International Journal of Food, Nutrition & Dietetics

This letter to editor was aimed at expanding the interprofessional understanding on the role of nutritioninduced hematological adaptations such as hyperlipidemia and hypercholesterolemia secondary to fat intake in diet and nutrition in diabetic peripheral neuropathy (DPN).Hypercholesterolemia induced genetic variation in tumor necrosis factor (TNF) receptor 2 gene, High-fat diet fed streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats not only developed peripheral neuropathy faster than their controls[ 2,3] but also associated disorders like cholesterolinduced gall bladder stones[ 4] and many intervention studies had shown efficacy for controlling hyperlipidemia and co-existing mechanical ad thermal allodynia in experimental models of DPN. Hyperlipidemia is thus to be regarded as a new therapeutic target for DPN. 

Keywords: Food; Nutrition; Diet; Hyperlipidemia; Hypercholesterolemia; Diabetic neuropathy. 

The objective of the study was to assess the quality of packed school lunch given to pre-schoolers for its nutritional value and to assess the impact of nutrition education to parents to improve the nutritional quality of the lunch. Children (n=70, with control and experiment groups, 35 each) from 3 schools in Mysore city were part of the study. The study was conducted using a pre-test post-test model. At the pre-test level the nutritional intake of a sub-sample of children (n=20) was assessed by 24 hour recall method. The nutritional quality of lunch boxes was assessed by 5 day weighment survey. An intervention of a nutrition education program was applied to the parents of the experiment group based on observational learning; nutrition knowledge scores were assessed using a standardized questionnaire. The impact of the education program was assessed at the post-test stage, studying the nutrition quality of school lunch boxes after the program. Results indicated that the diets of the children in the pre-test stage were adequate in protein and fat but inadequate in energy and micronutrients. Educational intervention resulted in increased dietary diversity in the lunch boxes with increased presence of fruits and vegetables. The post-test nutrition knowledge questionnaire showed an improvement in knowledge scores. The educational program had a positive impact on the nutrition quality of school lunch boxes of preschoolers.  

Keywords: Dietary diversity; Food frequency; Nutrient intake; Nutrition knowledge.

Deaths from corrosive substances are uncommon in day to day medicolegal practice. We report a case of death due to ingestion of sulphuric acid with history of depression and previous suicidal attempt. He was provisionally diagnosed of acid ingestion but there was no history either from patient or from his relatives. Guidance and education are important preventive tools, but the best approach is to restrict access to corrosive agents, by prohibiting their free commercialization. 

Keywords: Chalky white teeth, Trickling lines, Corrosive acid, Utensil cleansing business. 

Junk food is a derisive slang term for food that is of little nutritional value and often high in fat, sugar, salt, and calories. It is widely believed that the term was coined by Michael Jacobson, director of the Center for Science in the Public Interest, in 1972. Junk foods typically contain high levels of calories from sugar or fat with little protein, vitamins or minerals. Foods commonly considered junk foods include salted snack foods, gum, candy, sweet desserts, fried fast food, and sugary carbonated beverages. Many foods such as hamburgers, pizza, and tacos can be considered either healthy or junk food depending on their ingredients and preparation methods. The more highly processed items usually falling under the junk food category. What is and is not junk food can also depend on the person’s class and social status, with wealthier people tending to have a broader definition while lower-income consumers may see fewer foods as junk food, especially certain ethnic foods. Despite being labeled as “junk” consuming such foods usually does not pose any immediate health concerns and is generally safe when integrated into a well balanced diet. 

Keywords: Junk food; Children; Mental and physical effects.  

An adequate healthy diet must satisfy human needs for energy and all essential nutrients. Adequate nutrition is the right proportion of food and nutrients needed for growth and maintenance. Food and nutrient intakes are influenced by the living environment and availability of food. Hence dietary habits can change when people travel to different country. Improved nutritional status plays an important role in the well being of individuals and is critical for socio- economic development. The aim of this study was to find out the nutritional status and dietary pattern of Iranian’s residing in Mysore city, India. The methodology involved the measurement of somatic status, collecting data on food frequency and dietary intake using standardized techniques. Results indicated that 37% of males and 16% of females were obese grade II. Nearly 46% of males and 32% of females had waist hip ratio of >0.9, which is considered a risk factor for cardiovascular diseases and diabetes. Food frequency indicated that the diets were cereal based and subjects were consuming less of various fruits and vegetables. The diets were sufficient in energy and protein content. Fat intake was much higher than recommended. Calcium was also inadequate. Thiamin and riboflavin were adequate; however, niacin was lesser than needed. The antioxidant nutrients such as vitamin C and - carotene were also inadequate. The contribution of calorie from carbohydrate sources  was found to be the highest followed by fat and protein. The study brought to light some important inferences such as how a shift in dietary pattern or a migration affects the quality of diet and nutritional status. 

Keywords: Body mass index; Dietary recall; Nutrient adequacy; Obesity.