Dear Readers:
Happy Year of the Rabbit 2023!
Our CE article this month, “Challenges in Reporting Adverse Events from Dietary Supplements" focuses on a problem in almost all electronic medical records (EMRs)—the reporting of adverse events due to dietary supplements. A group from the Department of Defense's Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences with lead author Dr. Becky Costello have been working on this issue because so many service members in the Army and other armed services take dietary supplements, some of which have adverse effects on their health and readiness to serve. But the problems extend far beyond the armed forces, to athletes and others who, for one reason or another, take weight loss, pain, and other supplements that are particularly likely to be problematic. This a must-read for anyone with access to EMRs and for those who design these systems.
A common problem in many countries is the presence of moderate malnutrition, especially in pregnant women and young children. “A Multicountry Study of the Impact of Moderate Malnutrition" reviews the findings from a foundational study of these problems.
This issue also has two good reviews. First there is one on the “Impact of Perceived Cooking Skills on Eating Habits among Young Adults." These skills do seem to have positive, if weak effects, on diet quality. Then there is the piece, “Building Global Consensus on Nutrition Metrics to Support Food System Transformation." It is an interesting case study about dairy foods and the kinds of data needed to support transformation toward more sustainability. We all have to get on the same page with respect to the right metrics to use.
To wind up, there are two interesting articles on special populations: overweight university employees and another on dietetic interns in training. The one, “Lifestyle and Quality of life among Overweight University Employees", deals with a group often ignored when it comes to programs to improve these problems. Another interesting piece reports some findings on “Obesity Education in Dietetic Internship Programs"; the authors argue that based on their findings there is need for more and better attention to the topic.
All in all, lots of interesting reading. For those in the climates where we are in the dead of winter, curl up in a cozy place and start reading, and for those in more pleasant climates, have a cool drink and do the same!
Best regards
Johanna Dwyer
Editor, Nutrition Today
