Nigerian Journal of Nutritional Sciences

Consumption Pattern of Sugar Sweetened Beverages and the Relationship with Anthropometric Indices and Fasting Blood Sugar of Undergraduates in the University of Nigeria, Nsukka

Rufina N. B. Ayogu — 2025-02-14

Sugar sweetened beverages (SSB) are drinks with added sugars that are increasingly popular among young people. Consumption of SSB is associated with increased energy intake, weight gain, overweight and obesity, development of several non-communicable diseases and poor oral health.

Objectives: The study aimed to assess the consumption of SSB among university students and determine its relationship with body mass index (BMI), waist hip ratio (WHR) and fasting blood glucose (FBG).

Methods: A cross-sectional institution- based survey was conducted among 400 undergraduates selected through multistage random sampling from sixteen departments in the University of Nigeria, Nsukka. Questionnaire, anthropometric and FBG measurements were data collection methods used. Data were analysed using Statistical Product and Service Solutions, version 20. Relationships among categorical variables were analysed through chi square. Significance was accepted at P< 0.05.

Results: Most (97.0%) of the respondents consumed SSB. Carbonated drinks were the most commonly consumed (81.0%). Occasional (43.1%) and 4-6 times weekly (37.6%) consumption were observed; 39.7% consumed 350 ml at a time. SSB replaced meals for 39.0% and the meal often replaced was lunch (65.1%). Biscuit (61.8%), bread (57.3%) and buns (56.3%) were snacks consumed with SSB. Overweight (33.3%), obesity (6.1%), high risk WHR (8.5%) and impaired FBG (2.3%) were observed. BMI, WHR and FBG were not significantly (P>0.05) associated with SSB consumption.

Conclusion: Consumption of SSB was high, however, no significant relationship was observed between BMI, WHR, FBG and consumption of SSB. This notwithstanding, excessive consumption should be discouraged through nutrition education on the consequences of long term consumption.

Chemical Composition and Sensory Properties of Tofu Coagulated with Grape Juice and exposed to different Heat Treatments

Happiness Chidinma Ezenwa — 2025-02-14

Background: Tofu is a gelatinous food made from soybean with the potentials to offer high protein and micronutrients content depending on the coagulants used in the production.

Objective: This study aimed to evaluate the chemical composition and sensory properties of tofu coagulated with grape juice and exposed to various heat treatment.

Methods: In order to obtain the milk, soybean was sorted, winnowed, soaked in clean water overnight. It was thereafter rinsed, dehulled, milled and filtered. The milk was boiled, coagulated with grape juice, and then subjected to several heat treatments. Nutrient and anti-nutrient properties were analysed using standard methods. Sensory evaluation was also done and the result obtained compared with the control (deep-fried chicken).

Result: Processing reduced moisture content from 64.84% in fresh Tofu (FRT) to 21.79% in baked Tofu (BDT). Protein, fiber, ash and carbohydrate increased from 16.46%, 0.32%, 1.17% and 14.45% in fresh tofu to 18.65%, 1.20%, 2.29% and 52.68% in baked tofu respectively. Steamed tofu had the highest mineral composition which ranged from 4.06mg/100g in sodium to 121.85mg/100g in magnesium as well as the highest anti-nutrient levels (0.28-1.33mg/100g). Fried tofu was the most preferred of all the tofu samples.

Conclusion: Processing reduced the moisture, mineral and the anti-nutrient properties of tofu but increased the other nutrients including protein which makes it a healthier alternative to combat protein energy malnutrition and curb non-communicable disease risk due to its low sodium content.

Prevalence of Generalized Obesity, Abdominal Obesity, Hypertension, and Type 2 Diabetes among Adults in Calabar Metropolis, Cross River State, Nigeria

Ide Toochukwu James Paulmiki — 2025-02-14

Background: Developed and developing countries worldwide are witnessing high rates of obesity, which are generalized and abdominal obesity, along with related chronic disorders, particularly non-communicable diseases that lead to increasing morbidity and mortality. This study aimed to assess the prevalence of generalized obesity, abdominal obesity, hypertension, and type 2 diabetes (cardiovascular risk factors) among adults in Calabar Metropolis.
Methods: It was a cross-sectional study involving 500 randomly selected adults aged 20 to 70 years, utilizing a multistage sampling technique. The study adopted the WHO standard methods for data collection on noncommunicable diseases. Data were analyzed using frequency, percentages, and chi-square, with significant differences recorded at p<0.05.
Results: The prevalence of generalized obesity was 24%, and overweight was 33%, while abdominal obesity was higher among females (39.3%) than males (20%). Respondents with known/diagnosed hypertension and diabetes were 26.6% and 5.2%, respectively. Significantly (P<0.05), more abdominally obese diabetic males (72.2%) were observed than abdominally obese diabetic females (62.5%), and more abdominally obese hypertensive males (56.9%) were recorded than abdominally obese hypertensive females (41.0%). Conclusions: A high prevalence of obesity and hypertension was identified as public health problems in the study area. Therefore, nutritionists and dietitians in the metropolis should intensify efforts to provide the necessary professional and community services, including awareness creation on obesity and related non-communicable diseases. Such interventions as proper dietary counseling and routine follow-ups for individuals diagnosed with the prevailing conditions are strongly recommended.

Development and Evaluation of Biscuits made from Cassava-Sorghum-Soybean Composite Flour to Combat Acute Malnutrition in Children

Scholastica N. Eze — 2025-02-14

Background: Biscuit is widely consumed by children as a popular snack across various socioeconomic classes. Due to its widespread acceptance and frequent consumption, it could serve as a suitable vehicle for food nutrients thereby helping to alleviate acute malnutrition in children.

Objective: The study developed and evaluated biscuits made from cassava-sorghum-soybean composite flour and assessed its potentialin combating acute malnutrition in children.

Methods: Cassava, sorghum and soybeanwere processed into flours and combined in different proportions of 50:40:10 (CSB), 50:30:20 (CTB), and 50:20:30 (CUB) to obtain composite flours.Biscuits were made from the composite flour andanalyzed for nutrient composition and acceptability using standard methods. Biscuit made from 100% wheat flour was used as control (WB).The data obtained were analyzed using SPSS, version 23 and significance was accepted at p < 0.05.

Results: The biscuit samples made with composite flours were significantly (p < 0.05) higher in protein -1 - (17.67-18.1%) and energy (14145.3-15165.3 KJ·kg ) compared to the control (9.7% and 13644.0 KJ·kg 1 ,respectively). They (CSB, CTB and CUB) had high amounts of calcium and iron, with appreciable amount of fibre, thiamine and riboflavin. The sensory scores of CSB, CTB and CUB were comparable to that of the control (WB). Sample CUB had the highest protein (18.1%), crude fibre (6.0%) and iron (3.62 mg) content and ranked highest in general acceptability. Its (CUB) protein content increased by 46.40% when compared to the protein content of the control (WB).One medium packet (40 g) of CUB contributed 51.7% and 34.8% of daily protein requirements of children aged 4-6 years and 7-10 years, respectively.

Conclusion: Cassava-sorghum-soybean composite flour could be used to produce protein and energy-dense biscuits with acceptable sensory properties, offering a cost-effective and nutritionally superior alternative to wheat flour biscuit.

Accession and amino acid composition and protein quality of jute (Corchorus olitorius L.) Seed

K.P. Baiyeri — 2025-02-14

Background: Corchorus olitorius is a leafy vegetable with high nutritional qualities. The leaves and immature fruits are used in making soup. However, there is limited information on the utilization of the dry seed. Assessing the amino acid composition and protein quality of the seed could unravel its potential use in formulating functional foods for human and animal feed.

Objective: The study examined the amino acid composition and protein quality of eight accessions of C. olitorius dry seed.

Methods: Dry seed of eight accessions of C. olitorius were harvested from the Department of Crop Science Garden, University of Nigeria, Nsukka and analyzed for essential, non-essential amino acids and protein content using standard analytical procedures. The study was a completely randomized design (CRD) with three replicates. Data were subjected to ANOVA in CRD using GENSTAT statistical software.

Results: Accession had positive effect on all the essential, non-essential amino acids and protein content. Accession Ib-1 had the highest concentration of alanine, arginine, asparagine, glycine and norvaline with respective values of 20.63, 18.89, 21.08, 20.71 and 20.07 g/100g protein. However, highest protein content of 14.88 g/100g was attributed to accession Ik-3. Isoleucine (18.92 g/100g protein), leucine (21.07 g/100g protein), lysine (18.52 g/100g protein), methionine (20.46 g/100g protein), phenylalanine (17.14 g/100g protein), threonine (19.93g/100g protein), tryptophan (20.23 g/100g protein) and valine (18.91 g/100g protein) were more pronounced in the seed from Ib-1 accession.

Conclusion: Accessional variability inessential, non-essential amino acids and protein content could guide the utility of the crop and be useful for selection and breeding purposes.

Analysis of the Chemical Constituents of Xylopia Aethiopica targeting the Progesterone Receptors for inhibiting the growth of Uterine Leiomyoma in-Silico approach

Adindu Chinonso Blessing — 2025-02-14

Background: Uterine leiomyoma also known as uterine fibroid is a disease that is characterized by a growth in the uterus of a woman especially during the child bearing age.

Objectives: The present work involves the extraction of the active chemical constituents of Xylopia aethiopica and the investigation of their anti-fibroid activities through molecular docking.

Method: Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and gas-chromatography mas spectrophotometry (GC-MS) experiments were used to identify the chemical constituents of ethanol extract of Xylopia aethiopica fruits, Computational molecular docking method was used to estimate the fibroid growth inhibiting property of the chemical constituents, density functional theory was used to calculate the molecular structures of the three constituents with the highest binding affinities and their drug-like properties, Pharmacokinetics, and pharmacodynamics properties were estimated using Absorption, Distribution, Metabolism, Elimination and Toxicity (ADMET) Screening methods.

Results: The GC-MS experiments revealed some constituents which are associated with medicinal properties. -1 The molecular docking result showed that Spathulenol showed a good binding score (-8.4 k cal mol ) which is -1 very close to the control (Norethindrone: -8.5 kcal mol ). The density functional theory calculations and ADMET behaviors revealed that the extract constituents showed good drug activities, none was carcinogenic.

Conclusion: The results obtained showed that compounds contained in Xylopia aethiopica could be good candidates for fibroid growth inhibition.

Evaluation of the mineral and sensory properties of fresh and dried honeydew fruits (cucumis melo var. Inodorus) and juice

F.M. Gbeyonron — 2025-02-14

Background: Honeydew fruit is rich in vitamins and minerals essential for human growth and development. Need to provide information on the mineral constituents of both fresh and dried parts of the fruit.

Objective: The study evaluated themineral contents offresh and dried honeydew fruit(Cucumismelo) and juice.

Methods: Fresh honeydew was thoroughly washed to remove any dirt, debris, or potential contaminants from the surface. The cleaned fruit was cut in half and the endocarp, mesocarp and epicarp were separated making sure the green rind part of the fruit epicarp is left untouched. The processed fresh and sun-dried fruit were subjected to mineral analysis by standard procedures. Data obtained were subjected to analysis of variance (ANOVA) while Duncan's Multiple Range Test was used in separating the means at significance difference of 5 % level of probability.

Result: The mineral composition of dried epicarp, mesocarp and endocarp of honeydew fruits showed that iron, Calcium, Phosphorus and Potassium ranged from 3.29 to 7.72 mg/100g, 2.23 to 11.31 mg/100g, 13.60 to 112.50 mg/100g and 5.05 to 51.16 mg/100g, respectively while in the fresh samples, endocarp had the highest value in almost all the samples except from potassium in mesocarp. The result of the sensory attributes of fresh and dried honeydew juice showed that appearance, flavour, aroma, taste and general acceptability ranged from 7.93 to 8.47, 7.53 to 7.73, 7.07 to 7.73, 7.73 to 7.80 and 7.60 to 8.07 respectively.

Conclusion:The study revealed significant difference (p<0.05) in the mineral composition of the dried honeydew fruits with dried endocarp recording higher values for calcium (11.31 mg/100g) and phosphorus (112.50 mg/100g). Similarly, fresh endocarp revealed significant (p<0.05) higher values for calcium (9.74 mg/100g) and phosphorus (mg/100g). The result of the sensory analysis indicated that dried juice samples recorded higher overall acceptability. The study recommends dried and fresh endocarp honeydew fruits for an improved amount of calcium, phosphorus, iron and potassium.

Iru, a Fermented Product of Parkia Biglobosa, Possesses Significant Hepatoprotective Effect in Wistar Rats During Treatment of Hypercholesterolaemia

Ayowole Victor Atere — 2025-02-14

Background: The liver is central to the body's metabolic health and serves as a key indicator of body toxicology. Therefore, this research was designed to investigate the effect of iru, used to treat hypercholesterolemia, on liver functionality.

Methods: Iru was produced from the seeds of Parkia biglobosa using starter culture of Bacillus subtilis, Lactobacillus plantarum and Leuconostoc mesenteroides. The rats were experimentally induced into hypercholesterolaemia using high lipid compounded feed. The hypercholesterolaemic rats were fed iru supplemented diet for 28 days and aspartate transaminase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) enzymes were assessed in the serum. Histopathological study of the liver of experimental rats was also conducted.

Results: The induced untreated rats had 89.21 U/L of AST which is significantly higher (p>0.05) than the value of the control group (55.87 U/L), the groups fed with iru supplemented feed (47.63-58.54 U/L), and the group where standard drug was administered (46.79 U/L). The ALT values of the group fed iru supplemented diet (34.17 - 40.44 U/L) was significantly lower (p<0.05) than the control (49.10U/L). The untreated group had the highest ALP (62.60 U/L) and significantly higher than the control and all the treated groups. The histology of the liver tissue showed that the untreated groups displayed structural defect of cell deadness. In all the treated groups, cells structures were normal.

Conclusion: Fermented Parkia biglobosa seeds (iru) had hepato-protective effect on the liver tissues of rats with hypercholesterolaemia.

Nutrient Composition, Physicochemical Properties and Sensory Evaluation of Protein Rich Mixed Fruit Juice Beverages Enriched with Soy Protein Powder

Orisa Catherine Achese — 2025-02-14

Background: Soy protein powder (SPP) has poor consumer acceptability and minimal use in value added drinks principally because of the “beany flavor”. The use of flavoring, sweeteners, fruit pulps and other extracts is a technologically viable option for industries to mask the undesirable taste.

Objective: This study determined the nutrient composition, physicochemical properties and sensory evaluation of protein rich mixed fruit juice beverages enriched with soy protein powder.

Methods: Pineapple, orange and watermelon fruits were weighed and juiced together at varying proportions, and mixed with different proportions of soy protein isolate (SPI). The samples were tagged A-E, and centrifuged. The centrifuged samples were tagged G-K. Sample F served as the control and did not contain SPI. The samples were analysed for nutrient, physicochemical, and sensory properties using standard methods.

Results: The moisture content of the control and the SPI enriched samples ranged from 83.26-92.56%, while the centrifuged samples recorded moisture contents ranging from 87.46-90.98%. The crude protein content of the control and SPI enriched samples ranged from 1.28-11.28%, and the centrifuged samples recorded crude protein content ranging from 2.00-5.72. The pH of the control and the SPI enriched samples ranged from 3.83-4.94, and increased further (4.49-5.13) after centrifuging. Overall acceptability score of the sample showed that sample F (7.70) was ranked best.

Conclusion: The study has showed that inclusion of soy isolates improved the protein content of mixed fruit juice, however the sensory evaluation result showed that panelists preferred the sample without soy protein isolates.

Relationship between emotional eating and frequency of unhealthy food consumption among Undergraduates in Public Universities in Enugu State

Nkechi G. Onyeke — 2025-02-14

Background: Increased consumption of unhealthy foods among adolescents and young adults will have an impact on nutrition and health.

Objective: This research determined the relationship between emotional eating and frequency of unhealthy food consumption among undergraduates in public universities in Enugu state.

Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study design was employed. The population comprised of 86,000 undergraduate students in the two public universities in Enugu State. Purposive sampling was used to select a sample size of 763 respondents. Questionnaire was the instrument for data collection. Data collected were entered into Statistical Product for Service Solution (IBM-SPSS), version 23.0 for analysis. Frequencies, percentages, means, standard deviation and chi square were used for data analysis.

Results: Findings showed that a greater proportion (68.8%) of the students skipped meals 2-3times/week, mostly due to poor finance (31.1%), and lack of time (30.9%). More than a third (46.5%) of them ate fast foods 1-3times per week. Findings on the types of emotional eating showed that a greater proportion (31.2%) of the respondents were depressed eaters, 21.8% were bored eaters and 21.1% were lonely eaters. Result showed that up to 63.6% of the respondents had high frequency of consuming unhealthy foods, while 22.4% had low frequency of consuming unhealthy foods. Emotional eating was associated with frequency of unhealthy food consumption among the students.

Conclusion: Nutrition education on the importance of adequate diets should be given to the students by school authorities in collaboration with nutrition departments of the schools in order to promote their practice of healthy food choices.

Nutritional Status of Urban Households: The Case of Adolescents in South Eastern Nigeria

R.A. Ogbonna — 2025-02-14

Background: Adolescence is a unique, critical period of growth and development, therefore they require adequate nutrients.
Objective: This investigated the nutritional status of adolescents in urban households of South Eastern Nigeria.
Methods: The study adopted a cross-sectional design. Multi-staged sampling techniques were used to select 3 persons in 422 households (1266 participants) in 3 selected states in the South Eastern in a larger study of which and 244 adolescents participated from the households. A semi-structured questionnaire containing demographic, socio-economics characteristics and anthropometric measurements was used to elicit information. A total of ten per cent (10%) of the sample size was used to assess 3–day weighed food. Data was analyzed using descriptive statistics.
Result: Findings showed that there was a high prevalence of stunting, 12.3% and 27.9% were severely stunted and stunted respectively. 14.3% and 11.9% of the adolescents were wasted and overweight respectively. The majority of the adolescents did not meet the recommended nutrient intake. Vitamin A deficiency was seen in 76.5% of adolescents, 64.7%, 88.2%, 82.4% and 58.8% were calcium, iodine, Iron and zinc deficiency respectively. It also revealed that more than twenty in ten (25.4%) of the adolescents consume their meal twice per day and lunch was the most skipped meal (17.6%). Reasons for meal skipping was that food was not affordable by 66%. Conclusion: There is a high prevalence of stunting and wasting among adolescents. The majority of them did not meet the recommended nutrients.

Blood Sugar and Blood Pressure Levels and their Relationship with Dietary Diversity among Undergraduates in Ebonyi State

Gertrude. N. Onyeji — 2025-02-14

Background: Hypertension is an extremely common co-morbidity of diabetes, affecting 20–60% of individuals with diabetes.
Objective: The aim was to determine the blood sugar and blood pressure levels and evaluate their relationship with dietary diversity among undergraduates of Alex-Ekwueme Federal University Ndufu-Alike, Ebonyi State.
Methodology: A cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted among 200 students (69 males and 131 females) across the 11 faculties of the institution. A pre-tested semi-structured interviewer-administered questionnaire was used to collect data on socio-demographic profile, anthropometric measurements and 24-hr dietary recall. Blood sugar levels were determined using Accu-chek multi-monitoring system, blood pressure was determined using sphygmomanometer. Dietary diversity was determined using 14 food groups. Statistical
Package for Social Science (SPSS) version 23 was used to analyze all data at 5% level (P <0.05).
Results: The mean age, height, weight and body mass index (BMI) were 22±2.47 years, 1.7 ± 0.08m, 266.3±8.44kg and 19.8±2.38 kg/m respectively. The mean blood sugar and mean blood systolic pressure were142 ±13.66mg/dl and 150.37 ±7.34mmHg respectively. Mean Dietary Diversity score was 5.66±1.29. Glucose level has a positive correlation with dietary diversity score (r = 0.166, p =<0.05). About 82.0% had average dietary diversity tercile (DDT), 18.0% had low DDT.
Conclusion and recommendations: Mean blood sugar and mean blood pressure were high, mean dietary diversity score was low. Regular measurement of blood pressure and blood sugar for early detection and prevention is advocated

Nutritional Profile and Sensory Attributes of a Novel Snack From Blends of Walnut and Groundnut Paste

Rukayat Ibiwumi Ajetunmobi-Adeyeye — 2025-02-14

Background: Nutrient-rich snacks are gaining more interest among school children and adults due to increased awareness on healthy foods. African walnut is an underutilized crop in tropical region, but rich in antioxidants and micronutrients. However, despite the nutritional and health benefits of the nut, it is less commonly consumed due to its bitter after-taste.
Objective: This study aimed at increasing the consumption of walnut through value addition to the nut.
Method: Fresh raw walnuts, groundnut and sugar were procured from a local market in Nigeria, the walnuts were boiled, and groundnuts were roasted, both were milled into powder. The varying proportions of walnut and groundnut powder (90:10; 80:20; 70:30; 40:60) were mixed with 80g of caramelized sugar to produce walnut-groundnut snacks. The snacks were evaluated for proximate, mineral and vitamin composition, and sensory attributes.
Result: This study showed that nutrient-dense and acceptable snack can be produced from blends of walnut and groundnut. The inclusion of groundnut significantly increased the protein (16.59-18.96%), fat (21.00- 26.00%), and ash content (0.30- 0.57%) of the snack. The snack was also rich in phosphorus and magnesium and contains high levels of vitamins B1 (75-84 ppm), B3 (100-150 ppm), B6 (660-1500 ppm), and E (1650-5410 ppm). Walnut-groundnut snack containing 80% walnut was highly rated in terms of appearance, texture, colour, taste, aroma, and overall acceptance.
Conclusion: Consumption of this snack will increase the utilization of walnuts and serve as healthy snacks for consumers, thus improving the health status of African populace.

Junk Food Consumption and Obesity Status of Tertiary Institution Students In Southwest Nigeria

T.O. Oyekale — 2025-02-14

Background: Consumption of junk foods has increased worldwide and in Nigeria, particularly in the last few decades. Frequent junk food consumption increases the risk of obesity among teens which is a major health problem.

Objective: This study examines the relationship between junk food consumption and the obesity status of tertiary institution students in Southwest, Nigeria.

Methods: A total of 300 students were assessed from six tertiary institutions in Southwest, Nigeria through a cross-sectional study design between August and December 2022. Junk food consumption expenditure was estimated using descriptive statistics. Descriptive statistics was used to describe the socioeconomic characteristics, and the junk food consumption expenditure using the 7 days memory recall. The Body Mass index (BMI) was used to assess the obesity status of the respondents. Logit regression model was used to determine the effects of junk food consumption on the obesity status of the respondents.

Results: It was found that snacks accounted for 43.5% of the junk food consumed. This was followed by the consumption of carbonated soft drinks (36.6%). Package cookies/ chocolates were the least consumed accounting for 10.9% of the total junk food expenditure share. Also, 14.0% of the respondents were underweight, 25.3% had a normal weight of 18.5≤ 24.9 kg/m2, 32.7% was overweight with 25 ≤ 30kg/m² BMI, and 28.0% was obese with BMI ≥ 30 kg/m². An average student in the study area was overweight with a mean BMI of 29.6kg/m². The mean junk food consumption pattern share was highest (33.6%) among obese and lowest for underweight (17.7%).

Conclusion: The findings suggest that junk food consumption expenditure exerts a significant positive effects on the obesity status of the respondents. Hence, Junk food consumption is a major driver of the obesity status of students in tertiary institutions in Southwest, Nigeria. This study established that a health danger of junk food consumption. Hence, reduction of junk food consumption should be encouraged as the convenience and easy availability of the junk food may have negative contributions in the students' health status.

Pasting and Nutritional Properties of Three Unripe Banana Species Flours and Acceptability of Pastes Produced from the Flours

Michael Olutoyin Afolabi — 2025-02-14

Background: Unripe banana flours and pastes are incredibly nutritious and can serve as a good source of fibre, resistant starch, minerals and vitamins.

Objective: The overall objective of this study was to determine the nutritional and pasting properties of flour samples made from some unripe banana species (Red banana, Blue java and Cavendish specifically the study determined the chemical composition, minerals, physico-chemical , functional properties of the flour samples and acceptability of thick pastes (Amala) produced from them.

Methods: Proximate composition, energy values, minerals and pasting properties were determined using standard methods. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 20, and significance was accepted at 5% level. The sensory attributes of the pastes (Amala) were determined using Hedonic and multiple comparison.

Results: Moisture, ash, protein, fat , crude fibre, total Carbohydrate and Energy ranged from 4.68-7.20 %, 1.17 to 2.67 %, 0.58 to 1.03 %, 0.80 to 2.07 %, 0.04 to 0.83 %, 88.77 - 89.51%, 3.73 -3.77 kcal respectively. The mineral contents of the four samples ranged from 1.18 to 37.67 mg/kg(Magnesium), 0.69 to 22.52 mg/kg(Potassium), 1.08 to 14.32 mg/kg(Sodium), 1.14 to 25.14 mg/kg(Zinc) and 0.74 to 25.01 mg/kg(Iron).. The peak viscosity, trough viscosity, breakdown viscosity, final viscosity, setback viscosity and peak time ranged from 221.12 to 260.04 RVU, 154.42 to 173.46 RVU, 66.71 to 96.17RVU, 240 to 301.21RVU, 85.58 to 143.04RVU and 5.1 to 5.27 minutes respectively. Pasting temperatures ranged from 86.03 and 88.88oC.

Conclusion: The sensory acceptability test for the pastes indicated that Red banana was the most accepted species.

Identification of Perceived Drivers of Food Choice in Abia State, Nigeria

C.P. Uche — 2025-02-14

Background: Poor food choices are associated with all forms of malnutrition and diet-related noncommunicable diseases. Hence, there is a need for a study that contextually appreciates urban influences on food choice to inform a basis for more targeted interventions in the promotion of healthier diets and lifestyles, particularly in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs).
Objective: This study aimed to identify the perceived drivers of food choices in selected zones/towns in Abia State.
Methods: The study was a descriptive cross-sectional study and adopted a multi-stage sampling technique from which a total of 1200 respondents were used. Data on socio-demographic/economic characteristics, food purchasing and cooking practices, and perceived factors affecting food choice were collected using structured and validated questionnaires. The IBM SPSS version 25.0 software was used to analyze the data. A p-value of < 0.05 was considered significant.
Results: Key determinants of food choice as identified in this study include price (n=260), sensory appeal (n=225), natural content (n=206), familiarity (n=174), and health (n=172). However, the least important factors identified were ethical concern (n=144), mood (n=156) and weight control (n=134).
Conclusion: Therefore, different strategies and targeted interventions are necessary to create supportive food environments, promote sustainable food production, and improve and maintain healthy dietary intake. Agricultural extension and public health/sanitary extension services should be trained to deliver mutually reinforcing messages that promote sustainable food production, small-scale farming and gardening, improved dietary intakes, and improved health.

Postpartum Depression In Lactating Mothers, Diet Quality And Weight-For-Length of Infants 6–11 Months: A Community-Based Cross-Sectional Survey In Rural Umuahia, Nigeria

Ijioma Okorie — 2025-02-14

Background: Maternal depression can lead to negative health outcomes for both mother and child, as well as disruption of appropriate infant and young child feeding practices. The study determined the prevalence of postpartum depression in lactating mothers, diet quality and weight-for-length of infants 6–11 months. in rural Umuahia, Nigeria.

Methodology: A community-based cross-sectional survey purposively recruited consenting 150 lactating mothers (LM) with infants 6-11months of age living in the rural communities in Umuahia. The study was conducted in six (6) rural communities in Umuahia. In each of the community, 25 households with lactating mothers with infants 6-11months of age were purposefully selected. Edinburgh postpartum depression scale was used to assess postpartum depressive symptoms in lactating mothers, the minimum dietary diversity indicator was used to assess the diet quality of the infants, while WHO Anthro software for child growth standard was used to categorise weight-for-length. Descriptive statistics was used to analyse the data, while Pearson correlation was performed to determine the extent to which postpartum depression associated with weight-for-length at 5% level of significance.

Result: Majority (88.0%) of the LM were between 25–34years old. About 6.7% of the lactating mothers have had abortion. Some (9.3%) felt miserable often, 8.0% of were unhappy to the point of crying, and 9.3% thought of harming themselves. Some (28.7%) of them had high level of depressive symptoms. About 45.3% of the infants achieved minimum dietary diversity. Some of the infants were wasted (36%), and severely wasted (16%), while 48.0% had normal weight. There was a significant relationship (p < 0.05) between postpartum depressive symptoms and weight-for-length.

Conclusion: Postpartum depression in lactating mothers was found to have a significant relationship on the weight-for-length.

Obesity among Non-Pregnant Women in the 36 States and Federal Capital Territory of Nigeria; Sub-National Variation of a National Epidemic

Adeleye Abiodun Adeomi — 2025-02-14

Background: Various studies have reported the national prevalence of obesity in Nigeria; however, data on the sub-national variation is scarce.

Objective: This study aimed to investigate the sub-national distribution and variation of obesity among nonpregnant women of reproductive age in Nigeria.

Methods: Nationally, representative data from the 2018 Nigeria Demographic and Health Survey (NDHS) was used to select 13,180 women of reproductive age from all the states, through a two-stage cluster sampling technique. Obesity was determined using the World Health Organization reference values for older adolescents and others. Sub-national variation was determined with binary logistic regression analysis using unadjusted and adjusted rates, and adjustment was made for individual, household and community level factors. A p-value of less than 0.05 was considere statistically significant.

Results: The mean age of respondents was 29.5 ± 9.7 years, and there was mostly an even distribution of respondents across the States. The obesity prevalence among women of reproductive age was 28.5% with the burden generally higher among the southern states, compared to the northern states. Also, after adjusting for risk factors, two-thirds of the states still had a statistically significant variation in the prevalence of obesity.

Conclusion: Given that sub- national variations do exist in the obesity prevalence among women of reproductive age in Nigeria, even after adjusting for commonly reported predictors, there is a need to identify state-level determinants of obesity, intending to design state-specific interventions to address this problem.

Dietary Diversity and Micronutrient Adequacy of Pregnant Women Attending Antenatal Clinic in Asaba Specialist Hospital (Ash), Delta State, Nigeria

Tobi Israel Akinremi — 2025-02-14

Background: High quality and optimum Dietary Diversity Score (DDS) is a proxy indicator for measuring nutrient adequacy because this could facilitate a healthy child birth outcome.

Objectives: This research assessed the dietary diversity and micronutrient adequacy of pregnant women in Asaba Specialist Hospital (ASH), Delta State, Nigeria.

Methodology: A cross-sectional survey which employed convenience sampling of 382 pregnant women from Asaba Specialist Hospital. The respondents satisfied the inclusion criteria (across all gestation periods). A structured questionnaire was used to gather data on sociodemographic attributes and a day 24-hour dietary recall for micronutrient intake, adequacy and dietary diversity score. Using regression analysis, statistically significant effects (p<0.05) of age and number of children on DDS were found

Results: Most (78.0%) of the pregnant women were married, under 30 years of age (74.1%), educated to tertiary level (62.6%), and Christians (90.1%). The majority (79.0%) had a high dietary diversity score and most were found in cereals and grains, with a mean DDS of 10.02±1.72. Micronutrients (Calcium, vitamin A, C, and folate) intake was inadequate. Vitamin A and DDS had a weak positive correlation (r=.274, p<0.05), whereas vitamin B1, B2, and folate were negatively correlated with DDS (r = -.261 and -.259, p<0.05) respectively.

Conclusion: Despite a high dietary diversity score, inadequacy of some key micronutrient intakes such as folates and Vitamin A was identified among pregnant women. Maternal dietary habits and fetal health outcomes in this population can be improved by nutritional interventions.

Nutritional Status of Children 0 – 23 Months in Tsafe Local Government Area of Zamfara State, Nigeria Nutritional Status of Infant and Young Children

John Tsebam — 2025-02-14

Background: Adequate nutrition is essential to the growth and development of children. The North-West region of Nigeria is the most affected in the country with Zamfara State having the worst malnutrition problem in the region.
Objective: The aim of this research was to assess the nutritional status of infants and young children (0 to 23 months) in Tsafe LGA of Zamfara State.
Methods: A cross-sectional study was carried out among 256 randomly selected infant and young children. Anthropometric indices (weight, length and MUAC) were measured using WHO method. Biochemical and haematological parameters were determined using semi-auto Analyzer (SURECHEM) and hemosmart gold hemoglobin test strip respectively; Zinc, Iron and Calcium was assessed using Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometry.
Results: The anthropometric results revealed that 40.3%, 41.7% and 22.2% of the children studied are wasted, underweight and stunted respectively. The result also revealed larger proportion of children deficient in calcium (86.7%), iron (51.2%) and zinc (60.2%).
Conclusion: This study indicates that high level of childhood micronutrient deficiencies in Tsafe LGA could be one of the contributors to the poor nutritional status. Government intervention is urgently needed by way of empowerment, provision of food supplements and enlightenment campaigns.

Evaluation of Nutrient Composition of Complementary Foods Made From Locally Available Cereals and Legumes

Olubunmi. B. Akinsanya — 2025-02-14

Background: Complementary foods play a very important role in the life of infants and young children, as they serve as a complement to breast milk after the first 6 months of exclusive breast feeding to meet nutritional requirement of infants and achieve optimal growth.
Objective: The study was carried out to evaluate the nutritional content of four complementary foods produced from locally available cereals and legumes.
Methods: Recipe of four complementary foods was formulated and prepared in the Laboratory, the samples were produced from blends of maize, soybean, sorghum, wheat, rice and groundnut at different ratios. The proximate, mineral and anti-nutritional properties of these complementary foods blend were determined using standard procedures. Analysis of variance (ANOVA) was employed to analyze the data, Duncan's multiple range test used to separate the means at P<0.05.
Results: The result obtained shows Moisture content of 6.09±0.08 – 2.40±0.06%, Protein of 24.97±0.18 – 12.27±0.08%, Fat content of 15.08±–8.39±0.13%, Carbohydrate content of 52.28±0.23 - 69.43±0.18. Tannin content of 98.46±0.22 –58.32±0.51 mg/100g, Phytate 5.79±0.03 - 3.56±0.30 mg/100g, and Trypsin Inhibitor 59.81±0.32 –24.32±0.53 mg/100g. The four complementary foods show no significant
difference (p>0.05) in the nutrients except in Trypsin Inhibitors that is significantly different (p<0.05). The samples contain Calcium content of 44.89±0.52–11.83±1.19 mg/100g, Magnesium content of 310.59±0.05–168.33±0.64 mg/100g, and Potassium of 622.03±0.22–295.82±0.77 mg/100g.
Conclusion: The four complementary foods can meet the macro and micro nutritional needs of young infants.

Quality of Margarine Produced from Coconut and Cashew Kernel Oil Blends and their Potential as Shortening for Biscuit Production

Ezenwa Happiness Chidinma — 2025-02-14

Background: Confectionery formulation from shortenings contain hydrogenated fat which lowers its nutritional value due to the presence of large amount of saturated fatty acids. These saturated fatty acids in humans raise the levels of Low-Density Lipoproteins (LDL) which may lead to coronary heart diseases, obesity etc.

Objective: This study evaluated the quality of margarine produced from coconut and cashew nut kernel oil and their potential as shortening in biscuit production.

Methods: Coconut and cashew nut kernel oils were extracted and used for margarine production at a ratio of 100:0 (sample B), 80:20 (sample C), 70:30 (sample D) and 60:40 (sample E). Simas margarine (100% vegetable oil) served as the control (sample A). The samples served as shortenings and used in the production of biscuits which were packaged until needed for analysis.

Results: Free fatty acid value of the margarines ranged from 0.47-1.84% while the peroxide value results ranged from 0.35-3.99 meq/kg. The protein content in the biscuits ranged from 11.64 – 26.14%, crude fibre ranged from 6.49 – 12.46%. The weight of the biscuits ranged from 4.19 - 5.66 g while the height ranged from 0.32 - 0.48 cm. The sensory evaluation showed that sample B was the most liked.

Conclusion: The study showed that margarine produced from coconut and cashew kernel oil blends can be used as a substitute for shortening at the levels of 70:30 thus, promoting the utilization of cashew nut oil and serving as a healthier option for biscuit produced from regular shortening.

Chemical Composition and Sensory Properties of Complementary Gruel made from Processed Maize (Zea mays) and Soy Beans (Glycine max L.) Composite flour, Banana pulp (Muna acuminate) and Palm oil (Elaeis guineensis)

Ezeanolue R. Ifeoma — 2025-02-14

Background:Optimal infant feeding practice is an important factor in determining growth and development of a child with complementary foods made from soaked, fermented, and sprouted grains as a major contributor to the nutritional status of the child.

Objectives: The study determined the nutrient and sensory properties of complementary food gruel made from composite blends of maize, soybeans, banana and palm oil.

Materials and methods: The grains (maize and soybeans) were processed using different processing techniques and all were sun dried and milled into flour samples using standard methods. The banana pulp was blended to produce smooth paste. The four complementary food samples were formulated from each of the processed maize and soybean flour, banana paste and oil in the same ratio (55:20:20:5) and made into four different gruel samples. The gruel samples were subjected to chemical analysis and sensory evaluation using standard methods. The data was analyzed using Statistical Product for Service Solution version 22 while analysis of variance (ANOVA) using Duncan post Hoc multiple range test was used to separate the mean and significance level (soaked, sprouted and fermented maize-soybean composite complementary gruel) had highest ash (0.49%), protein (1.48%), Iron (0.69%). MS1 (soaked maize- soybean composite flour) had higher energy content and carbohydrate of (56.88 kcal) and (13.12%), respectively. MS1 (soaked maize-soybean composite flour) ranked highest in texture, flavour and general acceptability.

Conclusion: Formulated complementary gruel sample MS4 showed higher nutritional content on protein, minerals such as iron, and vitamins such as A and C.

Evaluation of Dietary Habits and Anthropometric Indices of Administrative Staff in UNTH, Ituku-Ozalla Enugu

Ezeanolue R. Ifeoma — 2025-02-14

Anthropometric measurements indirectly indicate present or past nutrition and may be markers of future illhealth. Unhealthy eating habits are among the leading risk factors for many diseases.
Objectives: The study evaluated the anthropometric indices and the dietary habits of administrative staff in the University of Nigeria Teaching Hospital, Ituku-ozalla, Enugu state.
Materials and Methods: The study design used in this research was cross-sectional design. A multi-stage sampling technique was used to obtain the representative sample of target population. A total of 230 respondents were identified for the study which was gotten by 15% of the total population with the addition of attrition which is 10%. In the first stage, administrative staffs in University of Nigeria Teaching Hospital (UNTH) Enugu were purposefully selected as the study location. In the second stage, 15 administrative departments in UNTH were randomly selected by balloting without replacement. In the third stage, 15 administrative staff was randomly selected from each department. A structured, validated questionnaire used to evaluate the demographic characteristics, dietary practices and anthropometric measures such as weight, height, hip and waist circumferences of the respondents with the use of appropriate instruments (Camry bathe scale, heightometer, non-stretchable tape) were used in data collection. The data were analyzed with Statistical Product and Service Solutions (SPSS), version 21.0. Descriptive statistics was used to analyze them while Pearson correlation was used to determine the relationship between variables. A p-value of less than 0.05 (<0.05) was considered statistically significant. Results: Most (90.9%) respondents worked between 6-8 hours daily while 49.1% earned between 100,000 - N150,000 monthly. On the dietary habit, 58.7% skipped meals on a weekly basis. However, 26.1% who skipped meals was because of the busy nature of their work while 23.9% skipped meals because they did not feel like eating early. Nature of work affected the food choices of 39.6% of the respondents usually through lack of time to eat (23.9%). On the anthropometric indices according to the BMI ranges, 44.3% had obesity stage 1 while 31.3% were overweight. For waist-hip-ratio, 61.7% were at high risk, 23.5% were at low risk while 14.8 were moderate. Conclusion: The dietary habits and the prevalence of obesity and overweight among the administrative staff is a pointer to the inadequacy of meal consumption. Therefore administrative workers should be given proper education in order to curtail the increasing prevalence of obesity and overweight among them.