Dietetics and Clinical Nutrition Commons^™

Early-Life Dietary Habits And Parental Support Among Female Collegiate Soccer Athletes, Christina Uribe, Kate Alvarez, Ryan Harding

Loma Linda University Research Reports

This study examined the relationship between early-life dietary habits, perceived parental support, and collegiate competition level among female soccer athletes. Current and former NCAA Division I, II, III, and junior college athletes completed an anonymous retrospective survey assessing dietary behaviors, meal patterns, parental nutrition support, and sport-related factors. Of the 112 surveys received, 81 complete responses were included in the analysis. Participants had a mean age of 23.0 ± 3.8 years. Higher levels of collegiate competition were associated with more supportive home nutrition environments during childhood and adolescence. Significant associations were identified for parental encouragement to eat full meals before …

Assessing The Scope Of Knowledge And Decision-Making Patterns Regarding Healthy Eating During Pregnancy In Pregnant Female Adults In Southern California, Raegan Soffel

Loma Linda University Research Reports

While recognizing the link between prenatal nutrition and maternal-fetal health, this investigator-initiated study seeks to identify pregnant women's understanding of prenatal nutrition guidelines and the influences on their dietary choices. Thirty-eight eligible women completed an online, anonymous surveying assessing the scope of knowledge and decision-making patterns of healthy eating during pregnancy. The average knowledge score among the participants was 6.05/14. There was no significant difference in the knowledge scores among pregnancy periods or among total number of pregnancies. Perceptions of nutrition guidance in prenatal care, factors influencing eating behaviors, and primary sources of nutrition information were explored. The findings may …

Comparing Perceived Ideal Protein Intake In Plant-Based Versus Meat-Based Diet Consumers, Gysel Avendano, Saya Iwanaga

Loma Linda University Research Reports

High-protein diets have gained significant popularity in both social media and public discussion and more recently, a significant rise in protein consumption has been observed. Existing research has reported differences in actual protein intake across dietary patterns, with animal-based diets generally associated with higher total protein intake compared to plant-based diets. This growing focus on protein raises important questions about perceived ideal protein intake and the factors that shape it.

The primary objective is to compare perceived ideal protein intake among Southern California adults consuming meat-based versus plant-based diets. Additionally, we explored the influence of protein-related knowledge, beliefs, values, information …

Exploring The Relationship Between Bmi Classification And Levels Of Food Noise, Edmarie Billosillo

Loma Linda University Research Reports

Rising rates of obesity in the United States necessitates an understanding of the multitude of factors that contribute to it. Recently, “food noise” has emerged as a topic of interest in this space. The current survey-based observational study aimed to understand the relationship between Body Mass Index (BMI) and levels of food noise. The results indicate a significant association between BMI and food noise levels and a connection between a history of disordered eating and food noise levels. Additionally scores on the Food Noise Questionnaire (FNQ) and the Food Cravings Questionnaire - Trait – reduced (FCQ-R-r) were found to be …

Exploring The Adoption, Perceptions, And Opportunities Of Artificial Intelligence Among Registered Dietitians In The United States, Hong Liu, Mariana Tadros, Edward Bitok, Liang Ji

Loma Linda University Research Reports

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is reshaping healthcare, yet its integration into nutrition and dietetics remains underexplored. This study investigates the adoption, perceptions, and opportunities related to AI technologies among Registered Dietitian Nutritionists (RDNs) in the United States. Our survey was opened in April 2025 and is still ongoing, having gathered responses from over 70 RDNs. Findings reveal that while 58% of RDNs report some familiarity with AI, only 13% consider themselves very or extremely familiar. Attitudes toward AI are generally positive, with 56% viewing AI’s impact on dietetics as positive and 70% believing it could at least moderately improve patient outcomes. …

Nutritional Knowledge And Perceptions Of The Dietetics Field Among Blue-Collar Workers In The Inland Empire, Sabrina Guerrero, Anthony Morales, Isabel Tjajadi, Liang Ji, Kyndra Woosley, Lesley Ann Foster-Nicholas

Loma Linda University Research Reports

Blue-collar workers often encounter significant barriers to healthful eating. This study aimed to assess the nutritional knowledge and perceptions of the dietetics field among blue-collar workers in the Inland Empire. Eighty-four eligible participants completed an anonymous online survey assessing nutrition knowledge and views on Registered Dietitians (RDs). The average nutrition knowledge score among surveyed blue-collar workers was 20 out of 25 (80%). There were no significant differences in nutrition knowledge based on RD visit history, age, gender, or occupation. However, significant disparities in nutrition knowledge were observed across racial/ethnic groups, with Asian participants scoring lower and White participants scoring higher. …

Exploring Associations Between Personality Type & Fruit And Vegetable Consumption, Allison Woldt, Tanya Mora, Liang Ji, Julie Jones, Jeje Noval

Loma Linda University Research Reports

Fruit and vegetable intake is vital for preserving health and avoiding chronic illnesses, yet only approximately 1 in 10 adults in the U. S. adhere to daily consumption guidelines, based on CDC data. While earlier research has examined external factors such as socioeconomic status, cultural influences, and religion as significant determinants of dietary habits, new studies highlight a crucial internal element: personality. Our research delves into this emerging area by examining the connection between personality types, derived from the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI), and fruit and vegetable (FV) consumption. In contrast to the extensively studied Big Five personality framework, the …

A Comparison Of Acute Blood Glucose Response To 2% Lactaid Milk Vs. 2% Regular Milk In A Non-Diabetic Population, Alison Kim, Brianna Vanyo, Liang Ji, Lesley Ann Foster-Nicholas, Cindy Kosch

Loma Linda University Research Reports

Rising rates of diabetes and prediabetes have increased interest in how common foods affect blood glucose. This randomized, triple-blinded controlled trial compared the acute glycemic response to 2% regular milk versus 2% Lactaid milk in non-diabetic adults. Fifty participants consumed 500 mL of either milk type after fasting, and blood glucose was measured at baseline, then at 15, 30, 45, and 60 minutes post-consumption. Linear mixed model analysis showed no significant interaction by age or gender. However, borderline significant differences were observed at 15 minutes (p = 0.0524) and 30 minutes (p = 0.0740), with slightly faster and higher glucose …

The Effects Of Daily Magnesium Citrate Supplementationon Grip Strength, Carolina Cano, Holly King

Loma Linda University Research Reports

Magnesium (Mg) is thought to play an essential role in physical strength because it catalyzes more than 300 enzymatic reactions involved in energy metabolism and cell growth. Magnesium also aids in the hydrolysis of ATP in glycolysis, acting as a coenzyme in three critical reactions and in crossbridge formation in the muscle contraction cycle. Despite these roles, approximately 60% of the US adult population does not meet the RDA for Mg. Previous studies found inconsistent results on the effects of Mg on physical performance. However, most studies agreed on magnesium's potential as an ergogenic aid.

Effectiveness Of Education For Type 1 Diabetes Patient's Caregivers At Loma Linda University Health, Epiphaneia Juarez

Loma Linda University Research Reports

Diabetes education is essential for patients and families to improve quality of life and minimize the challenges and complications of living with Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus (T1DM). The aim of the research study is to evaluate the knowledge and nutritional practices of caregivers in the management of T1DM in pediatric patients. 20 subjects were recruited at the Loma Linda University Children’s Hospital (LLUCH) Pediatric Diabetes Center before their outpatient T1DM class. A demographic survey, nutrition knowledge survey (NKS), and a 24-hour recall were administered to participants. The Mann-Whitney U test was used to evaluate NKS total score among binary variables …

Assessment Of Nutrition Knowledge And Implementation Of Nutrition Education In Pilots, Tarika Chhabra, Susan Kumon, Savanna Malki, Bryan Ferrell, Cindy Kosch, Edward Bitok, Gurinder Bains, Lida Gharibvand

Loma Linda University Research Reports

This study assessed the effectiveness of a nutrition education program for Certificated Flight Instructors (CFIs). The program consisted of six video modules and briefs on various nutrition topics. Thirty-one CFIs participated in the study, and their nutrition knowledge was assessed before and after the program. The results showed a statistically significant increase in nutrition knowledge scores following the intervention (p < .001). Participants also reported that the program helped them improve their dietary habits. These findings suggest that nutrition education can be an effective way to improve the health and well-being of CFIs and potentially other populations.

Dietitian & Physician Preferences Of Fiber Use In Enteral Nutrition: A Pilot Study, Holly Gauthun, Thy Pham, Cory Gheen, Liang Ji, Edward Bitok, Susie Ray

Loma Linda University Research Reports

This pilot study examines the beliefs and preferences regarding fiber use in enteral nutrition (EN) among physicians and registered dietitians (RDs) for hemodynamically stable critically ill patients. A total of 30 RDs and 12 physicians participated. The majority of both physicians (80%) and RDs (83%) supported fiber use in EN for these patients. All participants with over ten years of experience and all Certified Nutrition Support Clinicians (CNSCs) endorsed fiber use. Despite expectations, no significant difference in support was found between RDs and physicians. The study reveals a noteworthy shift towards endorsing fiber use in enteral nutrition for hemodynamically stable …

Association Between Early Childhood Feeding Practices And Parental Perception Of Picky Eating, Yue-Liang Brewerton, Anoud Mohammad, Linda Navarro, Cindy Kosch, Gurinder Bains, Liang Ji, Edward Bitok

Loma Linda University Research Reports

Introduction: This study aimed to investigate the association between early childhood feeding practices and picky eating behaviors in children aged 5-10 years.

Methods: Forty-three parents or legal guardians of children aged 5-10 completed the Child Feeding Questionnaires (CFQ) and the Children’s Eating Behavior Questionnaire (CEBQ) to assess parental control in child feeding and child eating behaviors, respectively. Logistic regression was used to analyze the relationship between the exposure and outcome variables.

Results: Infants fed store-bought food didn't differ significantly in picky eating from those fed self-made food, challenging conventional assumptions. Additionally, while socioeconomic status and parental education didn't show significant …

Effects Of Intuitive Eating Principles And Magnesium Glycinate On Quality Of Life, Body Satisfaction, And Stress In Early- And Middle-Aged Adults, Numydia Cotry, Taylor Kalinowski, Angel Wilensky

Loma Linda University Research Reports

This study investigated the impact of combining Intuitive Eating (IE) principles with magnesium glycinate supplementation on adults aged 18 to 49. Participants were split into two groups: one practicing IE alone and another receiving magnesium supplementation alongside IE. Results showed significant improvements in body satisfaction, stress levels, and overall health among those receiving magnesium. Qualitative data indicated enhanced body awareness and well-being with IE. This suggests a promising synergy between IE and magnesium supplementation for better health and quality of life. However, further research with larger samples and longer durations is warranted.

The Effects Of Hydration Status On Grip Strength, Loradelle Feri, Jordan Sales, Angela Li, Devon Cannata, Cindy L. Kosch, Gurinder Bains, Liang Ji, Everett B. Lohman, Lee Berk, Edward K. Bitok

Loma Linda University Research Reports

Introduction: This study aimed to investigate the influence of hydration status on hand grip strength in a sample of the general population.

Methods: Fourteen participants (4 males and 10 females) aged 18 and older, were recruited from the Loma Linda University area. Participants underwent multiple clinic visits, where they were randomly assigned to either optimal or suboptimal hydration conditions. Measurements included hand grip strength using a dynamometer, extracellular water ratio via bioimpedance analysis, and urine specific gravity.

Results: There was no significant differences in hand grip strength, extracellular water ratio, or urine specific gravity between optimal and suboptimal hydration states. …

The Effects Of Daily Consumption Of Pepitas (Pumpkin Seeds) On Depression, Anxiety, Stress, And Sleep Quality In Adults, Ru-Yi (Susie) Ou Yang, Chana Leah Schuraytz, Gina Sand

Loma Linda University Research Reports

Depression, anxiety, stress, and poor sleep quality are mental health conditions contributing to the burden of healthcare and society world-wide. Evidence has shown that nutrients and bioactive properties in seeds have been beneficial for mental health conditions in animal studies. This study aims to determine if there are beneficial effects of pepitas (pumpkin seeds) in humans.

The Effect Of Vitamin D Supplementation On Total Cholesterol(Tc):High Density Lipoprotein(Hdl) Ratio And Body Composition In The General Adult Population, Artemisa Palafox-Castañeda, Yvette Velarde, Stephanie Wiratmo

Loma Linda University Research Reports

Introduction: Two common problems that exist in the adult population in the United States are vitamin D deficiency and coronary heart disease (CHD). According to the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey 2011-2014, 23.3% of the US population are at risk of vitamin D inadequacy (serum 25(OH)D of 30-49 nmol/L) and vitamin D deficiency (serum 25(OH)D lower than 30 nmol/L). Also, according to Centers for Disease Control data in 2015-2018, 11.4% of the US adult population had high Total Cholesterol (TC) levels, and 17.2% of the US adult populations had low High-Density Lipoprotein (HDL) levels.TC:HDL ratio is used to determine …

Motivators And Barriers To Adoption Of Plant-Based Meat & Dairy Alternatives– A Comparison Of A Blue Zone And Disadvantaged Communities, Anastasia Tiznado, Maggie Taylor

Loma Linda University Research Reports

Introduction:

Blue Zones are geographical locations where there are low rates of chronic disease diagnosis, risks and mortalities, and people living in these communities live longer than average life spans. Individuals living in the Blue Zone of Loma Linda eat predominantly plant-based diets that incorporate meat and dairy alternatives. These products have been shown to provide health, environmental and affordability benefits. With respect to health, a plant-based diet is effective at preventing, treating and reversing diseases, including heart disease which is the number one killer in the US. In recent years, plant-based diets have gained a wide acceptance beyond the …

Assessment Of Low-Fodmap Diet Knowledge Among Registered Dietitian Nutritionists (Rdn) In The Treatment Of Irritable Bowel Syndrome (Ibs), Heather Cyr, Madison Murphy, Annie Resendiz

Loma Linda University Research Reports

Introduction:

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is the bowel's reaction to certain stimuli causing pain, flatulence, diarrhea, and constipation. IBS currently affects 1 in 10 people worldwide. The low-FODMAP diet can be effective in relieving these symptoms. Studies found that 82% of patients could follow the low-FODMAP diet long-term without comprising their nutrition status, and over half found long-term symptom relief. For optimal success, this complex diet should be implemented with the guidance of a well-informed registered dietitian nutritionist.

The Use Of A Mindful Eating Guided Journal Results In Changes In Food Portion Sizes And Increased Internal Awareness, Valerie Dubuque, Daniele G. Kuhn

Loma Linda University Research Reports

Introduction:

Restrictive dieting practices have repeatedly shown to be limited in their potential to create lasting healthful choices. Alternatively, intuitive eating and mindful eating are frameworks that have been utilized to promote better dietary choices, however, with limited success. Intuitive eating and mindful eating contain components, such as "unconditional permission to eat" and "reliance on hunger and satiety cues," that may be unhelpful. This study presents an alternative framework that selectively combines the best of both frameworks through a mindful eating guided journal.

The Association Between Early Enteral Nutrition And Various Outcomes In Patients Undergoing Ecmo Therapy At Loma Linda University Medical Center, Torrey Mitsunga, Lauren Wheeler

Loma Linda University Research Reports

Introduction:

Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) therapy is a life-saving option for critically ill patients who require either pulmonary and hemodynamic support. ECMO has only been widely adapted for usage in adults over the last few years, and recently at higher rates due to Covid-19. Though ECMO has the potential to save lives, it presents many challenges related to feeding and nourishment of the patients. Currently, data is lacking on how enteral nutrition during ECMO affects outcomes such as the duration of hospitalization, ability to meet calorie and protein goals, and patient survival.

Consistency Of Noncommercial Based Thickening Agents On Llumc Dysphagia Menu Items, Andreena Lopez, Briana Tran, Janelle Tse

Loma Linda University Research Reports

Introduction:

More than 60% of the population 60 years and above experience some level of dysphagia. Patients with a medical history such as stroke, Alzheimer’s disease, autoimmune diseases, and gastroesophageal reflux may also have an increased risk for dysphagia. The International Dysphagia Diet Standardization Initiative (IDDSI) is a framework covering the global standards for dysphagia modified food texture descriptions. Current literature related to food thickeners in dysphagia management observe the suitability of various thickeners on all levels of dysphagia. However, many of these studies may or may not compare their findings with the current IDDSI guidelines.

The Effect Of A Four Week Nutrition Education Program On Knowledge & Behavioral Changes In The East La/Boyle Heights Community, Manuel Rodriquez, Santiago Melendez

Loma Linda University Research Reports

Introduction:

Over the past three decades, obesity rates in the United States have doubled among adults and tripled amongst children. According to a Los Angeles County Public Health report, overweight and obesity cases account for 3.43 billion dollars annually of county expenses. Despite all this capital being spent on obesity, preventative plans, obesity rates continue to rise. The most affected areas in Los Angeles County are Compton, La Puente, and East Los Angeles. This is where most African American and Latino communities reside. Of the obese population in LA County, Latinos make up the largest percentage with 29.4% .

The Efficacy Of Probiotics On Overall Quality Of Life By Gender, Melissa Kalman, Kirsten Soderblom

Loma Linda University Research Reports

Introduction:

In the 1950s, German scientist Werner Kollath coined the term probiotic, which is Latin for, “for life”. To be considered a probiotic, a product must consist of live microorganisms and provide health benefits to the host when ingested in sufficient amounts. The microorganisms in probiotics provide numerous health benefits through immunologic mechanisms. Recent research shows probiotics may provide benefits to those experiencing stress, including general anxiety and stressors, as well as improve human immunity and overall quality of life. There is a lack of research concerning probiotics and the differences in physiological responses comparing males and females.

Comparison Of Student Dietary Patterns In The School Of Allied Health Professions' Departments, Randy Song, Sonya Fargo, Jaime Scolastico

Loma Linda University Research Reports

Introduction:

Dietary habits influence many risk factors for cardiometabolic health, including heart disease, stroke, and type 2 diabetes, which collectively pose substantial health and economic burdens. College students may struggle to get access to or understand how to prepare healthy foods. Students with more nutritional knowledge consume less unhealthful fats and cholesterol, but as independence increases, students are continuously challenged to make healthful food choices. Assessing dietary patterns can be complex and time consuming, though it is a worthwhile endeavor as it sheds light on diet quality and areas of excess and deficiency.

Food Insecurity On Llu Campus And The Awareness Of Resources Available, Laura Aldama, Holly Lai-Eschen, Hannah Nua

Loma Linda University Research Reports

Background: The prevalence of food insecurity (FI) on college campuses in the United States was 41% in 2018. However, most studies focus on undergraduate students on public college campuses. Food insecurity has been shown to lead to poor sleep, higher BMI, worse academic outcomes, poor mental health, less physical activity, and the consumption of less fruits and vegetables than their food secure peers.

Objective: The purpose of this graduate student research study was to determine the prevalence of food insecurity among students at LLU (a private and predominately graduate university) and their awareness of local food resources.

Methods …

Food Selection And Consumption During The Covid-19 Pandemic/Quarantine, Shawnyse Debaun, Pui Tan Lau

Loma Linda University Research Reports

Background: The Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) created an unexpected outbreak that led to a pandemic and the fear of scarcity regarding food. Due to those who shopped in panic, grocery stores began to limit the number of specific items purchased per family. The COVID-19 is a novel disease that has changed society by wearing face-coverings when out in public, temporarily closing indoor dining at restaurants, and converting schools online. The over-purchase of toilet paper and water caused many grocery and department stores to exhaust their inventory. This situation may have instilled fear of scarcity and leave to the over-purchase …

The Effect Of Diet On The Variation Of Blood And Urine Heavy Metal Biomarkers Among National Health And Nutrition Examination Survey (Nhanes) Subjects: A Secondary Data Analysis, Devineé Lingo, Alyssa Perri

Loma Linda University Research Reports

Background: Heavy metals are non-essential elements that provide no biological benefit to the human body. Heavy metals such as lead, mercury, arsenic, and cadmium are toxic to humans even in trace amounts. Humans are exposed to various heavy metals through ingestion of contaminated food and water supplies. Heavy metals can accumulate in body organs and displace essential minerals leading to detrimental health effects such as neurological, endocrine, and immune dysfunction, that can result in long-term damage.

Objective: The purpose of this graduate student research study was to examine the effect of diet on the variation of blood and urine lead, …

The Effectiveness Of A Preoperative Lifestyle-Based Weight Loss Program On Postoperative Outcomes In Bariatric Patients: A Secondary Data Analysis, Jasmine Westerdahl, Samantha Peebles

Loma Linda University Research Reports

Background: Obesity is a multifactorial and largely preventable chronic disease. There are many interventional methods that can be used in treating obesity, such as diet and lifestyle interventions. Surgical intervention is also an effective treatment option that is utilized for those that are severely obese. Bariatric surgery helps to achieve weight loss, as well as reduce the risk and/or manage comorbidities. In the U.S., many insurance companies and certain bariatric centers require patients to lose weight prior to surgery. The explanation for preoperative weight loss stems from its potential correlation with reduction in surgical complications, improved adherence to stringent …

Investigating The Rationale Of Registered Dietitians In Selection Of Predictive Equations For Estimation Of Resting Metabolic Rate, Anastasija Avdeyeva,, Yi-Ying Lin

Loma Linda University Research Reports

Background: Resting metabolic rate (RMR) is a critical component of appropriate nutrition plans for Registered Dietitians (RDs) in clinical and outpatient care. Many RMR equations can address some variances. The “clinical judgement” is recommended by the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics (AND) to decide the best RMR equation. With the discernment of the RD in mind, it was pertinent to delve into the thought-process behind why dietitians used specific energy formulas over other choices.

Objective: To determine which RMR formulas were chosen when calculating caloric needs for patients and assess any trends in rationale for RDs when selecting specific predictive …