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Article
Publication date: 15 October 2024

Zainab Taha, Farid El Ktaibi, Dimitrios Papandreou, Aysha Ibrahim Al Dhaheri and Ahmed Ali Hassan

This study aims to better understand advanced maternal age (AMA) and its impact on maternal and perinatal health by investigating the prevalence, sociodemographic profiles and…

Abstract

Purpose

This study aims to better understand advanced maternal age (AMA) and its impact on maternal and perinatal health by investigating the prevalence, sociodemographic profiles and adverse pregnancy outcomes of AMA in Abu Dhabi, UAE.

Design/methodology/approach

This study is a part of a large multicenter cross-sectional study. The project aimed to improve maternal and early child health in Abu Dhabi, UAE. It was conducted at seven healthcare centers located in the urban, suburban and rural areas of Abu Dhabi. The project’s data included all mothers (i.e. Emirati and non-Emirati mothers) who came to the centers looking for healthcare follow-up.

Findings

From the total of 1,710 enrolled mothers with complete data, 379 were with AMA, having a prevalence of 22.2% (95% confidence interval [CI] = 20.2, 24.2). Among 379 advanced maternal age (AMA) mothers, 328(84.5%), and 51(15.5) mothers were between 35 and 39 years, and =40 years, respectively. The mean (SD) of maternal age was 30.0(5.2) years. No significant association was found between AMA, and parent’s education, family income, child gender, preterm birth and low birth weight. In multivariable logistic regression analysis, factors significantly associated with AMA were higher parity (adjusted odd ratio [AOR] = 2.24, 95%CI = 2.00, 2.50), p-value < 0.001, non-Arab mothers (AOR = 2.44, 95%CI = 1.83, 3.24), p-value < 0.001, maternal employment (AOR = 1.37, 95%CI = 1.05, 1.77), p-value = 0.019, and cesarean delivery (AOR = 2.44, 95% CI = 1.83, 3.24), p-value = 0.011, pre-pregnancy maternal overweight (AOR = 1.49, 95%CI = 1.12, 1.98), p-value = 0,006, and pre-pregnancy maternal obesity (AOR = 2.15, 95%CI = 1.35, 3.44), p-value = 0.001.

Research limitations/implications

First, unlike other studies, not all obstetrical outcomes (e.g. maternal and perinatal mortality and morbidity) were included as the current study data were part of a large project, and such limitations are expected; second, only quantitative method was used in the present study, it is clear from the literature AMA is a dilemma. Therefore, a qualitative study and mixed methods (both quantitative and qualitative) will provide a better explanation for such an understudied topic. Therefore, further research is recommended to overcome the abovementioned limitations aiming to explore the complexity of AMA, including studying its social determinants. Furthermore, it is worth emphasizing that future research involves more concerned parties, including health, culture and planning authorities, to better understand AMA issues.

Originality/value

The study provided valuable information regarding AMA issues in the UAE. Such information is of paramount importance to all involved parties, including policymakers, to take action regarding improving the health of mothers with advanced ages. Specific actions can be taken through thorough counseling of all expectant mothers with advanced ages before pregnancy, throughout pregnancy and delivery and beyond, by dealing with existing medical conditions and highlighting possible risks of AMA on pregnancy outcomes and how to overcome them in advance. In addition, further research is recommended to explore the social determinants of AMA.

Details

Nutrition & Food Science , vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0034-6659

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 4 November 2020

Sousana K. Papadopoulou, Maria Mantzorou, Desspina Koutridou, Elias Tassoulas, Styliani Sakellaropoulou, Fani Biskanaki, Efthymis Xatziapostolou and Dimitrios Papandreou

The purpose of this paper is to critically summarize the current data concerning the impact of obesity and micronutrient adequacy and supplementation on the risk and severity of…

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to critically summarize the current data concerning the impact of obesity and micronutrient adequacy and supplementation on the risk and severity of COVID-19 disease, and their potential impact on treatment and rehabilitation.

Design/methodology/approach

PubMed, Scopus and Google Scholar databases were thoroughly searched to identify studies concerning obesity and nutritional status, vitamin and other micronutrients adequacy with COVID-19 severity.

Findings

Individuals with higher body mass index are in greater risk of severe disease and need for mechanical ventilation. Concerning micronutrient adequacy, no published studies at the present time have evaluated the effect of supplementation on the risk and the treatment of the novel disease.

Originality/value

Recently, COVID-19 has monopolized the interest of the medical community regarding diet and nutritional status and it possibly plays an important role in disease severity.

Details

Nutrition & Food Science , vol. 51 no. 5
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0034-6659

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 31 October 2008

Dimitrios Papandreou, Pavlos Malindretos and Israel Rousso

The aim of this study is to record the prevalence of overweight and obesity and to explore any relationship with nutritional status in Greek children aged 6‐15 years.

829

Abstract

Purpose

The aim of this study is to record the prevalence of overweight and obesity and to explore any relationship with nutritional status in Greek children aged 6‐15 years.

Design/methodology/approach

A total of 524 children participated in the study. Anthropometric and dietary characteristics were recorded for all subjects.

Findings

The prevalence of overweight and obesity was 21.1 per cent and 8.4 per cent for boys and 17.6 and 7.3 per cent for girls, respectively. Dietary intakes of energy, fat, protein, lipids and sugar were higher in overweight and obese children compared with the normal ones ( p < 0.001), while fibre intake was lower in the overweight and obese group ( p < 0.001) than in the normal group. The current study gives an estimation of overweight and obesity in children from Northern Greece. The composition of diet, especially low in fibre, vitamin D and high in energy and fat may play a role in the etiology of obesity.

Originality/value

The paper presents information on obesity prevalence in a Mediterranean country as well as integration of some nutrients in the etiology of obesity.

Details

Nutrition & Food Science, vol. 38 no. 6
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0034-6659

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 18 September 2007

Dimitrios Papandreou, Panagiotis Eystathiadis, Vassiliki Bouzoukiu, Maria Hassapidou, George Tsitskaris and Andreas Garefis

The purpose of this study is to examine the anthropometric characteristics and to assess dietary intakes of professional athletes, of four different sporting teams, in Northern…

1498

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to examine the anthropometric characteristics and to assess dietary intakes of professional athletes, of four different sporting teams, in Northern Greece.

Design/methodology/approach

Height and weight was measured using stasiometer and a scale devise, respectively. Body fat was measured using bioelectrical impedance analysis with multiple frequencies. A five‐day questionnaire was used to assess the dietary intakes of athletes. The sample consisted of male and female athletes, of ten volleyball and 21 basketball players, 20 weightlifters and 31 distance runners.

Findings

Distance runners had the lower percentage of body fat and volleyball players the higher ones. In men, basketball players reported the lowest amounts for energy intake (1,900 kcal/day) and for carbohydrates (2 g/kg). In women, the lowest carbohydrate intake was reported in volleyball players. Volleyball men players consumed the highest amount of fat 110 g/day or 1.4 g/kg. Protein intakes were below the recommended values for weightlifters and distance runners for both male and female subjects.

Practical implications

The study indicated dietary problems that could limit the performance of the Greek athletes and calls for nutrition monitoring and assessment.

Originality/value

The article should be of value to nutritionists, athletes and coaches.

Details

Nutrition & Food Science, vol. 37 no. 5
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0034-6659

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 17 May 2013

Panayiotis Platritis, Eleni Andreou and Dimitrios Papandreou

The paper aims to describe the effects of caffeine intake on exercise performance as well on diabetes, cirrhosis and asthma.

1447

Abstract

Purpose

The paper aims to describe the effects of caffeine intake on exercise performance as well on diabetes, cirrhosis and asthma.

Design/methodology/approach

The review includes the most updated studies found in Pub‐Med all of which are in relation to caffeine and exercise performance as well as its effects on disease issues.

Findings

The majority of studies show that caffeine ingestion of about 6 mg of body weight mass may have a positive effect on endurance and anaerobic exercise performance. In addition, if it is consumed together with carbohydrates, it may also improve post‐recovery glycogen synthesis. Intake of caffeine was also found to have a positive effect on the prevention of liver cirrhosis, reducing asthma attacks and lowering the risk of type 2 diabetes.

Originality/value

The paper gives information to nutritionists, clinical dietitians and sports nutritionists on the newest data about the effects of caffeine on exercise performance and disease issues.

Details

Nutrition & Food Science, vol. 43 no. 3
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0034-6659

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 23 March 2012

Eleni Andreou, Christiana Philippou and Dimitrios Papandreou

There is increasing evidence that diets high in energy, saturated fatty acids, cholesterol and low in fiber and antioxidants may lead to cardiovascular disease, hypertension and…

207

Abstract

Purpose

There is increasing evidence that diets high in energy, saturated fatty acids, cholesterol and low in fiber and antioxidants may lead to cardiovascular disease, hypertension and cancer. The purpose of this paper is to investigate, for the first time, the anthropometric measurements and dietary intakes of a randomly selected and representative sample of men and women from Cyprus and compare them with the recent recommended dietary guidelines for adults.

Design/methodology/approach

A sample of 337 individuals was selected using the method of stratified random sampling, with proportional percentage of women (51.5 per cent) and men (48.5 per cent). Anthropometric and dietary characteristics were recorded for all subjects.

Findings

Males were found to have significantly (p<0.001) higher levels of weight, systolic blood pressure, diastolic blood pressure, waist circumference, basal metabolic rate, as well as lean body mass and lower body fat levels, compared to females. Both genders were found to have significantly lower intakes of vitamin A, B6, calcium and magnesium and significantly higher amounts of vitamin C, B1, B2, and iron (p<0.001) compared to DRIs, respectively. In linear regression analysis, after adjustment for age and gender, BMI was found to be positively related to age, waist circumference, energy and saturated fatty acids (p<0.001) but inversely related to fiber (p<0.001).

Originality/value

The paper gives information to nutritionists and clinical dieticians, including new data about dietary intakes and anthropometric measurements of Cypriot adults.

Details

Nutrition & Food Science, vol. 42 no. 2
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0034-6659

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 20 July 2010

Dimitrios Papandreou, Pavlos Malindretos and Israel Rousso

Waist circumference (WC) is a better predictor than total body fat for cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk factors and a sensitive marker of abdominal obesity for both adults and…

Abstract

Purpose

Waist circumference (WC) is a better predictor than total body fat for cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk factors and a sensitive marker of abdominal obesity for both adults and children. The purpose of this paper is to provide, for the first time, percentile curves of WC in children from Thessaloniki, northern Greece.

Design/methodology/approach

In total, 607 children (324 boys‐283 girls) aged 7‐15 years participated in the study. Sex‐specific descriptive statistics for three age groups (7‐9, 10‐12 and 13‐15) and smoothed percentiles curves of WC were derived and presented.

Findings

WC increased with age in both boys and girls. Boys had higher mean values of WC in two age groups (10‐12 and 13‐15 years) compared with girls, while girls showed a higher mean value in the age group of 7‐9 years compared with boys. Percentile levels were higher for girls above the 90th percentile for the age groups of 7‐9 and 10‐12 years. WC correlated closely with body mass index (BMI) (r = 0.90 vs 0.89, for boys and girls, respectively). Reference curves of WC were provided for the first time. Considering the lack of such reference curves and also the high incidence of pediatric obesity in northern Greece's children, the paper aims to help identify and prevent early obesity risk factors associated with high WC values.

Originality/value

The paper informs nutritionists and clinical dietitians of new data of percentile ranges regarding waist circumference in a pediatric population.

Details

Nutrition & Food Science, vol. 40 no. 4
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0034-6659

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 8 February 2011

Maria Karampola, Dimitrios Papandreou and Kelly Makedou

The purpose of this paper is to review the Mediterranean diet and its association to disease and health benefits derived from the adherence to it.

1531

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to review the Mediterranean diet and its association to disease and health benefits derived from the adherence to it.

Design/methodology/approach

The review includes the most updated studies found in PubMed all in relation to the adaptation of the Mediterranean diet.

Findings

The cardioprotection of Mediterranean diet has been established. A number of cancer types could be prevented by following the Mediterranean type diet and the specific ingredients of it are also investigated to find their impact on health. Longevity is also favored by the adoption of this dietary pattern as is the population group diagnosed with metabolic syndrome and mental health disorders. The results about its consumption and obesity need further investigation. Patients with HIV, being on specific treatment, are advised not to follow the Mediterranean diet.

Originality/value

This paper gives a concise, up‐to‐date overview to nutritionists and dietitians on the Mediterranean diet and its relation to health and disease.

Details

Nutrition & Food Science, vol. 41 no. 1
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0034-6659

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 13 July 2012

Ioannis Toliopoulos, Yannis Simos, Ioannis Verginadis, Dimitrios Papandreou, Stergios Oikonomidis and Angelos Evangelou

Kefir is a probiotic grown with milk, with a slightly sour flavor and has been consumed for thousands of years. Kefir grains contain bacteria and yeast. In the past, kefir was…

Abstract

Purpose

Kefir is a probiotic grown with milk, with a slightly sour flavor and has been consumed for thousands of years. Kefir grains contain bacteria and yeast. In the past, kefir was administrated as a drug against tuberculosis, cancer and gastrointestinal disorders. The purpose of this paper is to investigate the potential anticancer properties of kefir and its ability to affect natural killer cells' (NKCs') activity.

Design/methodology/approach

The assay of cytotoxic activity of NKCs by cytometric analysis was used, which included four stages: isolation of natural killers; quantification of target cells; incubation of natural killers with target cells at ratios of 12.5:1, 25:1 and 50:1 in CO2 incubator; and measurement of cells with flow cytometer. The same procedures were repeated, but the third stage was modified with the addition and incubation of 50, 75, and 100 μL kefir (of 24 hour culture with 3.5 per cent fresh milk) with K562 and leiomyosarcoma cells lines, and kefir and NK cells with K562 or LMS cell lines.

Findings

The results showed that kefir's cytotoxic activity without the presence of NKCs reached an average of 85 per cent in both cell lines. With the addition of NK cells in kefir, the cytotoxic activity further increased by 10 per cent. Kefir alone did not cause any statistically significant death in NK cells. Kefir seems to have significant cytotoxic action by itself without stimulating NK cells in a significant manner. However, further studies are needed to establish the role of kefir in the prevention and treatment of neoplasmatic diseases.

Originality/value

The paper provides information and new data, for nutritionists and clinical dietitians, about the effects of kefir in the prevention of cancer.

Details

Nutrition & Food Science, vol. 42 no. 4
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0034-6659

Keywords

Content available
Article
Publication date: 14 March 2016

Vijay Ganji

367

Abstract

Details

Nutrition & Food Science, vol. 46 no. 2
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0034-6659

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