on milk and milk products, nuts and seeds, and solid fat. Dietary pattern 3 positively loaded on nuts and seeds and negatively loaded on other fruits, total fruits, non-whole refined grain, total grain, whole grain, dark green vegetables, and nuts and seeds. The logistic regression showed no significant association between all three dietary patterns and OWOB. The same was also true when examining the results of the logistic regression between all three dietary patterns and WHtR. Conclusion: A traditional dietary pattern was not identified in East Asian children living in the USAP. Westernized foods were consumed by East Asian children, which aligns with previous research. Findings indicate that nutrition transition and acculturation may be happening with East Asian children living in the USAP.
Effect Of A Short Message Service Intervention On Excessive Gestational Weight Gain In A Low-income Population
(University of Hawaii at Manoa, 2020) Holmes, Hannah; Banna, Jinan; Nutritional Sciences
Socioeconomic disparities exist in many health conditions. Behavioral interventions may promote healthy behaviors and lead to decreased risk of diseases, both communicable and noncommunicable. These interventions may be unable to reach low-income individuals, who may be lacking in time and resources. This thesis consists of two chapters investigating the use of technology for lifestyle interventions in low-income populations. The first chapter, a literature review to be submitted for publication, is entitled “Novel technologies for nutrition interventions in low-income populations” and systematically reviews the literature to characterize such interventions. The second chapter, “Effect of a short message service intervention on gestational weight gain in a low-income population: a randomized, controlled trial”, reports the results an eighteen-week nutrition and physical activity intervention, delivered via short message service (SMS, or text message), on gestational weight gain (GWG) in a sample of participants of the Special Supplemental Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) in Hawaiʻi. The author of this thesis was responsible for drafting the manuscript included as Chapter 2. The author was also responsible for background research, synthesis of the developmental methods of the intervention, organization of results, creation of tables and figures, analysis of study strengths and limitations, and suggestions for future research to fill gaps in the literature. The appendix includes accompanying tables and figures for both chapters. The results reported in this thesis support the need for additional research in nutrition interventions using novel technology methods to reach low-income populations.
Examining the Relationship Between Protein Intake and Source and Acanthosis Nigricans Among Young Children in the Children's Healthy Living Program in the United States Affiliated Pacific
(University of Hawaii at Manoa, 2019) Calabrese, Allison; Revilla, Marie K. F.; Nutritional Sciences
BACKGROUND: Acanthosis Nigricans (acanthosis) is a dermatological condition that is characterized by a symmetrical, velvety, light brown to black pigmentation of the skin. Acanthosis has been reported to be linked to obesity and is a physical marker on the skin for insulin resistance. Previous research has focused on the relationship of high carbohydrate and fat diets with insulin resistance. However, there are no studies to date analyzing the relationship between protein intake and food sources to acanthosis in children. OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this study was to examine if the presence of acanthosis is related to dietary protein consumption and protein source among children in the United States Affiliated Pacific. METHODS: A secondary analysis was conducted on data collected from 3468, 2 to 8-year-old children in 11 jurisdictions from the Children’s Healthy Living Program. One way ANOVA was conducted to determine the relationship between acanthosis and total energy intake (kcal), mean protein (g), fat (g) and dairy (servings) intake of the two days weighted for weekday/weekend, mean meat (oz) intake and lean meat equivalents from egg (oz), poultry (oz), franks and luncheon meats (oz), fish and seafood (oz), beef, pork and lamb (oz), nuts and seeds (oz), soy (oz), and dry beans and peas (oz) weighted for weekday/weekend days and adjusted for within person variance, and age (yrs). Binary logistic regression was used to analyze the protein sources and whether children consuming protein intake within the age appropriate US Dietary Guidelines and Dietary Reference Intakes were less likely to screen positive for acanthosis. All models were adjusted for age, sex, overweight/obesity, energy intake (kcal) and mean total fat intake (oz). RESULTS: There were 191 (5.5%) children that screened positively for acanthosis. The prevalence of acanthosis was higher in overweight and obese children than in healthy weight children (63.4% vs 35.6%). The total intake for protein was not significantly associated with acanthosis. However, for every 1 oz increase in intake of meat per day, the risk of acanthosis significantly increased by 16% (p= 0.009). Lean meat from meat, poultry, and fish (oz) was significantly associated with acanthosis (p= 0.000). Poultry and meat intake were no longer significantly associated with acanthosis in logistic regression models after controlling for confounding variables. However, for every 1 oz increase in fish and seafood intake the risk of acanthosis significantly increased by 22% (p=0.001). Mean total dairy intake had a protective effect against the risk of acanthosis, where for every ½ serving increase in dairy, the risk decreased by 40% (p<0.001). There was no significant difference in acanthosis risk between children who consumed protein within the age appropriate Dietary Guidelines and Dietary Reference Intakes as compared to those who did not. CONCLUSION: Total protein intake did not affect the likelihood of screening positive for acanthosis in young children from the United States Affiliated Pacific. However, meat intake, specifically from fish and seafood did increase the risk for having acanthosis while dairy consumption was shown to have a protective effect. Further study analyzing the different nutrient components of protein sources such as fish, seafood, and dairy sources are warranted.
Plate Waste In School Lunch: Barriers, Motivators And Perspectives Of Early Adolescents In The United States
(University of Hawaii at Manoa, 2019) Zhao, Chenchen; Banna, Jinan; Nutritional Sciences
ABSTRACT Objective: The aim of this project was to determine barriers, motivators, and perspectives about plate waste of early adolescents in the National School Lunch Program (NSLP) in Hawai'i, Montana and Virginia. Design: A semi-structured interview guide was developed and pilot tested with three participants. Trained interviewers conducted audio-recorded individual interviews with adolescents (n=47) from Hawai‘i, Montana, and Virginia. Interviews were transcribed verbatim. A codebook was devised using existing literature on barriers, motivators, and perspectives on reducing school lunch plate waste in the US. Two researchers coded three transcripts individually using NVivo software to determine interrater reliability and calculated an average Cohen's Kappa coefficient. With an average Cohen's Kappa coefficient of 0.68, the two coders then coded all transcripts independently. New codes were added to the codebook on the basis of emerging themes. Key themes were evaluated by the two coders separately. In discussion, the two agreed on final themes and collectively summarized the results. Setting: Elementary schools implementing National School Lunch Program (NSLP) in Hawai'i, Montana, and Virginia. Participants: Early adolescents (n=47, 9-13 years) from families receiving or eligible to receive the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits were recruited to participate. Phenomenon of Interest: Factors influencing plate waste among adolescents and potential plate waste reduction strategies. Analysis: Coders analyzed content and thematic data to identify code categories and themes. Results: The main barriers to the reduction of school lunch plate waste were unsupportive school policy, undesirable food quality, satiation, and social influences. The key motivators to help reduce school lunch plate waste were supportive school policy, including allowing students to share food with peers and save food to eat later; and social influences. Perspectives on the reduction of school lunch waste were: participants found it acceptable to throw away disliked food, unacceptable to throw away wanted food, perceived their peers did not care if food was thrown away, and their parents disliked wasting food. Conclusion and Implications: Results suggest several factors might allow for minimization of school lunch plate waste in the NSLP, including improvements in food quality, food policy and social influences. Under these key themes, strategies to employ may include improving food preparation, food taste, allocating more time for students to finish their lunches, allowing students to self-select food lunch items, and to share and save their leftover foods.
Nutrient Composition of Avocados Grown in Hawai‘i and Cameroon
(University of Hawaii at Manoa, 2017-08) Kai, Jessie S. M. P.; Nutritional Sciences
Avocados (Persea americana) are a source of monounsaturated fatty acids, dietary fiber, and beneficial phytochemicals. Despite the health benefits of avocados, there is limited nutritional research on Hawaii and Cameroon-grown avocados. The health benefits of the fruit are primarily based on research involving the Hass cultivar. In Hawaii and Cameroon, many other avocado cultivars besides Hass are consumed. The objective of this research is to illustrate the nutrient content variability among the common varieties of Hawaii and Cameroon avocados. In doing so, the data will help consumers make informative decisions when purchasing the fruit. The data will also help decrease the deficiency of nutritional information which may restrict the growth of the local avocado industry in Hawaii and Cameroon. If consumers know the nutrient profile of avocados, they might be more apt to buy locally grown fruits rather than imported fruits. The nutritional quantities of six Hawaii-grown cultivars and four Cameroon-grown cultivars were analyzed. The Hawaii cultivars were Linda, Beshore, Serpa, Nishikawa, Ohata and Murashige. The Cameroon cultivars were Peteson, Pollock, Fuer Florida and Booth VIII. Fatty acids (FA) were extracted via Soxhlet, then hydrolyzed and quantified via LCMS. Total protein content was determined via Kjeldahl digestion, mineral profile via ICP, and carotenoid content via HPLC. Nutritional profiles varied among the cultivars. The genetic background appeared to have a stronger influence than the environmental and growing factors as cultivars form the same farms differed from each other. This data will provide information on the most suitable cultivars in a nutritive and commercial perspective. Furthermore, the public in Hawaii and Cameroon will benefit from the nutritional information on avocados grown in their local region. This will also help improve understanding the health benefits of the fruit which are related to their chemical composition.
Nutritional Management of Individuals with Chronic Disease and Vulnerable Populations Following a Disaster
(University of Hawaii at Manoa, 2016-05) Wilcox, Misty
Chronic diseases and related conditions (CDRCs), such as diabetes, renal disease, and cardiovascular disease affect a large proportion of the population in developed nations. Following a large scale disaster, when food, water, and medical supplies are limited, CDRCs increase the risk of adverse health outcomes in displaced populations and require nutrition intervention. Other vulnerable populations, including the elderly, breastfeeding moms, and infants are also at high risk for adverse nutrition related health outcomes following a disaster. This thesis is comprised of two research studies, which examine: a) the prevalence of CDRCs in non-institutionalized U.S. adults, b) the effect of chronic disease status, mental or emotional health status, and disability status on disaster preparedness behaviors, and c) nutritional management of vulnerable populations include those with CDRCs. Preparation for disasters by both individuals and communities is an important part of critical infrastructure needed to be able to respond, and recover from disasters.
The Relationship between Iron Status and Depression in Non-Inflamed Women
(University of Hawaii at Manoa, 2016-05) Dyer, Makena
Depression is a debilitating condition which has been increasing in prevalence in the United States. Epidemiological studies suggest that the pathophysiology of depression may be related to nutrient deficiencies. One nutrient of particular interest is iron. Iron deficiency, with or without anemia, is a major worldwide health concern. Iron is involved in several biochemical pathways necessary for maintaining healthy mood. However, the existing literature has presented mixed findings regarding the relationship between iron status as measured by serum ferritin and depression symptoms. Inflammation could explain these discrepancies as inflammation has been associated with elevated levels of the iron biomarker serum ferritin. Therefore, inflammation could be responsible for false negatives for iron deficiency. In the study reported here, the relationship between iron status and depression was assessed in participants from three National Health and Nutrition Examination Surveys (NHANES (2005-2006, 2007-2008, and 2009-2010). Iron status was measured through serum ferritin, and depression was defined as a depression screener score ≥ 10. Individuals who had both serum ferritin data and complete depression screener data, were not pregnant, and were not on antidepressants were included in this study. The starting study population consisted of 3,452 females 18-49 years old, inflamed and non-inflamed (Inf/Non-Inf). Exclusion for inflammation (Non-Inf), defined as C-reactive protein > 2 mg/L, reduced the study population to 1,780. Further exclusions for serum ferritin outliers using the cutoff value 150 ng/mL (Non-Inf 150) lowered the study population to 1,726. This thesis also examined serum ferritin and depression in a sample with only inflamed individuals (Inf) (n = 1,672). Inflammation and serum ferritin were compared in the Inf/Non-Inf population. Iron status and depression were compared for the Non-Inf, Non-Inf 150, and Inf populations separately with the same analyses for each population. Inflammation and serum ferritin appear to be strongly correlated in the Inf/Non-Inf population. Data for the Non-Inf, Non-Inf 150, and Inf populations do not strongly suggest a relationship between iron status and depression. However, stronger associations between iron status and depression were observed in the inflamed-only population than in either non-inflamed population. This finding suggests further research could be done on iron deficiency and depression in inflamed individuals as this relationship could be different depending on an individual’s inflammation status.
Evaluation of Molluscs as Dietary Sources of Iron: Heme and Non-Heme Iron Content of Clams and Oysters Consumed in the Asia-Pacific Region
(University of Hawaii at Manoa, 2015-12) Taniguchi, Chad
Iron deficiency is the most prevalent nutrient deficiency in the world. Limited bivalve data indicates discrepancies in iron and heme iron concentration. Therefore, fresh Manila clams, Pacific oysters, canned blood clams (A. granosa), canned akagai (A. broughtonii), and frozen blood clams were assayed and compared to beef liver as a reference food rich in heme iron. Heme iron ranged from 0.53 ± 0.08 to 5.77 ± 0.34 mg/100 g edible portion in Manila clams and blanched frozen blood clams, respectively. Non-heme iron ranged from 4.47 ± 0.44 to 9.81 ± 0.58 and total iron ranged from 4.35 ± 0.85 to 12.28 ± 0.44 mg/100 g EP in Manila clams and canned blood clams, respectively. Frozen blood clams had significantly more heme and total iron compared to the liver reference. Although these data indicate that clams could be a reasonable iron source, some samples contained potentially toxic amounts of cadmium.
Evaluation of Messages to Motivate Parents to Promote Intake of Calcium-Rich Foods in Early Adolescents
(University of Hawaii at Manoa, 2015-08) Martinez, Yannica Theda
Parental practices such as role modeling and setting rules and expectations influence intake of calcium-rich foods and beverages (CRFB) in early adolescents. This study aimed to test three posters promoting such parental practices with respect to comprehension, cultural and personal relevance, and ability to motivate parents to encourage CRFB intake. Interviews were conducted with 14 Hispanic and 6 Asian parents from three states to evaluate two posters containing images and taglines tailored to these racial/ethnic groups, entitled “Good play starts with calcium” and “Strong families start with good nutrition.” Responses were reviewed for common themes. For the message, “Good play starts with calcium,” both groups of parents understood the message to provide CRFB to their children for adequate calcium intake. Only Hispanics, however, recognized the connection between calcium intake and strong bones. For the message, “Strong families start with good nutrition,” both groups had difficulty understanding that the foods pictured contained calcium and should be provided to ensure adequate intake. Both posters were considered culturally and personally relevant; however, respondents did not indicate motivation to provide CRFB in response to posters. Given the issues identified regarding comprehension and ability to motivate parents, modifications are needed to emphasize the connection between images and taglines featured in the posters and calcium intake for use in a future intervention to improve CRFB-promoting practices among parents of early adolescents.
Higher Dietary Protein Intake Associated with Lower BMI, Percent Body Fat, and Waist Circumference across Diverse Young to Middle Aged Adults in NHANES
(University of Hawaii at Manoa, 2015-05) Wills, Colin
Obesity is a significant factor affecting health and health care costs especially for Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander. Recent weight loss studies have shown that increased dietary protein promotes fat loss and preserves fat-free body mass. This study evaluated relationships between dietary protein intake and body mass index (BMI), percent body fat (% BF), and waist circumference (WC) in the general US population. Demographic, anthropometric, and dietary data (n=4753) were obtained from the 1999-2004 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) database: ages 18-49. JMP Pro 11 was used for correlation and regression statistical analysis and showed mean BMI, % BF and WC were lower with higher dietary protein intake measured as g/kg bodyweight (p<.0001). These results support the concept that lower BMI, % BF, and WC are associated with higher protein consumption. Optimal protein intake for healthy body composition appears to be greater than current recommendations based on nitrogen balance.
Para I Famagu'on-ta: Fruit and Vegetable Intake, Food Store Environment, and Childhood Overweight/Obesity on Guam
(University of Hawaii at Manoa, 2015-05) Matanane, Lenora Beth
BACKGROUND: Many studies support the influential role that the food store environment (FSE) has on children’s dietary intake and weight status. PURPOSE: To test if availability and access to fruits and vegetables (FV) in food stores is associated with prevalence of early childhood (2 – 8 years) overweight/obesity (≥85th BMI percentile) in selected communities on Guam; To test if actual FV intake of young children influences the relationship between the FSE and early childhood overweight/obesity prevalence. METHODS: FSE factors, including fresh FV score and presence of store by store type were assessed using the CX3 Food Availability and Marketing Survey that was amended for the Children’s Healthy Living (CHL) Program community trial and measured at baseline. Anthropometry and characteristic data of children (2 to 8 years; n=466) were collected across all communities and BMI z-scores and categories calculated using the 2000 CDC growth charts. Geographic coordinates of participant residences and food stores were obtained to construct ArcGIS maps and to calculate food store scores within 1 mile of participant residence. Food and Activity Logs (FAL) data of a sub-sample of child participants (n = 355) were collected to calculate FV and energy intakes. Bivariate correlations and logistic regression evaluated associations. RESULTS: A total of 111 stores were surveyed of which the majority was small markets (73%) and the remaining were convenience stores (16%) and large grocery/supermarkets (11%). Supermarkets and large grocery stores averaged the highest FV scores that met the standards for availability. About 1/5th and 1/10th of participants met fruit and vegetable intake recommendations, respectively, while nearly half of them exceeded recommendations for energy intake. A significant negative correlation was found between presence of small market nearest to participant residence and BMI z-score (r=- 0.129, p<0.05); and positive correlation found between presence of convenience store nearest to participant residence and BMI z-score (r=0.092, p<0.05). Logistic regression analysis yielded non-significant associations. CONCLUSION: High density of small markets may be an opportunity for FSE intervention but further investigations of other FSE factors with more communities are needed to understand the FSE’s influence on Guam.
The Glycemic Response to High Amylose Rice Study
(University of Hawaii at Manoa, 2013-12) Zenel, Alison Marie
Millions of people worldwide have been diagnosed with the chronic disease type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) (Wild 2004). Patients with T2DM are afflicted with abnormally high blood glucose concentrations. Diets with a low glycemic index (GI) may help to attenuate blood glucose concentrations and reduce risk of T2DM. High GI diets can have the opposite effect. Obesity, a risk factor for T2DM, can be reduced by appetite control. Dietary fiber has numerous health benefits, including blood glucose attenuation. Resistant starch (RS) is a type of dietary fiber, and is present in high amylose rice varieties. Numerous studies have found that intake of RS in solid foods, including rice, can improve postprandial blood glucose and insulin response in healthy adults. There have been a few studies on the effects of intake of RS in solid foods intake in adults with T2DM, but these studies have inconclusive findings. Also, current research on RS in solid foods and appetite is not yet well established. These studies will be discussed in detail. The prevalence of T2DM in the state of Hawaii (HI) matches the overall prevalence of T2DM in the United States. White rice, a staple in HI, is a high GI food, contributing to a high GI diet. Therefore, an alternative rice variety for glycemic control, e.g. rice with RS, needs to be determined. The following literature review discusses the current research on RS, glycemic control, and T2DM.
In vitro fermentation by gut microbiota of human subjects from three ethnic groups in Hawaii
(University of Hawaii at Manoa, 2013-12) Wang, Ziwen
The gut microbiota that lives in our large intestine has a close relationship with our health and well-being. Gut microbial composition depends on both environmental factors and factors from their hosts. This pilot study investigated dietary habits and fecal short-chain fatty acid (SCFA) concentration with substrates inulin and glucose in three ethnic groups (Caucasian, Chinese, Japanese) in Hawaii (n=9). Dietary intake was recorded for 3 to 4 days prior to fecal specimen collection. An in vitro fermentation was conducted to evaluate the energy production potential of the gut microbiota obtained from human fecal specimens. Caucasians had significantly higher food weight intake than the other two ethnic groups. With substrates added, Caucasians also produced a higher concentration of butyrate, propionate and total SCFA than Japanese subjects at time point 12 and 24 hr, which Japanese had significantly lower production (P<0.05). The SCFA concentrations produced by the individual subjects were widely variable over the 24-hour study period. Higher food weight, carbohydrate intake, and dietary fiber intake were associated with higher SCFA production in vitro. This study demonstrated that Caucasians had higher propionate, butyrate, and total SCFA production than Japanese subjects in response to added inulin. Further studies are required to determine if the effects of ethnicity and dietary pattern on bowel health are sustained in the long-term.
Fatty acid and dietary fiber of the mesocarp of Hawaiʻi grown avocados: potential for improved health benefits
(University of Hawaii at Manoa, 2013-08) Iwasaki, Justin Kai Tadao
Avocados (Persea Americana) contain a variety of essential nutrients including monounsaturated fatty acids, dietary fiber, and beneficial phytochemicals. Currently, there is limited research on Hawaii grown avocados, which limit the agricultural growth of the avocado industry. Research was conducted to determine the nutritional qualities found in four varieties (Kahaluu, Linda, Malama, and Sharwill) grown in Hawaii. Individual fatty acids (FA) were extracted through standard soxhlet method and oil extracts were quantified for FA composition via GC. Total dietary fiber (DF) was determined by quantifying insoluble and soluble fiber found within the avocado mesocarp. Additional experiments included quantification of total protein, mineral content, and determining carbohydrate through difference. One-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) was conducted using SAS statistical software. Oleic acid was predominately found in the Kahaluu variety (10.527 g/100 g fresh wt.), and was significantly higher in content (p=0.0004) than in Linda, Malama, and Sharwill. Second, the Kahaluu variety had a significantly greater amount of TDF (9.59 g/100 g fresh wt.) compared to Linda, Malama, and Sharwill (p=0.0019). Preliminary results on Hass avocado indicate that there are differences in its reported nutritional values in most literature. The research in this current study will provide nutritional professionals and consumers with improved knowledge of nutritional properties of Hawaii grown avocados. Through this knowledge, there is potential to improve marketing strategies to expand the avocado industry in Hawaii.
Feasibility study to test anti-obesity effects & safety of long-term consumption of momordica charantia (bitter melon)
(University of Hawaii at Manoa, 2013-08) Fujii, Mai
As the obesity epidemic increases globally, several weight loss interventions are being considered for successful management strategies, including alternative medicine. Momordica charantia (bitter melon) is consumed in many Asian countries and has traditionally been used for its medicinal properties. Animal and cell culture studies indicate that MC can prevent diabetes as well as hyperlipidemia and obesity. Several clinical studies have demonstrated hypoglycemic effects of MC. However, a clinical study to test the efficacy of MC on plasma lipids and weight reduction in humans is lacking. The main objectives of this study were to explore the feasibility and safety of long-term consumption of MC and to investigate the effects of MC on body weight and plasma lipid profiles. Healthy, overweight and obese subjects were recruited and received MC fruit powder for daily consumption without dietary and lifestyle changes. The results showed that many subjects indicated a high level of willingness to consume MC daily in the feasibility study. Also, the feasibility of daily MC consumption is possibly enhanced by additional supplementation that masks the bitterness of MC. The present study faced difficulties in recruiting and retaining eligible subjects for the clinical trial, there was only one subject who qualified and participated in the trial among 25 subjects who were recruited as possible candidates. Thus, efficacy and safety of daily consumption of MC for anti-obesity treatment remain unknown. Further investigations of efficacy and safety of MC on obesity with a large sample of randomized clinical trial design could indicate a possible alternative approach in obesity treatment.
Evaluation of seaweeds as food sources of iron: mineral content and iron bioavailability using the in vitro digestion/ Caco-2 cell method
(University of Hawaii at Manoa, 2013-08) Flores, Shireen Roberta Lee
Iron (Fe) deficiency is the most common nutrient disorder in the U.S. and worldwide, affecting nearly 2 billion people (WHO, 2008). Often Fe deficiency is attributed to poor Fe bioavailability in foods, especially in plant-based diets. With the U.S. Dietary Guidelines suggesting a reduced intake of meat and increased intake in fresh produce and whole grains, the prevalence of Fe deficiency could increase. Thus, there exists a need to discover novel plant foods that supply bioavailable Fe to the diet. Seaweeds have been shown to be rich sources of Fe and are grown and commonly eaten in Hawaiʻi. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the mineral content and Fe bioavailability of various seaweeds to determine their potential nutritive value as a good source of Fe. In this study the mineral content of eleven common and Hawaiian seaweeds (Aonoriko, Dulse, Gorilla Ogo, Green Ogo, Hijiki, Nori, Red Ogo, Rockweed, Sea Lettuce, Wakame, and Wawae'iole) was determined via inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS). Of the eleven seaweeds, six (Nori, Red Ogo, Rockweed, Sea Lettuce, Wakame, and Wawaei'ole) were selected on the basis of popularity in western diets, total iron content, and native Hawaiian origin for further analysis of their Fe bioavailability relative to spinach. Relative Fe bioavailability was assessed using a Caco-2 cell/ in vitro digestion method. Results showed no significant difference in bioavailable iron between spinach and Rockweed, Wakame, or Wawaei'ole. Similarly, while Red Ogo contained five times as much Fe as spinach, the bioavailability of that Fe was low even when enhanced with Vitamin C. In contrast, Nori and Sea Lettuce provided 2-4 times more bioavailable Fe per gram dry weight than spinach. When supplemented with vitamin C, an enhancer of Fe absorption, all seaweeds showed a significant increase in Fe bioavailability as expected (except Red Ogo). This suggests that variation between seaweeds may stem from different contents of enhancers (Vit C) and inhibitors (possibly polyphenols or manganese) in the seaweeds themselves. We conclude that Nori and Sea Lettuce provide more bioavailable Fe than spinach and thus should be considered good sources of dietary Fe. Red Ogo is a poor source of Fe possibly due to either high polyphenol or manganese content. It remains to be determined if seaweeds can be recommended in practical amounts to improve Fe status, and if increased consumption will raise concerns for excessive intakes of potentially toxic minerals such as iodine.

Browse

Recent Submissions