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Research Article
Prevalence of Metabolic Syndrome Among Obese Children in Cote d’Ivoire
Fossou Assamala Francoise*
,
Brou Paterne Evrard,
Allo Yapo Fulgence,
Batai Nemahiouon Francis,
Kanga Akoua Jeanne,
Doubran Djoman Prisca Joelle,
Ahui Bitty Marie Louise
Issue:
Volume 14, Issue 5, October 2026
Pages:
271-280
Received:
31 July 2026
Accepted:
14 August 2026
Published:
8 September 2026
Abstract: Objective: This study aimed to assess the prevalence of metabolic syndrome among school-aged children in three municipalities of Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire, and to analyze its anthropometric and biological determinants. Methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted among 1,251 children aged 5 to 15 years. Among them, 64 children (31 obese and 33 normal-weight) underwent biological testing. Anthropometric measurements (BMI, waist circumference, abdominal circumference), blood pressure, and biochemical parameters (blood glucose, triglycerides, HDL cholesterol) were collected. The diagnosis of metabolic syndrome was based on the NCEP ATP III criteria. Statistical analyses were performed using SPSS 20, employing Student’s t-test, the chi-square test, and Pearson’s correlation coefficients. Results: Obese children had significantly higher values for weight, BMI, waist circumference, and blood pressure compared to the control group (p < 0.05). The prevalence of metabolic syndrome was 25%, with a higher frequency among girls (20.3%) than among boys (4.7%). Abdominal obesity, hypertension, and low HDL cholesterol were the most common abnormalities. A positive correlation was observed between BMI and waist circumference (r = 0.788, p = 0.001), as well as between waist circumference and systolic blood pressure (r = 0.493, p = 0.004). Hyperuricemia was strongly associated with metabolic syndrome, suggesting its potential role as an early biomarker of cardiovascular risk. Conclusion: This study highlights a concerning prevalence of metabolic syndrome among obese children in Ivorian schools, particularly among girls. Abdominal obesity and hyperuricemia appear to be key factors in the development of cardiometabolic complications. These results underscore the urgent need for targeted prevention strategies, including early screening, the promotion of a balanced diet, and physical activity, in order to reduce the future burden of cardiovascular disease in Côte d’Ivoire.
Abstract: Objective: This study aimed to assess the prevalence of metabolic syndrome among school-aged children in three municipalities of Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire, and to analyze its anthropometric and biological determinants. Methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted among 1,251 children aged 5 to 15 years. Among them, 64 children (31 obese and 33 norm...
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Research Article
Comparative Proximate Composition and Fatty Acid Profile of the Freshwater Apple Snail Pila Globosa During Active and Aestivation Periods
Issue:
Volume 14, Issue 5, October 2026
Pages:
281-295
Received:
15 August 2026
Accepted:
28 August 2026
Published:
20 September 2026
Abstract: Pila globosa, a freshwater apple snail widely consumed in South and Southeast Asia, represents a promising alternative source of high-quality protein and essential fatty acids. However, limited information is available on how physiological dormancy (aestivation) influences its nutritional composition and lipid profile. This study compared the proximate composition and fatty acid profile of P. globosa during active and aestivation periods to evaluate the biochemical adaptations associated with dormancy and their nutritional implications. Proximate composition and fatty acid methyl ester (FAME) analyses were performed using standard analytical methods. During the active period, carbohydrate was the predominant component (40.55%), followed by protein (32.00%), ash (18.21%), moisture (6.40%), and fat (2.84%). In contrast, aestivation was characterized by a marked decline in carbohydrate content, accompanied by increases in protein, ash, moisture, and a nearly threefold increase in fat content (7.97%), indicating the utilization of carbohydrate reserves and metabolic adjustment during prolonged food deprivation. Fatty acid analysis revealed that polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) constituted the major lipid fraction during the active period (40.51%), followed by monounsaturated fatty acids (MUFA, 29.36%) and saturated fatty acids (SFAs, 23.70%). Linoleic acid was the predominant PUFA, whereas oleic acid was the principal MUFA. During aestivation, the proportion of SFAs increased markedly, while MUFA and PUFA declined. PUFA declined from 40.51 to 15.55, resulting in a decrease in the PUFA/SFA ratio from 1.71 to 0.34 and in the n-6/n-3 ratio from 6.75 to 2.76. These findings demonstrate that P. globosa is a nutritionally valuable freshwater food resource rich in protein and essential fatty acids. Moreover, the pronounced biochemical alterations observed during aestivation reflect adaptive metabolic strategies for survival under adverse environmental conditions and highlight the importance of physiological state when evaluating the nutritional quality and optimal harvesting period of this species for human consumption.
Abstract: Pila globosa, a freshwater apple snail widely consumed in South and Southeast Asia, represents a promising alternative source of high-quality protein and essential fatty acids. However, limited information is available on how physiological dormancy (aestivation) influences its nutritional composition and lipid profile. This study compared the proxi...
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Research Article
A Study on Nutritional and Anti-nutritional Factors in Black Gram (Vigna mungo)
Issue:
Volume 14, Issue 5, October 2026
Pages:
296-306
Received:
17 August 2026
Accepted:
31 August 2026
Published:
20 September 2026
Abstract: Black gram (Vigna mungo) is a significant pulse crop, valued for its nutritional benefits and role in sustainable agriculture. Black gram varieties may differ in physical and nutritional properties based on husk and processing. This study evaluates the nutritional compositions of four black gram varieties: whole with husk (WBGH), whole without husk (WBGoH), split with husk (SBGH), and split without husk (SBGoH), focusing on nutritional (moisture, ash, carbohydrates, protein, fat, dietary fiber) and anti-nutritional elements (oligosaccharides, phytic acid, tannins, and trypsin inhibitors). Samples were acquired from local markets in Tarnaka, Hyderabad, Telangana, cleaned, and prepared for analysis. The analysis revealed that black gram without husk exhibited the highest levels of ash, protein, and carbohydrates, while whole black gram with husk had the most dietary fiber. Tannin and phytic acid levels were elevated in black gram with husk, and the split black gram without husk contained the highest trypsin inhibitors. Verbascose was the predominant oligosaccharide across samples, followed by stachyose, sucrose, and raffinose. Understanding the nutritional differences among these black gram varieties is crucial for enhancing their application in food products and promoting their health benefits. Future research should further explore the nutritional and anti-nutritional profiles, as well as the prebiotic potential of whole black gram.
Abstract: Black gram (Vigna mungo) is a significant pulse crop, valued for its nutritional benefits and role in sustainable agriculture. Black gram varieties may differ in physical and nutritional properties based on husk and processing. This study evaluates the nutritional compositions of four black gram varieties: whole with husk (WBGH), whole without husk...
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Research Article
Commercial Farming of High-Value Fruits and Crops:
A Baseline-Endline-Control Group Comparative Assessment in Mirsarai, Sitakunda and Hathazari, Chattogram, Bangladesh
Issue:
Volume 14, Issue 5, October 2026
Pages:
307-319
Received:
24 August 2026
Accepted:
4 September 2026
Published:
24 September 2026
Abstract: The transition from subsistence farming to commercial agriculture is critical for rural poverty alleviation and food security. This study evaluates the impact of the "High Value Fruits and Crops (HVF&C) Varieties Extension and Marketing Sub-Project" on technological adoption, market integration, economic outcomes and nutritional security in Chattogram, Bangladesh. A mixed-methods baseline-endline-control group comparative design was employed. Evaluated parameters included income, agricultural practices, technological uptake and Minimum Dietary Diversity for Women (MDD-W). The intervention was associated with substantial socioeconomic changes among the beneficiaries. Monthly primary income for treatment entrepreneurs increased 14,826.87 ± 9,188.67 BDT at endline, compared to 4,758.14 ± 2,453.26 BDT at baseline and 12,743.06 ± 6,515.96 BDT for the control group. Beneficiaries reported substantial adoption of HVF&C cultivation (91.9%), adopting Good Agricultural Practices (96.9%) and safe agriculture (96.4%). Technology adoption increased with 39.1% of beneficiaries adopting modern irrigation and 77% utilizing mechanized production systems. Market linkages expanded, with 71.75% of beneficiaries securing active marketing channels, significantly mitigating post-harvest losses. Nutritional outcomes were higher among beneficiaries, 61.77% of beneficiary women achieved adequate MDD-W scores (≥ 5 food groups), contrasting sharply with 27.78% in the control group. Furthermore, women's empowerment in financial and agricultural decision making was reported by more than 99% of respondents among beneficiaries. The project was associated with a shift toward market oriented, technology enabled agribusiness microenterprises. By bridging gaps in technical knowledge, financial inclusion and value chain connectivity, the intervention offers a may provide useful evidence for similar interventions for advancing climate smart horticulture and rural nutritional security in South Asia.
Abstract: The transition from subsistence farming to commercial agriculture is critical for rural poverty alleviation and food security. This study evaluates the impact of the "High Value Fruits and Crops (HVF&C) Varieties Extension and Marketing Sub-Project" on technological adoption, market integration, economic outcomes and nutritional security in Chattog...
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Research Article
Assessment of Aflatoxin Levels in Akara Processed from Bambara Groundnut and Cowpea Seeds
Issue:
Volume 14, Issue 5, October 2026
Pages:
320-326
Received:
25 August 2026
Accepted:
8 September 2026
Published:
29 September 2026
DOI:
10.11648/j.jfns.20261405.15
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Abstract: Aflatoxins (AFs) are toxic metabolites produced by different species of toxigenic fungi called mycotoxins, they are natural contaminants in raw foods and feeds, especially legumes and cereals. Aflatoxin contamination of food is a major health risk due to its carcinogenic and hepatotoxic properties. The objective of this study was to determine and compare aflatoxin concentrations, nutritional and sensory evaluation of akara samples made from 100% cowpea paste (A1), 100% bambara groundnut (BGN) paste (A5), and from bambara groundnut-cowpea composite paste mixtures (A2, A3, A4); to assess the products’ safety for consumption. Macro and micro mineral concentrations, sensory evaluation of the samples were also assessed. Five akara samples A1, A2, A3, A4, A5 were made, The highest AFs concentration (0.070 µg/Kg) was found in A5 (Akara from BGN paste only) while the least concentration (0.027 µg/Kg) was found in A1 (Akara from cowpea paste only). A5 had highest micro and macro mineral nutrients while A1 had the least. All akara samples were well accepted by consumers. Aflatoxin concentrations in akara samples (A1-A5) were much lower than the standard safe level of aflatoxin in food. Hence, consumption of akara made from bambara groundnut paste (A5), cowpea paste (A1) and composite mixture of both (A2, A3, A4) is safe as it relates to aflatoxin B1.
Abstract: Aflatoxins (AFs) are toxic metabolites produced by different species of toxigenic fungi called mycotoxins, they are natural contaminants in raw foods and feeds, especially legumes and cereals. Aflatoxin contamination of food is a major health risk due to its carcinogenic and hepatotoxic properties. The objective of this study was to determine and c...
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Research Article
Phytochemical Screening and Antioxidant Activity of Pineapple (Ananas comosus) Grown in Côte d'Ivoire
Dembele Syndoux*,
Tie Bi Gotre Felicien,
Tchumou Messou,
Coulibaly Founzegue Amadou,
Anin Atchibri Anin Louise
Issue:
Volume 14, Issue 5, October 2026
Pages:
327-334
Received:
1 September 2026
Accepted:
11 September 2026
Published:
29 September 2026
DOI:
10.11648/j.jfns.20261405.16
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Abstract: Pineapple (Ananas comosus (L.) MD2) is a tropical fruit widely consumed in Côte d'Ivoire, recognized for its richness in bioactive compounds. This study aims to evaluate the antioxidant activity of pineapple pulp extracts of the MD2 variety from two major Ivorian production areas (Alepe and Bonoua). To this end, phytochemical screening, quantification of bioactive compounds, and determination of antioxidant activity using the DPPH method were carried out on extracts from these fruit pulps. The results revealed the consistent presence of flavonoids, saponins, condensed tannins, coumarins, quinones, alkaloids, and leuco-anthocyanins at both localities. These extracts showed total polyphenol contents ranging from 69.45 ± 0.76 to 102.21 ± 0.83 µg gallic acid equivalent (GAE)/mL and flavonoid contents ranging from 3.64 ± 0.16 to 8.83 ± 0.34 mg catechin equivalent (CE)/mL. Antioxidant activity revealed a 50% inhibitory concentration (IC50) of 10.292 mg/mL for the Alepe pulp extract, versus 6.7264 mg/mL for that of Bonoua. These results confirm the existence of strong antioxidant potential in pineapple fruit from both major growing areas. Consumption of these fruits could therefore be of interest in preventing oxidative stress and, consequently, metabolic diseases.
Abstract: Pineapple (Ananas comosus (L.) MD2) is a tropical fruit widely consumed in Côte d'Ivoire, recognized for its richness in bioactive compounds. This study aims to evaluate the antioxidant activity of pineapple pulp extracts of the MD2 variety from two major Ivorian production areas (Alepe and Bonoua). To this end, phytochemical screening, quantificat...
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Research Article
Dietary Exposure to Genotoxic Mycotoxins in Maize
(Zea mays L.) Grains Consumed in Cotonou Municipality (Benin): the Case of Aflatoxin B1
Issue:
Volume 14, Issue 5, October 2026
Pages:
335-340
Received:
7 September 2026
Accepted:
18 September 2026
Published:
29 September 2026
DOI:
10.11648/j.jfns.20261405.17
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Abstract: Aflatoxin B1 (AFB1) is a genotoxic and carcinogenic mycotoxin produced mainly by Aspergillus flavus, A. parasiticus and A. nomius, moulds that contaminate cereals, including maize (Zea mays L.), which is widely consumed in Benin. The aim of this study was to assess the level of dietary exposure to AFB1 in maize sold and consumed in the municipality of Cotonou. Thirty-eight samples of maize grain collected from markets in Cotonou were analysed by high-performance liquid chromatography with fluorescence detection. AFB1 dietary exposure was estimated based on the measured concentrations and maize consumption data. The results of the analyses show a wide range of AFB1 contamination levels in the samples, ranging from 1 to 104 µg/kg. Of the samples analysed, 81.57% had levels exceeding the regulatory limit set for AFB1. Average maize consumption was estimated at 136.22 kg/person/year, or 0.37 kg/person/day. AFB1 daily exposure was estimated to 0.07 µg/kg body weight/day. These results reveal high levels of AFB1 contamination in maize in the municipality of Cotonou and highlight chronic dietary exposure that may pose a health risk to consumers. Strengthening measures for monitoring, quality control and post-harvest management of maize appears necessary in order to reduce the population’s exposure to this mycotoxin.
Abstract: Aflatoxin B1 (AFB1) is a genotoxic and carcinogenic mycotoxin produced mainly by Aspergillus flavus, A. parasiticus and A. nomius, moulds that contaminate cereals, including maize (Zea mays L.), which is widely consumed in Benin. The aim of this study was to assess the level of dietary exposure to AFB1 in maize sold and consumed in the municipality...
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