Institute of Nutrition and Food Science

In-vitro and In-vivo studies on antibacterial activity of Ocimum tenuiflorum (Kalo tulshi), Nigella sativa (Kalo zira) and Tinospora cordifolia (Gulancha) extracts against some human pathogenic strains

2026-10-19T00:00:00Z

In-vitro and In-vivo studies on antibacterial activity of Ocimum tenuiflorum (Kalo tulshi), Nigella sativa (Kalo zira) and Tinospora cordifolia (Gulancha) extracts against some human pathogenic strains Islam, Mohammad Nazrul Background of the study: Plant-derived medicines have been used as part of traditional healthcare for thousands of years. More than 80% of the population in developing countries depend on plants for their medical needs. A study conducted by Bregum F. (2010) showed that 84.1% of respondents in Bangladesh were using medicinal plants for their health ailments. However, only a few of these plants have been investigated for their antimicrobial properties, and the vast majority have not yet been adequately evaluated. Existing allopathic medicines have been observed to cause significant side effects while treating various diseases. In some cases, these side effects can even be life-threatening. Therefore, people are increasingly seeking treatments with fewer or no side effects, often turning to natural medicines to combat diseases. Nowadays, antibiotic resistance has become a serious and devastating public health problem worldwide, requiring immediate action in both developing and developed countries. Although it occurs naturally, the misuse of antibiotics in humans and animals is accelerating the process. A growing number of infections—such as pneumonia, urinary tract infections (UTIs), gastrointestinal (GI) disorders, gonorrhoea, skin and soft tissue infections (SSTIs), and salmonellosis—are becoming harder to treat with existing antibiotics. Antibiotic resistance leads to longer hospital stays, higher medical costs, and increased mortality. It has been shown that inappropriate dosing, incorrect quantities, repeated use of the same antibiotics, and evolving disease patterns contribute to the development of antibiotic resistance. Developing new active ingredients and natural antibiotics to combat resistant bacteria is a time-consuming process. This study is an attempt to develop natural antibiotics to combat bacterial infections and reduce the incidence of antibiotic resistance. Methodology: It was a laboratory based (in vitro) and experimental animal (in vivo) study. The in vitro and in vivo studies were conducted in Microbiology laboratory and Animal House of Institute of Nutrition & Food Science respectively. The ethanolic extract (20, 40 and 80 grams) of Tinospora cordifolia, Ocimum tenuiflorum and Nigella sativa were collected by maceration process. Pathogenic microorganisms such as Streptococcus pyogenes, Staphylococcus aureus, Salmonella typhi, Escherichia coli, Vibrio cholerae and Klebsiella pneumoniae were cultured in Muller Hinton Agar (MHA) media. The antibacterial assay was performed by well diffusion method. The IX average diameter of zone of inhibitions were recorded after 24 hours, 48 hours and 72 hours. For in vivo study, 10 μL/ 0.01ml of Staphylococcus aureus broth approximately 10 14 Colony Forming Units (CFU) were injected to Swiss Albino mice model by subcutaneous. Staphylococcal Skin & Soft Tissue Infections (SSTIs) were observed in and around the sites of injection. After 3 days of inoculation, the extracts were given orally in different dose depended manners like TC20, TC40, TC80, TC160, TC320, Levo 10 and Levo 20 twice daily to the Treatment Groups. After 7 days of treatment, mice blood samples were collected from vein of tail into culture tube. The samples were sent to microbiology laboratory with proper labelling for sero-culture. Results: In vitro antibacterial activities were measured as the maximum zone of inhibition (MZI) in millimeters (mm), and in vivo antibacterial activities were assessed by bacterial clearance from plasma. The alcoholic extract of Tinospora cordifolia (TC-80) showed the maximum zone of inhibition against Escherichia coli, Streptococcus pyogenes, Vibrio cholerae, Staphylococcus aureus, Klebsiella pneumoniae, and Salmonella typhi, respectively. The study also found that the maximum zone of inhibition was measured in Nigella sativa (NS-80) against Streptococcus pyogenes, Staphylococcus aureus, and Vibrio cholerae. Furthermore, the study demonstrated that Ocimum tenuiflorum (OT-80) exhibited significant antibacterial activity against Streptococcus pyogenes, Vibrio cholerae, and Staphylococcus aureus. In the in vivo study, it was observed that TC-20, TC-40, and TC-80 did not show significant antibacterial effects against Staphylococcus aureus, but TC-160 and TC-320 exhibited significant antibacterial activity against Staphylococcus aureus after 7 days of administration. Conclusion: The in vitro study revealed that the ethanolic extract of Tinospora cordifolia has a significant antibacterial effect against Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, Streptococcus pyogenes, Vibrio cholerae, Klebsiella pneumoniae, and Salmonella typhi. The in vivo study demonstrated that lower concentrations (20, 40, 80) of Tinospora cordifolia did not show in bacterial clearance from plasma against Staphylococcus aureus, while higher concentrations (160 and 320), administered twice daily, showed significant bacterial clearance from plasma after 7 days of oral administration. This thesis is submitted for the degree of Master of Philosophy.

Effects of Dietary Counseling and Physical Activities on Overweight and Obesity among Adolescents Visiting a Tertiary Care Hospital, Dhaka

2026-10-18T00:00:00Z

Effects of Dietary Counseling and Physical Activities on Overweight and Obesity among Adolescents Visiting a Tertiary Care Hospital, Dhaka Ahsan, Mohammed Rizwanul Background: Adolescent overweight and obesity are rapidly increasing in low- and middle-income countries, including Bangladesh, due to urbanization, lifestyle transitions, and changing dietary patterns. Increased consumption of energy-dense, processed foods, reduced physical activity, and growing screen dependency have significantly contributed to this trend. These conditions are associated with an early onset of noncommunicable diseases (NCDs), such as diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, and psychological disorders. Despite the recognized importance of lifestyle modification, limited evidence exists in Bangladesh regarding the effectiveness of combined dietary counseling and physical activity interventions among adolescents. Therefore, this study aimed to assess the impact of integrated lifestyle interventions on nutritional status, dietary behavior, physical activity, and psychological well-being among adolescents attending a tertiary care hospital in Dhaka. Methodology: A mixed-methods study design was employed, incorporating both quantitative and qualitative approaches. The study was conducted at the adolescent outpatient department of Bangladesh Shishu Hospital and Institute, Dhaka. The quantitative component followed a pre-post nonrandomized experimental design involving adolescents with overweight or obesity (BMI ≥25 kg/m², Asian cut-off). Data were collected at baseline and after intervention through face-to-face interviews using a pretested semi-structured questionnaire, along with anthropometric measurements and laboratory assessments. Dietary intake was assessed using a 24-hour recall and food frequency questionnaire (FFQ), while physical activity was measured using a modified Global Physical Activity Questionnaire (GPAQ). Psychological status was evaluated using the Strengths and viii Difficulties Questionnaire (SDQ). The intervention included individualized dietary counseling, structured diet plans, promotion of regular physical activity and psychological support. Participants were followed for up to 15 months with periodic monitoring. The qualitative component included case studies and focus group discussions (FGDs) with adolescents and parents to explore behavioral, environmental, and psychosocial factors influencing obesity. Quantitative data were analyzed using SPSS (version 26), applying descriptive statistics and inferential tests such as paired t-tests and chi-square tests. Qualitative data were analyzed using thematic analysis. Results: A total of 226 adolescents participated in the study, of whom 57.5% were male and 42.5% were female, with a mean age of 13.25 years. The majority (75.2%) were aged 10–14 years, and most participants belonged to urban (92.9%), nuclear family settings (88.9%) with good socioeconomic status (76.1%). Baseline dietary assessment revealed high consumption of carbohydrates and fats, with frequent intake of rice, fast foods, and low consumption of fruits, vegetables, and dairy products. Average daily intake included high carbohydrate (18.72 servings) and fat (11.68 servings) consumption, while fruit (0.51 servings) and milk intake (0.32 servings) were inadequate. Mean caloric intake before intervention was 2461.57 kcal, indicating excess energy consumption. Physical activity levels were low at baseline, with 71.7% of participants categorized as having low activity and none engaging in vigorous activity. Following intervention, there was a significant improvement in activity levels, with 46.5% achieving high physical activity. Mean MET scores increased significantly from 2.47 to 6.32 (p < 0.001). ix Psychological outcomes also improved significantly. The mean SDQ score decreased from 26.19 at baseline to 16.25 at follow-up (p < 0.001), indicating reduced emotional and behavioral difficulties. Anthropometric outcomes showed a progressive and statistically significant reduction in BMI across follow-up visits (p < 0.001). At baseline, 64.2% of participants were overweight and 35.8% were obese. After intervention, 70.8% achieved normal BMI, while only 9.7% remained overweight and 19.5% remained obese. Qualitative findings supported these results. Adolescents reported unhealthy dietary habits, high screen time, and experiences of bullying prior to intervention. Parents demonstrated limited awareness and often encouraged unhealthy eating behaviors. Post-intervention, both adolescents and parents reported improved dietary practices, increased physical activity, reduced screen dependency, and enhanced psychological well-being. Case studies further illustrated substantial individual improvements in weight, mental health, and social functioning. Conclusion: The study demonstrates that integrated interventions combining dietary counseling, physical activity, and psychological support are highly effective in improving both physical and mental health outcomes among adolescents with obesity. Adolescent obesity is a multifactorial condition requiring a holistic, family-centered approach. Early intervention and increased parental awareness are essential for sustainable lifestyle modification and long-term prevention of obesity-related complications. This thesis is submitted for the degree of Doctor of Philosophy.

Association of socioeconomic condition with serum uric acid, urea & creatinine profile of women reproductive age in some selected areas of Bangladesh

2026-08-09T00:00:00Z

Association of socioeconomic condition with serum uric acid, urea & creatinine profile of women reproductive age in some selected areas of Bangladesh Ara, Ferdous Background: In the human body the kidney plays a significant role in the homeostatic mechanism. Any disruption in kidney functionality is reflected through high levels of serum creatinine, urea and uric acid. Disruption in kidney functionality can be associated with the nutritional status of a population and their socioeconomic conditions. However, information is limited on the association between socioeconomic conditions and abnormal kidney function markers in women of reproductive age (WRA). Therefore, the goal of the study was to determine the association of socioeconomic condition and nutritional status with serum uric acid, urea and creatinine of WRA in selected areas of Bangladesh. Methodology: A cross-sectional study was directed among 178 WRA in different places of Bangladesh (rural Chittagong, rural Gazipur, Meherpur and Kushtia, Shatkhira). Data on demographic, socioeconomic and anthropometric variables were collected. Blood samples were also collected. DIALAB GmbH semi-automatic biochemistry analyzer DTN-405 (Austria) was used to conduct biochemical tests of the blood samples. Logistic regression analysis was used to control the association between kidney function abnormalities and associated factors. Results: The study results showed that about 23.6% of the study participants were underweight, 56.7 % had normal body mass index (BMI) whereas 19.7% of participants were overweight or obese. The average (mean ± SD) serum levels (mg/dl) were 5.74±2.07 for uric acid, 17.93±9.83 for urea, and 0.89±0.28 for creatinine and 92.18±35.86 mL/min/1.73 m² for estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR). Elevated levels of creatinine, uric acid, and urea were observed in 27%, 31.5%, and 41% of the participants, respectively. Additionally, chronic kidney disease (CKD) vi was identified in 18% of the participants. Overall, normal kidney function markers were found among about 31% of the respondents, while 5% showed elevated levels for all three markers. The odds of having at least one or more elevated kidney function markers were significantly higher (AOR=2.8; 95% CI: 1.22-6.42; p < 0.05) among individuals with a BMI greater than 18.5 kg/m² compared to underweight women. After adjusting for related factors, BMI was found to be significantly associated with the risk of elevated kidney function markers. Conclusion: The study found that only one-third of the WRA had all normal kidney function markers. After adjusting for related factors BMI was found to be significantly associated with the risk of elevated kidney function markers. The findings highlight alarming information about women’s health and suggest that routine analysis is desirable to improve women’s health in our country. Further studies are required with a larger sample size to understand deeply and assist the relevant ministries in policy making. This thesis is submitted for the degree of Master of Philosophy.

Diet Quality and Affordability of Healthy Diets among Workers of Selected Garments Industries in Bangladesh

2026-08-09T00:00:00Z

Diet Quality and Affordability of Healthy Diets among Workers of Selected Garments Industries in Bangladesh Afrin, Shazia Background: The ready-made garment (RMG) sector is key to Bangladesh's economy, significantly contributing to Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and foreign exchange earnings. However, RMG workers, predominantly women, face critical challenges related to health, nutrition, and productivity. Despite their socio-economic importance, research on diet quality and the affordability of nutritious diets by RMG workers remains limited. This study aimed to evaluate the diet quality as well as the affordability of healthy diets among RMG workers of selected garment industries in Bangladesh. Methods: This study used baseline survey data from the “Strengthening Workers' Access to Pertinent Nutrition Opportunities” (SWAPNO) project, funded by the Global Alliance for Improved Nutrition (GAIN). A secondary analysis was conducted on cross-sectional data collected from 801 RMG workers (333 males and 468 females) employed in two apparel industries in Dhaka and Mymensingh. Participants were selected using convenience sampling. Data on socio-demographic characteristics, dietary intake (assessed using the 24-hour recall method), nutrient adequacy, and micronutrient intake expressed as a percentage of the Estimated Average Requirement (EAR) were evaluated, along with anthropometric measurements. Nutritional status was assessed using body mass index (BMI) classified according to both World Health Organization and Asian-specific criteria. The affordability of a healthy diet was evaluated, and statistical analyses were performed to examine associations between diet quality, nutritional status, mean probability of adequacy (MPA), and relevant socioeconomic factors. Results: Among the 801 RMG workers studied, 58.4% were female, and 90.3% were aged 18 to 34 years. Female workers generally had lower educational attainment and income levels compared to males. The dietary analysis showed a heavy reliance on calorie-dense foods, particularly rice, with a low intake of fruits, vegetables, and pulses. Macronutrient distribution indicated excessive carbohydrate intake (67.0% of total energy), while fat intake was often below ideal levels in 43.4% of participants (less than 15% of total energy). Calcium consumption among RMG workers was alarmingly low, with most consuming less than 50% of the Estimated Average Requirement (EAR). Similarly, intakes of iron, zinc, riboflavin, and vitamin A are at or below the EAR, viii indicating a high risk of inadequacies. While niacin and folate exceeded the EAR, vitamin C intake was highly variable. A dual burden of malnutrition was observed, with 7.4% of workers underweight and 21.5% overweight or obese based on Global WHO BMI standards, while it was 44% overweight or obese based on WHO Asian BMI standards. The logistic regression analysis showed that the mean probability of adequacy (MPA) for micronutrients was significantly higher among RMG workers in Mymensingh (AOR 1.68, p = 0.004) and among those aged 25 to 34 years (AOR 1.40, p = 0.049), while other socio-economic factors had no significant effect. Regarding the affordability of healthy diet, this study found that most workers could afford energy-sufficient diets; however, 68% of the workers were unable to afford a healthy diet due to economic constraints. Logistic regression analysis further showed that higher income (BDT > 13,000), smaller household size, and the presence of multiple earning members were significantly associated with better affordability of a healthy diet. Conclusion: This study highlights significant nutritional challenges among RMG workers in Bangladesh, marked by widespread micronutrient inadequacy and a dual burden of malnutrition, particularly among female workers. Economic barriers remain a critical impediment to accessing healthy diets. These findings underscore the urgent need for targeted interventions to improve diet quality, address micronutrient inadequacies, and promote balanced macronutrient intake while addressing affordability constraints. This thesis is submitted for the degree of Master of Philosophy.