scholarly journals Folate status of Ghanaian populations in London and Accra

2009 ◽  
Vol 103 (3) ◽  
pp. 437-444 ◽  
Author(s):  
Matilda Owusu ◽  
Jane Thomas ◽  
Edwin Wiredu ◽  
Maria Pufulete
Keyword(s):  
Methylenetetrahydrofolate Reductase ◽  
Plasma Homocysteine ◽  
Folate Intake ◽  
Serum Folate ◽  
Cross Sectional ◽  
Folate Status ◽  
Supplement Use ◽  
Increased Risk ◽  
Erythrocyte Folate ◽  
The Uk

Migration to the UK is associated with higher incidence of stroke in African populations. A low folate status has been associated with increased risk of stroke, likely to be mediated through raised plasma homocysteine concentrations. We conducted a cross-sectional study to compare blood folate and homocysteine concentrations in eighty healthy Ghanaian migrants living in London matched by sex, age and occupation to 160 individuals from an urban population in Accra, Ghana. Folate intake was determined using three 24 h recalls. Fasting blood samples were collected for the determination of serum and erythrocyte folate and plasma homocysteine concentrations and the methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR) 677C → T polymorphism. Reported mean folate intake was 20 % lower in London compared with Accra (P < 0·001). However, serum folate was 44 % higher, erythrocyte folate 30 % higher and plasma homocysteine was 26 % lower in subjects from London compared with those from Accra (P < 0·001). These differences persisted after adjusting for confounders including the MTHFR 677C → T mutation, which was rare in both populations. Although there were no associations between dietary folate intake and blood folates (P>0·05), folic acid supplement use, which was more prevalent in London than Accra (25 and 10 %, respectively,P = 0·004) was associated with erythrocyte folate in both populations (P < 0·01). The main predictors of plasma homocysteine concentrations were erythrocyte folate and male sex (P < 0·001). Findings from the present study suggest that migration from Ghana to the UK results in improvement of biomarkers of folate status despite the fact that reported dietary intake of folate was apparently lower in subjects from London.

Homocysteine, folate, methylene tetrahydrofolate reductase genotype and vascular morbidity in diabetic subjects

2002 ◽  
Vol 102 (6) ◽  
pp. 631-637 ◽  
Author(s):  
Joey M. KAYE ◽  
Kim G. STANTON ◽  
Vincent J. MCCANN ◽  
Samuel D. VASIKARAN ◽  
Valerie BURKE ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Vascular Disease ◽  
Methylenetetrahydrofolate Reductase ◽  
Mthfr Gene ◽  
Plasma Homocysteine ◽  
Serum Folate ◽  
Type I ◽  
Cross Sectional Survey ◽  
Cross Sectional ◽  
Mthfr Genotype ◽  
Erythrocyte Folate

In the present study, the determinants of fasting plasma homocysteine in diabetic subjects were examined; whether plasma homocysteine and vascular disease are related and the influence of the C677T polymorphism in the methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR) gene on serum and erythrocyte folate, plasma homocysteine and vascular disease. Diabetic clinic subjects (Type I, n = 354; Type II, n = 392) were recalled for a cross-sectional survey. Standard methods were used to measure biochemical variables and to characterize vascular disease and MTHFR genotype. Plasma homocysteine was significantly and directly related to age, male sex and serum urea, and inversely related to serum folate and vitamin B12, independently in stepwise regression. When corrected for age and sex, homocysteine was significantly related to hard end points of coronary artery disease and stroke (each P<0.01), remaining significant when additionally adjusted for serum folate (P = 0.043 and P = 0.019 respectively). Serum folate was not clearly related to these events, although there was a trend to associate with the lower quintile of serum folate. The MTHFR genotype was not a determinant of plasma homocysteine, even in those in the lowest quintile of serum folate, nor of vascular disease. TT homozygosity at residue 677 was associated with elevation of total erythrocyte folate compared with both other genotypes (P<0.0001), almost certainly due to the diversion of 5,10-methylenetetrahydrofolate into derivates subsequent to the partial metabolic block that results from the MTHFR enzyme defect. In conclusion, in this clinic cohort of people with diabetes, vascular disease is related to plasma homocysteine, which is correlated with serum folate. The MTHFR genotype does not significantly influence either plasma homocysteine or vascular disease, despite it being a determinant of erythrocyte folate, which reflects its effect on folate metabolism.

Obesity is associated with folate metabolism

2020 ◽  
Vol 90 (3-4) ◽  
pp. 353-364 ◽  
Author(s):  
Süleyman Köse ◽  
Saniye Sözlü ◽  
Hatice Bölükbaşi ◽  
Nüket Ünsal ◽  
Makbule Gezmen-Karadağ
Keyword(s):  
Folic Acid ◽  
Folic Acid Supplementation ◽  
Normal Weight ◽  
Folate Intake ◽  
Serum Folate ◽  
Systemic Review ◽  
Lower Serum ◽  
Cross Sectional ◽  
Acid Supplementation ◽  
Supplement Use

Abstract. Objective: The aim of the present study is to perform a systemic review of the previous studies executed on the association between obesity and folate. Method: In the present research, the selected keywords were scanned on the PubMed, Web of Science, Cochrane and Lilac databases between May and June, 2017 through Gazi University’s network. In total, 4236 clinical, randomized controlled, cross-sectional and prospective studies were determined and 17 of these that specifically fit the aims of the present research were reviewed. This study involved an electronic literature search of databases on folic acid and obesity published in the English language between 2000 and 2016. Results: Of the 17 studies, 5 were based on folic acid supplementation and 12 were related with participants’ folate status. As a general consequence of both intake and serum/status measurements of folic acid supplementation: It was found that obesity-associated metabolic changes might affect individual folate use and obese individuals had lower serum folate levels, although there was no change in folate intake. Conclusion: Overweight and obese individuals have lower serum folate concentrations when compared with individuals with normal weight. It is explained by increased use of folic acid, urinary excretion, dilution of blood volume, different levels in different tissues and changes in the endocrine functions of folate. Individuals with higher Body Mass Indexes have less supplement use, unhealthier diets and donot consume sufficient vegetables and fruits, all of which can affect decrease in folate levels. Furthermore, adiposity may affect folate absorption by intestinal epithelium.

scholarly journals Folate and vitamin B12status in relation to cognitive impairment and anaemia in the setting of voluntary fortification in the UK

2008 ◽  
Vol 100 (5) ◽  
pp. 1054-1059 ◽  
Author(s):  
Robert Clarke ◽  
Paul Sherliker ◽  
Harold Hin ◽  
Anne M. Molloy ◽  
Ebba Nexo ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Cognitive Impairment ◽  
Folic Acid ◽  
Older People ◽  
Serum Folate ◽  
Vitamin B ◽  
Cross Sectional ◽  
Folic Acid Fortification ◽  
Folate Status ◽  
Cross Sectional Studies ◽  
The Uk

Concerns about risks for older people with vitamin B12deficiency have delayed the introduction of mandatory folic acid fortification in the UK. We examined the risks of anaemia and cognitive impairment in older people with low B12and high folate status in the setting of voluntary fortification in the UK. Data were obtained from two cross-sectional studies (n2403) conducted in Oxford city and Banbury in 1995 and 2003, respectively. Associations (OR and 95 % CI) of cognitive impairment and of anaemia with low B12status (holotranscobalamin < 45 pmol/l) with or without high folate status (defined either as serum folate >30 nmol/l or >60 nmol/l) were estimated after adjustment for age, sex, smoking and study. Mean serum folate levels increased from 15·8 (sd14·7) nmol/l in 1995 to 31·1 (sd26·2) nmol/l in 2003. Serum folate levels were greater than 30 nmol/l in 9 % and greater than 60 nmol/l in 5 %. The association of cognitive impairment with low B12status was unaffected by highv.low folate status (>30 nmol/l) (OR 1·50 (95 % CI 0·91, 2·46)v.1·45 (95 % CI 1·19, 1·76)), respectively. The associations of cognitive impairment with low B12status were also similar using the higher cut-off point of 60 nmol/l for folate status ((OR 2·46; 95 % CI 0·90, 6·71)v.(1·56; 95 % CI 1·30, 1·88)). There was no evidence of modification by high folate status of the associations of low B12with anaemia or cognitive impairment in the setting of voluntary fortification, but periodic surveys are needed to monitor fortification.

Folate status of adults living in the Canary Islands (Spain)

2004 ◽  
Vol 74 (3) ◽  
pp. 187-192 ◽  
Author(s):  
Henríquez ◽  
Doreste ◽  
Díaz-Cremades ◽  
López-Blanco ◽  
Álvarez-León ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Oral Contraceptive ◽  
Alcohol Consumption ◽  
Canary Islands ◽  
Vegetable Consumption ◽  
Folate Intake ◽  
Serum Folate ◽  
Vitamin Supplement ◽  
Red Cell ◽  
Folate Status ◽  
Supplement Use

Background and aim: Human studies support the hypothesized contribution of folate deficiency to carcinogenesis and vascular risk. We assess the nutritional folate status and its relationship to folate intake, smoking, alcohol consumption, oral contraceptive use, and multivitamin supplements. Methodology: A representative sample of 601 individuals from 18 to 75 years of age was selected from the participants in the Canary Islands Nutrition Survey. A food frequency questionnaire was administered. Serum and erythrocyte levels of folate were determined using a method of automated ionic capturing. Results: Mean serum and red cell folate were 8.2 ng/mL and 214.3 ng/mL, respectively. Only one individual had serum folate below 3 ng/mL, and 21.7% showed moderate deficits (3–6 ng/mL); 10.7% of the sample had erythrocyte folate levels falling below 140 ng/mL, 61.3% between 140 and 240 ng/mL and the remaining 27.9% above 240 ng/mL. A positive significant association was observed between these two folate measurements, as well as between folate intake and each of these biomarkers (p < 0.001). Tobacco consumption was negatively correlated with folate status (p < 0.001). Alcohol consumption, oral contraceptive, and vitamin supplement use were not associated with serum and red cell folate levels. Conclusions: Even though nutritional folate status can be considered minimally acceptable, it may reflect the low level of fruit and vegetable consumption within the Canary Islands population.

scholarly journals Validation of a short food frequency questionnaire to assess folate intake

2002 ◽  
Vol 87 (4) ◽  
pp. 383-390 ◽  
Author(s):  
Maria Pufulete ◽  
Peter W. Emery ◽  
Michael Nelson ◽  
Thomas A. B. Sanders
Keyword(s):  
Food Frequency Questionnaire ◽  
The Self ◽  
Folate Intake ◽  
Serum Folate ◽  
Food Frequency ◽  
Men And Women ◽  
Blood Samples ◽  
Folate Status ◽  
Erythrocyte Folate ◽  
Biochemical Indices

A short quantitative food frequency questionnaire (FFQ) to assess folate intake was developed and validated against a 7-d weighed food intake record (7d-WR) and biochemical indices of folate status. Thirty-six men and women completed the self-administered FFQ on two occasions a month apart, kept a 7d-WR and gave two fasting blood samples at the beginning and end of the study for measuring serum and erythrocyte folate, respectively. Mean folate intakes were similar by repeat FFQ and correlated strongly (r 0·77 and r 0·72, P<0·001, for men and women, respectively). All other comparisons were done using the results of the FFQ administered on the first occasion. Men reported similar folate intakes on the FFQ and 7d-WR, but women reported greater intakes on the FFQ compared with the 7d-WR (P<0·05). There was a statistically significant correlation (partial, controlling for gender) between folate intakes reported by FFQ and 7d-WR (r 0·53, P<0·01). Folate intakes estimated by FFQ correlated significantly with serum (r 0·47, P<0·01), but not erythrocyte folate (r 0·25, P>0·05); the strength of the association was greater in men than in women. Validity coefficients estimated using the method of triads were higher for the FFQ than for the 7d-WR when serum folate was used as the biomarker. Overall, these results suggest that this short FFQ is a useful method for assessing folate intake, particularly in men.

scholarly journals Folate intakes from diet and supplements may place certain Canadians at risk for folic acid toxicity

2016 ◽  
Vol 116 (7) ◽  
pp. 1236-1245 ◽  
Author(s):  
Adriana N. Mudryj ◽  
Margaret de Groh ◽  
Harold M. Aukema ◽  
Nancy Yu
Keyword(s):  
Folic Acid ◽  
General Population ◽  
Age Groups ◽  
Secondary Data ◽  
Food Sources ◽  
Dietary Intakes ◽  
Cross Sectional ◽  
Supplement Use ◽  
Increased Risk ◽  
Erythrocyte Folate

AbstractTo examine the prevalence of folate inadequacy and toxicity based on usual intakes from food and supplements, as well as biomarkers of folate, secondary data analyses were performed using cross-sectional, nationally representative data from the Canadian Community Health Survey, Cycle 2.2 (n32 776), as well as biomarker data from the Canadian Health Measures Survey, Cycles 1, 2 and 3 (n15 754). On the basis of unfortified food sources, Canadians would struggle to consume adequate amounts of folate. When folate intakes from all food sources were considered, the overall prevalence of folate inadequacy was low across all age/sex groups, with the exception of females >70 years. However, >10 % of supplement users were above the tolerable upper intake level, increasing to almost 18 % when overage factors were accounted for. In addition, between 20 and 52 % of supplement users had elevated erythrocyte folate concentrations, depending on the cut-off used. Results from this study suggest that insufficient dietary intakes of folate in Canadians have been ameliorated because of the fortification policy, although folate inadequacy still exists across all age groups. However, supplement users appear to be at an increased risk of folic acid (FA) overconsumption as well as elevated erythrocyte folate. As such, the general population should be informed of the potential risks of FA overconsumption resulting from supplement use. This study suggests a need for more careful assessment of the risks and benefits of food fortification, particularly fortification above mandated levels, and FA supplement use in the general population.

Folate Nutritional Status among Psoriasis Patients not Exposed to Antifolate Drug

2020 ◽  
Vol 16 (4) ◽  
pp. 543-553
Author(s):  
Luciana Y. Tomita ◽  
Andréia C. da Costa ◽  
Solange Andreoni ◽  
Luiza K.M. Oyafuso ◽  
Vânia D’Almeida ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Folic Acid ◽  
Linear Regression ◽  
Multiple Linear Regression Model ◽  
Folate Intake ◽  
Serum Folate ◽  
Linear Regression Models ◽  
Cross Sectional ◽  
Folic Acid Fortification ◽  
Plasma Folate ◽  
Psoriasis Severity

Background: Folic acid fortification program has been established to prevent tube defects. However, concern has been raised among patients using anti-folate drug, i.e. psoriatic patients, a common, chronic, autoimmune inflammatory skin disease associated with obesity and smoking. Objective: To investigate dietary and circulating folate, vitamin B12 (B12) and homocysteine (hcy) in psoriatic subjects exposed to the national mandatory folic acid fortification program. Methods: Cross-sectional study using the Food Frequency Questionnaire, plasma folate, B12, hcy and psoriasis severity using the Psoriasis Area and Severity Index score. Median, interquartile ranges (IQRs) and linear regression models were conducted to investigate factors associated with plasma folate, B12 and hcy. Results: 82 (73%) mild psoriasis, 18 (16%) moderate and 12 (11%) severe psoriasis. 58% female, 61% non-white, 31% former smokers, and 20% current smokers. Median (IQRs) were 51 (40, 60) years. Only 32% reached the Estimated Average Requirement of folate intake. Folate and B12 deficiencies were observed in 9% and 6% of the blood sample respectively, but hyperhomocysteinaemia in 21%. Severity of psoriasis was negatively correlated with folate and B12 concentrations. In a multiple linear regression model, folate intake contributed positively to 14% of serum folate, and negative predictors were psoriasis severity, smoking habits and saturated fatty acid explaining 29% of circulating folate. Conclusion: Only one third reached dietary intake of folate, but deficiencies of folate and B12 were low. Psoriasis severity was negatively correlated with circulating folate and B12. Stopping smoking and a folate rich diet may be important targets for managing psoriasis.

scholarly journals Overt acts of perceived discrimination reported by British working-age adults with and without disability

2019 ◽  
Author(s):  
Eric Emerson ◽  
Allison Milner ◽  
Zoe Aitken ◽  
Lauren Krnjacki ◽  
Cathy Vaughan ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Public Health ◽  
Negative Impact ◽  
Policy Research ◽  
Secondary Analysis ◽  
People With Disabilities ◽  
Public Health Problem ◽  
Health Staff ◽  
Cross Sectional ◽  
Increased Risk ◽  
The Uk

Abstract Background Exposure to discrimination can have a negative impact on health. There is little robust evidence on the prevalence of exposure of people with disabilities to discrimination, the sources and nature of discrimination they face, and the personal and contextual factors associated with increased risk of exposure. Methods Secondary analysis of de-identified cross-sectional data from the three waves of the UK’s ‘Life Opportunities Survey’. Results In the UK (i) adults with disabilities were over three times more likely than their peers to be exposed to discrimination, (ii) the two most common sources of discrimination were strangers in the street and health staff and (iii) discrimination was more likely to be reported by participants who were younger, more highly educated, who were unemployed or economically inactive, who reported financial stress or material hardship and who had impairments associated with hearing, memory/speaking, dexterity, behavioural/mental health, intellectual/learning difficulties and breathing. Conclusions Discrimination faced by people with disabilities is an under-recognised public health problem that is likely to contribute to disability-based health inequities. Public health policy, research and practice needs to concentrate efforts on developing programs that reduce discrimination experienced by people with disabilities.

scholarly journals Folic acid food fortification prevents inadequate folate intake among preschoolers from Ontario

2009 ◽  
Vol 12 (9) ◽  
pp. 1548-1555 ◽  
Author(s):  
Kathleen Hennessy-Priest ◽  
Jill Mustard ◽  
Heather Keller ◽  
Lee Rysdale ◽  
Joanne Beyers ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Folic Acid ◽  
Public Health Intervention ◽  
Folate Intake ◽  
Food Fortification ◽  
Folic Acid Intake ◽  
Cross Sectional ◽  
Dietary Folate ◽  
Supplement Use ◽  
Acid Intake ◽  
Fortified Food

AbstractObjectiveFolic acid food fortification has successfully reduced neural tube defect-affected pregnancies across Canada. The effect of this uncontrolled public health intervention on folate intake among Canadian children is, however, unknown. Our objectives were to determine folic acid intake from food fortification and whether fortification promoted adequate folate intakes, and to describe folic acid-fortified food usage among Ontario preschoolers.DesignCross-sectional data were used from the NutriSTEP™ validation project with preschoolers recruited using convenience sampling. Mean daily total folate and folic acid intakes were estimated from 3 d food records, which included multivitamin supplement use. Comparisons were made to Dietary Reference Intakes, accounting for and excluding fortificant folic acid, to determine the prevalence of inadequate and excessive intakes.SettingCanada.SubjectsTwo hundred and fifty-four preschoolers (aged 3–5 years).ResultsAll participants (130 girls, 124 boys) ate folic acid-fortified foods and 30 % (n76) used folic acid-containing supplements. Mean (se) fortificant folic acid intake was 83 (2) μg/d, which contributed 30 % and 50 % to total folate intake for supplement users and non-users, respectively. The prevalence of total folate intakes below the Estimated Average Requirement was <1 %; however, excluding fortificant folic acid, the prevalence was 32 %, 54 % and 47 % for 3-, 4- and 5-year-olds, respectively. The overall prevalence of folic acid (fortificant and supplemental) intakes above the Tolerable Upper Intake Level was 2 % (7 % among supplement users).ConclusionsFolic acid food fortification promotes dietary folate adequacy and did not appear to result in excessive folic acid intake unless folic acid-containing supplements were consumed.

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