Monica Carlsen | University of Oslo (original) (raw)

Papers by Monica Carlsen

Research paper thumbnail of Additional file 1: of Total antioxidant intake and prostate cancer in the Cancer of the Prostate in Sweden (CAPS) study. A case control study

FRAP values. Description: Supplementary table of FRAP values from food, beverages and dietary sup... more FRAP values. Description: Supplementary table of FRAP values from food, beverages and dietary supplements unique for the Scandinavian market, and not included in antioxidant food table. (DOCX 119 kb)

Research paper thumbnail of Open Access

The total antioxidant content of more than 3100 foods, beverages, spices, herbs and supplements u... more The total antioxidant content of more than 3100 foods, beverages, spices, herbs and supplements used worldwide

Research paper thumbnail of New Iodine Food Composition Database and Updated Calculations of Iodine Intake among Norwegians

Nutrients, 2018

Iodine food composition data of Norwegian foods have been sparse and knowledge about different di... more Iodine food composition data of Norwegian foods have been sparse and knowledge about different dietary iodine sources limited. We compiled a comprehensive iodine food composition database and estimated dietary iodine intake among adults in the latest Norwegian national dietary survey (Norkost 3). The iodine content of food and beverages were compiled using international guidelines and standards. Iodine content of 3259 food items were compiled, including analytical values, values from other food composition databases, estimated values, and values that were based on recipes. Estimated iodine intake in the Norkost 3 population ranged from 15 to 1462 µg/day. Men had significantly higher intake of iodine than women (p < 0.001). The proportion of men and women with estimated iodine intake below average requirement was 19% and 33%, respectively. In young women, 46% had estimated iodine intakes below average requirement and a high probability of inadequate iodine intake. Several dietary ...

Research paper thumbnail of Dietary Intake, Body Composition, and Oral Health Parameters among Female Patients with Primary Sjögren's Syndrome

Nutrients, Jan 4, 2018

There is limited knowledge about dietary intake and body composition among patients with primary ... more There is limited knowledge about dietary intake and body composition among patients with primary Sjögren's syndrome. We assessed dietary intakes with 24-h recalls and body composition with anthropometry and bioelectrical impedance in 20 female patients. Various scoring tools were used to assess oral health. The patients had a lower energy percentage (E%) from carbohydrates ( = 0.02) and a higher E% from fat ( = 0.01) compared to a reference group. The lower intake of carbohydrates was due to a lower bread intake ( = 0.04), while the higher intake of fat was due to a higher intake of butter, margarine, and oil ( = 0.01). The patients ate more than twice ( = 0.02) as much fish as the reference group. The compliance to recommended intakes of macro- and micronutrients was good. Forty-percent of the patients were overweight/obese. Increased intake of beverages was observed in patients with severe xerostomia and/or low oral health-related quality of life, whereas reduced fat intake wa...

Research paper thumbnail of The validity of a web-based FFQ assessed by doubly labelled water and multiple 24-h recalls

The British journal of nutrition, 2017

The aim of this study was to validate the estimated habitual dietary intake from a newly develope... more The aim of this study was to validate the estimated habitual dietary intake from a newly developed web-based FFQ (WebFFQ), for use in an adult population in Norway. In total, ninety-two individuals were recruited. Total energy expenditure (TEE) measured by doubly labelled water was used as the reference method for energy intake (EI) in a subsample of twenty-nine women, and multiple 24-h recalls (24HR) were used as the reference method for the relative validation of macronutrients and food groups in the entire sample. Absolute differences, ratios, crude and deattenuated correlations, cross-classifications, Bland-Altman plot and plots between misreporting of EI (EI-TEE) and the relative misreporting of food groups (WebFFQ-24HR) were used to assess the validity. Results showed that EI on group level was not significantly different from TEE measured by doubly labelled water (0·7 MJ/d), but ranking abilities were poor (r -0·18). The relative validation showed an overestimation for the ma...

Research paper thumbnail of Total antioxidant intake and prostate cancer in the Cancer of the Prostate in Sweden (CAPS) study. A case control study

BMC Cancer, 2016

Background: The total intake of dietary antioxidants may reduce prostate cancer risk but availabl... more Background: The total intake of dietary antioxidants may reduce prostate cancer risk but available data are sparse and the possible role of supplements unclear. We investigated the potential association between total and dietary antioxidant intake and prostate cancer in a Swedish population. Methods: We used FFQ data from 1499 cases and 1112 controls in the population based case-control study Cancer of the Prostate in Sweden (CAPS). The ferric reducing antioxidant potential (FRAP) assay was used to assess the total antioxidant capacity (TAC) of diet and supplements. We calculated odds ratios (ORs) for the risk of prostate cancer across quintiles of antioxidant intake from all foods, from fruit and vegetables only, and from dietary supplements using unconditional logistic regression. Results: Coffee comprised 62 % of the dietary antioxidant intake, tea 4 %, berries 4 %, chocolate 2 %, and boiled potatoes 2 %. In total 19 % and 13 % of the population took multivitamins and supplemental Vitamin C respectively, on a regular basis. Antioxidant intake from all foods and from fruits and vegetables separately measured by the FRAP assay was not associated with prostate cancer risk. For antioxidant intake from supplements we found a positive association with total, advanced, localized, high grade and low grade prostate cancer in those above median supplemental TAC intake of users compared to non-users (Adjusted ORs for total prostate cancer: 1.

Research paper thumbnail of Associations between reported intakes of carotenoid-rich foods and concentrations of carotenoids in plasma: a validation study of a web-based food recall for children and adolescents

Public health nutrition, Jan 27, 2016

To validate estimated intakes of carotenoid-rich foods from a web-based food recall (WebFR) using... more To validate estimated intakes of carotenoid-rich foods from a web-based food recall (WebFR) using carotenoids in blood as an objective reference method. Cross-sectional validation study using carotenoids in plasma to evaluate estimated intakes of selected carotenoid-rich foods. Participants recorded their food intake in the WebFR and plasma concentrations of β-carotene, α-carotene, β-cryptoxanthin, lycopene, lutein and zeaxanthin were measured. Schools and homes of families in a suburb of the capital of Norway. A total of 261 participants in the age groups 8-9 and 12-14 years. Spearman's rank correlation coefficients ranged from 0·30 to 0·44, and cross-classification showed that 71·6-76·6 % of the participants were correctly classified, when comparing the reported intakes of carotenoid-rich foods and concentrations of the corresponding carotenoids in plasma, not including lutein and zeaxanthin. Correlations were acceptable and cross-classification analyses demonstrated that the ...

Research paper thumbnail of Andersen LF, Jacobs Jr DR, Carlsen MH, Blomhoff R. Consumption of coffee is associated with reduced risk of death attributed to inflammatory and cardiovascular diseases in the Iowa Women's Health Study. Am J Clin Nutr 83, 1039-1046

American Journal of Clinical Nutrition

ABSTRACT

Research paper thumbnail of Antioxidants in Nuts and Seeds

Nuts and Seeds in Health and Disease Prevention, 2011

Publisher Summary This chapter discusses the potential role of antioxidants in nuts and seeds in ... more Publisher Summary This chapter discusses the potential role of antioxidants in nuts and seeds in oxidative stress and related diseases. Free radicals and other reactive oxygen and nitrogen species (ROS and RNS) are formed as a result of normal cellular oxidative metabolic reactions. Compelling evidence has emerged in the past two decades demonstrating that oxidative stress is intimately involved in the pathophysiology of many seemingly unrelated types of diseases. Thus, oxidative stress is now thought to make a significant contribution to many different types of diseases. A complex endogenous antioxidant defense system has been developed to counteract oxidative damage and oxidative stress. Walnuts contain massive amounts of antioxidants. Pecans, chestnuts, peanuts, pistachios, and sunflower seeds are very rich in total antioxidants. Hazelnuts, almonds, Brazil nuts, macadamias, pine kernels, cashew nuts, flax seeds, poppy seeds, and sesame seeds contain significant amounts of total antioxidants. The highly reactive and bioactive phytochemical antioxidants are postulated to explain in part the protective effect of plant foods. An optimal mixture of different antioxidants with complementary mechanisms of action and different redox potentials is postulated to work in synergistic interactions. The antioxidant food table is a valuable research contribution, expanding the research evidence base for plant-based nutritional research, and may be utilized in epidemiological studies where reported food intakes can be assigned antioxidant values.

Research paper thumbnail of Evaluation of energy and dietary intake estimates from a food frequency questionnaire using independent energy expenditure measurement and weighed food records

Nutrition Journal, 2010

Background: We have developed a food frequency questionnaire (FFQ) for the assessment of habitual... more Background: We have developed a food frequency questionnaire (FFQ) for the assessment of habitual diet, with special focus on the intake of fruit, vegetables and other antioxidant-rich foods and beverages. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the relative validity of the intakes of energy, food and nutrients from the FFQ. Methods: Energy intake was evaluated against independent measures of energy expenditure using the ActiReg® system (motion detection), whereas 7-days weighed food records were used to study the relative validity of food and nutrient intake. The relationship between methods was investigated using correlation analyses and crossclassification of participants. The visual agreement between the methods was evaluated using Bland-Altman plots. Results: We observed that the FFQ underestimated the energy intake by approximately 11% compared to the energy expenditure measured by the ActiReg®. The correlation coefficient between energy intake and energy expenditure was 0.54 and 32% of the participants were defined as under-reporters. Compared to the weighed food records the percentages of energy from fat and added sugar from the FFQ were underestimated, whereas the percentage of energy from total carbohydrates and protein were slightly overestimated. The intake of foods rich in antioxidants did not vary significantly between the FFQ and weighed food records, with the exceptions of berries, coffee, tea and vegetables which were overestimated. Spearman's Rank Order Correlations between FFQ and weighed food records were 0.41 for berries, 0.58 for chocolate, 0.78 for coffee, 0.61 for fruit, 0.57 for fruit and berry juices, 0.40 for nuts, 0.74 for tea, 0.38 for vegetables and 0.70 for the intake of wine. Conclusions: Our new FFQ provides a good estimate of the average energy intake and it obtains valid data on average intake of most antioxidant-rich foods and beverages. Our study also showed that the FFQs ability to rank participants according to intake of total antioxidants and most of the antioxidant-rich foods was good.

Research paper thumbnail of Reproducibility and feasibility of an online self-administered food frequency questionnaire for use among adult Norwegians

Food & Nutrition Research, 2021

Background: New methods of dietary assessment are increasingly making use of online technologies.... more Background: New methods of dietary assessment are increasingly making use of online technologies. The development of a new online food frequency questionnaire warranted investigation of its feasibility and the reproducibility of its results. Objective: To investigate the feasibility and reproducibility of a newly developed online FFQ (WebFFQ). Design: The semiquantitative WebFFQ was designed to assess the habitual diet the previous year, with questions about frequency of intake and portion sizes. Estimations of portion sizes include both pictures and household measures, depending on the type of food in question. In two independent cross-sectional studies conducted in 2015 and 2016, adults were recruited by post following random selection from the general population. In the first study, participants (n = 229) filled in the WebFFQ and answered questions about its feasibility, and in two subsequent focus group meetings, participants (n = 9) discussed and gave feedback about the feasibi...

Research paper thumbnail of RESEARCH Open Access

The total antioxidant content of more than 3100 foods, beverages, spices, herbs and supplements u... more The total antioxidant content of more than 3100 foods, beverages, spices, herbs and supplements used worldwide (Article begins on next page) The Harvard community has made this article openly available. Please share how this access benefits you. Your story matters.

Research paper thumbnail of Compliance, tolerability and safety of two antioxidant-rich diets: a randomised controlled trial in male smokers

British Journal of Nutrition, 2011

It has been suggested that antioxidants attenuate oxidative stress and prevent oxidative stress-r... more It has been suggested that antioxidants attenuate oxidative stress and prevent oxidative stress-related diseases. Paradoxically, randomised controlled trials (RCT) using pharmacological doses of antioxidant supplements have demonstrated harmful effects in smokers. The aim of the present study was to test the compliance, tolerability and safety of two food-based antioxidant-rich diets in smokers. One of the diets provided antioxidants at levels similar to that used in RCT using supplements which previously have generated harmful effects. The present study followed a randomised, parallel-arm dietary intervention for 8 weeks (n 102) in male smokers (age $ 45 years). Participants were randomised to either antioxidant-rich diet, kiwi fruit or control groups. The antioxidant-rich foods provided about 300 mmol antioxidants/week from a wide range of plant-based food items. The kiwi fruit group consumed three kiwi fruits/d. Compliance to both diets was good. Only mild, undesirable events were reported by a minority of the participants. The safety of both diets was demonstrated as no potentially harmful or pro-oxidative effects were observed. In the antioxidant-rich diet group, the mean intake of antioxidants increased from 30 mmol/d at baseline to 62 mmol/d during the intervention. In conclusion, we have demonstrated that male smokers can comply with two food-based antioxidant-rich diets. Furthermore, the present study is the first to demonstrate the tolerability and safety of dietary antioxidants at levels similar to dosages provided in RCT using supplements. Such diets may be useful in future studies investigating whether dietary antioxidants may reduce oxidative stress and related diseases.

Research paper thumbnail of Antioxidants in Herbs and Spices

Oxidative Stress and Disease, 2011

Research paper thumbnail of Water-miscible, emulsified, and solid forms of retinol supplements are more toxic than oil-based preparations

American Journal of Clinical Nutrition

It is well established that an excessive intake of retinol (vitamin A) is toxic; however, it has ... more It is well established that an excessive intake of retinol (vitamin A) is toxic; however, it has been > 25 y since the last extensive treatise of case reports on this subject. The objectives were to identify and evaluate all individual cases of retinol toxicity published in the scientific literature that assessed the thresholds and symptoms induced by high intakes of retinol and to compare the toxicity of different physical forms of retinol preparations. We performed a meta-analysis of case reports on toxicity claimed to be induced by intakes of excessive amounts of dietary retinol (ie, retinol and retinyl esters in foods or supplements). Using free text and MESH (medical subheading) strategies in PubMed, we identified 248 articles in the scientific literature. From these initial articles we identified other relevant citations. The final database consisted of 259 cases in which individual data on dose, sex, age, time of exposure, and symptoms are reported. Chronic hypervitaminosi...

Research paper thumbnail of Consumption of coffee is associated with reduced risk of death attributed to inflammatory and cardiovascular diseases in the Iowa Women's Health Study1-4

Background: Coffee is the major source of dietary antioxidants. The association between coffee co... more Background: Coffee is the major source of dietary antioxidants. The association between coffee consumption and risk of death from diseases associated with inflammatory or oxidative stress has not been studied. Objective: We studied the relation of coffee drinking with total mortality and mortality attributed to cardiovascular disease, cancer, and other diseases with a major inflammatory component. Design: A total of

Research paper thumbnail of Content of redox-active compounds (ie, antioxidants) in foods consumed in the United States1-3

Background:Supplements containing ascorbic acid,-tocopherol, or-carotenedonotprotectagainstoxidat... more Background:Supplements containing ascorbic acid,-tocopherol, or-carotenedonotprotectagainstoxidativestress-relateddiseases inmostrandomizedinterventiontrials.Wesuggestthatotherredox- activephytochemicalsmaybemoreeffectiveandthatacombination ofdifferentredox-activecompounds(ie,antioxidantsorreductants) may be needed for proper protection against oxidative damage. Objective:Weaimedtogeneratearankedfoodtablewithvaluesfor total content of redox-active compounds to test this alternative an- tioxidant hypothesis. Design: An assay that measures the total concentration of redox- active compounds above a certain cutoff reduction potential was used to analyze 1113 food samples obtained from the US Depart-

Research paper thumbnail of The total antioxidant content of more than 3100 foods, beverages, spices, herbs and supplements used worldwide

Nutrition Journal, 2010

Background: A plant-based diet protects against chronic oxidative stress-related diseases. Dietar... more Background: A plant-based diet protects against chronic oxidative stress-related diseases. Dietary plants contain variable chemical families and amounts of antioxidants. It has been hypothesized that plant antioxidants may contribute to the beneficial health effects of dietary plants. Our objective was to develop a comprehensive food database consisting of the total antioxidant content of typical foods as well as other dietary items such as traditional medicine plants, herbs and spices and dietary supplements. This database is intended for use in a wide range of nutritional research, from in vitro and cell and animal studies, to clinical trials and nutritional epidemiological studies. Methods: We procured samples from countries worldwide and assayed the samples for their total antioxidant content using a modified version of the FRAP assay. Results and sample information (such as country of origin, product and/or brand name) were registered for each individual food sample and constitute the Antioxidant Food Results: The results demonstrate that there are several thousand-fold differences in antioxidant content of foods. Spices, herbs and supplements include the most antioxidant rich products in our study, some exceptionally high. Berries, fruits, nuts, chocolate, vegetables and products thereof constitute common foods and beverages with high antioxidant values.

Research paper thumbnail of Both genetic and dietary factors underlie individual differences in DNA damage levels and DNA repair capacity

DNA Repair, 2014

The interplay between dietary habits and individual genetic make-up is assumed to influence risk ... more The interplay between dietary habits and individual genetic make-up is assumed to influence risk of cancer, via modulation of DNA integrity. Our aim was to characterize internal and external factors that underlie inter-individual variability in DNA damage and repair and to identify dietary habits beneficial for maintaining DNA integrity. Habitual diet was estimated in 340 healthy individuals using a food frequency questionnaire and biomarkers of antioxidant status were quantified in fasting blood samples. Markers of DNA integrity were represented by DNA strand breaks, oxidized purines, oxidized pyrimidines and a sum of all three as total DNA damage. DNA repair was characterized by genetic variants and functional activities of base and nucleotide excision repair pathways. Sex, fruit-based food consumption and XPG genotype were factors significantly associated with the level of DNA damage. DNA damage was higher in women (p=0.035). Fruit consumption was negatively associated with the number of all measured DNA lesions, and this effect was mediated mostly by β-cryptoxanthin and β-tocopherol (p&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;0.05). XPG 1104His homozygotes appeared more vulnerable to DNA damage accumulation (p=0.001). Sex and individual antioxidants were also associated with DNA repair capacity; both the base and nucleotide excision repairs were lower in women and the latter increased with higher plasma levels of ascorbic acid and α-carotene (p&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;0.05). We have determined genetic and dietary factors that modulate DNA integrity. We propose that the positive health effect of fruit intake is partially mediated via DNA damage suppression and a simultaneous increase in DNA repair capacity.

Research paper thumbnail of Food items contributing most to variation in antioxidant intake; a cross-sectional study among Norwegian women

BMC Public Health, 2014

Background: Fruit and vegetable intake has been found to reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseas... more Background: Fruit and vegetable intake has been found to reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease, certain types of cancer and diabetes mellitus. It is possible that antioxidants play a large part in this protective effect. However, which foods account for the variation in antioxidant intake in a population is not very clear. We used food frequency data from a population-based sample of women to identify the food items that contributed most to the variation in antioxidant intake in Norwegian diet. Methods: We used data from a study conducted among participants in the Norwegian Breast Cancer Screening Program (NBCSP), the national program which invites women aged 50-69 years to mammographic screening every 2 years. A subset of 6514 women who attended the screening in 2006/2007 completed a food frequency questionnaire (FFQ). Daily intake of energy, nutrients and antioxidant intake were estimated. We used multiple linear regression analysis to capture the variation in antioxidant intake. Results: The mean (SD) antioxidant intake was 23.0 (8.5) mmol/day. Coffee consumption explained 54% of the variation in antioxidant intake, while fruits and vegetables explained 22%. The twenty food items that contributed most to the total variation in antioxidant intake explained 98% of the variation in intake. These included different types of coffee, tea, red wine, blueberries, walnuts, oranges, cinnamon and broccoli. Conclusions: In this study we identified a list of food items which capture the variation in antioxidant intake among these women. The major contributors to dietary total antioxidant intake were coffee, tea, red wine, blueberries, walnuts, oranges, cinnamon and broccoli. These items should be assessed in as much detail as possible in studies that wish to capture the variation in antioxidant intake.

Research paper thumbnail of Additional file 1: of Total antioxidant intake and prostate cancer in the Cancer of the Prostate in Sweden (CAPS) study. A case control study

FRAP values. Description: Supplementary table of FRAP values from food, beverages and dietary sup... more FRAP values. Description: Supplementary table of FRAP values from food, beverages and dietary supplements unique for the Scandinavian market, and not included in antioxidant food table. (DOCX 119 kb)

Research paper thumbnail of Open Access

The total antioxidant content of more than 3100 foods, beverages, spices, herbs and supplements u... more The total antioxidant content of more than 3100 foods, beverages, spices, herbs and supplements used worldwide

Research paper thumbnail of New Iodine Food Composition Database and Updated Calculations of Iodine Intake among Norwegians

Nutrients, 2018

Iodine food composition data of Norwegian foods have been sparse and knowledge about different di... more Iodine food composition data of Norwegian foods have been sparse and knowledge about different dietary iodine sources limited. We compiled a comprehensive iodine food composition database and estimated dietary iodine intake among adults in the latest Norwegian national dietary survey (Norkost 3). The iodine content of food and beverages were compiled using international guidelines and standards. Iodine content of 3259 food items were compiled, including analytical values, values from other food composition databases, estimated values, and values that were based on recipes. Estimated iodine intake in the Norkost 3 population ranged from 15 to 1462 µg/day. Men had significantly higher intake of iodine than women (p < 0.001). The proportion of men and women with estimated iodine intake below average requirement was 19% and 33%, respectively. In young women, 46% had estimated iodine intakes below average requirement and a high probability of inadequate iodine intake. Several dietary ...

Research paper thumbnail of Dietary Intake, Body Composition, and Oral Health Parameters among Female Patients with Primary Sjögren's Syndrome

Nutrients, Jan 4, 2018

There is limited knowledge about dietary intake and body composition among patients with primary ... more There is limited knowledge about dietary intake and body composition among patients with primary Sjögren's syndrome. We assessed dietary intakes with 24-h recalls and body composition with anthropometry and bioelectrical impedance in 20 female patients. Various scoring tools were used to assess oral health. The patients had a lower energy percentage (E%) from carbohydrates ( = 0.02) and a higher E% from fat ( = 0.01) compared to a reference group. The lower intake of carbohydrates was due to a lower bread intake ( = 0.04), while the higher intake of fat was due to a higher intake of butter, margarine, and oil ( = 0.01). The patients ate more than twice ( = 0.02) as much fish as the reference group. The compliance to recommended intakes of macro- and micronutrients was good. Forty-percent of the patients were overweight/obese. Increased intake of beverages was observed in patients with severe xerostomia and/or low oral health-related quality of life, whereas reduced fat intake wa...

Research paper thumbnail of The validity of a web-based FFQ assessed by doubly labelled water and multiple 24-h recalls

The British journal of nutrition, 2017

The aim of this study was to validate the estimated habitual dietary intake from a newly develope... more The aim of this study was to validate the estimated habitual dietary intake from a newly developed web-based FFQ (WebFFQ), for use in an adult population in Norway. In total, ninety-two individuals were recruited. Total energy expenditure (TEE) measured by doubly labelled water was used as the reference method for energy intake (EI) in a subsample of twenty-nine women, and multiple 24-h recalls (24HR) were used as the reference method for the relative validation of macronutrients and food groups in the entire sample. Absolute differences, ratios, crude and deattenuated correlations, cross-classifications, Bland-Altman plot and plots between misreporting of EI (EI-TEE) and the relative misreporting of food groups (WebFFQ-24HR) were used to assess the validity. Results showed that EI on group level was not significantly different from TEE measured by doubly labelled water (0·7 MJ/d), but ranking abilities were poor (r -0·18). The relative validation showed an overestimation for the ma...

Research paper thumbnail of Total antioxidant intake and prostate cancer in the Cancer of the Prostate in Sweden (CAPS) study. A case control study

BMC Cancer, 2016

Background: The total intake of dietary antioxidants may reduce prostate cancer risk but availabl... more Background: The total intake of dietary antioxidants may reduce prostate cancer risk but available data are sparse and the possible role of supplements unclear. We investigated the potential association between total and dietary antioxidant intake and prostate cancer in a Swedish population. Methods: We used FFQ data from 1499 cases and 1112 controls in the population based case-control study Cancer of the Prostate in Sweden (CAPS). The ferric reducing antioxidant potential (FRAP) assay was used to assess the total antioxidant capacity (TAC) of diet and supplements. We calculated odds ratios (ORs) for the risk of prostate cancer across quintiles of antioxidant intake from all foods, from fruit and vegetables only, and from dietary supplements using unconditional logistic regression. Results: Coffee comprised 62 % of the dietary antioxidant intake, tea 4 %, berries 4 %, chocolate 2 %, and boiled potatoes 2 %. In total 19 % and 13 % of the population took multivitamins and supplemental Vitamin C respectively, on a regular basis. Antioxidant intake from all foods and from fruits and vegetables separately measured by the FRAP assay was not associated with prostate cancer risk. For antioxidant intake from supplements we found a positive association with total, advanced, localized, high grade and low grade prostate cancer in those above median supplemental TAC intake of users compared to non-users (Adjusted ORs for total prostate cancer: 1.

Research paper thumbnail of Associations between reported intakes of carotenoid-rich foods and concentrations of carotenoids in plasma: a validation study of a web-based food recall for children and adolescents

Public health nutrition, Jan 27, 2016

To validate estimated intakes of carotenoid-rich foods from a web-based food recall (WebFR) using... more To validate estimated intakes of carotenoid-rich foods from a web-based food recall (WebFR) using carotenoids in blood as an objective reference method. Cross-sectional validation study using carotenoids in plasma to evaluate estimated intakes of selected carotenoid-rich foods. Participants recorded their food intake in the WebFR and plasma concentrations of β-carotene, α-carotene, β-cryptoxanthin, lycopene, lutein and zeaxanthin were measured. Schools and homes of families in a suburb of the capital of Norway. A total of 261 participants in the age groups 8-9 and 12-14 years. Spearman's rank correlation coefficients ranged from 0·30 to 0·44, and cross-classification showed that 71·6-76·6 % of the participants were correctly classified, when comparing the reported intakes of carotenoid-rich foods and concentrations of the corresponding carotenoids in plasma, not including lutein and zeaxanthin. Correlations were acceptable and cross-classification analyses demonstrated that the ...

Research paper thumbnail of Andersen LF, Jacobs Jr DR, Carlsen MH, Blomhoff R. Consumption of coffee is associated with reduced risk of death attributed to inflammatory and cardiovascular diseases in the Iowa Women's Health Study. Am J Clin Nutr 83, 1039-1046

American Journal of Clinical Nutrition

ABSTRACT

Research paper thumbnail of Antioxidants in Nuts and Seeds

Nuts and Seeds in Health and Disease Prevention, 2011

Publisher Summary This chapter discusses the potential role of antioxidants in nuts and seeds in ... more Publisher Summary This chapter discusses the potential role of antioxidants in nuts and seeds in oxidative stress and related diseases. Free radicals and other reactive oxygen and nitrogen species (ROS and RNS) are formed as a result of normal cellular oxidative metabolic reactions. Compelling evidence has emerged in the past two decades demonstrating that oxidative stress is intimately involved in the pathophysiology of many seemingly unrelated types of diseases. Thus, oxidative stress is now thought to make a significant contribution to many different types of diseases. A complex endogenous antioxidant defense system has been developed to counteract oxidative damage and oxidative stress. Walnuts contain massive amounts of antioxidants. Pecans, chestnuts, peanuts, pistachios, and sunflower seeds are very rich in total antioxidants. Hazelnuts, almonds, Brazil nuts, macadamias, pine kernels, cashew nuts, flax seeds, poppy seeds, and sesame seeds contain significant amounts of total antioxidants. The highly reactive and bioactive phytochemical antioxidants are postulated to explain in part the protective effect of plant foods. An optimal mixture of different antioxidants with complementary mechanisms of action and different redox potentials is postulated to work in synergistic interactions. The antioxidant food table is a valuable research contribution, expanding the research evidence base for plant-based nutritional research, and may be utilized in epidemiological studies where reported food intakes can be assigned antioxidant values.

Research paper thumbnail of Evaluation of energy and dietary intake estimates from a food frequency questionnaire using independent energy expenditure measurement and weighed food records

Nutrition Journal, 2010

Background: We have developed a food frequency questionnaire (FFQ) for the assessment of habitual... more Background: We have developed a food frequency questionnaire (FFQ) for the assessment of habitual diet, with special focus on the intake of fruit, vegetables and other antioxidant-rich foods and beverages. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the relative validity of the intakes of energy, food and nutrients from the FFQ. Methods: Energy intake was evaluated against independent measures of energy expenditure using the ActiReg® system (motion detection), whereas 7-days weighed food records were used to study the relative validity of food and nutrient intake. The relationship between methods was investigated using correlation analyses and crossclassification of participants. The visual agreement between the methods was evaluated using Bland-Altman plots. Results: We observed that the FFQ underestimated the energy intake by approximately 11% compared to the energy expenditure measured by the ActiReg®. The correlation coefficient between energy intake and energy expenditure was 0.54 and 32% of the participants were defined as under-reporters. Compared to the weighed food records the percentages of energy from fat and added sugar from the FFQ were underestimated, whereas the percentage of energy from total carbohydrates and protein were slightly overestimated. The intake of foods rich in antioxidants did not vary significantly between the FFQ and weighed food records, with the exceptions of berries, coffee, tea and vegetables which were overestimated. Spearman's Rank Order Correlations between FFQ and weighed food records were 0.41 for berries, 0.58 for chocolate, 0.78 for coffee, 0.61 for fruit, 0.57 for fruit and berry juices, 0.40 for nuts, 0.74 for tea, 0.38 for vegetables and 0.70 for the intake of wine. Conclusions: Our new FFQ provides a good estimate of the average energy intake and it obtains valid data on average intake of most antioxidant-rich foods and beverages. Our study also showed that the FFQs ability to rank participants according to intake of total antioxidants and most of the antioxidant-rich foods was good.

Research paper thumbnail of Reproducibility and feasibility of an online self-administered food frequency questionnaire for use among adult Norwegians

Food & Nutrition Research, 2021

Background: New methods of dietary assessment are increasingly making use of online technologies.... more Background: New methods of dietary assessment are increasingly making use of online technologies. The development of a new online food frequency questionnaire warranted investigation of its feasibility and the reproducibility of its results. Objective: To investigate the feasibility and reproducibility of a newly developed online FFQ (WebFFQ). Design: The semiquantitative WebFFQ was designed to assess the habitual diet the previous year, with questions about frequency of intake and portion sizes. Estimations of portion sizes include both pictures and household measures, depending on the type of food in question. In two independent cross-sectional studies conducted in 2015 and 2016, adults were recruited by post following random selection from the general population. In the first study, participants (n = 229) filled in the WebFFQ and answered questions about its feasibility, and in two subsequent focus group meetings, participants (n = 9) discussed and gave feedback about the feasibi...

Research paper thumbnail of RESEARCH Open Access

The total antioxidant content of more than 3100 foods, beverages, spices, herbs and supplements u... more The total antioxidant content of more than 3100 foods, beverages, spices, herbs and supplements used worldwide (Article begins on next page) The Harvard community has made this article openly available. Please share how this access benefits you. Your story matters.

Research paper thumbnail of Compliance, tolerability and safety of two antioxidant-rich diets: a randomised controlled trial in male smokers

British Journal of Nutrition, 2011

It has been suggested that antioxidants attenuate oxidative stress and prevent oxidative stress-r... more It has been suggested that antioxidants attenuate oxidative stress and prevent oxidative stress-related diseases. Paradoxically, randomised controlled trials (RCT) using pharmacological doses of antioxidant supplements have demonstrated harmful effects in smokers. The aim of the present study was to test the compliance, tolerability and safety of two food-based antioxidant-rich diets in smokers. One of the diets provided antioxidants at levels similar to that used in RCT using supplements which previously have generated harmful effects. The present study followed a randomised, parallel-arm dietary intervention for 8 weeks (n 102) in male smokers (age $ 45 years). Participants were randomised to either antioxidant-rich diet, kiwi fruit or control groups. The antioxidant-rich foods provided about 300 mmol antioxidants/week from a wide range of plant-based food items. The kiwi fruit group consumed three kiwi fruits/d. Compliance to both diets was good. Only mild, undesirable events were reported by a minority of the participants. The safety of both diets was demonstrated as no potentially harmful or pro-oxidative effects were observed. In the antioxidant-rich diet group, the mean intake of antioxidants increased from 30 mmol/d at baseline to 62 mmol/d during the intervention. In conclusion, we have demonstrated that male smokers can comply with two food-based antioxidant-rich diets. Furthermore, the present study is the first to demonstrate the tolerability and safety of dietary antioxidants at levels similar to dosages provided in RCT using supplements. Such diets may be useful in future studies investigating whether dietary antioxidants may reduce oxidative stress and related diseases.

Research paper thumbnail of Antioxidants in Herbs and Spices

Oxidative Stress and Disease, 2011

Research paper thumbnail of Water-miscible, emulsified, and solid forms of retinol supplements are more toxic than oil-based preparations

American Journal of Clinical Nutrition

It is well established that an excessive intake of retinol (vitamin A) is toxic; however, it has ... more It is well established that an excessive intake of retinol (vitamin A) is toxic; however, it has been > 25 y since the last extensive treatise of case reports on this subject. The objectives were to identify and evaluate all individual cases of retinol toxicity published in the scientific literature that assessed the thresholds and symptoms induced by high intakes of retinol and to compare the toxicity of different physical forms of retinol preparations. We performed a meta-analysis of case reports on toxicity claimed to be induced by intakes of excessive amounts of dietary retinol (ie, retinol and retinyl esters in foods or supplements). Using free text and MESH (medical subheading) strategies in PubMed, we identified 248 articles in the scientific literature. From these initial articles we identified other relevant citations. The final database consisted of 259 cases in which individual data on dose, sex, age, time of exposure, and symptoms are reported. Chronic hypervitaminosi...

Research paper thumbnail of Consumption of coffee is associated with reduced risk of death attributed to inflammatory and cardiovascular diseases in the Iowa Women's Health Study1-4

Background: Coffee is the major source of dietary antioxidants. The association between coffee co... more Background: Coffee is the major source of dietary antioxidants. The association between coffee consumption and risk of death from diseases associated with inflammatory or oxidative stress has not been studied. Objective: We studied the relation of coffee drinking with total mortality and mortality attributed to cardiovascular disease, cancer, and other diseases with a major inflammatory component. Design: A total of

Research paper thumbnail of Content of redox-active compounds (ie, antioxidants) in foods consumed in the United States1-3

Background:Supplements containing ascorbic acid,-tocopherol, or-carotenedonotprotectagainstoxidat... more Background:Supplements containing ascorbic acid,-tocopherol, or-carotenedonotprotectagainstoxidativestress-relateddiseases inmostrandomizedinterventiontrials.Wesuggestthatotherredox- activephytochemicalsmaybemoreeffectiveandthatacombination ofdifferentredox-activecompounds(ie,antioxidantsorreductants) may be needed for proper protection against oxidative damage. Objective:Weaimedtogeneratearankedfoodtablewithvaluesfor total content of redox-active compounds to test this alternative an- tioxidant hypothesis. Design: An assay that measures the total concentration of redox- active compounds above a certain cutoff reduction potential was used to analyze 1113 food samples obtained from the US Depart-

Research paper thumbnail of The total antioxidant content of more than 3100 foods, beverages, spices, herbs and supplements used worldwide

Nutrition Journal, 2010

Background: A plant-based diet protects against chronic oxidative stress-related diseases. Dietar... more Background: A plant-based diet protects against chronic oxidative stress-related diseases. Dietary plants contain variable chemical families and amounts of antioxidants. It has been hypothesized that plant antioxidants may contribute to the beneficial health effects of dietary plants. Our objective was to develop a comprehensive food database consisting of the total antioxidant content of typical foods as well as other dietary items such as traditional medicine plants, herbs and spices and dietary supplements. This database is intended for use in a wide range of nutritional research, from in vitro and cell and animal studies, to clinical trials and nutritional epidemiological studies. Methods: We procured samples from countries worldwide and assayed the samples for their total antioxidant content using a modified version of the FRAP assay. Results and sample information (such as country of origin, product and/or brand name) were registered for each individual food sample and constitute the Antioxidant Food Results: The results demonstrate that there are several thousand-fold differences in antioxidant content of foods. Spices, herbs and supplements include the most antioxidant rich products in our study, some exceptionally high. Berries, fruits, nuts, chocolate, vegetables and products thereof constitute common foods and beverages with high antioxidant values.

Research paper thumbnail of Both genetic and dietary factors underlie individual differences in DNA damage levels and DNA repair capacity

DNA Repair, 2014

The interplay between dietary habits and individual genetic make-up is assumed to influence risk ... more The interplay between dietary habits and individual genetic make-up is assumed to influence risk of cancer, via modulation of DNA integrity. Our aim was to characterize internal and external factors that underlie inter-individual variability in DNA damage and repair and to identify dietary habits beneficial for maintaining DNA integrity. Habitual diet was estimated in 340 healthy individuals using a food frequency questionnaire and biomarkers of antioxidant status were quantified in fasting blood samples. Markers of DNA integrity were represented by DNA strand breaks, oxidized purines, oxidized pyrimidines and a sum of all three as total DNA damage. DNA repair was characterized by genetic variants and functional activities of base and nucleotide excision repair pathways. Sex, fruit-based food consumption and XPG genotype were factors significantly associated with the level of DNA damage. DNA damage was higher in women (p=0.035). Fruit consumption was negatively associated with the number of all measured DNA lesions, and this effect was mediated mostly by β-cryptoxanthin and β-tocopherol (p&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;0.05). XPG 1104His homozygotes appeared more vulnerable to DNA damage accumulation (p=0.001). Sex and individual antioxidants were also associated with DNA repair capacity; both the base and nucleotide excision repairs were lower in women and the latter increased with higher plasma levels of ascorbic acid and α-carotene (p&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;0.05). We have determined genetic and dietary factors that modulate DNA integrity. We propose that the positive health effect of fruit intake is partially mediated via DNA damage suppression and a simultaneous increase in DNA repair capacity.

Research paper thumbnail of Food items contributing most to variation in antioxidant intake; a cross-sectional study among Norwegian women

BMC Public Health, 2014

Background: Fruit and vegetable intake has been found to reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseas... more Background: Fruit and vegetable intake has been found to reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease, certain types of cancer and diabetes mellitus. It is possible that antioxidants play a large part in this protective effect. However, which foods account for the variation in antioxidant intake in a population is not very clear. We used food frequency data from a population-based sample of women to identify the food items that contributed most to the variation in antioxidant intake in Norwegian diet. Methods: We used data from a study conducted among participants in the Norwegian Breast Cancer Screening Program (NBCSP), the national program which invites women aged 50-69 years to mammographic screening every 2 years. A subset of 6514 women who attended the screening in 2006/2007 completed a food frequency questionnaire (FFQ). Daily intake of energy, nutrients and antioxidant intake were estimated. We used multiple linear regression analysis to capture the variation in antioxidant intake. Results: The mean (SD) antioxidant intake was 23.0 (8.5) mmol/day. Coffee consumption explained 54% of the variation in antioxidant intake, while fruits and vegetables explained 22%. The twenty food items that contributed most to the total variation in antioxidant intake explained 98% of the variation in intake. These included different types of coffee, tea, red wine, blueberries, walnuts, oranges, cinnamon and broccoli. Conclusions: In this study we identified a list of food items which capture the variation in antioxidant intake among these women. The major contributors to dietary total antioxidant intake were coffee, tea, red wine, blueberries, walnuts, oranges, cinnamon and broccoli. These items should be assessed in as much detail as possible in studies that wish to capture the variation in antioxidant intake.