A new year arrives along with new projects and opportunities for practitioners. Our knowledge is increasing, but old controversies still exist-macronutrient estimates in the diet, what works for cancer prevention, and effective weight loss strategies. This issue of Topics in Clinical Nutrition contributes to the body of literature on all of these questions.
A study by Schmalz et al examined weight stigma, attitudes, and body mass index (BMI) in relation to nutrition competence. Using a self-assessment survey, 78 participants completed the instrument. They found lower BMI and negative attitudes toward obese people related to perceived nutrition competence. A small sample and site of the study suggests more research is needed. Recruitment of participants from a weight loss program may have influenced the results of the study.
Estimating calories is an important facet of quantifying portions. A study by Holmstrup et al had 98 participants approximate calories for 4 healthy meals. They found that the participants overestimated calories in the meals, irrespective of gender, age, BMI, body fat percentage, and body image perception. The researchers upheld their hypothesis that individuals who were dissatisfied with their bodies would overestimate caloric content of healthy meals.
Nutrition counseling and monitoring after bariatric surgery are part of the responsibilities of the health care team. Short-term and long-term patient outcomes can help clarify responses to surgery, alterations in body composition, and needs for nutrition education and counseling. Baudino-Burgarello et al recommend that special attention be paid to reducing metabolic risk for postbariatric patients.
A study by Sharp et al examined weight status and growth patterns of children with autism living in North Carolina. The observations of 221 children indicated that 38% were overweight or obese according to Centers for Disease Control and Prevention growth charts and 10% were underweight. The authors found a high prevalence of overweight, obesity, and short stature at North Carolina's summer camp of the Autism Society. They conjecture that children with autism are at high risk of both overweight and underweight due to their food-related behavior.
Cirignano and Morgan review the studies and potential of vegetables that are good sources of carotenoids and glucosinolates. They weigh studies in relation to an international report on cancer prevention through food, nutrition, and physical activity. They provide guidance to nutrition and dietetics professionals for teaching patients about vegetables rich in these compounds and their role in cancer prevention.
Dixon et al tested a Web-based template with a group of children at a cooking camp to appraise menu-planning ability after training. With the eventual intent of influencing healthy eating habits, they found some improvement in the confidence of the children who were trained to plan a day's menu.
A novel international pilot project by Brody et al examines changes in knowledge and practice in Israel after training on nutrition-focused physical assessment (NFPA) of the oral cavity. The pilot measures implementation of NFPA by the dietitians and performance of NFPA with patients at baseline, after 3 months, and after 6 months. They suggest procedures for training that could improve incorporation of NFPA in practice.
Hand and her colleagues modified an assessment tool and tested it with renal dietitians for use with patients undergoing hemodialysis. They found that dietitians were more successful at judging intakes of protein and energy than micronutrients. The dietitians were positive about the tool. Further testing is recommended to adopt the Modified Appetite and Diet Assessment Tool in practice settings.
Babatunde and Himburg worked to validate a rapid assessment method for calcium intake. They compared the tool to 24-hour recalls administered to 34 black women. Good agreement was found between the 2 methods in estimating dietary calcium.
Our appreciation is extended to all of you from the Topics in Clinical Nutrition editorial staff. We value your contributions on new and ongoing concepts and controversies: weight management, assessment tool development and validation, and cancer prevention strategies. The "Thanks to the Reviewers" is included in this issue to express gratitude for their contributions in 2013. Health and happiness in 2014!
-Judith A. Gilbride, PhD, RD, FADA
Editor