Researchers Examine Link Between Nutrition and Common Virus

A new study by UNC Charlotte scholars is shedding light on the connection between diet and a common childhood disease.

Using national health data, the researchers determined children who ate certain types of food or dealt with food insecurity may be more likely to contract the Epstein-Barr virus.

The study considered EBV infection among US children ages 6 to 15 using data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES).

NHANES will be on UNC Charlotte’s campus this spring, and director Dr. Kathryn Porter will speak at CHHS on April 13th.

EBV is a common virus that’s often symptomless its own; it’s more well known as a cause of infectious mononucleosis and is also linked to some cancers.

The study of NHANES data revealed that adolescents who consumed beans, red meat, and 100% fruit juice daily might see increased odds of EBV as compared with adolescents who consumed the same products on a monthly basis.

The study also suggested that adolescents who were not fed a balanced meal and had to rely on low cost food had significantly increased odds of EBV, though this finding was weakened once adjusted for possible response biases. Researchers have previously found a connection between low socioeconomic status and heigtened rates of EBV infection. The study noted that diet plays an important role in the strength of a person’s immune response.

UNCC epidemiologist Dr. Ahmed Arif co-authored the study. He said while eating beans often carries health benefits, some types are not as strong nutritionally.

“Baked beans are also rich in sodium, sugar and fat, and depending on the type, rich in uric acid. Some beans contain lectins that are linked to irritable bowel syndrome, multiple sclerosis, allergies, and arthritis. EBV infection has been associated with all of these medical conditions.”

Dr. Arif said The National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute recommends limiting red meat consumption to no more than two servings per week.

“We don’t know the exact mechanism that may predispose children eating diet rich in beans and red meat daily to EBV infection. But, it appears exercising moderation may not be a bad idea.”

Arif said the nature of any link between fruit juice consumption and EBV infection also isn’t immediately known. He said because this study is the first of its kind, the results need to be confirmed before any definitive conclusions can be drawn.

However, “suffice it to say that programs promoting healthy eating and food security to enhance the immune system for the prevention of various viral infections should be encouraged,” he added.

by: Wills Citty

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