Displaying publications 1 - 20 of 84 in total

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  1. Wong, Jyh Eiin, Ahmad Munir Che Muhamed, Poh, Bee Koon
    MyJurnal
    Introduction: Accurate yet inexpensive methods for measuring free-living energy expenditure (EE) are
    much needed. The aim of this study was to determine the feasibility of heart-rate monitoring method
    (HRM) in measuring EE as compared to the established activity diary (AD) method. Methodology:
    Minute-by-minute HRM and an activity diary (AD) were used simultaneously in 34 young adults (18
    females, 16 males; mean age 21.5 ± 1.5 years). Estimates of the EE from HRM were based on individual
    calibration using the Flex-HR procedure while EE from AD were calculated using both individually
    measured and published energy cost of various activities. Total daily energy expenditure (TDEE) and its
    components (EE during sleep, during rest and during physical activity) were compared using Student
    paired-t tests. Results: TDEE from HRM method averaged 8.17 ± 2.00 MJ/day compared to 8.50 ±
    1.28 MJ/day from AD method. Although large intra-individual differences were found (ranging from
    -36.9% to 47.4%), there was no significant difference between the two methods (mean difference -3.6 ± 19.4%). The limits of agreement (mean ± 2SD) were -3.77 and 3.11 MJ/day. There were no significant
    differences for any of the TDEE components between the two methods, except for EE during sleep
    (p
  2. Razalee Sedek, Poh Bee Koon, Mohd Ismail Noor
    Sains Malaysiana, 2013;42:1181-1190.
    Kajian pengetahuan pemakanan dalam kalangan pelbagai kumpulan populasi kerap dilaporkan tetapi kajian berkaitan dalam kalangan tentera jarang dilaporkan. Tujuan kajian ini adalah untuk menentukan tahap pengetahuan pemakanan dan amalan penggunaan suplemen dalam kalangan anggota Tentera Laut Diraja Malaysia (TLDM). Sejumlah 909 anggota TLDM berpangkalan di Lumut, Kuantan dan Johor terlibat dalam kajian ini. Soal selidik digunakan bagi menentukan latar belakang, ciri-ciri sosio demografi, pengetahuan pemakanan dan penggunaan suplemen. Pengukuran antropometri yang dijalankan termasuk berat dan tinggi. Keputusan menunjukkan bahawa min skor pengetahuan pemakanan subjek ialah 62.5% iaitu pada tahap pengetahuan sederhana. Min skor pengetahuan pemakanan adalah lebih tinggi dalam kalangan anggota di Pangkalan Lumut, lebih berusia, lebih berpendidikan, berpangkat pegawai dan berat badan berlebihan. Sumber maklumat pemakanan yang paling popular ialah televisyen/radio (27.3%), kursus/seminar (24.9%) dan doktor/jururawat (21.6%). Sejumlah 36% subjek melaporkan menggunakan sekurang-kurangnya satu atau lebih suplemen dalam seminggu dan ini termasuk 5.8% yang menggunakannya setiap hari. Kajian asas ini dijangka memberikan maklumat berguna kepada Angkatan Tentera Malaysia dan adalah dicadangkan pendidikan pemakanan perlu diperkenalkan dalam program latihan anggota TLDM bagi memastikan status kesihatan anggota sentiasa terpelihara.
  3. Lee, Szu Ming, Poh, Bee Koon, Mohd Ismail Noor, Ahmad Fuad Shamsuddin
    MyJurnal
    Kafein mempunyai kesan ergogenik terhadap golongan yang terlatih; walaubagaimanapun, kajian kesan fisiologi kafein terhadap golongan sedentari adalah amat terhad. Tujuan kajian ini adalah untuk mengkaji kesan kafein ke atas penggunaan oksigen dan tanggapan tahap lesu semasa senaman intensiti sederhana dalam kalangan dewasa muda perempuan yang sedentari. Subjek terdiri daripada 16 orang mahasiswi yang berumur antara 22 hingga 24 tahun. Kriteria penerimaan adalah tahap aktiviti fizikal yang rendah dan pengambilan kafein adalah kurang daripada 50 mg sehari, disaring dengan menggunakan Soal Selidik Aktiviti Fizikal Antarabangsa (versi pendek) dan soal selidik pengambilan kafein. Reka bentuk kajian eksperimental ini adalah buta tunggal, pindah silang, kawalan plasebo dengan semua subjek menjadi kawalannya tersendiri. Subjek dikehendaki malaporkan diri ke makmal untuk menjalankan dua sesi eksperimen selepas masing-masing mengambil kapsul plasebo atau kafein dengan selang masa 3 hari antara dua sesi eksperimen tersebut. Enam puluh minit selepas mengambil kapsul plasebo (Glucolin, glukosa) atau 100 mg kafein (Pro-plus, United Kingdom), subjek dikehendaki berlari di atas treadmill selama 30 minit pada kuasa kerja yang bersamaan 60% daripada anggaran maksimum kadar denyutan jantung. Penggunaan oksigen, kadar denyutan jantung dan tanggapan tahap lesu direkod pada minit ke-20, ke-25 dan ke-30, manakala tekanan darah direkod serta-merta selepas subjek menghabiskan larian. Perbezaan direkod selepas kesemua subjek menyempurnakan kedua-dua eksperimen plasebo dan kafein. Min peratus lemak tubuh subjek adalah 28.4 ± 5.4. Ujian t bersandar menunjukkan tiada perbezaan signifikan antara trial plasebo dengan trial kafein ke atas penggunaan oksigen (13.99 ± 2.47 vs 14.49 ± 1.73, p = 0.440), tanggapan tahap lesu (12.3 ± 2.5 vs 12.3 ± 2.1, p = 1.000), tekanan darah sistolik (113 ± 10 vs 117 ± 11, p = 0.129), tekanan diastolik (67 ± 8 vs 69 ± 10, p = 0.408) dan kadar denyutan jantung (127.3 ± 11.0 vs 127.1 ± 11.6, p = 0.912). Terdapat korelasi negatif tinggi yang signifikan antara peratusan lemak tubuh dengan pengambilan oksigen (r = –0.568, p < 0.05) serta korelasi positif tinggi yang signifikan antara peratusan lemak tubuh dengan tanggapan tahap lesu (r = 0.515, p < 0.05). Hasil kajian tidak meningkatkan kesan yang signifikan mungkin disebabkan oleh kesan saiz (effect size) kajian ini yang kecil (d = 0.24). Justeru itu, kajian masa depan yang melibatkan lebih ramai subjek harus dijalankan untuk mengkaji kesan kafein semasa senaman dalam kalangan populasi sedentari.
  4. Ruzita Abd Talib, Lim, Shi Han, Hanee Fakhrurazi, Siti Sabariah Buhari, Poh, Bee Koon
    MyJurnal
    Media pendidikan bercetak merupakan saluran komunikasi yang utama dalam pendidikan kesihatan awam. Namun, kajian tempatan yang menilai penerimaan media pendidikan bercetak masih terhad di Malaysia. Maka, kajian ini dilakukan untuk menilai media pendidikan bercetak sedia ada yang mensasarkan obesiti di kalangan kanak-kanak untuk kegunaan dalam program pendidikan atau promosi pemakanan. Kajian ini melibatkan dua peringkat. Peringkat pertama merupakan tinjauan keperluan iaitu tinjauan terhadap media pendidikan bercetak sedia ada yang mensasarkan kanak kanak yang mengalami masalah berlebihan berat badan dan obes dan kajian rintis terhadap borang soal selidik yang dibentuk. Manakala peringkat kedua adalah penilaian penerimaan subjek kajian terhadap media pendidikan bercetak dan perubahan tahap pengetahuan mereka selepas membaca media pendidikan bercetak yang diberikan. Skala Likertn digunakan dalam penilaian ini iaitu daripada 1 (sangat tidak memuaskan) hingga 5 (sangat memuaskan). Jumlah subjek dalam kajian ini adalah seramai 67 orang yang terdiri daripada golongan profesional dalam bidang pendidikan dan kesihatan (n = 7), subjek dewasa (n = 30) dan subjek kanak-kanak (n = 30). Di dalam kajian ini, subjek dewasa diberi satu buku kecil yang mengandungi maklumat berkenaan pencegahan dan pengurusan masalah obesiti di kalangan kanak-kanak seperti komplikasi masalah obesiti dan penyediaan makanan. Subjek kanak-kanak pula menerima satu buku kecil yang mengandungi maklumat berkenaan piramid makanan, kepentingan sarapan, aktiviti fi zikal dan sebagainya di samping satu poster yang mengandungi maklumat berkenaan pemilihan makanan sihat. Manakala golongan profesional menerima semua media pendidikan bercetak ini. Kajian ini mendapati penerimaan subjek terhadap isi kandungan, gambar, jadual dan rajah, warna, susun atur gambar, susun atur kandungan, bahasa dan saiz huruf bagi ketiga-tiga media pendidikan bercetak adalah pelbagai, iaitu daripada sangat tidak memuaskan hingga sangat memuaskan. Min skor penilaian keseluruhan terhadap buku kecil yang mensasarkan populasi dewasa adalah 3.9 ± 0.5 manakala min skor penilaian keseluruhan terhadap buku kecil yang mensasarkan populasi kanak-kanak adalah 4.3 ± 0.4 dan poster adalah 3.9 ± 0.9. Skor pengetahuan pemakanan golongan profesional meningkat dari 88.6 ± 11.2% kepada 95.5 ± 3.2% selepas membaca media tersebut. Skor pengetahuan pemakanan subjek dewasa juga meningkat secara signifi kan (p < 0.001)daripada 67.7 ± 13.6% kepada 84.8 ± 15.9%; bagi subjek kanak-kanak, skor pengetahuan pemakanan juga meningkat secara signifi kan (p < 0.001) daripada 65.3 ± 14.4% kepada 84.0 ± 11.4%. Kesimpulannya, media pendidikan bercetak sedia ada mendapat penerimaan yang baik dan dapat meningkatkan tahap pengetahuan kumpulan sasaran. Oleh itu, media pendidikan bercetak tersebut sesuai digunakan dalam mana-mana program pendidikan pemakanan yang berkaitan dengan obesiti kanak-kanak.
  5. Norhayati Mohd Zain, Kanaga, Kumari Chelliah, Vengkatha, Priya Seriramulu, Shantini Arasaratnam, Poh, Bee Koon
    Jurnal Sains Kesihatan Malaysia, 2017;15(22):137-144.
    MyJurnal
    Daily food intake of women may affect their bone health by altering their bone mineral density (BMD) as the lack of certain
    nutrients may affect bone integrity whilst, BMD also can be a predictor of breast cancer. To date, many studies have been
    conducted to discuss on association of BMD and mammographic breast density (MBD) and how both are related to breast
    cancer risks but no consideration has been made on dietary intake. Therefore, this study was designed to determine
    the association of dietary intake with BMD and other breast cancer risk factors. A cross-sectional study on 76 pre- and
    postmenopausal women above 40 years underwent mammogram screening and Dual Energy X-ray Absorptiometry (DEXA)
    was conducted in Hospital Kuala Lumpur (HKL) for the duration of 1 year. Purposive sampling method was used to choose
    the respondents. Women who are diagnosed with breast cancer and underwent cancer treatment were excluded from this
    study. DEXA unit (Hologic Discovery W, Hologic, Inc) were used to measure BMD at the femoral neck and lumbar spine in
    grams per centimetre squared (g/cm2
    ) and they were classified into normal and abnormal group based on the T-scores.
    The subjects were asked about their daily dietary pattern for a duration of three days using Diet History Questionnaire
    (DHQ). The mean of selected characteristics were compared between groups. Additionally, binary logistic regression was
    used to determine the association between diet intake with BMD and other risk factors of breast cancer. The total number
    of pre- and postmenopausal women who consented to participate in this study are equal. The mean age was 47.1 years
    and 54.9 years for premenopausal and postmenopausal women respectively. The results indicate only menopausal age of
    the women was statistically significant (p < 0.05). A number of 17% premenopausal and 9% of postmenopausal women
    showed to have family history of breast cancer, however, it was not statistically significant (p = 0.12). There was no
    significant difference in daily energy intake of food in both groups (p = 0.22). None of the nutrients in daily food intake
    showed to be statistically significant. Menstrual status showed an association with BMD with p < 0.05 and the remaining
    risk factors did not show any association. Logistic regression revealed that only menstrual status had correlation with
    BMD in both groups. This study provided the dietary pattern and the effects on bone health. The association of other risk
    factors of breast cancer with BMD were also analysed and most of it showed a negative association.
  6. Siti Asilah Yusof, Roslee Rajikan, Zahara Abdul Manaf, Poh, Bee Koon
    Jurnal Sains Kesihatan Malaysia, 2017;15(22):163-172.
    MyJurnal
    Inclination towards nutrition beliefs by parents and caregivers plays an important role in the dietary intake of children
    with leukemia. However, local studies examining on the nutrition practices and dietary beliefs among caregivers of
    leukemia patients are very limited. This study aims to assess nutrition beliefs among caregivers of children with leukemia
    and healthcare professionals at the Pediatric Institute of Kuala Lumpur Hospital (IPHKL), Malaysia. This qualitative
    study was conducted to assess the beliefs and practices towards certain foods among caregivers of pediatric leukemia
    patients. Thirty subjects comprising a group of 10 health care professionals and 20 caregivers were interviewed using
    semi-structured interview method. The interviews were transcribed and analyzed using ATLAS.ti. version 7.5.6 qualitative
    analysis software and subsequently several themes.were obtained. Five themes emerged from this analysis that are
    (1) beliefs about foods that can cure cancer, (2) beliefs related to consumption of meat and dairy products, (3) beliefs
    towards foods containing pesticides, (4) beliefs that certain food causes itchiness, and (5) source of nutrition information
    and nutrition knowledge of caregivers. This study proves that beliefs in various myths related to nutrition and dietary
    practices exist among caregivers and health professionals group. Information from these findings can provide perspective
    on the beliefs towards dietary practices among caregivers of children with leukemia and healthcare professionals. This
    is important for the healthcare professions, especially when planning the strategies for caregivers’ nutrition education
    in order to improve the nutritional status of childhood leukemia patients.
  7. Devanthini Dewi Gunasekaran, Ruzita Abd Talib, Razinah Sharif, Poh Bee Koon, Nik Shanita Safii, Mahadir Ahmad
    Jurnal Sains Kesihatan Malaysia, 2018;16(101):119-127.
    MyJurnal
    The global prevalence of overweight and obesity among children has increased rapidly in the recent decades, including in Malaysia. Thus, development of effective interventions to prevent childhood obesity in Malaysia is urgently needed. This paper describes the study design of a 12-week multi-component, school-based nutrition education programme aimed at managing childhood obesity. The objective of Juara Sihat™ is to determine the effectiveness of a nutrition education programme in improving anthropometric status, knowledge, attitude and practice (KAP) of nutrition, eating habits and physical activity level among overweight and obese children. This quasi-experimental study involves two primary schools in Kuala Lumpur with similar demographic characteristics. Eligibility criteria of research participants are overweight and obese children aged 9 to 11 years. The main components of the Juara Sihat™ intervention are nutrition education classes on healthy eating and active lifestyle; physical activity sessions; and active involvements of parents and teachers. The control school does not receive any interventions. The primary outcome is BMI-for-age z-score, while other outcomes include waist circumference, body fat percentage, KAP of nutrition score, dietary intake, physical activity level, sedentary behaviour and biochemical profile. Outcome measures will be assessed at three intervals: baseline, post-intervention 1 (3-month follow-up), and post-intervention 2 (6-month follow-up). The Juara Sihat™ programme represents a promising approach to examining the effectiveness of a school-based childhood obesity intervention with strong empowerment of Parents’ and Teachers’ Association (PTA). We anticipate that this study may provide insights towards the development of more effective strategies in formulating childhood obesity interventions.
  8. Mok, Wilfred Kok Hoe, Devanthini Dewi Gunasekaran, Wee, Lei Hum, Poh, Bee Koon, Ruzita Abd. Talib
    Jurnal Sains Kesihatan Malaysia, 2019;17(3):157-167.
    MyJurnal
    Global prevalence of childhood overweight and obesity have increased drastically in the past years, including in Malaysia. School-based obesity intervention is important to promote healthy eating and behavioural change. Many obesity interventions have been conducted to combat childhood obesity; however, the sustainability of childhood obesity interventions are often overlooked. This study aimed to explore the factors that influenced sustainability of Juara Sihat intervention programme in Kuala Lumpur primary school. Face-to-face in-depth interviews were conducted with 26 children aged 12- 14 years old whom participated in the Juara Sihat intervention programme were purposively selected. Data was transcribed verbatim and analysed using thematic analysis. The main themes identified as motivators are (1) support from family, facilitators, school teachers, and friends; (2) physical activity and healthy eating practices after intervention; (3) self-awareness; (4) knowledge on food pyramid and healthy eating; and (5) home environment. While the barriers are (1) knowledge inconsistency; (2) own safety; (3) peers influence; (4) self-attitude; (5) boredom towards programme. The results showed that the main promoting factor for sustainability of Juara Sihat intervention programme is continued practice of physical activity and healthy eating, while the main barrier is knowledge inconsistency. Therefore, school-based obesity intervention programmes should consider these promoting and hindering factors that could influence the sustainability of intervention programmes. Future studies should consider those factors during program intervention planning especially when factors that influence implementation and sustainability are carefully considered and taken care of to ensure long-term success.
  9. Cheah YK, Poh BK
    PMID: 24955308 DOI: 10.1016/j.phrp.2013.12.002
    Objectives: In light of the importance of physical activity, the aim of the present study is to examine the factors affecting participation in physical activity among adults in Malaysia.
    Methods: A logistic regression model and the Third National Health and Morbidity Survey consisting of 30,992 respondents were used.
    Results: Age, income, gender, education, marital status, region, house locality, job characteristics, and medical conditions are significantly associated with participation in physical activity. In particular, old individuals, high income earners, females, the well-educated, widowed or divorced individuals, East Malaysians, urban dwellers, the unemployed, and individuals who are not diagnosed with hypercholesterolemia are less likely to be physically active than others.
    Conclusion: Because sociodemographic and health factors play an important role in determining physical activity, the government should take them into account when formulating policy.
    Keywords: Malaysia; demography; health; participation; physical activity.
    Study name: National Health and Morbidity Survey (NHMS-2006)
  10. Christinal Teh Pey Wen, Nurul Adibah Nizam, Abdul Rahman Jamal, Wan Zurinah Wan Ngah, Chong, Pei Nee, Poh, Bee Koon
    MyJurnal
    Childhood obesity is a global epidemic, which leads to the increasing number of studies on genetic locations associated with obesity-related traits. Polymorphisms of insulin (INS) gene have been shown to be associated with obesity-related phenotypes in Europeans; while insulin receptor (INSR) gene has been associated with energy regulation. Therefore, this study was conducted to investigate the association between the INS (rs689) and INSR (rs3745551) gene polymorphisms with childhood obesity risk in a Malay childhood population. Normal weight (538) and overweight or obese (557) children aged 6-12 years old were genotyped using semi-automated Sequenom iPLEX® Gold. Body mass index (BMI) was calculated from measured body weight and height. The rs689 (T/T: 0.006, A/T: 0.159 and A/A: 0.835) and rs3745551 (G/G: 0.054, A/G: 0.378 and A/A: 0.568) genotype distributions were consistent with Hardy Weinberg equilibrium. The T-minor allele frequency for rs689 was 8.6% and G-minor allele frequency for rs3745551 was 24.3%. Minor allele of INS gene polymorphisms significantly increased risk of obesity among Malay children (sex- and age-adjusted
    OR=1.580; 95%CI: 1.134-2.201). However, INSR gene polymorphisms were not significantly associated with childhood obesity. In conclusion, the polymorphisms of INS gene, rather than INSR gene, were associated with childhood obesity in the Malay population.
  11. Tah PC, Nik Shanita S, Poh BK
    J Spec Pediatr Nurs, 2012 Oct;17(4):301-11.
    PMID: 23009042 DOI: 10.1111/j.1744-6155.2012.00341.x
    This study aimed to compare the nutritional status of pediatric patients with hematological malignancies and solid tumors.
  12. Koo HC, Poh BK, Talib RA
    Nutrients, 2020 Sep 29;12(10).
    PMID: 33003299 DOI: 10.3390/nu12102972
    Diet composition is a key determinant of childhood obesity. While whole grains and micronutrients are known to decrease the risk of obesity, there are no interventions originating from Southeast Asia that emphasize whole grain as a strategy to improve overall quality of diet in combating childhood obesity. The GReat-Child Trial aimed to improve whole grain intake and quality of diet among overweight and obese children. It is a quasi-experimental intervention based on Social Cognitive Theory. It has a 12-week intervention and 6-month follow-up, consisting of three components that address environmental, personal, and behavioral factors. The intervention consists of: (1) six 30 min lessons on nutrition, using the Malaysian Food Pyramid to emphasize healthy eating, (2) daily deliveries of wholegrain foods to schools so that children can experience and accept wholegrain foods, and (3) diet counseling to parents to increase availability of wholegrain foods at home. Two primary schools with similar demographics in Kuala Lumpur were assigned as control (CG) and intervention (IG) groups. Inclusion criteria were: (1) children aged 9 to 11 years who were overweight/obese; (2) who did not consume whole grain foods; and (3) who had no serious co-morbidity problems. The entire trial was completed by 63 children (31 IG; 32 CG). Study outcomes were measured at baseline and at two time points post intervention (at the 3rd [T1] and 9th [T2] months). IG demonstrated significantly higher intakes of whole grain (mean difference = 9.94, 95%CI: 7.13, 12.75, p < 0.001), fiber (mean difference = 3.07, 95% CI: 1.40, 4.73, p = 0.001), calcium (mean difference = 130.27, 95%CI: 74.15, 186.39, p < 0.001), thiamin (mean difference = 58.71, 95%CI: 26.15, 91.28, p = 0.001), riboflavin (mean difference = 0.84, 95%CI: 0.37, 1.32, p = 0.001), niacin (mean difference = 0.35, 95%CI: 1.91, 5.16, p < 0.001), and vitamin C (mean difference = 58.71, 95%CI: 26.15, 91.28, p = 0.001) compared to CG in T1, after adjusting for covariates. However, T1 results were not sustained in T2 when intervention had been discontinued. The findings indicate that intervention emphasizing whole grains improved overall short-term but not long-term dietary intake among schoolchildren. We hope the present trial will lead to adoption of policies to increase whole grain consumption among Malaysian schoolchildren.
  13. Rasid, Ajlaa A., Tang, Swee Fong, Izandis Mohamad Sayed, Mohd Shazuan Irwan Mohd Shuhaimi, Norazlina Mohd Noh, Sameeha Mohd Jamil, et al.
    Malays J Nutr, 2019;25(4):405-411.
    MyJurnal
    Introduction: The refeeding programme in government hospitals is aimed at
    improving the nutritional status of malnourished children with weight-for-height
    z-score (WHZ) below -2.0, using special therapeutic food. However, there is a lack of
    data on the nutritional status of indigenous (Orang Asli) children when they return
    to the community after hospital discharge. Case presentation: A 3-year-old Temiar
    boy residing in a tribal village in Hulu Perak was visited to determine his nutritional
    status following discharge from a refeeding programme in a government hospital.
    He was admitted to the hospital with a weight of 10.0 kg, height of 85.5 cm and
    WHZ of -2.09. The boy was later discharged weighing 11.0 kg, and with height
    unchanged at 85.5 cm and WHZ of -0.87. During our visit to the child’s home
    three months after discharge, his weight was 9.5 kg, height 86.0 cm, and WHZ
    –2.91. Discussion: The management of the case in the hospital was based on
    the Malnourished Orang Asli Protocols of the hospital. Household food insecurity,
    feeding and care practices, unhealthy household environment and the lack of
    communication between hospital and community health services were all identified
    as risk factors for malnutrition. Conclusion: The recurrence of malnutrition in this
    child, after successful improvement during hospital stay, highlights the importance
    of identifying factors that may affect nutritional status after hospital discharge. This
    knowledge will be beneficial in planning specific interventions, especially for Orang
    Asli children, living in remote villages.
  14. Poh BK, Wong YP, Abdul Karim N
    Malays J Nutr, 2005;11(1):1-21-.
    MyJurnal
    Traditionally, Chinese women adhere to special dietary practices during the month following childbirth. This paper discusses the dietary practices and food taboos practised by Chinese women in Kuala Lumpur. A total of 134 Chinese mothers of children below one year were recruited from three Maternal and Child Health Clinics and Maternity Hospital, Kuala Lumpur. Questionnaires and in-depth interviews were used to obtain information on socioeconomic background, dietary practices, food taboos and cooking methods during the confinement period. Food intake was assessed by multiple 24-hour dietary recall among 34 mothers during their confinement month (zuo yuezi). Body weight and height were measured, and body mass index calculated. Majority of the respondents had secondary school education (77.6%), household income between RM1001 and RM3000 (64%), and were homemakers (48.5%). The women were aged 18-39 years, and 68% were of normal weight. Most women (82%) practised 30 days of confinement, during which they adhered to special dietary practices. The diet was directed at attaining yin-yang (cold-hot) balance, whereby “hot” foods were most commonly used and “cold” foods were avoided. Ginger, rice wine and sesame seed oil, considered “hot” foods, were used in large amounts in the cooking. Rice, chicken and pork were also consumed in large amounts. Most vegetables and fruits were considered “cold” and were prohibited during confinement. Most mothers drank specially-prepared teas boiled from Chinese herbs. Mean energy intake was 19% below RNI, while mean protein intake was 93% above RNI (NCCFN, 2005). Mean intakes of thiamin, riboflavin and niacin were above 75% of RNI, while vitamins A and C were at half of RNI or less. Mean iron and calcium intakes were at 222% and 67% of RNI, respectively. It is concluded that most Chinese women in Kuala Lumpur do conform to special dietary practices during zuo yuezi.

    Study site: three Maternal and Child Health Clinics and Maternity Hospital, Kuala Lumpur
  15. Tsin, Chan Yein, Nik Shanita Safii, Abdul Hadi Abd Rahman, Norafifah Ahmad Shabri, Mohd Izham Mohamad, Azimah Ahmad, et al.
    Movement Health & Exercise, 2017;6(2):61-70.
    MyJurnal
    The use of electronics or technology, to improve the subjects’ knowledge,
    attitude, and practice (KAP) in nutrition or their compliance in recording their
    diet, for general primary care is not uncommon. However, there are more to
    be explored to improve sports nutrition KAP. The objective of this study was
    to develop a web app tool for athletes to increases their KAP in sports
    nutrition and to test on their acceptance towards the web app tool. This study
    was divided into 3 phases. Phase I involves the development of the web app.
    In Phase II, a focus group of 20 people was recruited to test the web app tool.
    Phase III was to evaluate the effectiveness of the web app in increasing
    athletes’ sports nutrition KAP and their acceptance of the web app. 30 athletes
    were recruited to use this web app for a week, a PRE- and POST-intervention
    KAP questionnaire were given. There was a strong correlation between
    athletes’ attitude towards this tool and intention to use in the future (r = 0.675).
    The more this web app tool was perceived as useful, the more likely they will
    visit the web app (r = 0.589). Although the web app was well-accepted among
    the athletes, their KAP score was significantly reduced after the intervention
    (p= 0.011). The reduction of scores was due to the lack of consistent usage on the web app. In conclusion, it requires more facilitating support from the
    coach, longer training time, reminders, and entertainment features for
    consistent usage, to improve the athletes’ KAP in sports nutrition via the web
    app.
  16. Koo HC, Poh BK, Abd Talib R
    Nutrients, 2018 Jan 30;10(2).
    PMID: 29385769 DOI: 10.3390/nu10020156
    Background: The GReat-Child Trial was a quasi-experimental intervention that has emphasized whole grain as a strategy to manage childhood obesity. Methods: Two schools in Kuala Lumpur with similar demographic characteristics were assigned as intervention (IG) and control (CG). Eligibility criteria were overweight/obese children aged 9 to 11 years who had no serious co-morbidity. Children who reported consuming wholegrain foods in their 3-day diet-recall during screening were excluded. A total of 63 children (31 IG; 32 CG) completed the entire intervention program. The IG children underwent six 30-min nutrition education lessons and had school delivery of wholegrain food on a daily basis over a 12-week period. Parents of IG children attended 1-h individual diet counseling. Anthropometric outcomes including BMI-for-age z-score (BAZ), body fat percentage and waist circumference were measured at baseline [T0], post-intervention [T1] (3rd month) and follow-up [T2] (9th month). Results: IG showed significantly lower BAZ (weighted difference: -0.12; 95% CI: -0.21, -0.03; p = 0.009), body fat percentage (weighted difference: -2.6%; 95% CI: -3.7, -1.5; p < 0.001) and waist circumference (weighted difference: -2.4 cm; 95% CI: -3.8, -1.0; p = 0.001) compared to CG. IG reported significantly lower body fat percentage (weighted difference: -3.4%; 95% CI: 1.8, 5.0; p < 0.001) and waist circumference (weighted difference: -2.1 cm; 95% CI: -3.7, -0.5; p = 0.014) at T1 compared to T0. Conclusions: The GReat-Child Trial made a positive impact in managing childhood obesity. It can be incorporated into childhood obesity intervention programs that are being implemented by the policy makers.
  17. Wu SK, Wong JE, Poh BK
    Malays J Med Sci, 2023 Dec;30(6):108-119.
    PMID: 38239253 DOI: 10.21315/mjms2023.30.6.11
    BACKGROUND: Understanding of psychosocial factors of physical activity (PA) in children is crucial in encouraging sustained PA, which in turn is associated with important health outcomes. This study aimed to examine how children's attraction to physical activity (CAPA) is associated with PA.

    METHODS: This cross-sectional study was conducted among 219 primary school children (105 boys; 114 girls) aged 7 years old-10 years old in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia in 2016-2017. Children from three main ethnicities, namely Malay, Chinese and Indian, were recruited. Weight, height and waist circumference were measured; body composition was assessed by deuterium dilution technique. CAPA and level of PA were obtained through self-administered questionnaires and reported as CAPA and PA scores.

    RESULTS: Median CAPA and PA scores were 3.40 (Q1 = 3.00, Q3 = 3.80) and 2.31 (Q1 = 1.95, Q3 = 2.74), respectively. Significant gender differences were found in CAPA and PA scores, with boys being more attracted to PA (3.16 [Q1 = 2.90, Q3 = 3.44]; P = 0.001) and more physically active compared with girls (2.47 [Q1 = 2.07, Q3 = 3.07]; P = 0.001). CAPA and PA scores correlated positively in both sexes. Boys scored higher than girls in 'liking of games and sports' (ρ = 0.301, P = 0.002) and 'liking of vigorous PA' (ρ = 0.227, P = 0.02) CAPA subscales, which also correlated positively with PA scores. Girls' PA scores correlated with 'peer acceptance in games and sports' (ρ = 0.329, P < 0.001).

    CONCLUSION: Boys are more physically active and have higher attraction to PA compared with girls. Differences in PA scores between the sexes were related to gender differences in CAPA scores. Thus, attention should be given to gender differences in CAPA related psychosocial factors when planning interventions to promote PA among children.

  18. Parvaneh K, Poh BK, Hajifaraji M, Ismail MN
    Asia Pac J Clin Nutr, 2014;23(1):84-90.
    PMID: 24561976 DOI: 10.6133/apjcn.2014.23.1.02
    Sleep deficiency is becoming widespread in both adults and adolescents and is accompanied by certain behaviors that can lead to obesity. This study aims to investigate differences in sleep duration of overweight/obese and normal weight groups, and the association between sleep deprivation and obesity, dietary intake and physical activity. A cross-sectional study was conducted among 226 Iranian working adults (109 men and 117 women) aged 20 to 55 years old who live in Tehran. Body weight, height, waist and hip circumferences were measured, and BMI was calculated. Questionnaires, including the Sleep Habit Heart Questionnaire (SHHQ), International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ) and 24-hour dietary recall, were interview-administered. Subjects were categorized as normal weight (36.3%) or overweight/obese (63.7%) based on WHO standards (2000). Overweight/ obese subjects slept significantly (p<0.001) later (00:32±00:62 AM) and had shorter sleep duration (5.37±1.1 hours) than normal weight subjects (23:30±00:47 PM and 6.54±1.06 hours, respectively). Sleep duration showed significant (p<0.05) direct correlations to energy (r = 0.174), carbohydrate (r = 0.154) and fat intake (r = 0.141). This study revealed that each hour later in bedtime (going to bed later) increased the odds of being overweight or obese by 2.59-fold (95% CI: 1.61-4.16). The findings in this study confirm that people with shorter sleep duration are more likely to be overweight or obese; hence, strategies for the management of obesity should incorporate a consideration of sleep patterns.
  19. Chong PN, Teh CP, Poh BK, Noor MI
    Curr Obes Rep, 2014 Mar;3(1):16-37.
    PMID: 26626465 DOI: 10.1007/s13679-013-0088-1
    Obesity is a worldwide pandemic, and the prevalence rate has doubled since the 1980s. Asian countries are also experiencing the global epidemic of obesity with its related health consequences. The prevalence of overweight and obesity are increasing at an alarming rate across all age groups in Asia. These increases are mainly attributed to rapid economic growth, which leads to socio-economic, nutrition and lifestyle transitions, resulting in a positive energy balance. In addition, fat mass and obesity-associated gene variants, copy number variants in chromosomes and epigenetic modifications have shown positive associations with the risk of obesity among Asians. In this review highlights of prevalence and related ecological and genetic factors that could influence the rapid rise in obesity among Asian populations are discussed.
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