The micronutrient intake of the average South African is not optimal. National fortification of staple foods does not solve all micronutrient deficiencies. Furthermore, urbanisation causes a shift in food intake, increasing the availability of cheaper and more energy dense food and drinks that are often lacking in micronutrients. It is unclear whether the current literature provides sufficient evidence of nutrient dilution by the moderate consumption of alcohol and/or added sugar. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the dietary intakes of a population in nutrition transition and determine the effect of intake of alcohol and added sugars on intakes of micronutrients and food groups to provide information for the development of preventive strategies in public health. A number of countries, including South Africa, suggest limited alcohol and sugar intakes in the Food Based Dietary Guidelines but do not quantify this recommendation. Data from the "Transition and Health during Urbanisation in South Africa" survey (THUSA) were analysed for dietary intakes (as determined by a validated quantified food frequency questionnaire), age and body mass index (BMI). The THUSA study was conducted during 1996 and 1998 in the North West Province and included 1854 "apparently healthy". Respondents aged 15 years and older from 37 randomly selected sites from rural and urban areas. Alcohol intake (absolute intake and percentage of energy) was the highest for men living in middle class urban areas. With increased urbanisation, the type of beer shifted from sorghum based to commercial beer. Sixty-one percent of men and 25% of women reported that they consumed alcohol at the time of the survey. Eighteen percent of men and 11.7% of women consumed more than 30g and 15g alcohol per day, respectively (intakes which are regarded as moderate). Men and women consuming the most alcohol had significantly higher mean intakes of most macro and micronutrients. However, the intake of vitamin Bi2, B6, folate, vitamin E and vitamin C did not meet the recommended dietary intake (RDA) across all levels of alcohol intake. Although the total energy intake increased with increased alcohol intake, there was no significant difference between the mean BMI of men or women with different levels of intake. One third of the population consumed more than a 100g of added sugar daily. Intake of sugar was the highest in the farm dwellers but the intake of sweets, cakes, cookies and cold drinks was the highest in the urban areas. As sugar intake increased so did energy, carbohydrates and most micronutrients. However, the intake of vitamin B12, folate, vitamin C and calcium did not meet the RDA across all levels of sugar intake. BMI did not differ between respondents with the highest and lowest sugar intake and no association was found between BMI and sugar intake. The THUSA study was conducted before fortification of staple food became law in October 2003. Maize meal and wheat flour are nowadays fortified with certain vitamins and minerals which may alleviate some micronutrient deficiencies. For future research it is imperative to establish the reasons for low intake of certain micronutrients rather than to look at a single food item in the diets of the South African adult population. Proper education on the intake of cheaper food sources of micronutrients needs to be highlighted at all levels of the health sector. / Thesis (M.Sc. (Dietetics)--North-West University, Potchefstroom Campus, 2009.

The micronutrient intake of the average South African is not optimal. National fortification of staple foods does not solve all micronutrient deficiencies. Furthermore, urbanisation causes a shift in food intake, increasing the availability of cheaper and more energy dense food and drinks that are often lacking in micronutrients. It is unclear whether the current literature provides sufficient evidence of nutrient dilution by the moderate consumption of alcohol and/or added sugar. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the dietary intakes of a population in nutrition transition and determine the effect of intake of alcohol and added sugars on intakes of micronutrients and food groups to provide information for the development of preventive strategies in public health. A number of countries, including South Africa, suggest limited alcohol and sugar intakes in the Food Based Dietary Guidelines but do not quantify this recommendation. Data from the "Transition and Health during Urbanisation in South Africa" survey (THUSA) were analysed for dietary intakes (as determined by a validated quantified food frequency questionnaire), age and body mass index (BMI). The THUSA study was conducted during 1996 and 1998 in the North West Province and included 1854 "apparently healthy". Respondents aged 15 years and older from 37 randomly selected sites from rural and urban areas. Alcohol intake (absolute intake and percentage of energy) was the highest for men living in middle class urban areas. With increased urbanisation, the type of beer shifted from sorghum based to commercial beer. Sixty-one percent of men and 25% of women reported that they consumed alcohol at the time of the survey. Eighteen percent of men and 11.7% of women consumed more than 30g and 15g alcohol per day, respectively (intakes which are regarded as moderate). Men and women consuming the most alcohol had significantly higher mean intakes of most macro and micronutrients. However, the intake of vitamin Bi2, B6, folate, vitamin E and vitamin C did not meet the recommended dietary intake (RDA) across all levels of alcohol intake. Although the total energy intake increased with increased alcohol intake, there was no significant difference between the mean BMI of men or women with different levels of intake. One third of the population consumed more than a 100g of added sugar daily. Intake of sugar was the highest in the farm dwellers but the intake of sweets, cakes, cookies and cold drinks was the highest in the urban areas. As sugar intake increased so did energy, carbohydrates and most micronutrients. However, the intake of vitamin B12, folate, vitamin C and calcium did not meet the RDA across all levels of sugar intake. BMI did not differ between respondents with the highest and lowest sugar intake and no association was found between BMI and sugar intake. The THUSA study was conducted before fortification of staple food became law in October 2003. Maize meal and wheat flour are nowadays fortified with certain vitamins and minerals which may alleviate some micronutrient deficiencies. For future research it is imperative to establish the reasons for low intake of certain micronutrients rather than to look at a single food item in the diets of the South African adult population. Proper education on the intake of cheaper food sources of micronutrients needs to be highlighted at all levels of the health sector. / Thesis (M.Sc. (Dietetics)--North-West University, Potchefstroom Campus, 2009.

MPH / Department of Public Health / South African HIV epidemic remains the largest in the world with an estimated 7.7 million people living with HIV in 2018. It accounts for a third of all new HIV infections in southern Africa. In 2018, there were 240,000 new HIV infections and about 71,000 South Africans died from AIDS-related illnesses. To meet the 90 90 90 targets by the end of 2020, patients are subject to uncompromising and long-term commitments of taking at least 95% of their treatment as prescribed. Evidence shows that patients are not adhering to treatment regardless of the systems that the government has initiated. The purpose of this study was to identify factors contributing to non-adherence levels to antiretroviral therapy amongst adults living with HIV and AIDS in Makhado Municipality. A quantitative, descriptive approach was adopted. Data was collected using a questionnaire with closed ended questions. The targeted population was made up of males and females between the ages of 18 to 59. Validity and reliability were ensured in the study. Pretesting was done in Kulani Gateway clinic and 10 respondents were selected. A sample of 225 respondents was selected from the targeted population using convenience sampling. Data analysis was done using statistical package for social sciences (SPSS) version 25.0.The analysed data were presented in tables/percentages and charts. The findings revealed that most respondents(80%) who have been on treatment for less than six months adhere more to treatment than respondents who have been on treatment for more than 24 months (57%). The studies also revealed that about 57.9% of respondents forget to take treatment when they have taken alcohol and 42.1% took their treatment even when they have taken alcohol. Side effects were identified as barriers to adherence. The study indicated most respondents (73.3%) experienced side effects especially in the first few months of commencing treatment. and about 26.7% did not report any side effects. In conclusion, Non-adherence to ART poses a major challenge in most regions of the world and in all stages of HIV infection. When patients adhere to treatment the virus will suppress, quality of life will improve and patients will also prevent cross infections. The study revealed factors contributing to nonadherence to ART that includes alcohol intake and side effects. The study also indicates a strong association between waiting times as a factor to improve on adherence. Therefore the study recommends that an intervention to address alcohol intake and side effects should be carried in Makhado Local Municipality. / NRF

Alcohol consumption is a modifiable risk factor for non-communicable diseases. This study aimed to characterize alcohol consumers at the nutritional, anthropometric, and sociodemographic levels. Data from 9218 participants from Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Costa Rica, Ecuador, Peru, and Venezuela participating in “Latin American Health and Nutrition Study (ELANS)”, a multi-country, population-based study, were used. Dietary intake was collected through two, 24 h recalls. Participants were classified into consumers (n = 1073) and non-alcohol consumers (n = 8145) using a cut-off criterium of ≥15 g/day of alcohol consumption calculated from the estimation of their usual daily intake. Among alcohol consumers, the mean alcohol consumption was 69.22 ± 2.18 grams (4.6. beverages/day), contributing to 484.62 kcal, which corresponded to 16.86% of the total energy intake. We found that the risk of alcohol consumption was higher in young and middle-aged men from low and middle socioeconomic status. Argentine, Brazil, and Chile had the highest percentage of consumers, while Ecuador showed the highest alcohol consumption. Alcohol drinkers were characterized by having higher body weight and wider neck, waist, hips circumferences. Alcohol drinkers had a higher energy intake, with macronutrients providing relatively less energy at the expense of the energy derived from alcohol. Alcohol drinkers showed lower and higher consumptions of healthy and unhealthy food groups, respectively. In addition, adequacy ratios for all micronutrients assessed were lower in alcohol consumers. All these deleterious effects of alcohol on nutritional and anthropometric parameters increased with the number of alcoholic beverages consumed daily. Altogether, these findings suggest that limiting alcohol consumption can contribute to reducing the risk of obesity, metabolic syndrome, and diet-related diseases. / Universidad de Costa Rica / Revisión por pares

Objective: To determine if weight gain in college subjects is associated with meal frequency, breakfast consumption, breakfast type, and alcohol intake over one year of college. Secondary aims were to determine whether BMI and body fat percent are associated with breakfast consumption and type as well as meal frequency. Design: A longitudinal observational study. Health history, work schedule and sleep patterns were recorded. Subjects fasted overnight and height, weight, skin fold measurements, waist, and hip measurements were taken. Two seven day food and activity records were self recorded in September 2005 and in April of 2006. Subjects: One-thousand fifty college students enrolled in freshman level foods and nutrition or personal health courses in fall 2005 were invited to participate in the study; 507 agreed to participate in the study. Main Outcome Measures: Weight change, meal frequency, number of breakfasts per week, breakfast type, and amount of alcohol consumed were analyzed. Weight change by breakfast category was also analyzed. Statistical analyses: Diet records were entered into Nutritionist Pro™ for nutrient analysis. Associations between weight change and meal frequency, breakfast consumption, and alcohol intake in college students were analyzed using independent t-test and analysis of variance (ANOVA). Results: Two-hundred and thirty subjects completed the study. Subjects ate more breakfasts per week in September (148.5 ± 32.5) compared to April (149.6 ± 32.5, p > .05). Non-breakfast eaters gained slightly more weight than breakfast eaters (p = .099). Similar results were found for meal frequency and weight change. Those who consumed more meals per day gained less weight compared to those who ate 4 or fewer meals per day (p = .206). Non drinkers gained significantly more weight than heavy drinkers (p = .004). Conclusion: Although significant associations between breakfast consumption, meal frequency and weight change were not found, results from this study suggest that increasing breakfast consumption as well as meal frequency may be beneficial in reducing the amount of weight gained over time. Although non-drinkers gained significantly more weight than heavy drinkers, more studies are warranted to investigate this finding. Application: This study strengthens the literature on meal frequency and breakfast consumption as they are associated with changes in body weight. The study was also the first of our knowledge to assess these associations in a college setting. Based on these findings, more studies are warranted to determine whether the associations between weight changes and meal frequency as well as breakfast consumption and breakfast type are strongly correlated when a larger and more diverse population base is used. / Master of Science

No description available.

Poor diet, sedentary behaviors, sugar‐sweetened beverages (SSB) and alcohol intake seem to co‐exist in complex ways that are not well understood. The aim of this study was to provide an understanding of the extent to which unhealthy behaviors cluster in eight Latin America countries. A secondary aim was to identify socio‐demographic characteristics associated with these behaviors by country. Data from adolescents and adults from the “Latin American Health and Nutrition Study” was used and the prevalence of screen‐time, occupational and transportation–sedentary time, socializing with friends, poor diet, SSB and alcohol intake, alone and in combination, were identified. The eight Latin America (LA) countries added to analyses were: Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Costa Rica, Ecuador, Peru, and Venezuela. Logistic regression was used to estimate associations between ≥2 behaviors clustering, socio‐demographics and weight status. Among 9218 individuals, the most prevalent behaviors were transportation and occupation–sedentary time, SSB and alcohol intake. Younger, female, married/living with a partner, low and middle‐income and obese individuals had higher chances for these clustering behaviors. These results provide a multi-country level of understanding of the extent to which behaviors co‐occur in the LA population. / University of San Francisco / Revisión por pares

<p>A new group of anabolic androgenic steroid (AAS) users has developed during the last two decades. This group consists primarily of young men interested in improving their physical appearance. Within this group, AAS are sometimes used together with other illicit drugs, alcohol and nicotine. Brutal and violent crimes have been committed under the influence of AAS, possibly because of AAS psychiatric side effects, ranging from increased aggression and psychosis to depression. Unfortunately, the biochemical mechanisms behind these effects are poorly understood.</p><p>In this thesis we used an animal model to study biochemical and behavioural effects of chronic AAS treatment (15 mg/kg/day of nandrolone decanoate for 14 days). The effect on the endogenous opioid peptides and the expression of immediate-early gene protein Fos in various brain regions were studied using radioimmunoassay and immunohistochemistry, respectively. In addition, we studied AAS effect on voluntary alcohol consumption and defensive behaviours, including aggression. The results show that AAS enhance endogenous opioid activity and Fos expression in brain regions regulating reward, aggression and disinhibitory behaviours. An imbalance between two opioid systems with generally opposing effects, the enkephalins with euphoric and the dynorphins with dysphoric effects, was also found. This implies that AAS alter the ability to maintain a stable state of mind and the response to other drugs of abuse. The AAS pre-treated animals enhanced their alcohol intake, were more aggressive and showed lower fleeing and freezing reaction than the controls. In addition, AAS enhanced amphetamine-induced aggression when the amphetamine was given three weeks after the last AAS injection.</p><p>The behavioural and biochemical results found in this thesis, support the hypothesis that use of AAS might lead to the development of dependence and may induce changes in the brain leading to disinhibitory behaviours.</p>

A new group of anabolic androgenic steroid (AAS) users has developed during the last two decades. This group consists primarily of young men interested in improving their physical appearance. Within this group, AAS are sometimes used together with other illicit drugs, alcohol and nicotine. Brutal and violent crimes have been committed under the influence of AAS, possibly because of AAS psychiatric side effects, ranging from increased aggression and psychosis to depression. Unfortunately, the biochemical mechanisms behind these effects are poorly understood. In this thesis we used an animal model to study biochemical and behavioural effects of chronic AAS treatment (15 mg/kg/day of nandrolone decanoate for 14 days). The effect on the endogenous opioid peptides and the expression of immediate-early gene protein Fos in various brain regions were studied using radioimmunoassay and immunohistochemistry, respectively. In addition, we studied AAS effect on voluntary alcohol consumption and defensive behaviours, including aggression. The results show that AAS enhance endogenous opioid activity and Fos expression in brain regions regulating reward, aggression and disinhibitory behaviours. An imbalance between two opioid systems with generally opposing effects, the enkephalins with euphoric and the dynorphins with dysphoric effects, was also found. This implies that AAS alter the ability to maintain a stable state of mind and the response to other drugs of abuse. The AAS pre-treated animals enhanced their alcohol intake, were more aggressive and showed lower fleeing and freezing reaction than the controls. In addition, AAS enhanced amphetamine-induced aggression when the amphetamine was given three weeks after the last AAS injection. The behavioural and biochemical results found in this thesis, support the hypothesis that use of AAS might lead to the development of dependence and may induce changes in the brain leading to disinhibitory behaviours.

Inledning: I Sverige liksom i andra västländer är alkohol det berusningsmedel som brukas i störst utsträckning. Alkoholintag bland ungdomar som är på en skadlig nivå är i flertalet länder ett problem på hög nivå. Syfte: Att identifiera faktorer som är associerade till alkoholkonsumtion hos tonåringar, och identifiera faktorer som är associerade med effektiva alkoholpreventiva program för den här gruppen. Metod: En systematisk litteraturstudie, där datamaterialet bestod av 15 peer reviewed granskade vetenskapliga artiklar. Resultat: Tre tema identifierades; Determinanter/riskfaktorer för hög alkoholkonsumtion, konsekvenser av ett högt alkoholintag och effekter av prevention/interventioner där riskfaktorer som alkoholreklam redovisas och alkoholkonsumtionens negativa hälsopåverkan samt att preventionsprogram riktade till föräldrar och tonåringar kan minska alkoholkonsumtionen. Slutsats: Studierna visar att riskfaktorer såsom högt alkoholintag hos föräldrar resulterar i ett högre alkoholintag hos tonåringar. Det finns ett behov av preventiva åtgärder för att minska alkoholintaget och hälsorisker hos tonåringar. / Introduction: In Sweden as well as in other western countries, alcohol is the most widely used intoxicant. Alcohol intake among young people at a harmful level is a high level problem in most countries. Purpose: To identify factors associated with alcohol use in teenagers, and to identify factors associated with effective alcohol use prevention programs for this group. Method: A systematic literature review, where the data consisted of 15 peer reviewed scientific articles. Result: Three themes were identified; Determinants/risk factors for high alcohol consumption, consequences of high alcohol intake and effects of prevention/interventions where risk factors such as alcohol advertising are reported and the negative health impact of alcohol consumption, and that prevention programs aimed at parents and teens can reduce alcohol consumption. Teenagers with high alcohol consumption show psychological disorder. Conclusion: The studies shows that risk factors such as parents alcohol intake results in higher alcohol intakes in teenagers. There is a need for preventive measures to reduce alcohol intake and health risks in teenagers’ health.