Low vegetable intake is a key contributor to the health burden experienced by young adults in rural communities(1). Digital interventions provide an accessible delivery model that can be personalised to meet the diverse preferences of young adults(2). This study aimed to determine the feasibility, acceptability and efficacy of a personalised digital intervention to increase vegetable intake (Veg4Me), co-designed to meet the needs of young adults living in rural Australian communities(3). A 12-week assessor-blinded, two-arm, parallel randomised controlled trial was undertaken from August 2023 until April 2024. Young adults (18–35 years; consuming < 5 serves of vegetables/day; with an internet-connected device) living in Loddon Campaspe or Colac Otway Shire in Victoria, Australia, were recruited via social media and local government networks. Participants were randomised to receive 12 weeks of personalised (intervention) or non-personalised (control) support via a free web application (app; Veg4Me). Key features included 1) recipes personalised to users’ dietary and cooking preferences, 2) geo-located food environment map, 3) healthy eating resources, 4) goal-setting portal and 5) personalised e-newsletters. The primary outcome was feasibility: recruitment, participation and retention rate. Secondary outcomes were usability and user experience, perceived changed in vegetable intake, self-reported vegetable intake, and confidence to cook fresh green and root vegetables. Regression analyses (adjusted for baseline) were used to test for significant differences between groups. A total of n = 536 individuals registered on the Veg4Me website. After excluding fraudulent and duplicate responses (n = 289), n = 124 were eligible and provided consent to participate, n = 116 were randomised and n = 83 completed postintervention data collection. The recruitment rate was 47%, participation rate was 93% and retention rate was 72%. Compared to the control, more intervention participants were satisfied with Veg4Me (76% vs 52%). Most intervention participants reported that access to personalised recipes gave them confidence to eat a wider variety of vegetables (83%), while 76% accessed the food environment map, 63% accessed the healthy eating resources, 78% accessed the goal-setting function and 90% reported that the e-newsletters prompted them to access Veg4Me. Compared to the control, more intervention participants perceived that their vegetable intake had changed in the last 12 weeks (85% vs 57%; p = 0.013). Mean vegetable intake at 12 weeks in intervention and control participants was 2.7 (SD 1.0) and 2.7 (SD 1.4) serves/day, respectively (p = 0.67). Confidence to cook fresh green vegetables at 12 weeks in intervention and control participants was 93% and 91%, respectively (p = 0.24), while for root vegetables this was 88% and 81%, respectively (p = 0.11). Findings demonstrate the feasibility and acceptability of the Veg4Me intervention, and some evidence of efficacy. This study introduces a new strategy that has promise for addressing diet and health inequities experienced by young adults living in rural communities.

Establishing early healthy eating behaviours in the complementary feeding period through to adolescence is fundamental as it can affect the health trajectory of an infant’s life into adulthood and impact lifelong eating patterns(1). Consumer demand for commercial squeeze pouches is increasing and now expanding from infants to older children. Yet, emerging research suggests that these products are nutritionally poor(2), and are frequently marketed with misleading claims that oppose infant and child feeding guidelines(3). There is a paucity of information to inform public health strategies regarding the use of squeeze pouches throughout infancy and beyond. The aim of this scoping review was to determine the frequency and types of squeeze pouches consumed by children aged 0–18 years, the sociodemographic characteristics of users, and insights from parental experiences when using these products. The scoping review was conducted in accordance with the Joanna Briggs Institute guidelines for scoping reviews. Three online databases were searched (MEDLINE, Scopus, CINAHL) in addition to grey literature. Screening of papers was completed by two independent reviewers. The database and grey literature search identified 125 articles, of which 16 underwent full-text review and 11 studies across five countries were included. In eight studies, the prevalence of squeeze pouch consumption ranged from 23.5% to 82.8% of infants and children, with studies reporting daily (n = 4; 8.7–29.2%), weekly (n = 7; 20.9–75.2%), and monthly consumption (n = 7; 16.7–70.4%). The predominant types of squeeze pouches consumed were fruit-based and dairy-based squeeze pouches. Frequent squeeze pouch use was 2.5 times more likely among families residing in areas of high deprivation, or if childcare was used. Household composition also impacted squeeze pouch use as families with two or more children were more likely to use these products. Additionally, frequent pouch use was associated with early cessation of breastfeeding and early introduction of solids. Five studies on parental perceptions of squeeze pouches reported benefits including convenience, perceived health, and perceived low cost while four studies expressed concerns relating to waste and environmental impacts, health and nutrition, and perceived high cost. This review highlights that the widespread use of squeeze pouches, particularly fruit and dairy-based pouches among infants and children is driven by convenience, changing family needs and effective marketing strategies. Public health policy is needed to address concerns regarding the nutritional quality of squeeze pouches and regulate marketing strategies to ensure parents are adequately informed about the health implications of these products. Further research should focus on identifying barriers to safe and nutritious complementary feeding practices and developing targeted education programs to promote optimal feeding practices that minimise the use of squeeze pouches in infants and children of all ages.

Regulatory requirements for infant formula in the Australia New Zealand Food Standards Code (the Code) have been reviewed and revised for the first time in 20 years(1). The review aimed to ensure infant formula products remain safe and suitable, while accounting for the latest scientific evidence, market developments, changes in the international regulatory context, and updated Australian and New Zealand policy guidance. A multi-disciplinary team assessed and considered the best available evidence on every aspect of infant formula product regulation. This included scientific risk assessments, independent consumer evidence and testing, economic analysis and market surveys. The assessment focused on requirements for the regulatory framework, product category definitions, composition, sale and labelling. In addition, Food Standard Australia New Zealand held seven rounds of public consultation to ensure a transparent and comprehensive review was undertaken. While breastfeeding is the recommended way to feed infants, a safe and nutritious substitute for breast milk is needed for infants who are not breastfed. The regulatory changes ensure products continue to provide formula-fed infants with optimal nutrition for growth and development. The changes also give parents and caregivers important information to make informed choices, and support manufacturers with better alignment with international standards. The review has resulted in amendments to five standards and eight schedules in the Code. Key amendments include:

• • compositional requirements that align with the latest scientific evidence, breast milk concentrations, Australian and New Zealand nutrient requirements and recently updated international regulations

• • mandated presentation of nutrition information that allows comparison across products and better supports caregivers in making informed choices

• • restrictions on the sale of special medical purpose products to healthcare professionals, direct source and pharmacies

• • clarification of existing Code requirements which will continue to prohibit health, nutrition content and ingredient claims on infant formula products

• • new requirements for products to be differentiated using text, imagery and/or colour

• • a prohibition on cross-promotion of infant formula products.

Infant formula product regulations are the most prescriptive of any food as the requirements need to cover every aspect of nutrition to support the normal growth and development of infants from birth to 12 months. The updated regulations will continue to protect the health and safety of infants and ensure appropriate information is provided to parents, carers and health professionals to enable informed choice.

In ultrarunning events, energy substrates are important due to the long duration of the event. However, anorexia that occurs during the event can pose a challenge to nutritional strategy(1). The risk of dehydration due to limited access to fluid is increased in trail running, but the association between dehydration and appetite loss due to reduced fluid intake is unclear. This study aims to clarify the relationship between exercise-induced appetite loss and dehydration during prolonged physical activity. The study included 47 healthy adults who provided prior consent and participated in a trail running race with a distance of 169 km and a cumulative elevation of 10,500 m. Dehydration status was ascertained by Urine Specific Gravity (USG), and fluctuations in hydration status were tracked through the race. Subjects with no missing data (n = 40) were classified into severely dehydrated (n = 33) if ≥ 1.030 or mildly dehydrated (n = 7) if < 1.030 based on USG at the finish line(2). Subjective evaluation of anorexia level and gastrointestinal condition was made in a post-race self-administered questionnaire, in which symptoms were rated on a 5-point scale for each race segment. In this questionnaire, participants were also asked to indicate the amount of food and water they consumed during the race. The parameters measured before the race, at the mid-race aid station, and at the finish line, as well as the responses provided in the questionnaire for each race segment, were analysed using a two-way ANOVA with factors for group and time. Multiple comparisons were performed to examine differences across time points and between groups. The mean USG at the finish line was 1.027 ± 0.002 in the mildly dehydrated group and 1.034 ± 0.003 in the severely dehydrated group, both showing a significant increase from before the race, with the severely dehydrated group being higher (p < 0.0001). Body weight decreased significantly in both groups by the finish line, with no difference. There was no significant difference in the rank between groups (p = 0.36). 57.9% of participants experienced appetite loss, but there was no difference in the frequency of appetite loss during the race between the group (p = 1.000, Fisher’s Exact Test), the severely dehydrated group exhibited increasing symptom levels as the race progressed. There was a tendency for the severely dehydrated group to have a higher frequency of nausea during the race (p = 0.095). Fluid intake was similar between groups, both in total and per hour. The results of this study suggested that dehydration and appetite loss are independent incidents and that appetite loss has not been a cause of dehydration. Dehydration in runners during 160km trail running races may have caused appetite loss by producing nausea(3).

Ecological momentary assessment (EMA) may be a valid and acceptable method of assessing dietary intake in young adults(1). EMA may overcome some of the limitations associated with traditional dietary assessment methods such as high respondent burden and memory biases(2) by capturing time-sensitive data via concise dietary surveys. However, most dietary EMA studies either deliver signal-contingent EMAs at fixed intervals or rely on the user’s memory to self-initiate event-contingent EMAs whenever they ate. This may be inappropriate for young adults due to their highly variable eating patterns(1). Young adults are particularly vulnerable to weight gain due to major life transitions and, for this population, dietary information may need to be collected near real-time to improve recall accuracy(3). Therefore, the aim of this study was to examine the feasibility (response rate) and acceptability of an EMA protocol that delivered dietary surveys at times personalised to young adults’ (18–30 years) eating patterns and to compare this to the feasibility and acceptability of EMAs delivered at fixed intervals. A randomised, double-blinded crossover design with two four-day treatment arms was used. In one arm, participants received six EMAs per day at fixed intervals. In the other arm, EMAs were delivered at times tailored to participants’ usual eating schedules (ranged between two to six EMAs per day). Usual eating schedules were determined using time-stamped food and beverage images captured by participants over the four days immediately prior to treatments. EMA questions included, but were not limited to, time of consumption and type of food or beverage group consumed. Response rates were calculated as the percentage of EMAs responded to out of the EMAs delivered. At the end of each arm, participants completed an acceptability survey assessing their opinion of the number of EMAs per day, length of the EMAs, and number of recording days. Twenty-three subjects were included (13 female; mean age 26, SD 2.1 years). Mean response rates of the fixed interval and personalised schedule treatments were 65.1% (SE 3.7%) and 66.3% (SE 3.7%), respectively. Compared to the fixed interval treatment, EMAs delivered during the personalised schedule treatment did not align closer with participants’ eating times; the average time difference between EMA delivery and reported eating time was 1.7 hours for both treatments. Participants from both treatments reported receiving too many EMAs per day but found the length of the EMA and number of days of recording to be ‘just right’. In conclusion, EMAs delivered on a personalised schedule may not improve participant adherence. Due to the irregular nature of young adults’ eating patterns, timing of EMA delivery is difficult to tailor. Future definitive trials should use more sophisticated methods of personalisation such as wearable sensors to trigger event-contingent EMAs.

In Australia, many adolescents are not meeting dietary guidelines, particularly for low-energy-dense foods such as vegetables(1). Adolescents’ diets also include high amounts of discretionary foods(1), which tend to be energy dense and nutrient poor. Decreasing dietary energy density could moderate energy intake(2) and improve overweight and obesity prevalence among adolescents. Communicating with adolescents about the energy in foods may be important for teaching them strategies to decrease their dietary energy density, but this requires careful consideration to ensure that key messages use language and concepts that are appropriate for adolescents. This study aimed to explore adolescents’ perceptions of food energy, understanding of food energy-related terminology and consideration of energy when making food and drink choices. The present study used face-to-face interviews with a structured schedule of open-ended and closed questions informed by previous research among adolescents as well as gaps in the literature. Some interview questions included prompts with visual cues (lists of food-related terms and factors previously associated with adolescent food choices) to encourage deeper discussion. Interviews were recorded, professionally transcribed and analysed using a six-phase thematic analysis. Thirty adolescents (mean age 14 years, range 12–17 years) from regional Victoria participated in interviews that lasted an average of 39 minutes (range 28–62 minutes). Most adolescents perceived energy in food as the fuel required to move the body or the ‘power’ stored in food. Adolescents identified that different foods contain varying amounts of energy, and they classified foods as high energy (‘good energy’) or low energy (‘bad energy’). Adolescents were more familiar with the term ‘calories’ than ‘kilojoules’ when asked about these words. Approximately half of adolescents described thinking about the energy in food in making food choices when prompted with the question ‘Do you ever think about energy when you’re choosing a food to eat?’, but most adolescents did not consider the energy in a drink as an influence on their drink choice when prompted with a similar question. In conclusion, this study, which was the first to explore adolescents’ perceptions of food energy and energy-related terminology in Australia, found some inconsistencies around adolescents’ understanding of food energy and that the metric system term ‘kilojoules’ was less familiar to adolescents than ‘calories’. Additionally, food energy may be an important inclusion in nutrition education, but the lower reported consideration of energy in drinks may have important implications for beverage consumption messages (e.g., around sugar-sweetened beverages). Practical implications of the results include that it may be helpful to use examples that distinguish between the energy we feel (e.g., our ‘energy levels’) and the energy in foods in nutrition education among adolescents. Additionally, nutrition education among adolescents may need to promote understanding of both kilojoules AND calories.

Approximately 25% of the global workforce engages in night shift work(1), characterised by non-standard hours outside the conventional 6:00am to 6:00pm window. This irregular wakefulness and pattern of mealtimes disrupt circadian rhythms, which are essential for regulating physiological and behavioural functions, including digestion, nutrient absorption, motility, gut microbiome, and hormone secretion(2). Despite some evidence suggesting a link between shift work and increased gastrointestinal (GI) issues(3), comprehensive data on the prevalence and impact of GI disorders among night shift workers remains limited. This cross-sectional study aimed to assess the prevalence of functional GI disorders (e.g., irritable bowel syndrome, functional dyspepsia), their impact on well-being, and contributing factors among night shift workers across various industries. Participants were adults based in Australia or the United Kingdom, and were currently employed in regular night shift work. Participants with previously diagnosed GI disease (e.g., malignancy, inflammatory bowel disease), previous surgery of the GI tract, or were pregnant/lactating were excluded. An online survey was administered via REDCap, utilising validated tools to assess the self-reported presence and severity of upper and lower GI symptoms, quality of life, psychological symptoms, and dietary habits. A total of 392 participants completed the survey (median age 48 (16) years; 52% from Australia, 48% from UK). Results revealed that 21.27% of participants met the Rome IV diagnostic criteria for irritable bowel syndrome, 30.36% for functional dyspepsia, and 24.49% for both disorders. Rotating shift workers reported an increased symptom severity when working night shifts compared to fixed night shift workers (p = 0.003). Of concern, 16.33% of participants considered quitting their job due to the impact of their GI symptoms. Quality of life was reduced in the participants meeting criteria for gut disorders compared to those who did not, with these participants reporting food avoidance, negative body image, and ongoing concerns about their general health (all p < 0.001). For the participants meeting gut disorder diagnostic criteria, they also reported elevated scores on the depression anxiety stress scale (p = 0.001) and GI-specific anxiety (p < 0.001), characterised by constant worry about abdominal sensations and discomfort. 81% of the participants who met criteria for GI disorder diagnosis self-managed their symptoms through dietary modifications, such as the low FODMAP diet or the use of supplements including probiotics and peppermint oil. In conclusion, night shift workers experience substantially higher rates of irritable bowel syndrome and functional dyspepsia than those reported in the general population (4.1% and 7.2% respectively, worldwide)(4). This study underscores the substantial burden of GI disorders among night shift workers, and highlights the need for further research to understand underlying mechanisms and develop effective symptom management strategies.

Pregnancy prompts a cascade of anatomical, metabolic, hormonal, and immunological adaptations important for foetal development, labour and birth(1). These multi–system adaptations interact with the maternal gut microbiome and may affect pregnancy and infancy outcomes(2). However, the nature and extent of changes to gut microbiome composition and diversity during pregnancy and the influence of dietary intake remains contentious. The ‘BABY1000’ pilot prospective birth cohort study based in Sydney, Australia(3) sought to explore associations between maternal diet, the maternal gut microbiome before and across pregnancy, and the infant gut microbiome. Primary aims were to (1) explore the composition and diversity of the gut microbiome of women at preconception, at 12-, 28- and 36-weeks’ gestation, and in infants at six weeks of age; and (2) determine how maternal and infant gut microbiomes are influenced by diet quality and fibre intake during pregnancy. Mothers (n = 146) and infants (n = 105), encompassing 86 mother–infant dyads were involved. RStudio (v 4.2.3) was used to perform microbiome composition and diversity analyses using 350 maternal and 102 infant stool samples. Maternal dietary quality was assessed at recruitment (preconception or 12 weeks’ gestation) and at 36 weeks’ gestation using the Australian Eating Survey (AES)(4). At the group level, maternal dietary quality was suboptimal and did not change significantly across pregnancy (mean scores of 37.5 ± 7.3 and 38.3 ± 6.7 out of 73 points at recruitment and late pregnancy, respectively; p > 0.05). Although differences in gut microbiome alpha (within–person) diversity between mothers and infants was highly significant (p < 0.0001), no differences in gut microbiome composition or diversity related to pregnancy status or gestational stage were observed. Maternal diet quality in pregnancy was also not significantly correlated with microbial beta (between–people) diversity in samples taken in late pregnancy (PERMANOVA: R2 = 0.039, p > 0.05). When fibre intake was separated into quartiles, there was a significant (p < 0.01) difference in alpha diversity between the lowest and highest quartiles of intake, though differences in beta diversity were not significant (PERMANOVA: R2 = 0.06, p > 0.05). Microbiota composition and diversity in infant samples was also not significantly affected by maternal dietary quality or fibre intake, but rather by birth mode and feeding type. Significantly different clustering of infant samples was clear between vaginal and caesarean births (PERMANOVA: R2 = 0.029, p = 0.005). Gut bacterial alpha diversity was significantly lower (p < 0.01) between infants receiving breastmilk compared to formula. As this area of research is still in its ‘infancy’, appropriately powered longitudinal studies are required to understand the processes that shape diet and microbiome interactions during the critical first 1,000 days of life and beyond.

Plant-based milks provide an alternative for those on special diets and where ethical or environmental concerns influence food choice, yet questions remain regarding their nutritional value, particularly as a cow’s milk replacement, while regulations regarding fortification may impact the category. The aim of this study was to compare a cross-sectional survey of plant-based milk alternatives available in major Australian supermarkets and selected niche food retailers from 2024 to data previously published 2019/20(1). Change in the category was assessed and permissions for fortified nutrients were examined. A total of 129 products (120 plain, unsweetened products) were analysed, including tree nuts and seeds (n = 47, stable), legumes (n = 26, stable), coconut (n = 5, down from n = 10), grain-based (n = 47, up 147%) and mixed sources (n = 4, down from n = 10). Interestingly, 33% of this category was now refrigerated, a change from the shelf-stable products of the past. Compared to 2019/20 substantially more products were nutrient fortified, 83% vs 50% respectively, and nearly half (49%) now contain ≥ 300 mg Calcium/250 ml, up from 1/3 of products in the previous audit. A wider range of other nutrients were also fortified including B12 (n = 29), Riboflavin (n = 28), Phosphorus, Vitamin E (both n = 20) and Vitamin D (n = 19). Potassium, Magnesium and Vitamin A were also added to a smaller number of products. Schedule 17 of the Food Standards Code(2) limits fortification of Iodine (7.5 μg/100 ml) with one grain-based product indicating the addition of Iodine. There is a limit on Zinc (0.4 mg/100 mL) with no permitted claim, and for B12 the maximum permitted claim is 0.4 μg/100 ml. While it remains important for health professionals to direct consumers to read food labels for appropriately fortified products, this study points to a need to reconsider the micronutrient limitations placed on category.

Indirect calorimetry (IC) is regarded as the benchmark for measuring resting energy expenditure (REE)(1) but validity and reliability in adults with overweight or obesity have not been systematically appraised(2). The aim of our research was to evaluate the diagnostic accuracy of IC for REE in adults with overweight or obesity. A rapid systematic review was conducted. PubMed and Web of Science were searched to December 2023. Eligible studies measured REE by IC in adults with overweight or obesity (BMI ≥ 25 kg/m2 or mean BMI > 30 kg/m2) reporting validity and/or reliability. Studies were selected using Covidence and critically appraised using the CASP diagnostic study checklist. From n = 4022 records, n = 21 studies utilising n = 13 different IC devices were included (n = 10 reported concurrent validity, n = 7 reported predictive validity, n = 7 reported reliability). A hand-held IC had poor validity and inconsistent reliability (n = 6 studies). Standard desktop-based ICs (n = 9 devices) were examined by across n = 18 studies; most demonstrated high validity, predictive ability, and good to excellent reliability. An IC accelerometer showed weak validity (n = 1 study); a body composition-based IC showed strong validity (n = 1 study); and a whole-room IC demonstrated excellent reliability (n = 1 study). Standard desktop-based IC demonstrated the most consistent validity, predictive ability, and reliability for REE in adults with overweight or obesity. Hand-held IC may have limited validity and reliability. Accelerometer, body composition-based, and whole-room IC devices require further evaluation. Inconsistent findings are attributed to differing methodologies and reference standards. Further research is needed to examine the diagnostic accuracy of IC in adults with overweight and obesity.

Diet is a key modifiable factor for improving suboptimal lipoprotein profiles and reducing cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk(1). Dietary patterns like the Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension (DASH) or the Mediterranean Diet, with varying macronutrient components, have shown positive effects on total cholesterol and low-density lipoproteins (LDL)(2). However, limited research exists on the impact of different healthy diets on lipoprotein subclass profiles, which are increasingly known to influence CVD risk. This study aims to compare the nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR)-measured 112 lipoprotein profiles across three healthy dietary patterns: a carbohydrate-rich diet (CARB), similar to the DASH diet; a protein-rich diet (PROT); and an unsaturated fat-rich diet (USFA), similar to the Mediterranean diet. Lipoprotein parameters were generated using the Bruker IVDr Lipoprotein Subclass Analysis (B.I.LISA) method(3). The lipoprotein subclasses included different molecular components of very low-density lipoprotein (VLDL, 0.950–1.006 kg/L), low-density lipoprotein (LDL, density 1.09–1.63 kg/L), intermediate-density lipoprotein (IDL, density 1.006–1.019 kg/L), and high-density lipoprotein (HDL, density 1.063–1.210 kg/L). The LDL subfraction was further divided into six density classes, and the HDL subfractions were divided into four different density classes. Plasma samples from a randomised cross-over intervention study involving 156 individuals who completed more than two dietary patterns were included for the NMR analysis (registered at www.clinicaltrials.gov as NCT00051350 and NCT03369535). The Friedman’s test with post-hoc analysis, corrected for multiple testing, showed that all healthy dietary patterns led to a reduction in overall lipoprotein subclasses known to be associated with atherogenic risk. This reduction included large and medium-sized LDL subclasses, all intermediate-density IDL subclasses, as well as total plasma cholesterol, triglycerides, apolipoprotein-B100, apo-B100/apo-A1 ratio, and LDL-cholesterol (p < 0.05). Additional variations in lipoprotein subclasses specific to each diet were also observed. The PROT diet showed a decrease in small-sized and dense LDL, large to medium VLDL subclasses, and large-sized HDL subclasses. Conversely, the CARB diet exhibited an increase in smaller-sized and denser LDL, along with a decrease in large-sized HDL and an increase in smaller-sized HDL subclasses. The USFA diet led to decreases in LDL and overall VLDL subclasses, while increasing LDL and HDL subclasses (p < 0.05). The impact of different healthy diets with differential effects on lipoproteins suggests the possibility of targeting the cholesterol status of individuals to optimise lipoprotein profiles and thereby reduce CVD risk. Preliminary exploratory analyses based on linear mixed-effect models coupled with a latent profile analysis, adjusted for cholesterol status, showed that individual lipoprotein responses to specific diets varied. Inter-individual variations in lipoprotein responses to healthy diets were evident. A small proportion of individuals only responded to specific diets, suggesting potential of personalised nutrition based on individual lipoprotein profiles. These observed variations highlight the complexity of individual responses to dietary interventions.

Athletes’ dietary intake impacts performance and recovery. Dietary intake is influenced by a variety of factors—including nutrition knowledge and perspectives on nutrition. In previous research, athletes have been found to have low nutrition knowledge scores(1). A great deal of research has been done exploring how nutrition knowledge impacts dietary intake, but little has explored the relationships between nutrition knowledge and perspectives on nutrition in student-athletes. The aim of this study is to explore the relationship between nutrition knowledge and athlete perspectives on nutrition among Australian university student athletes. In this cross-sectional study, we recruited athletes within Australia, 18+ years of age, who are also enrolled in some form of post-secondary education (student-athletes). Data was collected on demographics (including age, weight, sport experience, type of sport, and education), nutrition knowledge (NK) (Abridged Nutrition for Sport Knowledge Questionnaire (ANSKQ)) and attitude towards dietary behaviour (Athlete’s Perspective on Nutrition (APN)). APN includes three domains: attitude towards the behaviour, subjective norms, and perceived behavioural control. Data analysis methods included Shapiro-Wilk testing for normality, and Pearsons or Spearman correlations between APN and ANSKQ, data. Results look at 49 participants from the student-athlete group. Student-athletes participated in a variety of sports (n = 25), with some student-athletes participated in two sports (n = 7). Mean APN scores (n = 51) were total 52.4 (SD = 5.0), and behavioural control 20.4 (SD = 2.40), with median APN scores for attitude (17.0 [IQR = 2.0]) and subjective norms (15.0 [IQR = 2.0]). Median NSKQ score (n = 49) for the full survey was average (21.0 [IQR = 2.5] out of 35 total), with mean general nutrition knowledge scores of 6.8 (SD = 1.7) and sport nutrition knowledge scores of 13.4 (SD = 3.7). Correlation tests were carried out between NK scores and APN scores (n = 48). Statistically significant, moderate correlations were found between APN scores for behavioural control and both total NK (rs = 0.357, p = 0.013) and sport NK (n = 44, rs = 0.329, p = 0.029), with borderline significant, moderate correlations for APN scores for behavioural control on general NK (rs = 0.284, p = 0.051) and total APN score and sport NK (rs = 0.287, p = 0.058). In this first study of university student-athletes in Australia, NK scores are consistent with other studies. The relationship between nutrition knowledge scores and behavioural control, which indicates ‘the ease or difficulty of performing the behavior’(2), could indicate these factors have an impact on dietary intake within athletes. This exploration may assist in the development of holistic tools to improve dietary intake within athletes in the long-term. Future analysis should explore the impact of NK and APN scores on dietary intake.

In their celebrated paper [CLR10], Caputo, Liggett and Richthammer proved Aldous’ conjecture and showed that for an arbitrary finite graph, the spectral gap of the interchange process is equal to the spectral gap of the underlying random walk. A crucial ingredient in the proof was the Octopus Inequality — a certain inequality of operators in the group ring $\mathbb{R}\left[{\mathrm{Sym}}_{n}\right]$ of the symmetric group. Here we generalise the Octopus Inequality and apply it to generalising the Caputo–Liggett–Richthammer Theorem to certain hypergraphs, proving some cases of a conjecture of Caputo.

Let M be a closed oriented 3-manifold equipped with an Euler structure e and an acyclic representation of its fundamental group. We define a twisted self-linking homology class of the diagonal of the two-point configuration space of M with respect to e. This twisted self-linking homology class appears as an obstruction in the Chern–Simons perturbation theory. When the representation is the maximal free abelian representation $\rho_0$, we prove that our self-linking class is a properly defined “logarithmic derivative” of the Reidemeister–Turaev torsion of $(M,\rho_0,e)$ equipped with the given Euler structure.

Evidence of epigenetic risk of metabolic syndrome (MetS) from both parents, and its increasing prevalence globally, underscores the necessity for effective lifestyle interventions preconception. Despite this, very few studies have examined couples-based interventions and those which are concerned with foetal health rarely monitor paternal health outcomes(1). This study evaluates the feasibility and adherence of a 10-week couples-based lifestyle intervention targeting diet and physical activity. Utilising an exploratory sequential mixed methods design, the study recruited 16 participants (8 couples) aged 18–44 years, living together with a BMI between 18.5 and 38 kg/m². Participants received personalised dietary and physical activity guidance aligned with national guidelines, with progress tracked via the Easy Diet Diary app and the International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ). Quantitative data were collected at baseline, mid-point, and end of the intervention, while qualitative insights were obtained through semi-structured interviews post-intervention. The intervention aimed to leverage the natural support system within couples to enhance adherence to healthy lifestyle behaviours. Quantitative findings indicated positive trends in reducing sedentary behaviour by an average of 1105 minutes per week and increasing vegetable consumption by 1.7 servings per day. Participants also showed improvements in BMI and waist-to-hip ratios, with significant reductions noted by the end of the intervention. Qualitative data and thematic analysis provided rich context to these findings and underscored the importance of mutual support, shared responsibility, and accountability in fostering adherence, but also indicated a need for more flexible and user-friendly tracking tools. Partner encouragement, joint activities such as meal planning, exercising together, and shared responsibility emerged as significant adherence enhancers while differing timing and work schedules were a common barrier. This study demonstrates that a couples-based approach can effectively enhance adherence to lifestyle modifications, promoting significant behavioural changes and improving health outcomes by leveraging the inherent support system within the relationship, thereby facilitating more sustainable health behaviours. Future research should explore long-term impacts and optimise intervention strategies to address identified challenges, ensuring broader applicability and effectiveness in diverse populations. The promising results of this feasibility study advocate for the potential scalability of couples-based interventions as a public health strategy to combat MetS and related conditions.

Food insecurity has been associated with poorer dietary quality in Australian adults(1). Understanding the relationship between food insecurity and healthy lifestyle behaviours is crucial for developing effective personalised nutrition interventions. This study aimed to investigate differences in healthy lifestyle and food choice behaviours like food shopping, food preparation skills, and nutrition knowledge between food-secure and insecure adults. An online, cross-sectional survey using a convenience sample of Australian adults measured food insecurity using a single-item food insecurity screening tool(2). Healthy lifestyle and food choice behaviours were measured through the validated psycho-behavioural living and eating for health segments (LEHS) survey(3). Differences in survey responses between food-secure and food-insecure respondents were explored using Chi-square tests and t-tests. Among respondents (n = 148; 68% female; 92% tertiary educated; mean age 34.4 ± 10.9 years), 22% were classified as food insecure. According to the LEHS, food-secure participants are predominantly ‘Balanced All Rounders’ (n = 39; 33.6%) who try to live a balanced lifestyle and ‘Health Conscious’ (n = 36; 31.0%), who prioritise healthy eating. Food-insecure participants had a higher percentage identifying as ‘Lifestyle Mavens’ (n = 6; 18.8%) compared to the food-secure group (n = 4; 3.4%); who are passionate about healthy eating and use social media to follow active lifestyles. Both groups have similar proportions of ‘Aspirational Healthy Eaters’ (n = 32; 27.6% food-secure vs n = 8; 25.0% food insecure), who aspire to eat healthily but find it challenging, and ‘Contemplating Another Day’ (food insecure group n = 2; 6.3% compared to the food-secure group n = 5; 4.3%); who acknowledge the importance of healthy eating but do not prioritise it. Between group differences are statistically significant (p = 0.042). Regardless of food insecurity status, most respondents considered themselves highly skilled at various aspects of food preparation, food shopping and nutrition knowledge. A higher proportion of food-insecure individuals reported that people sought them out for healthy eating advice (43% vs 29%; p = 0.026). On average, food-insecure respondents reported being more knowledgeable about food budgeting (mean score difference on 5-point Likert scale = 0.5; p = 0.048) and buying cheaper cuts of meat to save money (mean score difference = 0.7; p < 0.001). However, food-insecure respondents reported being less able to keep basic pantry ingredients stocked for meal preparation (mean score difference = −0.6; p < 0.001). Unlike other Australian research(4), food insecurity in this convenience sample of Australian adults does not appear to be associated with a lack of food skills, and food-insecure people may be more health conscious, and better at food budgeting despite more limited resources. The LEHS survey may offer a valuable framework for tailoring personalised nutrition interventions in a manner that respects and supports the dignity of food-insecure individuals.

Generally, young adults in Australia have poor diet quality, increasing their risk of chronic disease(1). Young adults use social media for nutrition-related information (SMNI), including recipes, product details and dietary advice(2,3). Such social media use may have implications for nutrition knowledge, confusion, and backlash towards nutrition science, which could impact dietary behaviours including diet quality and restrained eating. The purpose of this study was to examine young adults’ use of SMNI, and the association between nutrition-related social media use, diet quality and restrained eating and the role of potential mediators. A cross-sectional survey of young adults (aged 22–29) living in Australia was conducted (n = 200). The exposure variable, use of SMNI, was measured using questions adapted from existing measures investigating sources of health- and nutrition-related information. Outcome measures, diet quality and dietary restraint, and mediator variables nutrition knowledge, confusion, backlash, and social comparison were measured using established measures. Mediation analyses were conducted using path analysis. One hundred and eleven young adults (55.5%) reported using SMNI at least once within the last year and 93 (46.5%) within the last month. Recipes was reported as the main reason for use. Use of SMNI within the last month was positively associated with nutrition knowledge (β = 0.19 [95% CI: 0.06, 0.32]), which was positively associated with diet quality (β = 0.25 [95% CI: 0.12, 0.38]). There was a positive indirect effect between SMNI and diet quality, via nutrition knowledge (Ind = 0.05 [95% CI: 0.01, 0.09]), providing evidence of mediation. Nutrition confusion was positively associated with backlash (β=0.46 [95% CI: 0.34, 0.59]), which was negatively associated with diet quality (β = −0.31 [95% CI: −0.47, −0.15]). Use of SMNI was not significantly associated with restrained eating. Almost half of the young adults in this study reported use of SMNI at least once in the last month and recipes was the most common type of information sought. This finding is consistent with the literature(2,3) and indicates that social media is a popular source of nutrition-related information and recipe content among young adults. SMNI was positively associated with diet quality and was mediated by nutrition knowledge. These findings suggest that social media may be an important tool to distribute high quality nutrition-related information and for nutrition promotion aimed at young adults, however, experimental research is required to investigate causal pathways. The growth and ubiquity of social media and its potential for effective and wide-reaching nutrition promotion highlight social media as a priority area for research in the field of public health nutrition and aligns with the priority area outlined in the Decadal Plan for the Science of Nutrition to harness the reach of social media for nutrition promotion(4).