Nutrients

0 pages, 163 KiB

Open AccessRetraction

RETRACTED: Hsia, T.c.; Yin, M.-c. Post-Intake of S-Ethyl Cysteine and S-Methyl Cysteine Improved LPS-Induced Acute Lung Injury in Mice. Nutrients 2016, 8, 507

by Te-chun Hsia^1,2, Mei-chin Yin^3,4,* and Nutrients Editorial Office⁵

¹ Department of Respiratory Therapy, China Medical University, Taichung City 40402, Taiwan

² Department of Internal Medicine, China Medical University Hospital, Taichung City 40402, Taiwan

³ Department of Nutrition, China Medical University, 91, Hsueh-shih Rd., Taichung City 40402, Taiwan

⁴ Department of Health and Nutrition Biotechnology, Asia University, Taichung City 41354, Taiwan

⁵ MDPI AG, St. Alban-Anlage 66, 4052 Basel, Switzerland

Nutrients 2017, 9(6), 528; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu9060528 - 23 May 2017

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 3764

Abstract

The integrity of severalWestern blot bands in Figures 3 and 4 [1] has been called into question. As a result, the authors of this article have decided to retract it and will repeat the entire analysis, to be submitted as a new article. [...] Read more.

The integrity of severalWestern blot bands in Figures 3 and 4 [1] has been called into question. As a result, the authors of this article have decided to retract it and will repeat the entire analysis, to be submitted as a new article. [...]
Full article

14 pages, 2510 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Lactobacillus rhamnosus HN001 and Lactobacillus acidophilus La-14 Attenuate Gardnerella vaginalis-Infected Bacterial Vaginosis in Mice

by Se-Eun Jang^1,2,†, Jin-Ju Jeong^1,†

, Su-Young Choi³, Hyunji Kim³, Myung Joo Han² and Dong-Hyun Kim^1,*

¹ Department of Life and Nanopharmaceutical Sciences, College of pharmacy, Kyung Hee University, 26, Kyungheedae-ro, Dongdaemun-gu, Seoul 02447, Korea

² Department of Food and Nutrition, Kyung Hee University, Seoul 02447, Korea

³ NutriScience Co., Ltd., Seoul 06132, Korea

^† These authors contributed equally to this work.

Nutrients 2017, 9(6), 531; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu9060531 - 23 May 2017

Cited by 62 | Viewed by 11541 | Correction

Abstract

Oral administration of a probiotic mixture (PM; Respecta^®) consisting of Lactobacillus rhamnosus HN001 (L1), Lactobacillus acidophilus La-14 (L2), and lactoferrin RCXTM results in colonization of these probiotics in the vagina of healthy women. Therefore, we examined whether vaginal colonization of the [...] Read more.

Oral administration of a probiotic mixture (PM; Respecta^®) consisting of Lactobacillus rhamnosus HN001 (L1), Lactobacillus acidophilus La-14 (L2), and lactoferrin RCXTM results in colonization of these probiotics in the vagina of healthy women. Therefore, we examined whether vaginal colonization of the PM ingredients L1 and L2 could attenuate bacterial vaginosis (BV). BV was induced in mice via β-estradiol-3-benzoate-induced immunosuppression and intravaginal inoculation with Gardnerella vaginalis (GV). Inflammatory markers were analyzed using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, immunoblotting, quantitative polymerase chain reaction, and flow cytometry. Oral or intravaginal administration of PM resulted in colonization of L1 and L2 in the vagina. Oral or intravaginal administration of L1, L2, or PM significantly inhibited GV-induced epithelial cell disruption, myeloperoxidase activity, NF-κB activation, and IL-1β and TNF-α expression (p < 0.05). Administration of these probiotics also inhibited IL-17 and RORγt expression but increased IL-10 and Foxp3 expression. Of these probiotics, L2 most effectively attenuated GV-induced BV, followed by L1 and PM. Oral administration was more effective against GV-induced BV than intravaginal administration. L1 and L2 also significantly inhibited the adherence of GV to HeLa cells (a human cervical cancer cell line) and GV growth in vitro. In addition, L1 and L2 inhibited lipopolysaccharide-induced NF-κB activation in macrophages and the differentiation of splenocytes into Th17 cells in vitro, but increased their differentiation into Treg cells. Our study suggests that L1, L2, and PM attenuated GV-induced vaginosis by regulating both vaginal and systemic innate and adaptive immune responses rather than direct competition or killing of GV in the vagina. Full article

▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

14 pages, 675 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Immune Components in Human Milk Are Associated with Early Infant Immunological Health Outcomes: A Prospective Three-Country Analysis

by Daniel Munblit^1,2,3,*

, Marina Treneva^3,4, Diego G. Peroni^3,5

, Silvia Colicino⁶

, Li Yan Chow¹, Shobana Dissanayeke⁷, Alexander Pampura^3,4, Attilio L. Boner⁸, Donna T. Geddes^3,9, Robert J. Boyle^1,3,†

and John O. Warner^1,3,10,†

¹ Department of Paediatrics, Imperial College London, London W2 1NY, UK

² Faculty of Pediatrics, Federal State Autonomous Educational Institution of Higher Education I.M. Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University of the Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation., Moscow 119991, Russia

³ International Inflammation (in-FLAME) network of the World Universities Network, Perth 6000, WA, Australia

⁴ Allergy Department, Veltischev Clinical Pediatric Research Institute of Pirogov Russian National Research Medical University, Moscow 125412, Russia

⁵ Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Section of Paediatrics, University of Pisa, Pisa 56126, Italy

⁶ National Heart and Lung Institute, Imperial College London, London SW3 6NP, UK

⁷ Royal Holloway University of London School of Biological Sciences, Biomedical Sciences, London TW20 0EX, UK

⁸ Department of Life and Reproduction Sciences, Section of Paediatrics, University of Verona, Verona 37124, Italy

⁹ School of Molecular Sciences, The University of Western Australia, Perth, WA 6009, Australia

¹⁰ National Institute of Health Research Collaboration for Leadership in Applied Health Research and Care for NW London, London SW10 9NH, UK

^† These authors contributed equally to this work.

Show full affiliation list Hide full affiliation list

Nutrients 2017, 9(6), 532; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu9060532 - 24 May 2017

Cited by 65 | Viewed by 9728

Abstract

The role of breastfeeding in improving allergy outcomes in early childhood is still unclear. Evidence suggests that immune mediators in human milk (HM) play a critical role in infant immune maturation as well as protection against atopy/allergy development. We investigated relationships between levels [...] Read more.

The role of breastfeeding in improving allergy outcomes in early childhood is still unclear. Evidence suggests that immune mediators in human milk (HM) play a critical role in infant immune maturation as well as protection against atopy/allergy development. We investigated relationships between levels of immune mediators in colostrum and mature milk and infant outcomes in the first year of life. In a large prospective study of 398 pregnant/lactating women in the United Kingdom, Russia and Italy, colostrum and mature human milk (HM) samples were analysed for immune active molecules. Statistical analyses used models adjusting for the site of collection, colostrum collection time, parity and maternal atopic status. Preliminary univariate analysis showed detectable interleukin (IL) 2 and IL13 in HM to be associated with less eczema. This finding was further confirmed in multivariate analysis, with detectable HM IL13 showing protective effect OR 0.18 (95% CI 0.04–0.92). In contrast, a higher risk of eczema was associated with higher HM concentrations of transforming growth factor β (TGFβ) 2 OR 1.04 (95% CI 1.01–1.06) per ng/mL. Parental-reported food allergy was reported less often when IL13 was detectable in colostrum OR 0.10 (95% CI 0.01–0.83). HM hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) was protective for common cold incidence at 12 months OR 0.19 (95% CI 0.04–0.92) per ng/mL. Data from this study suggests that differences in the individual immune composition of HM may have an influence on early life infant health outcomes. Increased TGFβ2 levels in HM are associated with a higher incidence of reported eczema, with detectable IL13 in colostrum showing protective effects for food allergy and sensitization. HGF shows some protective effect on common cold incidence at one year of age. Future studies should be focused on maternal genotype, human milk microbiome and diet influence on human milk immune composition and both short- and long-term health outcomes in the infant. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nutrition and Allergic Diseases)

▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

23 pages, 2310 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Effects of Commercial Apple Varieties on Human Gut Microbiota Composition and Metabolic Output Using an In Vitro Colonic Model

by Athanasios Koutsos^1,2,*, Maria Lima², Lorenza Conterno², Mattia Gasperotti³, Martina Bianchi², Francesca Fava²

, Urska Vrhovsek³, Julie A. Lovegrove¹

and Kieran M. Tuohy²

¹ Hugh Sinclair Unit of Human Nutrition and the Institute for Cardiovascular and Metabolic Research (ICMR), Department of Food and Nutritional Sciences, University of Reading, Whiteknights, P.O. Box 226, Reading RG6 6AP, UK

² Nutrition & Nutrigenomics Unit, Department of Food Quality and Nutrition, Research and Innovation Centre, Fondazione Edmund Mach (FEM), Via Mach 1, 38010 San Michele all’Adige, TN, Italy

³ Metabolomics Unit, Department of Food Quality and Nutrition, Research and Innovation Centre, Fondazione Edmund Mach (FEM), Via Mach 1, 38010 San Michele all’Adige, TN, Italy

Nutrients 2017, 9(6), 533; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu9060533 - 24 May 2017

Cited by 106 | Viewed by 15333

Abstract

Apples are a rich source of polyphenols and fiber. A major proportion of apple polyphenols escape absorption in the small intestine and together with non-digestible polysaccharides reach the colon, where they can serve as substrates for bacterial fermentation. Animal studies suggest a synergistic [...] Read more.

Apples are a rich source of polyphenols and fiber. A major proportion of apple polyphenols escape absorption in the small intestine and together with non-digestible polysaccharides reach the colon, where they can serve as substrates for bacterial fermentation. Animal studies suggest a synergistic interaction between apple polyphenols and the soluble fiber pectin; however, the effects of whole apples on human gut microbiota are less extensively studied. Three commercial apple varieties—Renetta Canada, Golden Delicious and Pink Lady—were digested and fermented in vitro using a batch culture colonic model (pH 5.5–6.0, 37 °C) inoculated with feces from three healthy donors. Inulin and cellulose were used as a readily and a poorly fermentable plant fiber, respectively. Fecal microbiota composition was measured by 16S rRNA gene Illumina MiSeq sequencing (V3-V4 region) and Fluorescence in Situ Hybridization. Short chain fatty acids (SCFAs) and polyphenol microbial metabolites were determined. The three apple varieties significantly changed bacterial diversity, increased Actinobacteria relative abundance, acetate, propionate and total SCFAs (p < 0.05). Renetta Canada and Golden Delicious significantly decreased Bacteroidetes abundance and increased Proteobacteria proportion and bifidobacteria population (p < 0.05). Renetta Canada also increased Faecalibacterium prausnitzii, butyrate levels and polyphenol microbial metabolites (p < 0.05). Together, these data suggest that apples, particularly Renetta Canada, can induce substantial changes in microbiota composition and metabolic activity in vitro, which could be associated with potential benefits to human health. Human intervention studies are necessary to confirm these data and potential beneficial effects. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Dietary Fibers and Human Health)

▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

20 pages, 731 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Older Australians Can Achieve High Adherence to the Mediterranean Diet during a 6 Month Randomised Intervention; Results from the Medley Study

by Courtney Davis^1,*, Jonathan Hodgson^2,3, Janet Bryan⁴, Manohar Garg⁵

, Richard Woodman⁶ and Karen Murphy¹

¹ Alliance for Research in Exercise, Nutrition and Activity, School of Health Sciences, University of South Australia, GPO Box 2471, Adelaide, SA 5001, Australia

² School of Medical and Health Sciences, Edith Cowan University, 270 Joondalup Dr., Joondalup, WA 6027, Australia

³ School of Medicine and Pharmacology, University of Western Australia, 35 Stirling Highway, Perth, WA 6000, Australia

⁴ School of Psychology, Social Work and Social Policy, University of South Australian, GPO Box 2471, Adelaide, SA 5001, Australia

⁵ Nutraceuticals Research Program, School of Biomedical Sciences and Pharmacy, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW 2308, Australia

⁶ Flinders Centre for Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Flinders University, GPO Box 2100, Adelaide, SA 5001, Australia

Nutrients 2017, 9(6), 534; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu9060534 - 24 May 2017

Cited by 35 | Viewed by 5885

Abstract

Adherence to a Mediterranean diet (MedDiet) is thought to be achievable in non-Mediterranean regions, but this has yet to be investigated. We aimed to determine if an older Australian population could adhere to a MedDiet for six months. We conducted a randomised, parallel [...] Read more.

Adherence to a Mediterranean diet (MedDiet) is thought to be achievable in non-Mediterranean regions, but this has yet to be investigated. We aimed to determine if an older Australian population could adhere to a MedDiet for six months. We conducted a randomised, parallel dietary intervention trial with two dietary arms: the Mediterranean diet (MedDiet) group and the habitual diet (HabDiet) control group. A 15-point Mediterranean diet adherence score and food and nutrient intakes were estimated from three-day weighed food records collected at baseline, two and four months. Erythrocyte fatty acids, serum carotenoids and urinary metabolites were assessed at baseline, three and six months. We enrolled 166 participants; 152 commenced and 137 completed the study (70 in the MedDiet group, 67 in the HabDiet group). Adherence scores were significantly higher in the MedDiet group at two months (between group difference 2.2, 95% CI 1.3, 2.9) and four months (between group difference 2.6, 95% CI 1.9, 3.3). Consumption of vegetables, fruits, fish, legumes, nuts and olive oil significantly increased in the MedDiet group compared to the control, and discretionary food intake decreased (p < 0.01). Measures of compliance including serum β-carotene, lycopene and erythrocyte monounsaturated fatty acids were significantly higher in the MedDiet group at three and six months (p < 0.05). Our results indicate that a population of older Australians can adopt a Mediterranean diet over a six month period. Full article

▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

10 pages, 459 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Selected Risk Nutritional Factors for Chemotherapy-Induced Polyneuropathy

by Jiri Grim¹, Alena Ticha^2,3,*, Radomir Hyspler^2,3, Martin Valis⁴ and Zdenek Zadak²

¹ Department of Oncology and Radiotherapy, University Hospital Hradec Kralove, 50005 Hradec Kralove, Czech

² Department of Research and Development, University Hospital Hradec Kralove, 50005 Hradec Kralove, Czech

³ Institute of Clinical Biochemistry and Diagnostics, University Hospital Hradec Kralove, 50005 Hradec Kralove, Czech

⁴ Department of Neurology, University Hospital Hradec Kralove, 50005 Hradec Kralove, Czech

Nutrients 2017, 9(6), 535; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu9060535 - 25 May 2017

Cited by 16 | Viewed by 4811

Abstract

The present study seeks to identify the nutritional risk factors involved in the development of neuropathies induced by chemotherapeutic treatments. Unlike the gastrointestinal or hematological adverse effects of chemotherapy there is no protective treatment strategy for polyneuropathy. The aim of this study was [...] Read more.

The present study seeks to identify the nutritional risk factors involved in the development of neuropathies induced by chemotherapeutic treatments. Unlike the gastrointestinal or hematological adverse effects of chemotherapy there is no protective treatment strategy for polyneuropathy. The aim of this study was to find possible deficiencies in nutritional factors, which can be used for supplementation in the future for prevention of chemotherapy-induced neuropathy development. We analyzed 70 patients undergoing paclitaxel chemotherapy and evaluated the risk factors involved in chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy (CIPN). Several risk factors were considered in the development of CIPN, including deficiency of vitamin B1, B6, and D and fatty acids. The occurrence of CIPN complication in 60% cases was observed. We found significant differences in vitamin D and saturated fatty acid concentration. Vitamin D levels in the group without CIPN were estimated to be 38.2 (24.95, 47.63) nmol/L, whereas in the group with CIPN it was determined to be 25.6 (19.7, 32.55) nmol/L, p = 0.008. The level of total saturated fatty acids in the group without CIPN was of 32.613 Area % (31.322; 36.262), whereas in the group with CIPN it was of 34.209 Area % (32.86; 39.386), p = 0.01. The obtained results suggest a diet lower in saturated fatty acid content during chemotherapy. The most significant finding was that supplementation of vitamin D before chemotherapy could be an efficient neuroprotective in CIPN prophylaxis, as significantly lower levels 25OH derivative of vitamin D were observed in the CIPN group throughout the study period. Full article

▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

3 pages, 165 KiB

Open AccessLetter

Complementary Intradermal and Patch Testing for Increased Diagnostic Accuracy of Nickel Allergy in Non-Celiac Wheat Insensitivity

by Brittanya A. Limone, Annelise Rasmussen, Sue Min Kwon and Sharon E. Jacob^*

Department of Dermatology, Loma Linda University, 11370 Anderson Street, Suite 2600, Loma Linda, CA 92354, USA

Nutrients 2017, 9(6), 536; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu9060536 - 24 May 2017

Viewed by 3713

Abstract

D’Alcamo et al. astutely highlighted a potential immunologic association between nickel allergy, determined by positive epicutaneous patch testing, and the rise of non-celiac wheat sensitivity (NCWS) in the world of gluten-related diseases. Consecutive algorithms including both patch and intradermal testing could provide vital [...] Read more.

D’Alcamo et al. astutely highlighted a potential immunologic association between nickel allergy, determined by positive epicutaneous patch testing, and the rise of non-celiac wheat sensitivity (NCWS) in the world of gluten-related diseases. Consecutive algorithms including both patch and intradermal testing could provide vital information to more accurately define the patient populations with NCWS, systemic nickel allergy syndrome, and nickel-associated allergic contact dermatitis. Full article

13 pages, 357 KiB

Open AccessReview

Diet Hypotheses in Light of the Microbiota Revolution: New Perspectives

by Tomasz P. Wypych^* and Benjamin J. Marsland

Faculty of Biology and Medicine, University of Lausanne, Service de Pneumologie, CHUV, Epalinges 1066, Switzerland

Nutrients 2017, 9(6), 537; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu9060537 - 24 May 2017

Cited by 21 | Viewed by 7014

Abstract

From an evolutionary standpoint, allergy has only recently emerged as a significant health problem. Various hypotheses were proposed to explain this, but they all indicated the importance of rapid lifestyle changes, which occurred in industrialized countries in the last few decades. In this [...] Read more.

From an evolutionary standpoint, allergy has only recently emerged as a significant health problem. Various hypotheses were proposed to explain this, but they all indicated the importance of rapid lifestyle changes, which occurred in industrialized countries in the last few decades. In this review, we discuss evidence from epidemiological and experimental studies that indicate changes in dietary habits may have played an important role in this phenomenon. Based on the example of dietary fiber, we discuss molecular mechanisms behind this and point towards the importance of diet-induced changes in the microbiota. Finally, we reason that future studies unraveling mechanisms governing these changes, along with the development of better tools to manipulate microbiota composition in individuals will be crucial for the design of novel strategies to combat numerous inflammatory disorders, including atopic diseases. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nutrition and Allergic Diseases)

▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

16 pages, 600 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Diet-Induced Low-Grade Metabolic Acidosis and Clinical Outcomes: A Review

by Renata Alves Carnauba^1,*, Ana Beatriz Baptistella¹

, Valéria Paschoal¹ and Gilberti Helena Hübscher²

¹ VP Research Institute, 287, Carlos Petit St, São Paulo 04110-000, Brazil

² Departament of Food Science and Technology, Federal University of Santa Maria, Rio Grande do Sul 97105-900, Brazil

Nutrients 2017, 9(6), 538; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu9060538 - 25 May 2017

Cited by 100 | Viewed by 33128

Abstract

Low-grade metabolic acidosis is a condition characterized by a slight decrease in blood pH, within the range considered normal, and feeding is one of the main factors that may influence the occurrence of such a condition. The excessive consumption of acid precursor foods [...] Read more.

Low-grade metabolic acidosis is a condition characterized by a slight decrease in blood pH, within the range considered normal, and feeding is one of the main factors that may influence the occurrence of such a condition. The excessive consumption of acid precursor foods (sources of phosphorus and proteins), to the detriment of those precursors of bases (sources of potassium, calcium, and magnesium), leads to acid-base balance volubility. If this condition occurs in a prolonged, chronic way, low-grade metabolic acidosis can become significant and predispose to metabolic imbalances such as kidney stone formation, increased bone resorption, reduced bone mineral density, and the loss of muscle mass, as well as the increased risk of chronic diseases such as type 2 diabetes mellitus, hypertension, and non-alcoholic hepatic steatosis. Considering the increase in the number of studies investigating the influence of diet-induced metabolic acidosis on clinical outcomes, this review gathers the available evidence evaluating the association of this disturbance and metabolic imbalances, as well as related mechanisms. It is necessary to look at the western dietary pattern of most countries and the increasing incidence of non-comunicable diseases for the balance between fruit and vegetable intake and the appropriate supply of protein, mainly from animal sources, so that it does not exceed the daily recommendations. Full article

▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

12 pages, 606 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Genetic Variants Involved in One-Carbon Metabolism: Polymorphism Frequencies and Differences in Homocysteine Concentrations in the Folic Acid Fortification Era

by Josiane Steluti^1,*

, Aline M. Carvalho¹

, Antonio A. F. Carioca¹, Andreia Miranda¹

, Gilka J. F. Gattás², Regina M. Fisberg¹

and Dirce M. Marchioni¹

¹ Department of Nutrition, School of Public Health, Sao Paulo University, Avenida Doutor Arnaldo, 715-Cerqueira César, São Paulo—SP, São Paulo 01246-904, Brazil

² Department of Legal Medicine, Bioethics and Occupational Health, School of Medicine, University of São Paulo, Avenida Doutor Arnaldo, 455-Cerqueira César, São Paulo—SP, São Paulo 01246-903, Brazil

Nutrients 2017, 9(6), 539; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu9060539 - 25 May 2017

Cited by 21 | Viewed by 7792

Abstract

Folate and other B vitamins are essential co-factors of one-carbon metabolism, and genetic variants, such as polymorphisms, can alter the metabolism. Furthermore, the adoption of food fortification with folic acid showed a decrease of homocysteine concentration. The aim of this study was to [...] Read more.

Folate and other B vitamins are essential co-factors of one-carbon metabolism, and genetic variants, such as polymorphisms, can alter the metabolism. Furthermore, the adoption of food fortification with folic acid showed a decrease of homocysteine concentration. The aim of this study was to investigate the frequencies of the polymorphisms of enzymes and carrier proteins involved in one-carbon metabolism, and to evaluate homocysteine concentrations in the presence of these genetic variants in a population exposed to mandatory food fortification with folic acid. Using data from a population-based cross-sectional study in São Paulo, Brazil, the study population comprised 750 participants above 12 years of age of both genders. A linear regression model was used to evaluate the homocysteine concentrations according to genetic variants and folate level. The results showed that the minor allelic frequencies were 0.33 for MTHFR (rs1801133), 0.24 for MTHFR (rs1801131), 0.19 for MTR (rs1805087), 0.42 for MTRR (rs1801394), 0.46 for RFC1 (rs1051266), and 0.47 for DHFR (19-bp deletion). The genetic variants of MTHFR 677C>T, MTRR 66A>G and RFC-1 80G>A were different according to race. The homocysteine concentrations increased in the CT and TT compared to CC genotypes of polymorphism MTHFR 677C>T in all populations, and differences between the homocysteine concentrations according to the genotypes of MTHFR 677C>T were observed regardless of folate level. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nutrigenetics)

▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

29 pages, 371 KiB

Open AccessReview

Morinda citrifolia Linn. (Noni) and Its Potential in Obesity-Related Metabolic Dysfunction

by Aline Carla Inada¹, Priscila Silva Figueiredo¹, Rosângela Aparecida dos Santos-Eichler², Karine De Cássia Freitas¹, Priscila Aiko Hiane¹

, Alinne Pereira de Castro³ and Rita De Cássia Avellaneda Guimarães^1,*

¹ Post Graduate Program in Health and Development in the Central-West Region of Brazil, Federal University of Mato Grosso do Sul-UFMS, Campo Grande 79079-900, MS, Brazil

² Department of Pharmacology, Biomedical Science Institute, University of São Paulo, São Paulo 05508900, SP, Brazil

³ Post-Graduate Program in Biotechnology, Catholic University Dom Bosco, Campo Grande 79117-900, MS, Brazil

Nutrients 2017, 9(6), 540; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu9060540 - 25 May 2017

Cited by 45 | Viewed by 26271

Abstract

Cultural and economic shifts in the early 19th century led to the rapid development of companies that made good profits from technologically-produced commodities. In this way, some habits changed in society, such as the overconsumption of processed and micronutrient-poor foods and devices that [...] Read more.

Cultural and economic shifts in the early 19th century led to the rapid development of companies that made good profits from technologically-produced commodities. In this way, some habits changed in society, such as the overconsumption of processed and micronutrient-poor foods and devices that gave rise to a sedentary lifestyle. These factors influenced host-microbiome interactions which, in turn, mediated the etiopathogenesis of “new-era” disorders and diseases, which are closely related, such as obesity, type 2 diabetes mellitus, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, hypertension, and inflammatory bowel disease, which are characterized by chronic dysregulation of metabolic and immune processes. These pathological conditions require novel and effective therapeutic approaches. Morinda citrifolia (noni) is well known as a traditional healing plant due to its medicinal properties. Thus, many studies have been conducted to understand its bioactive compounds and their mechanisms of action. However, in obesity and obesity-related metabolic (dysfunction) syndrome, other studies are necessary to better elucidate noni’s mechanisms of action, mainly due to the complexity of the pathophysiology of obesity and its metabolic dysfunction. In this review, we summarize not only the clinical effects, but also important cell signaling pathways in in vivo and in vitro assays of potent bioactive compounds present in the noni plant which have been reported in studies of obesity and obesity-associated metabolic dysfunction. Full article

17 pages, 1464 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Taste Perception of Sweet, Sour, Salty, Bitter, and Umami and Changes Due to l-Arginine Supplementation, as a Function of Genetic Ability to Taste 6-n-Propylthiouracil

by Melania Melis and Iole Tomassini Barbarossa^*

Department of Biomedical Sciences, Section of Physiology, University of Cagliari, Monserrato, Cagliari 09042, Italy

Nutrients 2017, 9(6), 541; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu9060541 - 25 May 2017

Cited by 72 | Viewed by 12029

Abstract

Behavioral reaction to different taste qualities affects nutritional status and health. 6-n-Propylthiouracil (PROP) tasting has been reported to be a marker of variation in taste perception, food preferences, and eating behavior, but results have been inconsistent. We showed that l-Arg [...] Read more.

Behavioral reaction to different taste qualities affects nutritional status and health. 6-n-Propylthiouracil (PROP) tasting has been reported to be a marker of variation in taste perception, food preferences, and eating behavior, but results have been inconsistent. We showed that l-Arg can enhance the bitterness intensity of PROP, whilst others have demonstrated a suppression of the bitterness of quinine. Here, we analyze the taste perception of sweet, sour, salty, bitter, and umami and the modifications caused by l-Arg supplementation, as a function of PROP-taster status. Taste perception was assessed by testing the ability to recognize, and the responsiveness to, representative solutions of the five primary taste qualities, also when supplemented with l-Arg, in subjects classified as PROP-tasting. Super-tasters, who showed high papilla density, gave higher ratings to sucrose, citric acid, caffeine, and monosodium l-glutamate than non-tasters. l-Arg supplementation mainly modified sucrose perception, enhanced the umami taste, increased NaCl saltiness and caffeine bitterness only in tasters, and decreased citric acid sourness. Our findings confirm the role of PROP phenotype in the taste perception of sweet, sour, and bitter and show its role in umami. The results suggest that l-Arg could be used as a strategic tool to specifically modify taste responses related to eating behaviors. Full article

▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

16 pages, 787 KiB

Open AccessArticle

StandFood: Standardization of Foods Using a Semi-Automatic System for Classifying and Describing Foods According to FoodEx2

by Tome Eftimov^1,2,*

, Peter Korošec^1,3 and Barbara Koroušić Seljak¹

¹ Computer Systems Department, Jožef Stefan Institute, Jamova cesta 39, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia

² Jožef Stefan International Postgraduate School, Jamova cesta 39, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia

³ Faculty of Mathematics, Natural Science and Information Technologies, Glagoljaška ulica 8, 6000 Koper, Slovenia

Nutrients 2017, 9(6), 542; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu9060542 - 26 May 2017

Cited by 53 | Viewed by 9468

Abstract

The European Food Safety Authority has developed a standardized food classification and description system called FoodEx2. It uses facets to describe food properties and aspects from various perspectives, making it easier to compare food consumption data from different sources and perform more detailed [...] Read more.

The European Food Safety Authority has developed a standardized food classification and description system called FoodEx2. It uses facets to describe food properties and aspects from various perspectives, making it easier to compare food consumption data from different sources and perform more detailed data analyses. However, both food composition data and food consumption data, which need to be linked, are lacking in FoodEx2 because the process of classification and description has to be manually performed—a process that is laborious and requires good knowledge of the system and also good knowledge of food (composition, processing, marketing, etc.). In this paper, we introduce a semi-automatic system for classifying and describing foods according to FoodEx2, which consists of three parts. The first involves a machine learning approach and classifies foods into four FoodEx2 categories, with two for single foods: raw (r) and derivatives (d), and two for composite foods: simple (s) and aggregated (c). The second uses a natural language processing approach and probability theory to describe foods. The third combines the result from the first and the second part by defining post-processing rules in order to improve the result for the classification part. We tested the system using a set of food items (from Slovenia) manually-coded according to FoodEx2. The new semi-automatic system obtained an accuracy of 89% for the classification part and 79% for the description part, or an overall result of 79% for the whole system. Full article

▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

19 pages, 4045 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Protective Effect of Chokeberry (Aronia melanocarpa L.) Extract against Cadmium Impact on the Biomechanical Properties of the Femur: A Study in a Rat Model of Low and Moderate Lifetime Women Exposure to This Heavy Metal

by Małgorzata M. Brzóska^*, Alicja Roszczenko, Joanna Rogalska, Małgorzata Gałażyn-Sidorczuk and Magdalena Mężyńska

Department of Toxicology, Medical University of Bialystok, Adama Mickiewicza 2C street, 15-222 Bialystok, Poland

Nutrients 2017, 9(6), 543; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu9060543 - 25 May 2017

Cited by 17 | Viewed by 7539

Abstract

The hypothesis that the consumption of Aronia melanocarpa berries (chokeberries) extract, recently reported by us to improve bone metabolism in female rats at low-level and moderate chronic exposure to cadmium (1 and 5 mg Cd/kg diet for up to 24 months), may increase [...] Read more.

The hypothesis that the consumption of Aronia melanocarpa berries (chokeberries) extract, recently reported by us to improve bone metabolism in female rats at low-level and moderate chronic exposure to cadmium (1 and 5 mg Cd/kg diet for up to 24 months), may increase the bone resistance to fracture was investigated. Biomechanical properties of the neck (bending test with vertical head loading) and diaphysis (three-point bending test) of the femur of rats administered 0.1% aqueous chokeberry extract (65.74% of polyphenols) or/and Cd in the diet (1 and 5 mg Cd/kg) for 3, 10, 17, and 24 months were evaluated. Moreover, procollagen I was assayed in the bone tissue. The low-level and moderate exposure to Cd decreased the procollagen I concentration in the bone tissue and weakened the biomechanical properties of the femoral neck and diaphysis. Chokeberry extract administration under the exposure to Cd improved the bone collagen biosynthesis and femur biomechanical properties. The results allow for the conclusion that the consumption of chokeberry products under exposure to Cd may improve the bone biomechanical properties and protect from fracture. This study provides support for Aronia melanocarpa berries being a promising natural agent for skeletal protection under low-level and moderate chronic exposure to Cd. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Dietary Bioactives and Bone Health)

▼ Show Figures

Graphical abstract

11 pages, 217 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Tea Drinking and Its Association with Active Tuberculosis Incidence among Middle-Aged and Elderly Adults: The Singapore Chinese Health Study

by Avril Zixin Soh¹

, An Pan²

, Cynthia Bin Eng Chee³, Yee-Tang Wang³, Jian-Min Yuan⁴ and Woon-Puay Koh^1,5,*

¹ Saw Swee Hock School of Public Health, National University of Singapore, Singapore 117549, Singapore

² Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Environment and Health, and State Key Laboratory of Environmental Health (incubation), School of Public Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, China

³ Singapore Tuberculosis Control Unit, Tan Tock Seng Hospital, Singapore 308089, Singapore

⁴ Division of Cancer Control and Population Sciences, University of Pittsburgh Cancer Institute, and Department of Epidemiology, University of Pittsburgh Graduate School of Public Health, Pittsburgh, PA 15261, USA

⁵ Office of Clinical Sciences, Duke-NUS Medical School, 8 College Road, Singapore 169857, Singapore

Nutrients 2017, 9(6), 544; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu9060544 - 25 May 2017

Cited by 25 | Viewed by 6005

Abstract

Experimental studies showed that tea polyphenols may inhibit growth of Mycobacterium tuberculosis. However, no prospective epidemiologic study has investigated tea drinking and the risk of active tuberculosis. We investigated this association in the Singapore Chinese Health Study, a prospective population-based cohort of [...] Read more.

Experimental studies showed that tea polyphenols may inhibit growth of Mycobacterium tuberculosis. However, no prospective epidemiologic study has investigated tea drinking and the risk of active tuberculosis. We investigated this association in the Singapore Chinese Health Study, a prospective population-based cohort of 63,257 Chinese aged 45–74 years recruited between 1993 and 1998 in Singapore. Information on habitual drinking of tea (including black and green tea) and coffee was collected via structured questionnaires. Incident cases of active tuberculosis were identified via linkage with the nationwide tuberculosis registry up to 31 December 2014. Cox proportional hazard models were used to estimate the relation of tea and coffee consumption with tuberculosis risk. Over a mean 16.8 years of follow-up, we identified 1249 incident cases of active tuberculosis. Drinking either black or green tea was associated with a dose-dependent reduction in tuberculosis risk. Compared to non-drinkers, the hazard ratio (HR) (95% confidence interval (CI)) was 1.01 (0.85–1.21) in monthly tea drinkers, 0.84 (0.73–0.98) in weekly drinkers, and 0.82 (0.71–0.96) in daily drinkers (p for trend = 0.003). Coffee or caffeine intake was not significantly associated with tuberculosis risk. In conclusion, regular tea drinking was associated with a reduced risk of active tuberculosis. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nutrients, Infectious and Inflammatory Diseases)

12 pages, 728 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Prevent Effects of Lactobacillus Fermentum HY01 on Dextran Sulfate Sodium-Induced Colitis in Mice

by Xiaoyong Chen^1,2,3,†, Xin Zhao^3,†

, Hongwei Wang^1,2

, Zelin Yang⁴, Jian Li^5,* and Huayi Suo^1,2,*

¹ College of Food Science, Southwest University, Chongqing 400715, China

² Chongqing Engineering Research Center of Regional Food, Chongqing 400715, China

³ Chongqing Collaborative Innovation Center for Functional Food, Chongqing University of Education, Chongqing 400067, China

⁴ Chongqing Proviencial center for Animal Disease Control and Precention, Chongqing 401120, China

⁵ College of Life Science and Technology, Southwest University for Nationalities, Chengdu 610041, China

^† These authors contributed equally to this work.

Nutrients 2017, 9(6), 545; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu9060545 - 25 May 2017

Cited by 85 | Viewed by 6874

Abstract

The aim of this study is to assess the preventive effects of Lactobacillus fermentum HY01 (LF-HY01) to dextran sulfate sodium induced-colitis. We observed the ratio of colon weight to its length, colon pathological changes, and the concentrations of pro-inflammatory factors (IFN-γ, IL-12, TNFα, [...] Read more.

The aim of this study is to assess the preventive effects of Lactobacillus fermentum HY01 (LF-HY01) to dextran sulfate sodium induced-colitis. We observed the ratio of colon weight to its length, colon pathological changes, and the concentrations of pro-inflammatory factors (IFN-γ, IL-12, TNFα, and IL-6) in serum. We also took account of the protein levels of IκBα, NF-κB p65, iNOS, and COX-2, and we measured the best effects of different doses of Lactobacillus fermentum HY01 (low dose group was 10⁹ CFU/kg·bw, high dose group was 10¹⁰ CFU/kg·bw) on dextran sulfate sodium-induced colitis mice. The results were remarkable, suggesting that Lactobacillus fermentum HY01 had significant preventive effects in dextran sulfate sodium induced-colitis; simultaneously, the high dose group showed the best results among other groups. It can effectively alleviate the shortened colon length, reduce the ratio of colon weight to its length, reduce edema, inflammatory cells infiltration, and colon mucosa injury, and play an important role in the down-regulation of concentrations of pro-inflammatory factors (IFN-γ, IL-12, TNFα, and IL-6). Above all, Lactobacillus fermentum HY01 shows promising prevention for IκBα degradation, inhibition of NF-κB p65 phosphorylation cascades, and decreases the protein levels of iNOS and COX-2 as well. Full article

▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

18 pages, 313 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Compliance with Nutritional and Lifestyle Recommendations in 13,000 Patients with a Cardiometabolic Disease from the Nutrinet-Santé Study

by Solia Adriouch^1,*

, Hélène Lelong¹, Emmanuelle Kesse-Guyot¹

, Julia Baudry¹, Aurélie Lampuré¹

, Pilar Galan^1,2, Serge Hercberg^1,2

, Mathilde Touvier^1,†

and Léopold K. Fezeu^1,†

¹ Université Paris 13, Equipe de Recherche en Epidémiologie Nutritionnelle (EREN), Centre de Recherche en Epidémiologie et Statistiques, Inserm (U1153), Inra (U1125), Cnam, COMUE Sorbonne Paris Cité, F-93017 Bobigny, France

² Département de Santé Publique, Hôpital Avicenne, F-93017 Bobigny, France

^† These authors contributed equally to this work.

Nutrients 2017, 9(6), 546; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu9060546 - 26 May 2017

Cited by 18 | Viewed by 5310

Abstract

Background: A healthy diet has been shown to prevent cardiovascular diseases complications. The objective of this study was to assess dietary intakes and compliance with nutritional and lifestyle recommendations in French adults diagnosed with hypertension, diabetes, dyslipidaemia or cardiovascular disease compared with healthy [...] Read more.

Background: A healthy diet has been shown to prevent cardiovascular diseases complications. The objective of this study was to assess dietary intakes and compliance with nutritional and lifestyle recommendations in French adults diagnosed with hypertension, diabetes, dyslipidaemia or cardiovascular disease compared with healthy individuals. Methods: Data was collected from 26,570 subjects aged 35 to 70 years (13,285 patients and 13,285 controls matched by sex and age) of the French cohort NutriNet-Santé. Dietary intakes were assessed using three 24-h records. Mean food and nutrient intakes of patients were compared to those of healthy subjects using multivariable mixed logistic and linear regressions. Results: Compared to healthy controls, adults reporting cardiometabolic diseases had lower intakes of sweetened products, higher intakes of fish and seafood and a better compliance with dairy products. However, overall, they reported unhealthier lifestyles and dietary habits. Indeed, they were less often physically active and had similar habits regarding alcohol and tobacco consumption. They also had lower intakes of fruit, higher intakes of meat, processed meat and added fats. It is noteworthy that diabetic subjects tended to show the highest compliance with certain dietary recommendations (vegetables, pulses and whole grain products). Conclusion: Our study brings into focus the fact that some nutritional aspects still need to be improved among individuals with a cardiometabolic disease. We should encourage higher intakes of fruits and vegetables, whole grain products, and lower intakes of meat and sodium, as well as healthy lifestyle (physical activity, no-smoking and limited intake of alcohol) in order to encourage a healthier management after being diagnosed. Full article

13 pages, 565 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Direct vs. Expressed Breast Milk Feeding: Relation to Duration of Breastfeeding

by Wei Wei Pang^1,*, Jonathan Y. Bernard²

, Geetha Thavamani¹, Yiong Huak Chan³, Doris Fok¹, Shu-E Soh², Mei Chien Chua⁴

, Sok Bee Lim⁵, Lynette P. Shek^2,6,7, Fabian Yap⁸, Kok Hian Tan^9,10

, Peter D. Gluckman^2,11, Keith M. Godfrey^12,13

, Rob M. Van Dam^14,15, Michael S. Kramer^1,16,† and Yap-Seng Chong^1,2,*,†

¹ Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore and National University Health System, Singapore 119228, Singapore

² Singapore Institute for Clinical Sciences (SICS), Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), Singapore 117609, Singapore

³ Department of Biostatistics, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore and National University Health System, Singapore 119228, Singapore

⁴ Department of Neonatology, KK Women’s and Children’s Hospital, Singapore 229899, Singapore

⁵ Department of Child Development, KK Women’s & Children’s Hospital, Singapore 229899, Singapore

⁶ Department of Paediatrics, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore and National University Health System, Singapore 119228, Singapore

⁷ Khoo Teck Puat-National University Children’s Medical Institute, National University Health System, Singapore 119228, Singapore

⁸ Department of Paediatric Endocrinology, KK Women's and Children's Hospital, Singapore 229899, Singapore

⁹ Department of Maternal Fetal Medicine, KK Women’s and Children’s Hospital, Singapore 229899, Singapore

¹⁰ Duke-NUS Medical School, Singapore 169857, Singapore

¹¹ Liggins Institute, University of Auckland, Auckland 1142, New Zealand

¹² Medical Research Council Lifecourse Epidemiology Unit, Southampton SO16 6YD, UK

¹³ NIHR Southampton Biomedical Research Centre, University of Southampton and University Hospital Southampton NHS Foundation Trust, Southampton SO16 6YD, UK

¹⁴ Saw Swee Hock School of Public Health, National University of Singapore and National University Health System, Singapore 117549, Singapore

¹⁵ Department of Medicine, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore and National University Health System, Singapore 119228, Singapore

¹⁶ Department of Epidemiology, Biostatistics and Occupational Health, Faculty of Medicine, McGill University Faculty of Medicine, Montreal, QC H3A 1A2, Canada

^† These authors are co-last authors for the paper.

Show full affiliation list Hide full affiliation list

Nutrients 2017, 9(6), 547; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu9060547 - 27 May 2017

Cited by 52 | Viewed by 9347

Abstract

Background: Studies examining direct vs. expressed breast milk feeding are scarce. We explored the predictors of mode of breastfeeding and its association with breastfeeding duration in a multi-ethnic Asian population. Methods: We included 541 breastfeeding mother—infant pairs from the Growing Up in Singapore [...] Read more.

Background: Studies examining direct vs. expressed breast milk feeding are scarce. We explored the predictors of mode of breastfeeding and its association with breastfeeding duration in a multi-ethnic Asian population. Methods: We included 541 breastfeeding mother—infant pairs from the Growing Up in Singapore Toward healthy Outcomes cohort. Mode of breastfeeding (feeding directly at the breast, expressed breast milk (EBM) feeding only, or mixed feeding (a combination of the former 2 modes)) was ascertained at three months postpartum. Ordinal logistic regression analyses identified predictors of breast milk expression. Cox regression models examined the association between mode of breastfeeding and duration of any and of full breastfeeding. Results: Maternal factors independently associated with a greater likelihood of breast milk expression instead of direct breastfeeding were Chinese (vs. Indian) ethnicity, (adjusted odds ratio, 95% CI; 3.41, 1.97–5.91), tertiary education (vs. secondary education or lower) (2.22, 1.22–4.04), primiparity (1.54, 1.04–2.26) and employment during pregnancy (2.53, 1.60–4.02). Relative to those who fed their infants directly at the breast, mothers who fed their infants EBM only had a higher likelihood of early weaning among all mothers who were breastfeeding (adjusted hazard ratio, 95% CI; 2.20, 1.61–3.02), and among those who were fully breastfeeding (2.39, 1.05–5.41). Mothers who practiced mixed feeding, however, were not at higher risk of earlier termination of any or of full breastfeeding. Conclusions: Mothers who fed their infants EBM exclusively, but not those who practiced mixed feeding, were at a higher risk of terminating breastfeeding earlier than those who fed their infants directly at the breast. More education and support are required for women who feed their infants EBM only. Full article

▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

9 pages, 210 KiB

Open AccessReview

Dialysis Procedures Alter Metabolic Conditions

by Bernd Stegmayr

Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Umea University, 90187 Umea, Sweden

Nutrients 2017, 9(6), 548; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu9060548 - 27 May 2017

Cited by 17 | Viewed by 5465

Abstract

A progressive chronic kidney disease results in retention of various substances that more or less contribute to dysfunction of various metabolic systems. The accumulated substances are denominated uremic toxins. Although many toxins remain undetected, numerous newly defined toxins participate in the disturbance of [...] Read more.

A progressive chronic kidney disease results in retention of various substances that more or less contribute to dysfunction of various metabolic systems. The accumulated substances are denominated uremic toxins. Although many toxins remain undetected, numerous newly defined toxins participate in the disturbance of food breakdown. In addition, toxic effects may downregulate other pathways, resulting in a reduced ability of free fatty acid breakdown by lipoprotein lipase (LPL) and hepatic lipase (HL). Dialysis may even worsen metabolic functions. For LPL and HL, the use of heparin and low molecular weight heparin as anticoagulation during hemodialysis (HD) initiate a loss of these enzymes from their binding sites and degradation, causing a temporary dysregulation in triglyceride breakdown. This lack of function will cause retention of the triglyceride containing lipids for at least 8 h. In parallel, the breakdown into free fatty acids is limited, as is the energy supply by them. This is repeated thrice a week for a normal HD patient. In addition, dialysis will cause a loss of amino acids and disturb glucose metabolism depending on the dialysates used. The addition of glucose in the dialysate may support oxidation of carbohydrate and the retention of Amadori products and subsequent tissue alterations. To avoid these effects, it seems necessary to further study the effects of anticoagulation in HD, the extent of use of glucose in the dialysate, and the supplementation of amino acids. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nutrition and Chronic Kidney Disease)

16 pages, 447 KiB

Open AccessReview

Chronic Fructose Ingestion as a Major Health Concern: Is a Sedentary Lifestyle Making It Worse? A Review

by Amy J. Bidwell

Department of Health Promotion and Wellness, State University of New York at Oswego, 105G Park Hall, Oswego, NY 13027, USA

Nutrients 2017, 9(6), 549; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu9060549 - 28 May 2017

Cited by 39 | Viewed by 9490

Abstract

Obesity contributes to metabolic abnormalities such as insulin resistance, dyslipidemia, hypertension, and glucose intolerance, all of which are risk factors associated with metabolic syndrome. The growing prevelance of metabolic syndrome seems to be an end result of our current lifestyle which promotes high [...] Read more.

Obesity contributes to metabolic abnormalities such as insulin resistance, dyslipidemia, hypertension, and glucose intolerance, all of which are risk factors associated with metabolic syndrome. The growing prevelance of metabolic syndrome seems to be an end result of our current lifestyle which promotes high caloric, high-fat foods and minimal physical activity, resulting in a state of positive energy balance. Increased adiposity and physical inactivity may represent the beginning of the appearance of these risk factors. Understanding the metabolic and cardiovascular disturbances associated with diet and exercise habits is a crucial step towards reducing the risk factors for metabolic syndrome. Although considerable research has been conducted linking chronic fructose ingestion to the increased prevalence of obesity and metabolic syndrome risk factors, these studies have mainly been performed on animals, and/or in a post-absorptive state. Further, the magnitude of the effect of fructose may depend on other aspects of the diet, including the total amount of carbohydrates and fats in the diet and the overall consumption of meals. Therefore, the overall aim of this review paper is to examine the effects of a diet high in fructose on postprandial lipidemia, inflammatory markers and glucose tolerance, all risk factors for diabetes and cardiovascular disease. Moreover, an objective is to investigate whether increased physical activity can alter such effects. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Dietary Fructose and Glucose: The Multifacetted Aspects of their Metabolism and Implication for Human Health)

▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

14 pages, 953 KiB

Open AccessReview

Nutritional Vitamin D in Renal Transplant Patients: Speculations and Reality

by Piergiorgio Messa^1,2,*, Anna Regalia² and Carlo Maria Alfieri¹

¹ Fondazione IRCCS Ca’ Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milano 20122, Italy

² via Festa del Perdono, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milano 20122, Italy

Nutrients 2017, 9(6), 550; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu9060550 - 27 May 2017

Cited by 23 | Viewed by 7781

Abstract

Reduced levels of nutritional vitamin D are commonly observed in most chronic kidney disease (CKD) patients and particularly in patients who have received a kidney transplant (KTx). In the complex clinical scenario characterizing the recipients of a renal graft, nutritional vitamin D deficiency [...] Read more.

Reduced levels of nutritional vitamin D are commonly observed in most chronic kidney disease (CKD) patients and particularly in patients who have received a kidney transplant (KTx). In the complex clinical scenario characterizing the recipients of a renal graft, nutritional vitamin D deficiency has been put in relation not only to the changes of mineral and bone metabolism (MBM) after KTx, but also to most of the medical complications which burden KTx patients. In fact, referring to its alleged pleiotropic (non-MBM related) activities, vitamin D has been claimed to play some role in the occurrence of cardiovascular, metabolic, immunologic, neoplastic and infectious complications commonly observed in KTx recipients. Furthermore, low nutritional vitamin D levels have also been connected with graft dysfunction occurrence and progression. In this review, we will discuss the purported and the demonstrated effects of native vitamin D deficiency/insufficiency in most of the above mentioned fields, dealing separately with the MBM-related and the pleiotropic effects. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nutrition and Chronic Kidney Disease)

▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

15 pages, 1477 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Different Intestinal Microbial Profile in Over-Weight and Obese Subjects Consuming a Diet with Low Content of Fiber and Antioxidants

by Tania Fernández-Navarro^1,2, Nuria Salazar^2,*, Isabel Gutiérrez-Díaz¹, Clara G. De los Reyes-Gavilán²

, Miguel Gueimonde²

and Sonia González^1,*

¹ Area of Physiology, Department of Functional Biology, University of Oviedo, 33006 Asturias, Spain

² Department of Microbiology and Biochemistry of Dairy Products, Instituto de Productos Lácteos de Asturias, Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (IPLA-CSIC), Paseo Río Linares s/n, Villaviciosa, 33300 Asturias, Spain

Nutrients 2017, 9(6), 551; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu9060551 - 27 May 2017

Cited by 42 | Viewed by 10566

Abstract

Obesity has been related to an increased risk of multiple diseases in which oxidative stress and inflammation play a role. Gut microbiota has emerged as a mediator in this interaction, providing new mechanistic insights at the interface between fat metabolism dysregulation and obesity [...] Read more.

Obesity has been related to an increased risk of multiple diseases in which oxidative stress and inflammation play a role. Gut microbiota has emerged as a mediator in this interaction, providing new mechanistic insights at the interface between fat metabolism dysregulation and obesity development. Our aim was to analyze the interrelationship among obesity, diet, oxidative stress, inflammation and the intestinal microbiota in 68 healthy adults (29.4% normal-weight). Diet was assessed through a food frequency questionnaire and converted into nutrients and dietary compounds using food composition tables. The intestinal microbiota was assessed by quantitative PCR, fecal short chain fatty acids by gas chromatography and serum biomarkers by standard protocols. Higher levels of malondialdehyde (MDA), C reactive protein (CRP), serum leptin, glucose, fat percentage and the intestinal Lactobacillus group were found in the obese people. Cluster analysis of body mass index, fat mass, glucose, LDL/HDL ratio, leptin, MDA and CRP classified the subjects into two groups. The levels of the intestinal Bacteroides-Prevotella-Porphyromonas group were lower in the cluster and linked to a higher pro-oxidant and pro-inflammatory status, whose individuals also had lower intake of fruits, dried fruits, and fish. These results could be useful for designing strategies targeted to obesity prevention. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Antioxidants in Health and Disease)

▼ Show Figures

Graphical abstract

5 pages, 189 KiB

Open AccessBrief Report

The IL6 Gene Promoter SNP and Plasma IL-6 in Response to Diet Intervention

by Brinda K. Rana^1,*, Shirley W. Flatt², Dennis D. Health², Bilge Pakiz², Elizabeth L. Quintana², Loki Natarajan² and Cheryl L. Rock²

¹ Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093-0738, USA

² Department of Family Medicine and Public Health, School of Medicine, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093-0901, USA

Nutrients 2017, 9(6), 552; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu9060552 - 27 May 2017

Cited by 13 | Viewed by 5740

Abstract

We recently reported that interleukin-6 (IL-6), an inflammatory marker associated with breast pathology and the development of breast cancer, decreases with diet intervention and weight loss in both insulin-sensitive and insulin-resistant obese women. Here, we tested whether an individual’s genotype at an IL6 [...] Read more.

We recently reported that interleukin-6 (IL-6), an inflammatory marker associated with breast pathology and the development of breast cancer, decreases with diet intervention and weight loss in both insulin-sensitive and insulin-resistant obese women. Here, we tested whether an individual’s genotype at an IL6 SNP, rs1800795, which has previously been associated with circulating IL-6 levels, contributes to changes in IL-6 levels or modifies the effect of diet composition on IL-6 in these women. We genotyped rs1800795 in overweight/obese women (N = 242) who were randomly assigned to a lower fat (20% energy), higher carbohydrate (65% energy) diet; a lower carbohydrate (45% energy), higher fat (35% energy) diet; or a walnut-rich (18% energy), higher fat (35% energy), lower carbohydrate (45% energy) diet in a 1-year weight loss intervention study of obesity-related biomarkers for breast cancer incidence and mortality. Plasma IL-6 levels were measured at baseline, 6 and 12 months. At baseline, individuals with a CC genotype had significantly lower IL-6 levels than individuals with either a GC or GG genotype (p < 0.03; 2.72 pg/mL vs. 2.04 pg/mL), but this result was not significant when body mass index (BMI) was accounted for; the CC genotype group had lower BMI (p = 0.03; 32.5 kg/m² vs. 33.6 kg/m²). We did not observe a 2-way interaction of time*rs1800795 genotype or diet*rs1800795 genotype. Our findings provide evidence that rs1800795 is associated with IL-6 levels, but do not support a differential interaction effect of rs1800795 and diet composition or time on changes in circulating IL-6 levels. Diet intervention and weight loss are an important strategy for reducing plasma IL-6, a risk factor of breast cancer in women, regardless of their rs1800795 genotype. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nutrigenetics)

13 pages, 1154 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Body Composition Analysis Allows the Prediction of Urinary Creatinine Excretion and of Renal Function in Chronic Kidney Disease Patients

by Carlo Donadio

Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Division of Nephrology, University of Pisa, I-56100 Pisa, Italy

Nutrients 2017, 9(6), 553; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu9060553 - 28 May 2017

Cited by 13 | Viewed by 7002

Abstract

The aim of this study was to predict urinary creatinine excretion (UCr), creatinine clearance (CCr) and the glomerular filtration rate (GFR) from body composition analysis. Body cell mass (BCM) is the compartment which contains muscle mass, which is where creatinine is generated. BCM [...] Read more.

The aim of this study was to predict urinary creatinine excretion (UCr), creatinine clearance (CCr) and the glomerular filtration rate (GFR) from body composition analysis. Body cell mass (BCM) is the compartment which contains muscle mass, which is where creatinine is generated. BCM was measured with body impedance analysis in 165 chronic kidney disease (CKD) adult patients (72 women) with serum creatinine (SCr) 0.6–14.4 mg/dL. The GFR was measured (^99mTc-DTPA) and was predicted using the Modification of Diet in Renal Disease (MDRD) formula. The other examined parameters were SCr, 24-h UCr and measured 24-h CCr (mCCr). A strict linear correlation was found between 24-h UCr and BCM (r = 0.772). Multiple linear regression (MR) indicated that UCr was positively correlated with BCM, body weight and male gender, and negatively correlated with age and SCr. UCr predicted using the MR equation (MR-UCr) was quite similar to 24-h UCr. CCr predicted from MR-UCr and SCr (MR-BCM-CCr) was very similar to mCCr with a high correlation (r = 0.950), concordance and a low prediction error (8.9 mL/min/1.73 m²). From the relationship between the GFR and the BCM/SCr ratio, we predicted the GFR (BCM GFR). The BCM GFR was very similar to the GFR with a high correlation (r = 0.906), concordance and a low prediction error (12.4 mL/min/1.73 m²). In CKD patients, UCr, CCr and the GFR can be predicted from body composition analysis. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nutrition and Chronic Kidney Disease)

▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

16 pages, 2541 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Annual Wormwood Leaf Inhibits the Adipogenesis of 3T3-L1 and Obesity in High-Fat Diet-Induced Obese Rats

by Yuno Song¹, Soo-Jung Lee², Sun-Hee Jang¹, Tae Hoon Kim³, Hong-Duck Kim⁴, Sung-Woo Kim⁵, Chung-Kil Won¹

and Jae-Hyeon Cho^1,*

¹ Institute of Animal Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, Gyeongsang National University, Jinju 660-701, Korea

² Department of Foods and Nutrition, Gyeongsang National University, Jinju 660-701, Korea

³ Department of Food Science and Biotechnology, Daegu University, Gyungsan 712-714, Korea

⁴ Department of Environmental Health Science, New York Medical College, Valhalla, NY 10595, USA

⁵ Animal Genetic Resources Station, National Institute of Animal Science, RDA, Namwon 590-832, Korea

Nutrients 2017, 9(6), 554; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu9060554 - 28 May 2017

Cited by 16 | Viewed by 5326

Abstract

Annual wormwood (AW) (Artemisia annua L.) has anti-malarial, anti-bacterial, anti-oxidant, anti-tumour, and anti-inflammatory activities. In the present study, we evaluated the effects of annual wormwood leaves (AWL) on adipocyte differentiation in 3T3-L1 cells and high-fat diet (HFD)-induced obese rats. 3T3-L1 adipocytes and [...] Read more.

Annual wormwood (AW) (Artemisia annua L.) has anti-malarial, anti-bacterial, anti-oxidant, anti-tumour, and anti-inflammatory activities. In the present study, we evaluated the effects of annual wormwood leaves (AWL) on adipocyte differentiation in 3T3-L1 cells and high-fat diet (HFD)-induced obese rats. 3T3-L1 adipocytes and HFD-induced obese rats were treated with AWL, and its effect on gene expression was analyzed using RT-PCR and Western blotting experiments. Treatment with AWL effectively prevented triglyceride accumulation during adipogenesis in a dose-dependent manner. Consistently, AWL suppressed the differentiation of 3T3-L1 preadipocytes into adipocytes through the downregulation of dexamethasone, 3-isobutyl-1- methylxanthine, and insulin (DMI)-induced serine/threonine kinase protein kinase B (PKB/Akt) activation and the expression of adipogenic genes, including the CCAAT/enhancer binding protein-α (C/EBPα) and peroximal proliferator-activated receptor-γ (PPARγ). Moreover, the expression of adipocyte fatty acid-binding protein 4 (aP2), which is a known PPARγ-target gene, was downregulated by AWL treatment. Oral administration of AWL extracts significantly decreased the body weight gain, adipose tissue mass, adipocyte cell size, serum triglyceride (TG), and total cholesterol (TC) levels in HFD-induced obese rats. These results provide novel insight into the molecular mechanisms underlying the anti-obesity effects of AWL that are mediated by the downregulation of the expression of major adipogenic transcription factors, C/EBPα and PPARγ and Akt signalling. Full article

▼ Show Figures

Graphical abstract

19 pages, 500 KiB

Open AccessReview

Evidence of the Anti-Inflammatory Effects of Probiotics and Synbiotics in Intestinal Chronic Diseases

by Julio Plaza-Díaz^1,2,3

, Francisco Javier Ruiz-Ojeda^1,2,3

, Laura Maria Vilchez-Padial² and Angel Gil^1,2,3,4,*

¹ Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology II, School of Pharmacy, University of Granada, Granada 18071, Spain

² Institute of Nutrition and Food Technology “José Mataix”, Biomedical Research Center, University of Granada, Armilla, Granada 18016, Spain

³ Instituto de Investigación Biosanitaria ibs., GRANADA, Complejo Hospitalario Universitario de Granada, Granada 18014, Spain

⁴ CIBEROBN (Physiopathology of Obesity and Nutrition CB12/03/30038), Instituto de Salud Carlos III (ISCIII), Madrid 28029, Spain

Nutrients 2017, 9(6), 555; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu9060555 - 28 May 2017

Cited by 316 | Viewed by 25691

Abstract

Probiotics and synbiotics are used to treat chronic diseases, principally due to their role in immune system modulation and the anti-inflammatory response. The present study reviewed the effects of probiotics and synbiotics on intestinal chronic diseases in in vitro, animal, and human studies, [...] Read more.

Probiotics and synbiotics are used to treat chronic diseases, principally due to their role in immune system modulation and the anti-inflammatory response. The present study reviewed the effects of probiotics and synbiotics on intestinal chronic diseases in in vitro, animal, and human studies, particularly in randomized clinical trials. The selected probiotics exhibit in vitro anti-inflammatory properties. Probiotic strains and cell-free supernatants reduced the expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines via action that is principally mediated by toll-like receptors. Probiotic administration improved the clinical symptoms, histological alterations, and mucus production in most of the evaluated animal studies, but some results suggest that caution should be taken when administering these agents in the relapse stages of IBD. In addition, no effects on chronic enteropathies were reported. Probiotic supplementation appears to be potentially well tolerated, effective, and safe in patients with IBD, in both CD and UC. Indeed, probiotics such as Bifidobacterium longum 536 improved the clinical symptoms in patients with mild to moderate active UC. Although it has been proposed that probiotics can provide benefits in certain conditions, the risks and benefits should be carefully assessed before initiating any therapy in patients with IBD. For this reason, further studies are required to understand the precise mechanism by which probiotics and synbiotics affect these diseases. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nutrients, Infectious and Inflammatory Diseases)

▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

14 pages, 1053 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Blackcurrant Alters Physiological Responses and Femoral Artery Diameter during Sustained Isometric Contraction

by Matthew David Cook^1,2

, Stephen David Myers¹, Mandy Lucinda Gault¹ and Mark Elisabeth Theodorus Willems^1,*

¹ Department of Sport & Exercise Sciences, University of Chichester, College Lane, Chichester PO19 6PE, UK

² Institute of Sport and Exercise Science, University of Worcester, Henwick Grove, Worcester WR2 6AJ, UK

Nutrients 2017, 9(6), 556; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu9060556 - 29 May 2017

Cited by 53 | Viewed by 9384

Abstract

Blackcurrant is rich in anthocyanins that may affect exercise-induced physiological responses. We examined tissue oxygen saturation, muscle activity, cardiovascular responses and femoral artery diameter during a submaximal sustained isometric contraction. In a randomised, double-blind, crossover design, healthy men (n = 13, age: [...] Read more.

Blackcurrant is rich in anthocyanins that may affect exercise-induced physiological responses. We examined tissue oxygen saturation, muscle activity, cardiovascular responses and femoral artery diameter during a submaximal sustained isometric contraction. In a randomised, double-blind, crossover design, healthy men (n = 13, age: 25 ± 4 years, BMI: 25 ± 3 kg·m⁻², mean ± SD) ingested New Zealand blackcurrant (NZBC) extract (600 mg∙day⁻¹ CurraNZ™) or placebo (PL) for 7-days separated by 14-days washout. Participants produced isometric maximal voluntary contractions (iMVC) and a 120-s 30%iMVC of the quadriceps with electromyography (EMG), near-infrared spectroscopy, hemodynamic and ultrasound recordings. There was no effect of NZBC extract on iMVC (NZBC: 654 ± 73, PL: 650 ± 78 N). During the 30%iMVC with NZBC extract, total peripheral resistance, systolic, diastolic, and mean arterial pressure were lower with increased cardiac output and stroke volume. With NZBC extract, EMG root mean square of the vastus medialis and muscle oxygen saturation were lower with higher total haemoglobin. During the 30%iMVC, femoral artery diameter was increased with NZBC extract at 30 (6.9%), 60 (8.2%), 90 (7.7%) and 120 s (6.0%). Intake of NZBC extract for 7-days altered cardiovascular responses, muscle oxygen saturation, muscle activity and femoral artery diameter during a 120-s 30%iMVC of the quadriceps. The present study provides insight into the potential mechanisms for enhanced exercise performance with intake of blackcurrant. Full article

▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

13 pages, 772 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Is Erythrocyte Protoporphyrin a Better Single Screening Test for Iron Deficiency Compared to Hemoglobin or Mean Cell Volume in Children and Women?

by Zuguo Mei^1,*, Rafael C. Flores-Ayala¹, Laurence M. Grummer-Strawn² and Gary M. Brittenham³

¹ Division of Nutrition, Physical Activity and Obesity, National Center for Chronic Disease Prevention and Health Promotion, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Atlanta, 30300 GA, USA

² Nutrition for Health and Development, World Health Organization (WHO), Geneva 1201, Switzerland

³ Department of Pediatrics, Columbia University, New York, 10032 NY, USA

Nutrients 2017, 9(6), 557; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu9060557 - 31 May 2017

Cited by 15 | Viewed by 5939

Abstract

Hemoglobin (Hb), mean cell volume (MCV), and erythrocyte protoporphyrin (EP) are commonly used to screen for iron deficiency (ID), but systematic evaluation of the sensitivity and specificity of these tests is limited. The objective of this study is to determine the sensitivity and [...] Read more.

Hemoglobin (Hb), mean cell volume (MCV), and erythrocyte protoporphyrin (EP) are commonly used to screen for iron deficiency (ID), but systematic evaluation of the sensitivity and specificity of these tests is limited. The objective of this study is to determine the sensitivity and specificity of Hb, MCV, and EP measurements in screening for ID in preschool children, non-pregnant women 15–49 years of age, and pregnant women. Data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Surveys (NHANES) (NHANES 2003–2006: n = 861, children three to five years of age; n = 3112, non-pregnant women 15 to 49 years of age. NHANES 1999–2006: n = 1150, pregnant women) were examined for this purpose. Children or women with blood lead ≥10 µg/dL or C-reactive protein (CRP) >5.0 mg/L were excluded. ID was defined as total body iron stores <0 mg/kg body weight, calculated from the ratio of soluble transferrin receptor (sTfR) to serum ferritin (SF). The receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve was used to characterize the sensitivity and specificity of Hb, MCV, and EP measurements in screening for ID. In detecting ID in children three to five years of age, EP (Area under the Curve (AUC) 0.80) was superior to Hb (AUC 0.62) (p < 0.01) but not statistically different from MCV (AUC 0.73). In women, EP and Hb were comparable (non-pregnant AUC 0.86 and 0.84, respectively; pregnant 0.77 and 0.74, respectively), and both were better than MCV (non-pregnant AUC 0.80; pregnant 0.70) (p < 0.01). We concluded that the sensitivity and specificity of EP in screening for ID were consistently superior to or at least as effective as those of Hb and MCV in each population examined. For children three to five years of age, EP screening for ID was significantly better than Hb and similar to MCV. For both non-pregnant and pregnant women, the performance of EP and Hb were comparable; both were significantly superior to MCV. Full article

▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

9 pages, 558 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Consumption of Dairy Yogurt Containing Lactobacillus paracasei ssp. paracasei, Bifidobacterium animalis ssp. lactis and Heat-Treated Lactobacillus plantarum Improves Immune Function Including Natural Killer Cell Activity

by Ayoung Lee^1,2, Young Ju Lee^1,2, Hye Jin Yoo^1,2, Minkyung Kim³, Yeeun Chang^1,2, Dong Seog Lee⁴ and Jong Ho Lee^1,2,3,*

¹ National Leading Research Laboratory of Clinical Nutrigenetics/Nutrigenomics, Department of Food and Nutrition, College of Human Ecology, Yonsei University, Seoul 03722, Korea

² Department of Food and Nutrition, Brain Korea 21 PLUS Project, College of Human Ecology, Yonsei University, Seoul 03722, Korea

³ Research Center for Silver Science, Institute of Symbiotic Life-TECH, Yonsei University, Seoul 03722, Korea

⁴ Purmil Co., Ltd., Seoul 07281, Korea

Nutrients 2017, 9(6), 558; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu9060558 - 31 May 2017

Cited by 87 | Viewed by 18720

Abstract

The aim of this study was to investigate the impact of consuming dairy yogurt containing Lactobacillus paracasei ssp. paracasei (L. paracasei), Bifidobacterium animalis ssp. lactis (B. lactis) and heat-treated Lactobacillus plantarum (L. plantarum) on immune function. A [...] Read more.

The aim of this study was to investigate the impact of consuming dairy yogurt containing Lactobacillus paracasei ssp. paracasei (L. paracasei), Bifidobacterium animalis ssp. lactis (B. lactis) and heat-treated Lactobacillus plantarum (L. plantarum) on immune function. A randomized, open-label, placebo-controlled study was conducted on 200 nondiabetic subjects. Over a twelve-week period, the test group consumed dairy yogurt containing probiotics each day, whereas the placebo group consumed milk. Natural killer (NK) cell activity, interleukin (IL)-12 and immunoglobulin (Ig) G1 levels were significantly increased in the test group at twelve weeks compared to baseline. Additionally, the test group had significantly greater increases in serum NK cell activity and interferon (IFN)-γ and IgG1 than placebo group. Daily consumption of dairy yogurt containing L. paracasei, B. lactis and heat-treated L. plantarum could be an effective option to improve immune function by enhancing NK cell function and IFN-γ concentration (ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT03051425). Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Prebiotics and Probiotics)

▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

16 pages, 1547 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Lactobacillus reuteri I5007 Modulates Intestinal Host Defense Peptide Expression in the Model of IPEC-J2 Cells and Neonatal Piglets

by Hongbin Liu^1,†, Chengli Hou^1,2,†, Gang Wang¹, Hongmin Jia¹, Haitao Yu¹, Xiangfang Zeng¹, Philip A Thacker³, Guolong Zhang⁴ and Shiyan Qiao^1,*

¹ State Key Laboratory of Animal Nutrition, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193, China

² Institute of Food Science and Technology CAAS, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing, 100193, China

³ Department of Animal and Poultry Science, University of Saskatchewan, SK S7N 5C5, Canada

⁴ Department of Animal Science, Oklahoma State University, Stillwater, OK 74074, USA

^† These authors contributed equally to this work.

Nutrients 2017, 9(6), 559; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu9060559 - 31 May 2017

Cited by 81 | Viewed by 8796

Abstract

Modulation of the synthesis of endogenous host defense peptides (HDPs) by probiotics represents a novel antimicrobial approach for disease control and prevention, particularly against antibiotic-resistant infections in human and animals. However, the extent of HDP modulation by probiotics is species dependent and strain [...] Read more.

Modulation of the synthesis of endogenous host defense peptides (HDPs) by probiotics represents a novel antimicrobial approach for disease control and prevention, particularly against antibiotic-resistant infections in human and animals. However, the extent of HDP modulation by probiotics is species dependent and strain specific. In the present study, The porcine small intestinal epithelial cell line (IPEC-J2) cells and neonatal piglets were used as in-vitro and in-vivo models to test whether Lactobacillus reuteri I5007 could modulate intestinal HDP expression. Gene expressions of HDPs, toll-like receptors, and fatty acid receptors were determined, as well as colonic short chain fatty acid concentrations and microbiota. Exposure to 10⁸ colony forming units (CFU)/mL of L. reuteri I5007 for 6 h significantly increased the expression of porcine β-Defensin2 (PBD2), pBD3, pBD114, pBD129, and protegrins (PG) 1-5 in IPEC-J2 cells. Similarly, L. reuteri I5007 administration significantly increased the expression of jejunal pBD2 as well as colonic pBD2, pBD3, pBD114, and pBD129 in neonatal piglets (p < 0.05). This was probably associated with the increase in colonic butyric acid concentration and up-regulating expression of Peroxisome Proliferator-Activated Receptor-γ (PPAR-γ) and G Protein-Coupled Receptor 41 (GPR41) (p < 0.05), but not with stimulation of Pattern-Recognition Receptors. Additionally, supplementation with L. reuteri I5007 in the piglets did not affect the colonic microbiota structure. Our findings suggested that L. reuteri I5007 could modulate intestinal HDP expression and improve the gut health of neonatal piglets, probably through the increase in colonic butyric acid concentration and the up-regulation of the downstream molecules of butyric acid, PPAR-γ and GPR41, but not through modifying gut microbiota structure. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Prebiotics and Probiotics)

▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

11 pages, 1633 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Effects of Low-Dose Non-Caloric Sweetener Consumption on Gut Microbiota in Mice

by Takashi Uebanso^1,*, Ai Ohnishi¹, Reiko Kitayama¹, Ayumi Yoshimoto¹, Mutsumi Nakahashi², Takaaki Shimohata¹

, Kazuaki Mawatari¹ and Akira Takahashi¹

¹ Department of Preventive Environment and Nutrition, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Tokushima University Graduate School, 3-18-15, Kuramoto, Tokushima 770-8503, Japan

² Graduate School of Bioscience and Bioindustry, Tokushima University, Tokushima 770-8503, Japan

Nutrients 2017, 9(6), 560; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu9060560 - 1 Jun 2017

Cited by 98 | Viewed by 16043

Abstract

Abstract: Non-caloric artificial sweeteners (NASs) provide sweet tastes to food without adding calories or glucose. NASs can be used as alternative sweeteners for controlling blood glucose levels and weight gain. Although the consumption of NASs has increased over the past decade in [...] Read more.

Abstract: Non-caloric artificial sweeteners (NASs) provide sweet tastes to food without adding calories or glucose. NASs can be used as alternative sweeteners for controlling blood glucose levels and weight gain. Although the consumption of NASs has increased over the past decade in Japan and other countries, whether these sweeteners affect the composition of the gut microbiome is unclear. In the present study, we examined the effects of sucralose or acesulfame-K ingestion (at most the maximum acceptable daily intake (ADI) levels, 15 mg/kg body weight) on the gut microbiome in mice. Consumption of sucralose, but not acesulfame-K, for 8 weeks reduced the relative amount of Clostridium cluster XIVa in feces. Meanwhile, sucralose and acesulfame-K did not increase food intake, body weight gain or liver weight, or fat in the epididymis or cecum. Only sucralose intake increased the concentration of hepatic cholesterol and cholic acid. Moreover, the relative concentration of butyrate and the ratio of secondary/primary bile acids in luminal metabolites increased with sucralose consumption in a dose-dependent manner. These results suggest that daily intake of maximum ADI levels of sucralose, but not acesulfame-K, affected the relative amount of the Clostridium cluster XIVa in fecal microbiome and cholesterol bile acid metabolism in mice. Full article

▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

14 pages, 464 KiB

Open AccessReview

Chronic Inflammatory Diseases and Green Tea Polyphenols

by Helieh S. Oz

Department of Physiology, Internal Medicine, College of Medicine, University of Kentucky Medical Center, Lexington, KY 40536-0298, USA

Nutrients 2017, 9(6), 561; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu9060561 - 1 Jun 2017

Cited by 59 | Viewed by 10260

Abstract

Chronic inflammatory diseases affect millions of people globally and the incidence rate is on the rise. While inflammation contributes to the tissue healing process, chronic inflammation can lead to life-long debilitation and loss of tissue function and organ failure. Chronic inflammatory diseases include [...] Read more.

Chronic inflammatory diseases affect millions of people globally and the incidence rate is on the rise. While inflammation contributes to the tissue healing process, chronic inflammation can lead to life-long debilitation and loss of tissue function and organ failure. Chronic inflammatory diseases include hepatic, gastrointestinal and neurodegenerative complications which can lead to malignancy. Despite the millennial advancements in diagnostic and therapeutic modalities, there remains no effective cure for patients who suffer from inflammatory diseases. Therefore, patients seek alternatives and complementary agents as adjunct therapies to relieve symptoms and possibly to prevent consequences of inflammation. It is well known that green tea polyphenols (GrTPs) are potent antioxidants with important roles in regulating vital signaling pathways. These comprise transcription nuclear factor-kappa B mediated I kappa B kinase complex pathways, programmed cell death pathways like caspases and B-cell lymphoma-2 and intervention with the surge of inflammatory markers like cytokines and production ofcyclooxygenase-2. This paper concisely reviews relevant investigations regarding protective effects of GrTPs and some reported adverse effects, as well as possible applications for GrTPs in the treatment of chronic and inflammatory complications. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nutrients, Infectious and Inflammatory Diseases)

▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

14 pages, 937 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Preoperative Nutritional Conditioning of Crohn’s Patients—Systematic Review of Current Evidence and Practice

by Fabian Grass

, Basile Pache

, David Martin, Dieter Hahnloser, Nicolas Demartines

and Martin Hübner^*

Department of Visceral Surgery, Lausanne University Hospital CHUV, 1011 Lausanne, Switzerland

Nutrients 2017, 9(6), 562; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu9060562 - 1 Jun 2017

Cited by 60 | Viewed by 7871

Abstract

Crohn’s disease is an incurable and frequently progressive entity with major impact on affected patients. Up to half of patients require surgery in the first 10 years after diagnosis and over 75% of operated patients require at least one further surgery within lifetime. [...] Read more.

Crohn’s disease is an incurable and frequently progressive entity with major impact on affected patients. Up to half of patients require surgery in the first 10 years after diagnosis and over 75% of operated patients require at least one further surgery within lifetime. In order to minimize surgical risk, modifiable risk factors such as nutritional status need to be optimized. This systematic review on preoperative nutritional support in adult Crohn’s patients between 1997 and 2017 aimed to provide an overview on target populations, screening modalities, routes of administration, and expected benefits. Pertinent study characteristics (prospective vs. retrospective, sample size, control group, limitations) were defined a priori. Twenty-nine studies were retained, of which 14 original studies (9 retrospective, 4 prospective, and 1 randomized controlled trial) and 15 reviews. Study heterogeneity was high regarding nutritional regimens and outcome, and meta-analysis could not be performed. Most studies were conducted without matched control group and thus provide modest level of evidence. Consistently, malnutrition was found to be a major risk factor for postoperative complications, and both enteral and parenteral routes were efficient in decreasing postoperative morbidity. Current guidelines for nutrition in general surgery apply also to Crohn’s patients. The route of administration should be chosen according to disease presentation and patients’ condition. Further studies are needed to strengthen the evidence. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nutrients, Infectious and Inflammatory Diseases)

▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

10 pages, 590 KiB

Open AccessArticle

A Polish Study on the Influence of Food Neophobia in Children (10–12 Years Old) on the Intake of Vegetables and Fruits

by Dominika Guzek^1,*

, Dominika Głąbska²

, Ewa Lange² and Marzena Jezewska-Zychowicz¹

¹ Department of Organization and Consumption Economics, Faculty of Human Nutrition and Consumer Sciences, Warsaw University of Life Sciences (SGGW-WULS), 159C Nowoursynowska Street, 02-787 Warsaw, Poland

² Department of Dietetics, Faculty of Human Nutrition and Consumer Sciences, Warsaw University of Life Sciences (SGGW-WULS), 159C Nowoursynowska Street, 02-787 Warsaw, Poland

Nutrients 2017, 9(6), 563; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu9060563 - 2 Jun 2017

Cited by 34 | Viewed by 6403

Abstract

Adhering to the recommended intake of fruits and vegetables is an important habit that should be inculcated in children, whereas food neophobia is indicated as one of the most important factors creating food preferences that may interfere. The aim of the presented study [...] Read more.

Adhering to the recommended intake of fruits and vegetables is an important habit that should be inculcated in children, whereas food neophobia is indicated as one of the most important factors creating food preferences that may interfere. The aim of the presented study was to analyze the association between the food neophobia level and the intake of fruits and vegetables in children aged 10–12 years. The study was conducted among a group of 163 children (78 girls and 85 boys). The assessment of the food neophobia level was based on the Food Neophobia Scale (FNS) questionnaire and the assessment of the fruit and vegetable intake was based on the food frequency questionnaire. A negative correlation between the food neophobia level and the vegetable intake was observed both for girls (p = 0.032; R = −0.2432) and for boys (p = 0.004; R = −0.3071), whereas for girls differences in vegetable intake were observed also between various food neophobia categories (p = 0.0144). It may be concluded that children with higher food neophobia level are characterized by lower vegetable intake than children with lower food neophobia level. For fruits and juices of fruits and vegetables, associations with food neophobia level were not observed. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Dietary Intake and Behavior in Children)

▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

9 pages, 726 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Toxoplasma Gondii Moderates the Association between Multiple Folate-Cycle Factors and Cognitive Function in U.S. Adults

by Andrew N. Berrett^1,*

, Shawn D. Gale^1,2

, Lance D. Erickson³, Bruce L. Brown¹ and Dawson W. Hedges^1,2

¹ Department of Psychology, Brigham Young University, Provo, UT 84602, USA

² The Neuroscience Center, Brigham Young University, Provo, UT 84602, USA

³ Department of Sociology, Brigham Young University, PProvo, UT 84602, USA

Nutrients 2017, 9(6), 564; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu9060564 - 2 Jun 2017

Cited by 13 | Viewed by 5354

Abstract

Toxoplasma gondii (T. gondii) is a microscopic, apicomplexan parasite that can infect muscle or neural tissue, including the brain, in humans. While T. gondii infection has been associated with changes in mood, behavior, and cognition, the mechanism remains unclear. Recent evidence [...] Read more.

Toxoplasma gondii (T. gondii) is a microscopic, apicomplexan parasite that can infect muscle or neural tissue, including the brain, in humans. While T. gondii infection has been associated with changes in mood, behavior, and cognition, the mechanism remains unclear. Recent evidence suggests that T. gondii may harvest folate from host neural cells. Reduced folate availability is associated with an increased risk of neurodevelopmental disorders, neurodegenerative diseases, and cognitive decline. We hypothesized that impairment in cognitive functioning in subjects seropositive for T. gondii might be associated with a reduction of folate availability in neural cells. We analyzed data from the third National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey to determine the associations between T. gondii infection, multiple folate-cycle factors, and three tests of cognitive functioning in U.S. adults aged 20 to 59 years. In these analyses, T. gondii moderated the associations of folate, vitamin B-12, and homocysteine with performance on the Serial Digit Learning task, a measure of learning and memory, as well as the association of folate with reaction time. The results of this study suggest that T. gondii might affect brain levels of folate and/or vitamin B-12 enough to affect cognitive functioning. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nutrients, Infectious and Inflammatory Diseases)

▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

20 pages, 4726 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Leucine Supplementation Differently Modulates Branched-Chain Amino Acid Catabolism, Mitochondrial Function and Metabolic Profiles at the Different Stage of Insulin Resistance in Rats on High-Fat Diet

by Rui Liu

, Hui Li, Wenjuan Fan, Qiu Jin, Tingting Chao, Yuanjue Wu, Junmei Huang, Liping Hao and Xuefeng Yang^*

Department of Nutrition and Food Hygiene, Hubei Key Laboratory of Food Nutrition and Safety, MOE Key Laboratory of Environment and Health, School of Public Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, Hubei, China

Nutrients 2017, 9(6), 565; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu9060565 - 2 Jun 2017

Cited by 35 | Viewed by 9038

Abstract

The available findings concerning the association between branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs)—particularly leucine—and insulin resistance are conflicting. BCAAs have been proposed to elicit different or even opposite effects, depending on the prevalence of catabolic and anabolic states. We tested the hypothesis that leucine supplementation [...] Read more.

The available findings concerning the association between branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs)—particularly leucine—and insulin resistance are conflicting. BCAAs have been proposed to elicit different or even opposite effects, depending on the prevalence of catabolic and anabolic states. We tested the hypothesis that leucine supplementation may exert different effects at different stages of insulin resistance, to provide mechanistic insights into the role of leucine in the progression of insulin resistance. Male Sprague-Dawley rats were fed a normal chow diet, high-fat diet (HFD), HFD supplemented with 1.5% leucine, or HFD with a 20% calorie restriction for 24 or 32 weeks. Leucine supplementation led to abnormal catabolism of BCAA and the incompletely oxidized lipid species that contributed to mitochondrial dysfunction in skeletal muscle in HFD-fed rats in the early stage of insulin resistance (24 weeks). However, leucine supplementation induced no remarkable alternations in BCAA catabolism, but did enhance mitochondrial biogenesis with a concomitant improvement in lipid oxidation and mitochondrial function during the hyperglycaemia stage (32 weeks). These findings suggest that leucine trigger different effects on metabolic signatures at different stages of insulin resistance, and the overall metabolic status of the organisms should be carefully considered to potentiate the benefits of leucine. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nutrition and Diet Factors in Type 2 Diabetes)

▼ Show Figures

Graphical abstract

10 pages, 231 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Randomized Controlled Trial of DHA Supplementation during Pregnancy: Child Adiposity Outcomes

by Byron A. Foster^1,*

, Elia Escaname¹, Theresa L. Powell², Benjamin Larsen¹, Sartaj K. Siddiqui¹, John Menchaca¹, Christian Aquino¹

, Rajam Ramamurthy¹ and Daniel E. Hale¹

¹ Department of Pediatrics, University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX 78229, USA

² Department of Pediatrics, University of Colorado, Aurora, CO 80045, USA

Nutrients 2017, 9(6), 566; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu9060566 - 2 Jun 2017

Cited by 25 | Viewed by 6447

Abstract

Investigating safe and effective interventions in pregnancy that lower offspring adiposity is important given the burden of obesity and subsequent metabolic derangements. Our objective was to determine if docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) given during pregnancy to obese mothers results in lower offspring adiposity. This [...] Read more.

Investigating safe and effective interventions in pregnancy that lower offspring adiposity is important given the burden of obesity and subsequent metabolic derangements. Our objective was to determine if docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) given during pregnancy to obese mothers results in lower offspring adiposity. This study was a long-term follow-up of a randomized trial of mothers with gestational diabetes or obesity who were randomized to receive DHA supplementation at 800 mg/day or placebo (corn/soy oil) starting at 25–29 weeks gestation. Anthropometric measures were collected at birth and maternal erythrocyte DHA and arachidonic (AA) levels were measured at 26 and 36 weeks gestation. At two- and four-year follow-up time points, offspring adiposity measures along with a diet recall were assessed. A significant increase in erythrocyte DHA levels was observed at 36 weeks gestation in the supplemented group (p < 0.001). While no significant differences by measures of adiposity were noted at birth, two or four years by randomization group, duration of breastfeeding (p < 0.001), and DHA level at 36 weeks (p = 0.002) were associated with body mass index z-score. Our data suggest that DHA supplementation during pregnancy in obese mothers may have long-lasting effects on offspring measures of adiposity. Full article

15 pages, 936 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Feeding a Mixture of Choline Forms to Lactating Dams Improves the Development of the Immune System in Sprague-Dawley Rat Offspring

by Caroline Richard^1,*

, Erin D. Lewis^1,2, Susan Goruk¹, Emily Wadge¹, Jonathan M. Curtis¹, René L. Jacobs¹

and Catherine J. Field¹

¹ Department of Agricultural, Food and Nutritional Science, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB T6G 2E1, Canada

² Jean Mayer United States Department of Agriculture, Human Nutrition Center on Aging, Tufts University, Boston, MA 02111, USA

Nutrients 2017, 9(6), 567; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu9060567 - 2 Jun 2017

Cited by 11 | Viewed by 5307

Abstract

Dietary choline is essential during lactation, but few studies have examined the implications of feeding a mixture of choline forms on immune function. This study investigates the impact of feeding lactating dams different mixtures of choline forms, similar to those in human diets, [...] Read more.

Dietary choline is essential during lactation, but few studies have examined the implications of feeding a mixture of choline forms on immune function. This study investigates the impact of feeding lactating dams different mixtures of choline forms, similar to those in human diets, on the development and later immune function of suckled offspring. Sprague-Dawley lactating dams (n = 6/diet) were randomized to consume one of three diets, containing 1 g/kg choline: Control (100% free choline (FC)), Mixed Choline (MC: 50% phosphatidylcholine (PC), 25% FC, 25% glycerophosphocholine (GPC)), or High GPC (HGPC: 75% GPC, 12.5% PC, 12.5% FC). At weaning, female pups (n = 2/dam) were fed the Control diet until 10 weeks. At 3 weeks, MC and HGPC pups were heavier and their splenocytes had a higher proportion of helper T cells expressing CD25 and CD28 and produced less interferon gamma (IFN-γ) and tumor-necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) after Concanavalin A stimulation vs. Control pups (p < 0.05). At 10 weeks, MC and HGPC offspring had a lower proportion of macrophages and dendritic cells and produced less interleukin (IL)-1β but more IL-10 after lipopolysaccharide stimulation vs. Control pups (p < 0.05). In summary, feeding mixed choline diets during lactation improved T cell phenotype/function at the end of suckling and programmed a less inflammatory response later in life. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Dietary Choline)

▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

13 pages, 745 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Vitamin C Depletion and All-Cause Mortality in Renal Transplant Recipients

by Camilo G. Sotomayor^1,*

, Michele F. Eisenga¹, Antonio W. Gomes Neto¹, Akin Ozyilmaz¹, Rijk O.B. Gans¹, Wilhelmina H.A. de Jong², Dorien M. Zelle¹, Stefan P. Berger¹, Carlo A. J.M. Gaillard¹, Gerjan J. Navis¹

and Stephan J.L. Bakker¹

¹ Department of Internal Medicine, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Hanzeplein 1, Groningen 9700 RB, The Netherlands

² Department of Laboratory Medicine, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Hanzeplein 1, Groningen 9700 RB, The Netherlands

Nutrients 2017, 9(6), 568; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu9060568 - 2 Jun 2017

Cited by 19 | Viewed by 9290

Abstract

Vitamin C may reduce inflammation and is inversely associated with mortality in the general population. We investigated the association of plasma vitamin C with all-cause mortality in renal transplant recipients (RTR); and whether this association would be mediated by inflammatory biomarkers. Vitamin C, [...] Read more.

Vitamin C may reduce inflammation and is inversely associated with mortality in the general population. We investigated the association of plasma vitamin C with all-cause mortality in renal transplant recipients (RTR); and whether this association would be mediated by inflammatory biomarkers. Vitamin C, high sensitive C-reactive protein (hs-CRP), soluble intercellular cell adhesion molecule 1 (sICAM-1), and soluble vascular cell adhesion molecule 1 (sVCAM-1) were measured in a cohort of 598 RTR. Cox regression analyses were used to analyze the association between vitamin C depletion (≤28 µmol/L; 22% of RTR) and mortality. Mediation analyses were performed according to Preacher and Hayes’s procedure. At a median follow-up of 7.0 (6.2–7.5) years, 131 (21%) patients died. Vitamin C depletion was univariately associated with almost two-fold higher risk of mortality (Hazard ratio (HR) 1.95; 95% confidence interval (95%CI) 1.35–2.81, p < 0.001). This association remained independent of potential confounders (HR 1.74; 95%CI 1.18–2.57, p = 0.005). Hs-CRP, sICAM-1, sVCAM-1 and a composite score of inflammatory biomarkers mediated 16, 17, 15, and 32% of the association, respectively. Vitamin C depletion is frequent and independently associated with almost two-fold higher risk of mortality in RTR. It may be hypothesized that the beneficial effect of vitamin C at least partly occurs through decreasing inflammation. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Vitamin C in Health and Disease)

▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

14 pages, 2574 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Seabuckthorn Leaves Extract and Flavonoid Glycosides Extract from Seabuckthorn Leaves Ameliorates Adiposity, Hepatic Steatosis, Insulin Resistance, and Inflammation in Diet-Induced Obesity

by Eun-Young Kwon^1,2,†, Jeonghyeon Lee^1,†, Ye Jin Kim¹, Ara Do¹, Ji-Young Choi^1,2, Su-Jung Cho^1,2, Un Ju Jung³, Mi-Kyung Lee⁴, Yong Bok Park⁵ and Myung-Sook Choi^1,2,*

¹ Department of Food Science and Nutrition, Kyungpook National University, 1370 San-Kyuk Dong Puk-Ku, Daegu 41566, Korea

² Center for Food and Nutritional Genomics Research, Kyungpook National University, 1370 San-Kyuk Dong Puk-Ku, Daegu 41566, Korea

³ Department of Food Science and Nutrition, Pukyong National University, Busan 608-737, Korea

⁴ Department of Food and Nutrition, Sunchon National University, Suncheon 540-950, Korea

⁵ School of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Kyungpook National University, 1370 San-Kyuk Dong Puk-Ku, Daegu 41566, Korea

^† These authors contributed equally to this work.

Nutrients 2017, 9(6), 569; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu9060569 - 2 Jun 2017

Cited by 54 | Viewed by 7403

Abstract

The aim of the current study was to elucidate the effect of seabuckthorn leaves (SL) extract and flavonoid glycosides extract from seabuckthorn leaves (SLG) on diet-induced obesity and related metabolic disturbances, and additionally, to identify whether flavonoid glycosides and other components in SL [...] Read more.

The aim of the current study was to elucidate the effect of seabuckthorn leaves (SL) extract and flavonoid glycosides extract from seabuckthorn leaves (SLG) on diet-induced obesity and related metabolic disturbances, and additionally, to identify whether flavonoid glycosides and other components in SL can exert a possible interaction for the prevention of metabolic diseases by comparing the effect of SL and SLG. C57BL/6J mice were fed a normal diet (ND, AIN-93G purified diet), high-fat diet (HFD, 60 kcal% fat), HFD + 1.8% (w/w) SL (SL), and HFD + 0.04% (w/w) SLG (SLG) for 12 weeks. In high fat-fed mice, SL and SLG decreased the adiposity by suppressing lipogenesis in adipose tissue, while increasing the energy expenditure. SL and SLG also improved hepatic steatosis by suppressing hepatic lipogenesis and lipid absorption, whilst also enhancing hepatic fatty acid oxidation, which may be linked to the improvement in dyslipidemia. Moreover, SL and SLG improved insulin sensitivity by suppressing the levels of plasma GIP that were modulated by secreted resistin and pro-inflammatory cytokine, and hepatic glucogenic enzyme activities. SL, especially its flavonoid glycosides (SLG), can protect against the deleterious effects of diet-induced obesity (DIO) and its metabolic complications such as adiposity, dyslipidemia, inflammation, hepatic steatosis, and insulin resistance. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Effects of Polyphenol-Rich Foods on Human Health)

▼ Show Figures

Graphical abstract

12 pages, 1024 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Evolving Interplay among Abundant Adipokines in Patients with Hepatitis C during Viral Clearance

by Ming-Ling Chang^1,2,*, Tsung-Hsing Chen¹, Chen-Ming Hsu¹, Cheng-Hui Lin¹, Cheng-Yu Lin¹, Chia-Jung Kuo¹, Shu-Wei Huang¹, Chun-Wei Chen¹, Hao-Tsai Cheng¹, Chau-Ting Yeh¹ and Cheng-Tang Chiu¹

¹ Liver Research Center, Division of Hepatology, Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Taoyuan 33305, Taiwan

² Department of Medicine, College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan 33305, Taiwan

Nutrients 2017, 9(6), 570; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu9060570 - 2 Jun 2017

Cited by 7 | Viewed by 4649

Abstract

How hepatatitis C virus (HCV) infection affects the interplay among abundant adipokines in the host remains unclear. A prospective study was conducted with 450 consecutive genotype 1 (G1) and G2 HCV patients who completed a course of anti-HCV therapy and underwent pre-therapy and [...] Read more.

How hepatatitis C virus (HCV) infection affects the interplay among abundant adipokines in the host remains unclear. A prospective study was conducted with 450 consecutive genotype 1 (G1) and G2 HCV patients who completed a course of anti-HCV therapy and underwent pre-therapy and 24-week post-therapy surveys to assess various profiles and levels of abundant adipokines, including leptin, adiponectin, and plasminogen activator inhibitor-1 (PAI-1). Before anti-HCV therapy, multivariate analyses showed gender to be associated with leptin and adiponectin levels, and BMI with leptin and PAI-1 levels. Among patients with a sustained virological response (SVR, n = 372), associations at 24 weeks post-therapy were as follows: gender and BMI with all adipokine levels; hepatic steatosis and aspartate aminotransferase to platelet ratio index with adiponectin levels; and HOMA-IR and HCV genotype with PAI-1 levels. Paired t-tests revealed increased post-therapeutic PAI-1 levels in G1 SVR patients and decreased adiponectin levels in all SVR patients compared to pre-therapeutic levels. HCV infection may obscure associations between abundant adipokines and metabolic/hepatic profiles. In SVR patients, a higher hierarchical status of PAI-1 versus adiponectin in affecting glucose metabolism was noted at 24 weeks post-therapy. Such genotype-non-specific adiponectin decreases and G1-specific PAI-1 increases warrant careful follow-up of HCV patients after SVR according to viral genotype. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nutrients, Infectious and Inflammatory Diseases)

▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

12 pages, 1172 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Comparative Analysis of γ-Oryzanol, β-Glucan, Total Phenolic Content and Antioxidant Activity in Fermented Rice Bran of Different Varieties

by Tae-Dong Jung^1,†, Gi-Hae Shin^1,†, Jae-Min Kim¹, Sun-Il Choi¹, Jin-Ha Lee¹, Sang Jong Lee², Seon Ju Park², Koan Sik Woo³, Sea Kwan Oh^3,*

and Ok-Hawn Lee¹

¹ Department of Food Science and Biotechnology, Kangwon National University, Chuncheon 24341, Republic of Korea

² STR Biotech Company, LTD., Chuncheon, 24232, Republic of Korea

³ Crop Post-harvest Technology Division, Department of Central Area Crop Science, National Institute of Crop Science, RDA, Suwon, 16613, Republic of Korea

^† These authors contributed equally to this work

Nutrients 2017, 9(6), 571; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu9060571 - 3 Jun 2017

Cited by 53 | Viewed by 7193

Abstract

Rice bran, a by-product derived from processing rice, is a rich source of bioactive compounds. Recent studies have suggested that the fermentation can improve their biological activities. This study aimed to determined the level of γ-oryzanol, β-glucan and total phenol contents of fermented [...] Read more.

Rice bran, a by-product derived from processing rice, is a rich source of bioactive compounds. Recent studies have suggested that the fermentation can improve their biological activities. This study aimed to determined the level of γ-oryzanol, β-glucan and total phenol contents of fermented rice bran from 21 Korean varieties, as well as to evaluate their antioxidant activities. We also assessed the validation of the analytical method for determining γ-oryzanol content in fermented rice brans. Among the fermented rice brans, the Haedam rice bran contained the highest level of total phenol content (156.08 mg gallic acid equivalents/g), DPPH (2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl) radical scavenging activity (71.30%) and ORAC (Oxygen radical absorbance capacity) value (1101.31 μM trolox equivalents/g). Furthermore, the fermented Migwang rice bran showed the highest level of γ-oryzanol content (294.77 ± 6.74 mg/100 g). Full article

▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

11 pages, 3493 KiB

Open AccessArticle

(−)-Epigallocatechin-3-Gallate Inhibits Colorectal Cancer Stem Cells by Suppressing Wnt/β-Catenin Pathway

by Yue Chen¹

, Xiao-Qian Wang¹, Qi Zhang¹, Jian-Yun Zhu¹, Yuan Li¹, Chun-Feng Xie^1,2, Xiao-Ting Li^1,2, Jie-Shu Wu^1,2, Shan-Shan Geng^1,2, Cai-Yun Zhong^1,2,* and Hong-Yu Han^3,*

¹ Department of Nutrition and Food Safety, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 211166, China

² The Key Laboratory of Modern Toxicology, Ministry of Education, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 211166, China

³ Department of Clinical Nutrition, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Guangzhou 510060, China

Nutrients 2017, 9(6), 572; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu9060572 - 3 Jun 2017

Cited by 111 | Viewed by 7208

Abstract

The beneficial effects of tea consumption on cancer prevention have been generally reported, while (−)-Epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG) is the major active component from green tea. Cancer stem cells (CSCs) play a crucial role in the process of cancer development. Targeting CSCs may be an [...] Read more.

The beneficial effects of tea consumption on cancer prevention have been generally reported, while (−)-Epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG) is the major active component from green tea. Cancer stem cells (CSCs) play a crucial role in the process of cancer development. Targeting CSCs may be an effective way for cancer intervention. However, the effects of EGCG on colorectal CSCs and the underlying mechanisms remain unclear. Spheroid formation assay was used to enrich colorectal CSCs from colorectal cancer cell lines. Immunoblotting analysis and quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction were used to measure the alterations of critical molecules expression. Immunofluorescence staining analysis was also used to determine the expression of CD133. We revealed that EGCG inhibited the spheroid formation capability of colorectal cancer cells as well as the expression of colorectal CSC markers, along with suppression of cell proliferation and induction of apoptosis. Moreover, we illustrated that EGCG downregulated the activation of Wnt/β-catenin pathway, while upregulation of Wnt/β-catenin diminished the inhibitory effects of EGCG on colorectal CSCs. Taken together, this study suggested that EGCG could be an effective natural compound targeting colorectal CSCs through suppression of Wnt/β-catenin pathway, and thus may be a promising agent for colorectal cancer intervention. Full article

▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

11 pages, 258 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Effect of n-3 Polyunsaturated Fatty Acid Supplementation on Metabolic and Inflammatory Biomarkers in Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus Patients

by M. Gorety Jacobo-Cejudo¹, Roxana Valdés-Ramos^1,*

, Ana L. Guadarrama-López¹, Rosa-Virgen Pardo-Morales², Beatriz E. Martínez-Carrillo¹ and Laurence S. Harbige³

¹ Faculty of Medicine, Universidad Autónoma del Estado de México, Paseo Tollocan esq. Jesús Carranza, Col. Moderna de la Cruz, Toluca 50180, Mexico

² Instlituto Materno-Infantil del Estado de México, Paseo Colón s/n, Col. Villa Hogar, Toluca 50170, Mexico

³ Faculty of Life Sciences and Computing, London Metropolitan University, 166-220 Holloway Road, London N7 8DB, UK

Nutrients 2017, 9(6), 573; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu9060573 - 3 Jun 2017

Cited by 73 | Viewed by 9006

Abstract

Background: Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is accompanied by chronic low-grade inflammation, with an imbalance in the secretion of adipokines and, worsening insulin resistance. Supplementation with n-3 PUFA in T2DM decreases inflammatory markers, the purpose of the study was to investigate the [...] Read more.

Background: Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is accompanied by chronic low-grade inflammation, with an imbalance in the secretion of adipokines and, worsening insulin resistance. Supplementation with n-3 PUFA in T2DM decreases inflammatory markers, the purpose of the study was to investigate the effect of n-3 PUFA supplementation on adipokines, metabolic control, and lipid profile in T2DM Mexican adults. Methods: In a randomized, single-blind, placebo-controlled pilot study, 54 patients with T2DM received 520 mg of DHA + EPA-enriched fish-oil (FOG) or a placebo (PG) daily. Baseline and 24-week anthropometric and biochemical measurements included glucose, insulin, glycosylated hemoglobin (Hb1Ac), leptin, adiponectin, resistin, and lipid profile; n-3 PUFA intake was calculated in g/day. Results: Waist circumference and blood glucose showed significant reductions in the FOG group (p = 0.001 and p = 0.011, respectively). Hb1Ac (p = 0.009 and p = 0.004), leptin (p < 0.000 and p < 0.000), and leptin/adiponectin ratio (p < 0.000 and p < 0.000) decreased significantly in both groups after 24 weeks (FOG and PG respectively). Serum resistin (FOG p < 0.000 and PG p = 0.001), insulin (FOG p < 0.000 and PG p < 0.000), and HOMA-IR (FOG p = 0.000 and PG p < 0.000) increased significantly in both groups. FOG had an overall improvement in the lipid profile with a significant decrease in triacylgycerols (p = 0.002) and atherogenic index (p = 0.031); in contrast, the PG group had increased total cholesterol (p < 0.000), non-HDL cholesterol (p < 0.000), and atherogenic index (p = 0.017). Conclusions: We found a beneficial effect of n-3 PUFA supplementation on waist circumference, glucose, Hb1Ac, leptin, leptin/adiponectin ratio, and lipid profile, without significant changes in adiponectin, and increases in resistin, insulin, and HOMA-IR in both groups. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nutrition and Diet Factors in Type 2 Diabetes)

15 pages, 1986 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Antioxidant and Antihypertensive Effects of a Chemically Defined Fraction of Syrah Red Wine on Spontaneously Hypertensive Rats

by Eugênia Abrantes de Figueiredo¹, Naiane Ferraz Bandeira Alves¹, Matheus Morais de Oliveira Monteiro¹

, Clenia de Oliveira Cavalcanti¹, Tania Maria Sarmento da Silva², Telma Maria Guedes da Silva², Valdir de Andrade Braga¹ and Eduardo de Jesus Oliveira^3,*

¹ Centro de Biotecnologia, Programa de Pós Graduação em Produtos Naturais e Sintéticos Bioativos, Campus I, João Pessoa, PB 58051-970, Brazil

² Departamento de Química, Laboratório de Bioprospecção Fitoquímica, Universidade Federal Rural de Pernambuco, Recife, PE 52171-900, Brazil

³ Departamento de Farmácia, Universidade Federal dos Vales do Jequitinhonha e Mucurí, Diamantina, MG, 39100-000, Brazil

Nutrients 2017, 9(6), 574; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu9060574 - 3 Jun 2017

Cited by 13 | Viewed by 4721

Abstract

A particularly phenolic-rich fraction extracted from red wine from the São Francisco valley (Northeastern Brazil) was chemically characterized and its hypotensive and antioxidant effects on spontaneously hypertensive rats were studied both in vitro and in vivo. The liquid-liquid pH dependent fractionation scheme afforded [...] Read more.

A particularly phenolic-rich fraction extracted from red wine from the São Francisco valley (Northeastern Brazil) was chemically characterized and its hypotensive and antioxidant effects on spontaneously hypertensive rats were studied both in vitro and in vivo. The liquid-liquid pH dependent fractionation scheme afforded a fraction with high content of bioactive phenolics such as flavonols, flavonol glycosides, phenolic acids and anthocyanins, whose identities were confirmed by liquid chromatography coupled to mass spectrometry analysis. Pretreatment of spontaneously hypertensive rats with this wine fraction at doses of 50 and 100 mg/kg by gavage. for 15 days was able to decrease mean arterial pressure and heart rate as well as decrease serum lipid peroxidation. The fraction at concentrations of 0.01–1000 µg/mL induced concentration-dependent relaxation of isolated rat superior mesenteric artery rings pre-contracted with phenylephrine and this effect was not attenuated by endothelium removal. Our results demonstrate it is possible for phenolic constituents of red wine that are orally bioavailable to exert in vivo hypotensive and antioxidant effects on intact endothelial function. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Effects of Polyphenol-Rich Foods on Human Health)

▼ Show Figures

Graphical abstract

11 pages, 223 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Parents’ Qualitative Perspectives on Child Asking for Fruit and Vegetables

by Alicia Beltran

, Teresia M. O’Connor, Sheryl O. Hughes, Debbe Thompson

, Janice Baranowski, Theresa A. Nicklas and Tom Baranowski^*

USDA/ARS Children’s Nutrition Research Center, Department of Pediatrics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA

Nutrients 2017, 9(6), 575; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu9060575 - 5 Jun 2017

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 5179

Abstract

Children can influence the foods available at home, but some ways of approaching a parent may be better than others; and the best way may vary by type of parent. This study explored how parents with different parenting styles would best receive their [...] Read more.

Children can influence the foods available at home, but some ways of approaching a parent may be better than others; and the best way may vary by type of parent. This study explored how parents with different parenting styles would best receive their 10 to 14 years old child asking for fruits and vegetables (FV). An online parenting style questionnaire was completed and follow-up qualitative telephone interviews assessed home food rules, child influence on home food availability, parents’ preferences for being asked for food, and common barriers and reactions to their child’s FV requests. Parents (n = 73) with a 10 to 14 years old child were grouped into authoritative, authoritarian, permissive, or uninvolved parenting style categories based on responses to questionnaires, and interviewed. Almost no differences in responses were detected by parenting style or ethnicity. Parents reported their children had a voice in what foods were purchased and available at home and were receptive to their child’s asking for FV. The most important child asking characteristic was politeness, especially among authoritarian parents. Other important factors were asking in person, helping in the grocery store, writing requests on the grocery shopping list, and showing information they saw in the media. The barrier raising the most concern was FV cost, but FV quality and safety outside the home environment were also considerations. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Dietary Intake and Behavior in Children)

15 pages, 271 KiB

Open AccessMeeting Report

Iron for Africa—Report of an Expert Workshop

by Martin N. Mwangi^1,2,†, Kamija S. Phiri³, Abdelhak Abkari⁴, Mory Gbané⁵, Raphaelle Bourdet-Sicard⁶, Véronique Azaïs Braesco^7,*, Michael B. Zimmermann⁸ and Andrew M. Prentice⁹

¹ Division of Human Nutrition, Wageningen University and Research, Wageningen 6700 AA, The Netherlands

² Nutrition and Health Department, School of Public Health and Community Development, Maseno University, Maseno, Kenya

³ Public Health Department, College of Medicine, University of Malawi, Private Bag 360, Blantyre 8, Malawi

⁴ Hassan II University, Faculty of medicine, CHU Ibn Rochd, Casablanca, Morocco

⁵ National Public Health Institute (INSP) and Nutrition Society of Côte d’Ivoire (SIN), Adjamé BPV 47, Abidjan 01, Côte d’Ivoire

⁶ Danone Nutricia Research, route de la Vauve, Palaiseau 91120, France

⁷ VAB-nutrition, rue Claude Danziger, Clermont-Ferrand 63100, France

⁸ Institute of Food, Nutrition and Health, Swiss Federal Institute of Technology (ETH) Schmelzbergstrasse, Zurich 78092, Switzerland

⁹ MRC Unit The Gambia, Atlantic Road, Fajara, The Gambia & MRC International Nutrition Group, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, Keppel St, London WC1E 7HT, UK

^† The authors wrote the report on the behalf of the workshop participants, listed in the acknowledgment section.

Nutrients 2017, 9(6), 576; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu9060576 - 5 Jun 2017

Cited by 20 | Viewed by 13753

Abstract

Scientific experts from nine countries gathered to share their views and experience around iron interventions in Africa. Inappropriate eating habits, infections and parasitism are responsible for significant prevalence of iron deficiency, but reliable and country-comparable prevalence estimates are lacking: improvements in biomarkers and [...] Read more.

Scientific experts from nine countries gathered to share their views and experience around iron interventions in Africa. Inappropriate eating habits, infections and parasitism are responsible for significant prevalence of iron deficiency, but reliable and country-comparable prevalence estimates are lacking: improvements in biomarkers and cut-offs values adapted to context of use are needed. Benefits of iron interventions on growth and development are indisputable and outweigh risks, which exist in populations with a high infectious burden. Indeed, pathogen growth may increase with enhanced available iron, calling for caution and preventive measures where malaria or other infections are prevalent. Most African countries programmatically fortify flour and supplement pregnant women, while iron deficiency in young children is rather addressed at individual level. Coverage and efficacy could improve through increased access for target populations, raised awareness and lower cost. More bioavailable iron forms, helping to decrease iron dose, or prebiotics, which both may lower risk of infections are attractive opportunities for Africa. Fortifying specific food products could be a relevant route, adapted to local context and needs of population groups while providing education and training. More globally, partnerships involving various stakeholders are encouraged, that could tackle all aspects of the issue. Full article

10 pages, 858 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Changes in Typical Portion Sizes of Commonly Consumed Discretionary Foods among Australian Adults from 1995 to 2011–2012

by Miaobing Zheng^1,*, Anna Rangan²

, Beth Meertens³ and Jason H. Y. Wu¹

¹ The George Institute for Global Health, Faculty of Medicine, University of New South Wales, Sydney 2042, Australia

² Charles Perkins Centre, School of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Sydney, Sydney 2006, Australia

³ National Heart Foundation of Australia, Brisbane 4006, Australia

Nutrients 2017, 9(6), 577; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu9060577 - 6 Jun 2017

Cited by 18 | Viewed by 7767

Abstract

This study aimed to examine the changes in typical portion sizes of commonly consumed discretionary foods among Australian adults from 1995 to 2011–2012. Data of adults (age ≥19 years) from the 1995 Australian National Nutrition Survey and 2011–2012 National Nutrition and Physical Activity [...] Read more.

This study aimed to examine the changes in typical portion sizes of commonly consumed discretionary foods among Australian adults from 1995 to 2011–2012. Data of adults (age ≥19 years) from the 1995 Australian National Nutrition Survey and 2011–2012 National Nutrition and Physical Activity Survey were used. Typical portion sizes (median portion) of fourteen discretionary foods that contributed the most to energy intake were determined. Ten out of fourteen food categories demonstrated a significant change in kJ per typical portion from 1995 to 2011–2012 (p ≤ 0.001). kJ per typical portion increased for pizza, cake, sausage, cereal bar, processed meat, ice cream and wine, with pizza and cake demonstrating the largest increases (+570 kJ and +950 kJ in 2011–2012, respectively; both +66% above 1995). In contrast, kJ per typical portion of pastry, snack food and potato fries decreased by 10–40% over time, and did not change for biscuit, chocolate, sugar-sweetened beverage and beer. Similar changes were observed for grams per typical portion consumed. Temporal trends in typical portion sizes were similar according to age group, gender and socioeconomic status. The findings suggest that population-wide strategies that enable consumers to choose smaller portions of discretionary foods are needed to reduce the excess consumption of these products. Full article

▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

12 pages, 4195 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Curcumin Anti-Apoptotic Action in a Model of Intestinal Epithelial Inflammatory Damage

by Claudia Loganes¹

, Sara Lega², Matteo Bramuzzo¹, Liza Vecchi Brumatti¹, Elisa Piscianz², Erica Valencic¹, Alberto Tommasini¹ and Annalisa Marcuzzi^2,*

¹ Department of Paediatrics, Institute for Maternal and Child Health, IRCCS Burlo Garofolo, Via dell’Istria 65/1, Trieste 34137, Italy

² Department of Medicine, Surgery, and Health Sciences, University of Trieste, Strada di Fiume, 447, Trieste 34100, Italy

Nutrients 2017, 9(6), 578; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu9060578 - 6 Jun 2017

Cited by 35 | Viewed by 7154

Abstract

The purpose of this study is to determine if a preventive treatment with curcumin can protect intestinal epithelial cells from inflammatory damage induced by IFNγ. To achieve this goal we have used a human intestinal epithelial cell line (HT29) treated with IFNγ to [...] Read more.

The purpose of this study is to determine if a preventive treatment with curcumin can protect intestinal epithelial cells from inflammatory damage induced by IFNγ. To achieve this goal we have used a human intestinal epithelial cell line (HT29) treated with IFNγ to undergo apoptotic changes that can reproduce the damage of intestinal epithelia exposed to inflammatory cytokines. In this model, we measured the effect of curcumin (curcuminoid from Curcuma Longa) added as a pre-treatment at different time intervals before stimulation with IFNγ. Curcumin administration to HT29 culture before the inflammatory stimulus IFNγ reduced the cell apoptosis rate. This effect gradually declined with the reduction of the curcumin pre-incubation time. This anti-apoptotic action by curcumin pre-treatment was paralleled by a reduction of secreted IL7 in the HT29 culture media, while there was no relevant change in the other cytokine levels. Even though curcumin pre-administration did not impact the activation of the NF-κB pathway, a slight effect on the phosphorylation of proteins in this inflammatory signaling pathway was observed. In conclusion, curcumin pre-treatment can protect intestinal cells from inflammatory damage. These results can be the basis for studying the preventive role of curcumin in inflammatory bowel diseases. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Antioxidants in Health and Disease)

▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

10 pages, 401 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Weight Status Is Related with Gender and Sleep Duration but Not with Dietary Habits and Physical Activity in Primary School Italian Children

by Alice Rosi¹

, Maria Vittoria Calestani¹, Liborio Parrino², Giulia Milioli², Luigi Palla³

, Elio Volta⁴, Furio Brighenti¹ and Francesca Scazzina^1,*

¹ Human Nutrition Unit, Department of Food and Drug, University of Parma, 43125 Parma, Italy

² Sleep Disorders Center, Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, 43126 Parma, Italy

³ Department of Medical Statistics, Faculty of Epidemiology and Population Health, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London WC1E 7HT, UK

⁴ Giocampus Steering Committee, 43124 Parma, Italy

Nutrients 2017, 9(6), 579; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu9060579 - 6 Jun 2017

Cited by 35 | Viewed by 8036

Abstract

The prevalence of overweight and obesity in children has risen greatly worldwide. Diet and poor physical activity are the two risk factors usually examined, but epidemiological evidence exists suggesting a link between sleep duration and overweight/obesity in children. The aim of this study [...] Read more.

The prevalence of overweight and obesity in children has risen greatly worldwide. Diet and poor physical activity are the two risk factors usually examined, but epidemiological evidence exists suggesting a link between sleep duration and overweight/obesity in children. The aim of this study was to describe the relationship among body mass index (BMI), diet quality, physical activity level, and sleep duration in 690 children attending the 5th grade in primary schools (9–11 years old) in the city of Parma (Italy) involved in the Giocampus educational program. This was achieved through (i) measuring anthropometric data to compute body mass index; (ii) administering a food questionnaire to evaluate adherence to the Mediterranean Diet (KIDMED score); and (iii) administering a lifestyle questionnaire to classify children physical activity level (PAL), sleep duration, and school achievement. A highly significant negative association was found between BMI and sleep hours. Moreover, there was a significant positive association between PAL and KIDMED scores. No evidence was found of association between BMI and PAL, nor between BMI and KIDMED score. Data from this study established that BMI is correlated to gender and sleep duration, defining sleep habits as one of the factors linked to overweight and obesity. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Dietary Intake and Behavior in Children)

▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

14 pages, 875 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Influence of Hesperidin on the Systemic and Intestinal Rat Immune Response

by Mariona Camps-Bossacoma^1,2, Àngels Franch^1,2, Francisco J. Pérez-Cano^1,2

and Margarida Castell^1,2,*

¹ Section of Physiology, Department of Biochemistry and Physiology, Faculty of Pharmacy and Food Science, University of Barcelona (UB), 08028 Barcelona, Spain

² Nutrition and Food Safety Research Institute (INSA-UB), 08921 Santa Coloma de Gramenet, Spain

Nutrients 2017, 9(6), 580; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu9060580 - 6 Jun 2017

Cited by 21 | Viewed by 5172

Abstract

Polyphenols, widely found in edible plants, influence the immune system. Nevertheless, the immunomodulatory properties of hesperidin, the predominant flavanone in oranges, have not been deeply studied. To establish the effect of hesperidin on in vivo immune response, two different conditions of immune system [...] Read more.

Polyphenols, widely found in edible plants, influence the immune system. Nevertheless, the immunomodulatory properties of hesperidin, the predominant flavanone in oranges, have not been deeply studied. To establish the effect of hesperidin on in vivo immune response, two different conditions of immune system stimulations in Lewis rats were applied. In the first experimental design, rats were intraperitoneally immunized with ovalbumin (OVA) plus Bordetella pertussis toxin and alum as the adjuvants, and orally given 100 or 200 mg/kg hesperidin. In the second experimental design, rats were orally sensitized with OVA together with cholera toxin and fed a diet containing 0.5% hesperidin. In the first approach, hesperidin administration changed mesenteric lymph node lymphocyte (MLNL) composition, increasing the TCRαβ+ cell percentage and decreasing that of B lymphocytes. Furthermore, hesperidin enhanced the interferon (IFN)-γ production in stimulated MLNL. In the second approach, hesperidin intake modified the lymphocyte composition in the intestinal epithelium (TCRγδ+ cells) and the lamina propria (TCRγδ+, CD45RA+, natural killer, natural killer T, TCRαβ+CD4+, and TCRαβ+CD8+ cells). Nevertheless, hesperidin did not modify the level of serum anti-OVA antibodies in either study. In conclusion, hesperidin does possess immunoregulatory properties in the intestinal immune response, but this effect is not able to influence the synthesis of specific antibodies. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Effects of Polyphenol-Rich Foods on Human Health)

▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

17 pages, 267 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Impact of Integrated Infant and Young Child Feeding and Micronutrient Powder Intervention on Feeding Practices and Anemia in Children Aged 6–23 Months in Madagascar

by Lindsey M. Locks^1,2

, Ietje Reerink³, Amal Tucker Brown⁴, Smaila Gnegne⁴, Noelimanjaka Ramalanjaona³, Simeon Nanama⁴, Christopher P. Duggan^1,5 and Aashima Garg^2,*

¹ Harvard TH Chan School of Public Health, 677 Huntington Ave, Boston, MA 02115, USA

² United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) Headquarters, 3 United Nations Plaza, New York, NY 10017, USA

³ Population Services Internationl (PSI), Fiaro, Antananarivo BP 7748, Madagascar

⁴ United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), Maison Commune des Nations Unies Zone Galaxy Andraharo, Antananarivo BP 732, Madagascar

⁵ Boston Children’s Hospital, 333 Longwood Avenue, Boston, MA 02115, USA

Nutrients 2017, 9(6), 581; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu9060581 - 7 Jun 2017

Cited by 24 | Viewed by 5825

Abstract

This study assesses the impact of an integrated infant and young child feeding (IYCF) and micronutrient powder (MNP) intervention on children’s risk of anemia and IYCF practices in Madagascar. Quantitative baseline and endline surveys were conducted in representative households with children 6–23 months [...] Read more.

This study assesses the impact of an integrated infant and young child feeding (IYCF) and micronutrient powder (MNP) intervention on children’s risk of anemia and IYCF practices in Madagascar. Quantitative baseline and endline surveys were conducted in representative households with children 6–23 months from two districts, where an 18-month IYCF-MNP intervention was implemented. Relative risks comparing children’s risk of anemia and maternal IYCF knowledge and practices at baseline versus endline, and also at endline among MNP-users versus non-users were estimated using log-binomial regression models. 372 and 475 children aged 6–23 months were assessed at baseline and endline respectively. Prevalence of anemia fell from 75.3% to 64.9% from baseline to endline (p = 0.002); the reduction in the risk of anemia remained significant in models adjusting for sociodemographic characteristics (ARR (95% CI): 0.86 (0.78, 0.95), p = 0.003). In endline assessments, 229 out of 474 (48.3%) of children had consumed MNPs. MNP-users had a lower risk of anemia (ARR (95% CI): 0.86 (0.74, 0.99), p = 0.04) than non-users, after controlling for child’s dietary diversity and morbidity, maternal counseling by community-health-workers, and sociodemographic characteristics. Mothers interviewed at endline also had greater nutrition knowledge and were more likely to feed their children ≥4 food groups (ARR (95% CI): 2.92 (2.24, 3.80), p < 0.001), and the minimum acceptable diet (ARR (95% CI): 2.88 (2.17, 3.82), p < 0.001) than mothers interviewed at baseline. Integration of MNP into IYCF interventions is a viable strategy for improving children’s consumption of micronutrients and reducing risk of anemia. The addition of MNP does not negatively impact, and may improve, IYCF practices. Full article

12 pages, 234 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Food and Nutrients Intake in the School Lunch Program among School Children in Shanghai, China

by Zhenru Huang

, Runying Gao, Nadila Bawuerjiang, Yali Zhang, Xiaoxu Huang and Meiqin Cai^*

School of Public Health, Shanghai Jiao Tong University,227 South Chongqing Rd, Huangpu Qu, Shanghai 200025, China

Nutrients 2017, 9(6), 582; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu9060582 - 7 Jun 2017

Cited by 39 | Viewed by 7445

Abstract

This study aimed to evaluate the intake of food and nutrients among primary, middle, and high schools students in Shanghai, and provide recommendations for possible amendments in new school lunch standards of Shanghai. Twenty schools were included in the school lunch menu survey. [...] Read more.

This study aimed to evaluate the intake of food and nutrients among primary, middle, and high schools students in Shanghai, and provide recommendations for possible amendments in new school lunch standards of Shanghai. Twenty schools were included in the school lunch menu survey. Of those, seven schools enrolled 5389 students and conducted physical measurement of plate waste and a questionnaire survey. The amount of food and nutrients was compared according to the new China National Dietary Guideline for School Children (2016) and Chinese Dietary Reference Intakes (2013). The provision of livestock and poultry meat in menus was almost 5–8 times the recommended amount. The amount of seafood was less than the recommended amount, and mostly came from half-processed food. The average percentage of energy from fat was more than 30% in students of all grades. The greatest amount of food wasted was vegetables with 53%, 42%, and 31%, respectively, among primary, middle and high school students. Intake of Vitamin A, Vitamin B₂, calcium, and iron was about 50% of the recommended proportion. Only 24.0% students were satisfied with the taste of school lunches. Higher proportions of livestock and poultry meat and low intake of vegetables have become integral problems in school lunch programs. Additionally, more attention needs to be paid to the serving size in primary schools with five age groups. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Dietary Intake and Behavior in Children)

3 pages, 176 KiB

Open AccessReply

Response to a Comment by Albert et al. (Nutrients 2017, 9, 137) Entitled “Concerns with the Study on Australian and New Zealand Fish Oil Products” by Nichols et al. (Nutrients 2016, 8, 703)

by Peter D. Nichols^1,*, Lalen Dogan² and Andrew J. Sinclair^3,4

¹ CSIRO Oceans and Atmosphere, GPO Box 1538, Hobart, TAS 7000, Australia

² DSM Nutritional Products Asia Pacific, 30 Pasir Panjang Road, Mapletree Business City, #13-31, Singapore 117440, Singapore

³ School of Medicine, Deakin University, Geelong, VIC 3220, Australia

⁴ Department of Nutrition, Dietetics & Food, Monash University, Clayton, VIC 3800, Australia

Nutrients 2017, 9(6), 583; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu9060583 - 7 Jun 2017

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 3586

Abstract

The Comment by Albert et al., 2017 [1] raises five issues on our 2016 Nutrients paper [2]. Full article

11 pages, 1088 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Genistein Supplementation and Cardiac Function in Postmenopausal Women with Metabolic Syndrome: Results from a Pilot Strain-Echo Study

by Cesare De Gregorio¹, Herbert Marini¹

, Angela Alibrandi², Antonino Di Benedetto¹, Alessandra Bitto¹, Elena Bianca Adamo³, Domenica Altavilla⁴, Concetta Irace⁵, Giacoma Di Vieste¹, Diego Pancaldo⁶, Roberta Granese⁴

, Marco Atteritano¹

, Salvatore Corrao^7,8, Giuseppe Licata⁷, Francesco Squadrito¹ and Vincenzo Arcoraci^1,*

¹ Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Messina, 98100 Messina, Italy

² Department of Economics, Business, Environmental Science and Quantitative Methodologies, University of Messina, 98100 Messina, Italy

³ Department of Experimental, Specialized Medical and Surgical and Odonto-stomatological Sciences, University of Messina, 98100 Messina, Italy

⁴ Department of Pediatric, Gynecological, Microbiological, and Biomedical Sciences, University of Messina, 98100 Messina, Italy

⁵ Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University Magna Græcia, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy

⁶ Department of Cardiology, SS. Annunziata Hospital, 12038 Savigliano (CN), Italy

⁷ Centre of Research for Effectiveness and Appropriateness in Medicine (C.R.E.A.M.), Di.Bi.M.I.S., University of Palermo, 90127 Palermo, Italy

⁸ Department of Internal Medicine, National Relevance and High Specialization Hospital Trust ARNAS Civico, Di Cristina, Benfratelli, 90127 Palermo, Italy

Nutrients 2017, 9(6), 584; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu9060584 - 7 Jun 2017

Cited by 43 | Viewed by 9765

Abstract

Genistein, a soy-derived isoflavone, may improve cardiovascular risk profile in postmenopausal women with metabolic syndrome (MetS), but few literature data on its cardiac effects in humans are available. The aim of this sub-study of a randomized double-blind case-control study was to analyze the [...] Read more.

Genistein, a soy-derived isoflavone, may improve cardiovascular risk profile in postmenopausal women with metabolic syndrome (MetS), but few literature data on its cardiac effects in humans are available. The aim of this sub-study of a randomized double-blind case-control study was to analyze the effect on cardiac function of one-year genistein dietary supplementation in 22 post-menopausal patients with MetS. Participants received 54 mg/day of genistein (n = 11) or placebo (n = 11) in combination with a Mediterranean-style diet and regular exercise. Left ventricular (LV) systolic function was assessed as the primary endpoint, according to conventional and strain-echocardiography measurements. Also, left atrial (LA) morphofunctional indices were investigated at baseline and at the final visit. Results were expressed as median with interquartile range (IQ). A significant improvement of LV ejection fraction (20.3 (IQ 12.5) vs. −1.67 (IQ 24.8); p = 0.040)), and LA area fractional change (11.1 (IQ 22.6) vs. 2.8 (9.5); p = 0.034)) were observed in genistein patients compared to the controls, following 12 months of treatment. In addition, body surface area indexed LA systolic volume and peak LA longitudinal strain significantly changed from basal to the end of the study in genistein-treated patients. One-year supplementation with 54 mg/day of pure genistein improved both LV ejection fraction and LA remodeling and function in postmenopausal women with MetS. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Precision Nutrition and Metabolic Syndrome Management)

▼ Show Figures

Graphical abstract

3 pages, 178 KiB

Open AccessLetter

Letter to the Editor Re: McClure et al. Nutrients 2017, 9, 95

by Suvi T. Itkonen^*

and Christel J. E. Lamberg-Allardt

Calcium Research Unit, Division of Nutrition, Department of Food and Environmental Sciences, University of Helsinki, P.O. Box 66, 00014 Helsinki, Finland

Nutrients 2017, 9(6), 585; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu9060585 - 8 Jun 2017

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 4901

Abstract

Dear Editor, We read with interest the recently published paper by McClure et al. [1] that reports trends in intake and primary sources of dietary phosphorus in the NHANES data for the period 2001–2014.[...] Full article

14 pages, 569 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Exploring Diet Quality between Urban and Rural Dwelling Women of Reproductive Age

by Julie C. Martin¹, Lisa J. Moran¹, Helena J. Teede^1,2

, Sanjeeva Ranasinha¹, Catherine B. Lombard^3,† and Cheryce L. Harrison^1,*,†

¹ Monash Centre for Health Research and Implementation, School of Public Health and Preventative Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne 3004, Australia

² Endocrinology and Diabetes Units, Monash Health, Melbourne 3004, Australia

³ Department of Nutrition and Dietetics, School of Public Health and Preventative Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne 3004, Australia

^† These authors contributed equally to this work.

Nutrients 2017, 9(6), 586; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu9060586 - 8 Jun 2017

Cited by 38 | Viewed by 6278

Abstract

Health disparities, including weight gain and obesity exist between urban and rural dwelling women. The primary aim was to compare diet quality in urban and rural women of reproductive age, and secondary analyses of the difference in macronutrient and micronutrient intake in urban [...] Read more.

Health disparities, including weight gain and obesity exist between urban and rural dwelling women. The primary aim was to compare diet quality in urban and rural women of reproductive age, and secondary analyses of the difference in macronutrient and micronutrient intake in urban and rural women, and the predictors of diet quality. Diet quality was assessed in urban (n = 149) and rural (n = 394) women by a modified version of the Dietary Guideline Index (DGI) energy, macronutrient and micronutrient intake from a food frequency questionnaire (FFQ) and predictors of diet quality. Diet quality did not significantly differ between urban and rural women (mean ± standard deviation (SD), 84.8 ± 15.9 vs. 83.9 ± 16.5, p = 0.264). Rural women reported a significantly higher intake of protein, fat, saturated fat, monounsaturated fat, cholesterol and iron and a higher score in the meat and meat alternatives component of the diet quality tool in comparison to urban women. In all women, a higher diet quality was associated with higher annual household income (>$Australian dollar (AUD) 80,000 vs. <$AUD80,000 p = 0.013) and working status (working fulltime/part-time vs. unemployed p = 0.043). Total diet quality did not differ in urban and rural women; however, a higher macronutrient consumption pattern was potentially related to a higher lean meat intake in rural women. Women who are unemployed and on a lower income are an important target group for future dietary interventions aiming to improve diet quality. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Dietary Patterns, Diet Quality and Human Health)

▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

19 pages, 5587 KiB

Open AccessArticle

A High-Protein Diet Reduces Weight Gain, Decreases Food Intake, Decreases Liver Fat Deposition, and Improves Markers of Muscle Metabolism in Obese Zucker Rats

by William W. French¹, Sami Dridi², Stephanie A. Shouse³, Hexirui Wu³, Aubree Hawley³, Sun-Ok Lee³, Xuan Gu³ and Jamie I. Baum^3,*

¹ Department of Biological Sciences, University of Arkansas, Fayetteville, AR 72704, USA

² Center for Poultry Excellence, Division of Agriculture, University of Arkansas, Fayetteville, AR 72704, USA

³ Department of Food Science, Institute of Food Science and Engineering, Center for Human Nutrition, Division of Agriculture, University of Arkansas, Fayetteville, AR 72704, USA

Nutrients 2017, 9(6), 587; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu9060587 - 8 Jun 2017

Cited by 30 | Viewed by 9146

Abstract

A primary factor in controlling and preventing obesity is through dietary manipulation. Diets higher in protein have been shown to improve body composition and metabolic health during weight loss. The objective of this study was to examine the effects of a high-protein diet [...] Read more.

A primary factor in controlling and preventing obesity is through dietary manipulation. Diets higher in protein have been shown to improve body composition and metabolic health during weight loss. The objective of this study was to examine the effects of a high-protein diet versus a moderate-protein diet on muscle, liver and fat metabolism and glucose regulation using the obese Zucker rat. Twelve-week old, male, Zucker (fa/fa) and lean control (Fa/fa) rats were randomly assigned to either a high-protein (40% energy) or moderate-protein (20% energy) diet for 12 weeks, with a total of four groups: lean 20% protein (L20; n = 8), lean 40% protein (L40; n = 10), obese 20% protein (O20; n = 8), and obese 40% protein (O40; n = 10). At the end of 12 weeks, animals were fasted and euthanized. There was no difference in food intake between L20 and L40. O40 rats gained less weight and had lower food intake (p < 0.05) compared to O20. O40 rats had lower liver weight (p < 0.05) compared to O20. However, O40 rats had higher orexin (p < 0.05) levels compared to L20, L40 and O20. Rats in the L40 and O40 groups had less liver and muscle lipid deposition compared to L20 and L40 diet rats, respectively. O40 had decreased skeletal muscle mechanistic target of rapamycin complex 1 (mTORC1) phosphorylation and peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma (PPARγ) mRNA expression compared to O20 (p < 0.05), with no difference in 5′ AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK), eukaryotic translation initiation factor 4E binding protein 1 (4EBP1), protein kinase B (Akt) or p70 ribosomal S6 kinase (p70S6K) phosphorylation. The data suggest that high-protein diets have the potential to reduce weight gain and alter metabolism, possibly through regulation of an mTORC1-dependent pathway in skeletal muscle. Full article

▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

15 pages, 3573 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Osthole Enhances Osteogenesis in Osteoblasts by Elevating Transcription Factor Osterix via cAMP/CREB Signaling In Vitro and In Vivo

by Zhong-Rong Zhang¹, Wing Nang Leung¹, Gang Li², Siu Kai Kong³, Xiong Lu⁴, Yin Mei Wong¹ and Chun Wai Chan^1,*

¹ School of Chinese Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, Hong Kong, China

² Department of Orthopaedics and Traumatology, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, Hong Kong, China

³ School of Life Sciences, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, Hong Kong, China

⁴ Key Lab of Advanced Technologies of Materials, Ministry of Education, School of Materials Science and Engineering, Southwest Jiaotong University, Chengdu 610031, China

Nutrients 2017, 9(6), 588; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu9060588 - 8 Jun 2017

Cited by 68 | Viewed by 6371

Abstract

Anabolic anti-osteoporotic agents are desirable for treatment and prevention of osteoporosis and fragility fractures. Osthole is a coumarin derivative extracted from the medicinal herbs Cnidium monnieri (L.) Cusson and Angelica pubescens Maxim.f. Osthole has been reported with osteogenic and anti-osteoporotic properties, whereas the [...] Read more.

Anabolic anti-osteoporotic agents are desirable for treatment and prevention of osteoporosis and fragility fractures. Osthole is a coumarin derivative extracted from the medicinal herbs Cnidium monnieri (L.) Cusson and Angelica pubescens Maxim.f. Osthole has been reported with osteogenic and anti-osteoporotic properties, whereas the underlying mechanism of its benefit still remains unclear. The objective of the present study was to investigate the osteopromotive action of osthole on mouse osteoblastic MC3T3-E1 cells and on mouse femoral fracture repair, and to explore the interaction between osthole-induced osteopromotive effect and cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) elevating effect. Osthole treatment promoted osteogenesis in osteoblasts by enhancing alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity and mineralization. Oral gavage of osthole enhanced fracture repair and increased bone strength. Mechanistic study showed osthole triggered the cAMP/CREB pathway through the elevation of the intracellular cAMP level and activation of the phosphorylation of the cAMP response element-binding protein (CREB). Blockage of cAMP/CREB downstream signals with protein kinase A (PKA) inhibitor KT5720 partially suppressed osthole-mediated osteogenesis by inhibiting the elevation of transcription factor, osterix. In conclusion, osthole shows osteopromotive effect on osteoblasts in vitro and in vivo. Osthole-mediated osteogenesis is related to activation of the cAMP/CREB signaling pathway and downstream osterix expression. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Dietary Bioactives and Bone Health)

▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

17 pages, 1067 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Cognitive Performance Enhancement Induced by Caffeine, Carbohydrate and Guarana Mouth Rinsing during Submaximal Exercise

by Laura Pomportes^1,2, Jeanick Brisswalter¹, Laurence Casini³, Arnaud Hays⁴ and Karen Davranche^5,*

¹ Laboratoire Motricité Humaine Expertise Sport Santé, Université Nice Sophia Antipolis, 06205 Nice, France

² CREPS PACA, 13080 Aix-en-Provence, France

³ Laboratoire de Neurosciences Cognitives, Aix-Marseille Université, CNRS, LNC, 13331 Marseille, France

⁴ Institut des Sciences du Mouvement, Aix-Marseille Université, UMR 7287, 13288 Marseille, France

⁵ Laboratoire de Psychologie Cognitive, Aix-Marseille Université, CNRS, LPC, 13331 Marseille, France

Nutrients 2017, 9(6), 589; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu9060589 - 9 Jun 2017

Cited by 46 | Viewed by 9461

Abstract

The aim of this study was to investigate the influence of serial mouth rinsing (MR) with nutritional supplements on cognitive performance (i.e., cognitive control and time perception) during a 40-min submaximal exercise. Twenty-four participants completed 4 counterbalanced experimental sessions, during which they performed [...] Read more.

The aim of this study was to investigate the influence of serial mouth rinsing (MR) with nutritional supplements on cognitive performance (i.e., cognitive control and time perception) during a 40-min submaximal exercise. Twenty-four participants completed 4 counterbalanced experimental sessions, during which they performed MR with either placebo (PL), carbohydrate (CHO: 1.6 g/25 mL), guarana complex (GUAc: 0.4 g/25 mL) or caffeine (CAF: 67 mg/25 mL) before and twice during exercise. The present study provided some important new insights regarding the specific changes in cognitive performance induced by nutritional supplements. The main results were: (1) CHO, CAF and GUA MR likely led participants to improve temporal performance; (2) CAF MR likely improved cognitive control; and (3) CHO MR led to a likely decrease in subjective perception of effort at the end of the exercise compared to PL, GUA and CAF. Moreover, results have shown that performing 40-min submaximal exercise enhances information processing in terms of both speed and accuracy, improves temporal performance and does not alter cognitive control. The present study opens up new perspectives regarding the use of MR to optimize cognitive performance during physical exercise. Full article

▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

11 pages, 263 KiB

Open AccessBrief Report

by Beata Krusinska, Joanna Kowalkowska^*

, Lidia Wadolowska

, Justyna Weronika Wuenstel, Malgorzata Anna Slowinska and Ewa Niedzwiedzka

Department of Human Nutrition, University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn, Sloneczna 45F, 10-718 Olsztyn, Poland

Nutrients 2017, 9(6), 590; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu9060590 - 10 Jun 2017

Cited by 8 | Viewed by 4316

Abstract

There is no complete explanation for the association between socioeconomic status (SES), fibre, and whole diet described by dietary patterns. The aim of this short report was to increase the understanding of adolescent dietary patterns related to fibre in their social context. A [...] Read more.

There is no complete explanation for the association between socioeconomic status (SES), fibre, and whole diet described by dietary patterns. The aim of this short report was to increase the understanding of adolescent dietary patterns related to fibre in their social context. A cross-sectional study was conducted involving 1176 adolescents aged 13–18 years from central and north-eastern Poland. The overall SES was composed of five single factors: place of residence, self-declared economic situation of family, self-declared economic situation of household, paternal and maternal education. The consumption frequency of nine dietary fibre sources was collected using Block’s questionnaire and was expressed in points. Fibre dietary patterns (DPs) were drawn by cluster analysis and odds ratios (ORs) adjusted for age, sex, and BMI were calculated. Three fibre-related DPs were identified: “High-fibre” (mean frequency of total fibre intake 22.7 points; range: 0–36), “Average-fibre” (17.7 points), “Low-fibre” (14.6 points). The “High-fibre” DP was characterized by a relatively higher frequency consumption of white bread, fruit, fruit or vegetable juices, potatoes, green salad and prepared vegetables, and a moderate frequency consumption of high-fibre or bran cereals and wholegrain bread compared to the “Low-fibre” DP. The “Average-fibre” DP was characterized by a relatively higher frequency consumption of wholegrain bread and high-fibre or bran cereals and a moderate frequency consumption of fruit, fruit or vegetable juices, green salad and prepared vegetables compared to the “Low-fibre” DP. Less likely to adhere to the “High-fibre” DP were adolescents with low SES (OR: 0.55, 95% CI: 0.39–0.77) or average SES (0.58, 95% CI: 0.41–0.81) in comparison with high SES (reference) as a result of elementary or secondary paternal or maternal education, rural residence, and lower household economic situation. Similar associations were found for the “Average-fibre” DP. Low and average socioeconomic status resulting from lower parents’ education, rural residence, and lower economic situation were inversely associated with achieving a relatively high fibre intake in Polish adolescents. Consuming single high-fibre foods was not sufficient to achieve a high-fibre diet in Polish adolescents. These data suggest that the consumption of a wide variety of dietary fibre sources—both relatively high-fibre and low-fibre foods—may help Polish adolescents in achieving a relatively high-fibre diet. Full article

16 pages, 621 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Carbohydrates from Sources with a Higher Glycemic Index during Adolescence: Is Evening Rather than Morning Intake Relevant for Risk Markers of Type 2 Diabetes in Young Adulthood?

by Tanja Diederichs¹, Christian Herder^2,3, Sarah Roßbach¹, Michael Roden^2,3,4, Stefan A. Wudy⁵, Ute Nöthlings¹, Ute Alexy^1,* and Anette E. Buyken^1,6

¹ IEL-Nutritional Epidemiology, DONALD Study, Rheinische Friedrich-Wilhelms-University Bonn, Heinstueck 11, 44225 Dortmund, Germany

² Institute for Clinical Diabetology, German Diabetes Center, Leibniz Center for Diabetes Research at Heinrich Heine University Düsseldorf, Düsseldorf, Auf'm Hennekamp 65, 40225 Düsseldorf, Germany

³ German Center for Diabetes Research (DZD), Ingolstädter Landstr. 1, 85764 München-Neuherberg, Germany

⁴ Department of Endocrinology and Diabetology, Medical Faculty, Heinrich Heine University Düsseldorf, Moorenstraße 5, 40225 Düsseldorf, Germany

⁵ Pediatric Endocrinology and Diabetology, Laboratory for Translational Hormone Analytics, Peptide Hormone Research Unit, Center of Child and Adolescent Medicine, Justus Liebig University Giessen, Feulgenstraße 10-12, 35392 Gießen, Germany

⁶ Institute of Nutrition, Consumption and Health, Faculty of Natural Sciences, University Paderborn, Warburger Straße 100, 33098 Paderborn, Germany

Nutrients 2017, 9(6), 591; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu9060591 - 10 Jun 2017

Cited by 17 | Viewed by 9585

Abstract

Background: This study investigated whether glycemic index (GI) or glycemic load (GL) of morning or evening intake and morning or evening carbohydrate intake from low- or higher-GI food sources (low-GI-CHO, higher-GI-CHO) during adolescence are relevant for risk markers of type 2 diabetes in [...] Read more.

Background: This study investigated whether glycemic index (GI) or glycemic load (GL) of morning or evening intake and morning or evening carbohydrate intake from low- or higher-GI food sources (low-GI-CHO, higher-GI-CHO) during adolescence are relevant for risk markers of type 2 diabetes in young adulthood. Methods: Analyses included DOrtmund Nutritional and Anthropometric Longitudinally Designed (DONALD) study participants who had provided at least two 3-day weighed dietary records (median: 7 records) during adolescence and one blood sample in young adulthood. Using multivariable linear regression analyses, estimated morning and evening GI, GL, low-GI-CHO (GI < 55) and higher-GI-CHO (GI ≥ 55) were related to insulin sensitivity (N = 252), hepatic steatosis index (HSI), fatty liver index (FLI) (both N = 253), and a pro-inflammatory-score (N = 249). Results: Morning intakes during adolescence were not associated with any of the adult risk markers. A higher evening GI during adolescence was related to an increased HSI in young adulthood (p = 0.003). A higher consumption of higher-GI-CHO in the evening was associated with lower insulin sensitivity (p = 0.046) and an increased HSI (p = 0.006), while a higher evening intake of low-GI-CHO was related to a lower HSI (p = 0.009). Evening intakes were not related to FLI or the pro-inflammatory-score (all p > 0.1). Conclusion: Avoidance of large amounts of carbohydrates from higher-GI sources in the evening should be considered in preventive strategies to reduce the risk of type 2 diabetes in adulthood. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nutrition and Diet Factors in Type 2 Diabetes)

▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

14 pages, 684 KiB

Open AccessReview

Influence of Hot and Cold Environments on the Regulation of Energy Balance Following a Single Exercise Session: A Mini-Review

by Keyne Charlot¹, Cécile Faure²

and Sophie Antoine-Jonville^2,*

¹ Département Environnements Opérationnels, Institut de Recherche Biomédicale des Armées, 1 place Général Valérie André, BP 73, 91223 Brétigny-sur-Orge, France

² Laboratoire des Adaptations au Climat Tropical, Exercice et Santé, EA3596, Université des Antilles, Pointe-à-Pitre, BP 250, 97157 Pointe-à-Pitre CEDEX, Guadeloupe, France

Nutrients 2017, 9(6), 592; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu9060592 - 10 Jun 2017

Cited by 24 | Viewed by 10464

Abstract

Understanding the regulation of human food intake in response to an acute exercise session is of importance for interventions with athletes and soldiers, as well as overweight individuals. However, the influence of hot and cold environments on this crucial function for the regulation [...] Read more.

Understanding the regulation of human food intake in response to an acute exercise session is of importance for interventions with athletes and soldiers, as well as overweight individuals. However, the influence of hot and cold environments on this crucial function for the regulation of body mass and motor performance has not been summarized. The purpose of this review was to exhaustively search the literature on the effect of ambient temperature during an exercise session on the subsequent subjective feeling of appetite, energy intake (EI) and its regulation. In the absence of stress due to environmental temperature, exercise-induced energy expenditure is not compensated by EI during an ad libitum meal following the session, probably due to decreased acylated ghrelin and increased peptide tyrosine tyrosine (PYY), glucagon-like peptide 1 (GLP-1), and pancreatic polypeptide (PP) levels. No systematic analysis has been yet made for major alterations of relative EI in cold and hot environments. However, observed eating behaviors are altered (proportion of solid/liquid food, carbohydrate/fat) and physiological regulation appears also to be altered. Anorexigenic signals, particularly PYY, appear to further increase in hot environments than in those that are thermoneutral. Ghrelin and leptin may be involved in the observed increase in EI after exercise in the cold, in parallel with increased energy expenditure. The potential influence of ambient thermal environment on eating behaviors after an exercise session should not be neglected. Full article

▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

15 pages, 2245 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Melatonin Modulates Neuronal Cell Death Induced by Endoplasmic Reticulum Stress under Insulin Resistance Condition

by Juhyun Song¹ and Oh Yoen Kim^2,*

¹ Department of Biomedical Sciences, Center for Creative Biomedical Scientists at Chonnam National University, Gwangju 61469, Korea

² Department of Food Sciences and Nutrition, Dong-A University, 37 550beon-gil Nakdongdaero, Saha-gu, Busan 49315, Korea

Nutrients 2017, 9(6), 593; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu9060593 - 10 Jun 2017

Cited by 18 | Viewed by 5796

Abstract

Insulin resistance (IR) is an important stress factor in the central nervous system, thereby aggravating neuropathogenesis and triggering cognitive decline. Melatonin, which is an antioxidant phytochemical and synthesized by the pineal gland, has multiple functions in cellular responses such as apoptosis and survival [...] Read more.

Insulin resistance (IR) is an important stress factor in the central nervous system, thereby aggravating neuropathogenesis and triggering cognitive decline. Melatonin, which is an antioxidant phytochemical and synthesized by the pineal gland, has multiple functions in cellular responses such as apoptosis and survival against stress. This study investigated whether melatonin modulates the signaling of neuronal cell death induced by endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress under IR condition using SH-SY5Y neuroblastoma cells. Apoptosis cell death signaling markers (cleaved Poly [ADP-ribose] polymerase 1 (PARP), p53, and Bax) and ER stress markers (phosphorylated eIF2α (p-eIF2α), ATF4, CHOP, p-IRE1, and spliced XBP1 (sXBP1)) were measured using reverse transcription-PCR, quantitative PCR, and western blottings. Immunofluorescence staining was also performed for p-ASK1 and p-IRE1. The mRNA or protein expressions of cell death signaling markers and ER stress markers were increased under IR condition, but significantly attenuated by melatonin treatment. Insulin-induced activation of ASK1 (p-ASK1) was also dose dependently attenuated by melatonin treatment. The regulatory effect of melatonin on neuronal cells under IR condition was associated with ASK1 signaling. In conclusion, the result suggested that melatonin may alleviate ER stress under IR condition, thereby regulating neuronal cell death signaling. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Antioxidants in Health and Disease)

▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

10 pages, 224 KiB

Open AccessReview

Nutritional Challenges in Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy

by Simona Salera¹, Francesca Menni¹, Maurizio Moggio², Sophie Guez¹, Monica Sciacco² and Susanna Esposito^3,*

¹ Pediatric Highly Intensive Care Unit, Department of Pathophysiology and Transplantation, Università degli Studi di Milano, Fondazione IRCCS Ca’ Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, 20122 Milan, Italy

² Neuromuscular and Rare Disease Unit, Department of Neuroscience, Foundation IRCCS Ca’ Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, University of Milan, 20122 Milan, Italy

³ Pediatric Clinic, Università degli Studi di Perugia, 06129 Perugia, Italy

Nutrients 2017, 9(6), 594; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu9060594 - 10 Jun 2017

Cited by 55 | Viewed by 9620

Abstract

Neuromuscular diseases (NMDs) represent a heterogeneous group of acquired or inherited conditions. Nutritional complications are frequent in NMDs, but they are sometimes underestimated. With the prolongation of survival in patients with NMDs, there are several nutritional aspects that are important to consider, including [...] Read more.

Neuromuscular diseases (NMDs) represent a heterogeneous group of acquired or inherited conditions. Nutritional complications are frequent in NMDs, but they are sometimes underestimated. With the prolongation of survival in patients with NMDs, there are several nutritional aspects that are important to consider, including the deleterious effects of overnutrition on glucose metabolism, mobility, and respiratory and cardiologic functions; the impact of hyponutrition on muscle and ventilatory function; constipation and other gastrointestinal complications; chewing/swallowing difficulties with an increased risk of aspiration that predisposes to infectious diseases and respiratory complications; as well as osteoporosis with an associated increased risk of fractures. The aim of this review is to provide a comprehensive analysis of the nutritional aspects and complications that can start in children with Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) and increase with ageing. These aspects should be considered in the transition from paediatric clinics to adult services. It is shown that appropriate nutritional care can help to improve the quality of life of DMD patients, and a multidisciplinary team is needed to support nutrition challenges in DMD patients. However, studies on the prevalence of overnutrition and undernutrition, gastrointestinal complications, infectious diseases, dysphagia, and reduced bone mass in the different types of NMDs are needed, and appropriate percentiles of weight, height, body mass index, and body composition appear to be extremely important to improve the management of patients with NMD. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nutrients, Infectious and Inflammatory Diseases)

13 pages, 1426 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Comparison of Prognostic Impact between the Child-Pugh Score and Skeletal Muscle Mass for Patients with Liver Cirrhosis

by Hiroki Nishikawa, Hirayuki Enomoto^*, Akio Ishii, Yoshinori Iwata, Yuho Miyamoto, Noriko Ishii, Yukihisa Yuri, Kunihiro Hasegawa, Chikage Nakano, Takashi Nishimura, Kazunori Yoh, Nobuhiro Aizawa, Yoshiyuki Sakai, Naoto Ikeda, Tomoyuki Takashima, Ryo Takata, Hiroko Iijima and Shuhei Nishiguchi

Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic disease, Department of Internal Medicine, Hyogo College of Medicine, 1-1, Mukogawacho, Nishinomiyashi, Hyogo 663-8501, Japan

Nutrients 2017, 9(6), 595; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu9060595 - 12 Jun 2017

Cited by 16 | Viewed by 5127

Abstract

Aims: To investigate the influence of skeletal muscle mass index (SMI) as determined by bioimpedance analysis (BIA) (appendicular skeletal muscle mass/(height)²) on survival by comparing the Child-Pugh score in patients with liver cirrhosis (LC, n = 383, average age = 65.2 [...] Read more.

Aims: To investigate the influence of skeletal muscle mass index (SMI) as determined by bioimpedance analysis (BIA) (appendicular skeletal muscle mass/(height)²) on survival by comparing the Child-Pugh score in patients with liver cirrhosis (LC, n = 383, average age = 65.2 years). Patients and methods: In terms of comparison of the effects of SMI and other markers on survival, we used time-dependent receiver operating characteristics (ROC) analysis. Results: The average SMI for male was 7.4 cm²/m² whereas that for female was 6.0 cm²/m² (p < 0.0001). As for the Child-Pugh score, five points were in the majority, both in males (51.7%, (106/205)) and females (44.9%, (80/178)). For both genders, the survival curve was well stratified according to SMI (p < 0.0001 for males and p = 0.0056 for females). In the multivariate analysis for survival, SMI and Child-Pugh scores were found to be significant both in males and females. In time-dependent ROC analyses, all area under the ROCs (AUROCs) for SMI in each time point were higher than those for Child-Pugh scores in males, while in females AUROCs for Child-Pugh scores at each time point were higher than those for SMI. Conclusion: SMI using BIA can be helpful for predicting outcomes, at least in male LC patients. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nutrition and Liver Disease)

▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

12 pages, 767 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Trans-Resveratrol Supplementation and Endothelial Function during the Fasting and Postprandial Phase: A Randomized Placebo-Controlled Trial in Overweight and Slightly Obese Participants

by Sanne M. van der Made^1,2, Jogchum Plat¹ and Ronald P. Mensink^1,2,*

¹ Department of Human Biology, NUTRIM School of Nutrition and Translational Research in Metabolism, Maastricht University Medical Center, 6200 MD Maastricht, The Netherlands

² Top Institute Food and Nutrition (TIFN), 6700 AN Wageningen, The Netherlands

Nutrients 2017, 9(6), 596; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu9060596 - 12 Jun 2017

Cited by 36 | Viewed by 6030

Abstract

Studies on the effects of the long-term intake of trans-resveratrol on vascular function are conflicting. In addition, postprandial effects of long-term trans-resveratrol intake on endothelial function are not known. We therefore supplemented 45 overweight and slightly obese volunteers (25 men and [...] Read more.

Studies on the effects of the long-term intake of trans-resveratrol on vascular function are conflicting. In addition, postprandial effects of long-term trans-resveratrol intake on endothelial function are not known. We therefore supplemented 45 overweight and slightly obese volunteers (25 men and 20 women) with a mean (±SD) age of 61 ± 7 years and body mass index of 28.3 ± 3.2 kg/m² in random order trans-resveratrol (2 × 75 mg/day) or placebo capsules for 4 weeks, separated by a washout period of at least 4 weeks. At the end of each intervention period, brachial artery flow-mediated vasodilation (FMD) was measured before and after meal consumption. Plasma biomarkers for endothelial function, inflammation, and glucose and lipid metabolism were also determined. Compared with the placebo, trans-resveratrol did not affect fasting FMD (2.9 ± 1.4% vs. 3.0 ± 1.9%; p = 0.69). After the postprandial test, changes in FMD (−0.7 ± 2.3% vs. 0.2 ± 2.6%; p = 0.13) were also not significantly different. Postprandial changes in biomarkers were also comparable. In conclusion, for overweight and slightly obese volunteers, a daily intake of 150 mg of trans-resveratrol for 4 weeks does not change plasma biomarkers of endothelial function or inflammation in the fasting state or postprandial phase. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Effects of Resveratrol Supplementation on Human Health and Disease)

▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

17 pages, 2141 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Kaempherol and Luteolin Decrease Claudin-2 Expression Mediated by Inhibition of STAT3 in Lung Adenocarcinoma A549 Cells

by Hiroyuki Sonoki¹, Asami Tanimae¹, Satoshi Endo¹, Toshiyuki Matsunaga¹, Takumi Furuta², Kenji Ichihara³ and Akira Ikari^1,*

¹ From the Laboratory of Biochemistry, Department of Biopharmaceutical Sciences, Gifu Pharmaceutical University, Gifu 501-1196, Japan

² Institute for Chemical Research, Kyoto University, Kyoto 611-0011, Japan

³ Nagaragawa Research Center, API Co., Ltd., Gifu 502-0071, Japan

Nutrients 2017, 9(6), 597; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu9060597 - 13 Jun 2017

Cited by 71 | Viewed by 7079

Abstract

Claudin-2 is highly expressed in human lung adenocarcinoma tissues and may be a novel target for cancer chemotherapy because knockdown of claudin-2 decreases cell proliferation. We found that flavonoids including kaempferol, chrysin, and luteolin concentration-dependently decrease claudin-2 expression in lung adenocarcinoma A549 cells. [...] Read more.

Claudin-2 is highly expressed in human lung adenocarcinoma tissues and may be a novel target for cancer chemotherapy because knockdown of claudin-2 decreases cell proliferation. We found that flavonoids including kaempferol, chrysin, and luteolin concentration-dependently decrease claudin-2 expression in lung adenocarcinoma A549 cells. Claudin-2 expression is up-regulated by mitogen-activated protein kinase kinase (MEK)/ extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK)/c-Fos and phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K)/Akt/nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) pathways, but these activities were not inhibited by kaempferol, chrysin, and luteolin. Promoter deletion assay using luciferase reporter vector showed that kaempferol and luteolin inhibit the function of transcriptional factor that binds to the region between −395 and −144 of claudin-2 promoter. The decrease in promoter activity was suppressed by mutation in signal transducers and activators of transcription (STAT)-binding site, which is located between −395 and −144. The phosphorylation level of STAT3 was not decreased, but the binding of STAT3 on the promoter region is suppressed by kaempferol and luteolin in chromatin immunoprecipitation assay. The inhibition of cell proliferation caused by kaempferol and luteolin was partially recovered by ectopic claudin-2 expression. Taken together, kaempferol and luteolin decreased claudin-2 expression and proliferation in A549 cells mediated by the inhibition of binding of STAT3 on the promoter region of claudin-2. The intake of foods and nutrients rich in these flavonoids may prevent lung adenocarcinoma development. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Effects of Polyphenol-Rich Foods on Human Health)

▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

29 pages, 465 KiB

Open AccessReview

Fruits for Prevention and Treatment of Cardiovascular Diseases

by Cai-Ning Zhao¹, Xiao Meng¹, Ya Li¹

, Sha Li^2,*, Qing Liu¹, Guo-Yi Tang¹ and Hua-Bin Li^1,3,*

¹ Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Food, Nutrition and Health, Department of Nutrition, School of Public Health, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510080, China

² School of Chinese Medicine, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong 999077, China

³ South China Sea Bioresource Exploitation and Utilization Collaborative Innovation Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510006, China

Nutrients 2017, 9(6), 598; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu9060598 - 13 Jun 2017

Cited by 161 | Viewed by 22606

Abstract

Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) are leading global health problems. Accumulating epidemiological studies have indicated that consuming fruits was inversely related to the risk of CVDs. Moreover, substantial experimental studies have supported the protective role of fruits against CVDs, and several fruits (grape, blueberry, pomegranate, [...] Read more.

Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) are leading global health problems. Accumulating epidemiological studies have indicated that consuming fruits was inversely related to the risk of CVDs. Moreover, substantial experimental studies have supported the protective role of fruits against CVDs, and several fruits (grape, blueberry, pomegranate, apple, hawthorn, and avocado) have been widely studied and have shown potent cardiovascular protective action. Fruits can prevent CVDs or facilitate the restoration of morphology and functions of heart and vessels after injury. The involved mechanisms included protecting vascular endothelial function, regulating lipids metabolism, modulating blood pressure, inhibiting platelets function, alleviating ischemia/reperfusion injury, suppressing thrombosis, reducing oxidative stress, and attenuating inflammation. The present review summarizes recent discoveries about the effects of fruits on CVDs and discusses potential mechanisms of actions based on evidence from epidemiological, experimental, and clinical studies. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Effects of Polyphenol-Rich Foods on Human Health)

▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

16 pages, 2908 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Phytosterols and Omega 3 Supplementation Exert Novel Regulatory Effects on Metabolic and Inflammatory Pathways: A Proteomic Study

by Carmen Lambert^1,†, Judit Cubedo^1,2,†, Teresa Padró^1,2, Joan Sánchez-Hernández^3,4, Rosa M. Antonijoan⁵, Antonio Perez⁴ and Lina Badimon^1,2,6,*

¹ Cardiovascular Science Institute—ICCC IIB-Sant Pau, 08025 Barcelona, Spain

² Ciber CV, 28029 Madrid, Spain

³ Ciber DEM, 28029 Madrid, Spain

⁴ Endocrinology Department, Hospital Sant Pau, IIB-Sant Pau, 08025 Barcelona, Spain

⁵ Medicament ResearchCenter (CIM), Hospital Sant Pau, IIB-Sant Pau, 08025 Barcelona, Spain

⁶ Cardiovascular Research Chair UAB, 08025 Barcelona, Spain

^† These authors contributed equally to this study.

Nutrients 2017, 9(6), 599; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu9060599 - 13 Jun 2017

Cited by 32 | Viewed by 7144

Abstract

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) remains one of the major causes of death and disability worldwide. In addition to drug treatment, nutritional interventions or supplementations are becoming a health strategy for CVD prevention. Phytosterols (PhyS) are natural components that have been shown to reduce cholesterol [...] Read more.

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) remains one of the major causes of death and disability worldwide. In addition to drug treatment, nutritional interventions or supplementations are becoming a health strategy for CVD prevention. Phytosterols (PhyS) are natural components that have been shown to reduce cholesterol levels; while poly-unsaturated fatty acids (PUFA), mainly omega-3 (ω3) fatty acids, have shown to reduce triglyceride levels. Here we aimed to investigate whether the proteins in the main lipoproteins (low density lipoproteins (LDL) and high density lipoproteins (HDL)) as well as proteins in the lipid free plasma fraction (LPDP) were regulated by the intake of PhyS-milk or ω3-milk, in overweight healthy volunteers by a proteomic based systems biology approach. The study was a longitudinal crossover trial, including thirty-two healthy volunteers with body mass index (BMI) 25–35 kg/m² (Clinical Trial: ISRCTN78753338). Basal samples before any intervention and after 4 weeks of intake of PhyS or ω3-milk were analyzed. Proteomic profiling by two dimensional electrophoresis (2-DE) followed by mass spectrometry-(MALDI/TOF), ELISA, Western blot, conventional biochemical analysis, and in-silico bioinformatics were performed. The intake of PhyS-milk did not induce changes in the lipid associated plasma protein fraction, whereas ω3-milk significantly increased apolipoprotein (Apo)- E LDL content (p = 0.043) and induced a coordinated increase in several HDL-associated proteins, Apo A-I, lecitin cholesterol acyltransferase (LCAT), paraoxonase-1 (PON-1), Apo D, and Apo L1 (p < 0.05 for all). Interestingly, PhyS-milk intake induced a reduction in inflammatory molecules not seen after ω3-milk intake. Serum amyloid P component (SAP) was reduced in the LPDP protein fraction (p = 0.001) of subjects taking PhyS-milk and C-C motif chemokine 2 (CCL2)expression detected by reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) analysis in white blood cells was significantly reduced (p = 0.013). No changes were observed in the lipid-free plasma proteome with ω3-milk. Our study provides novel results and highlights that the PhyS-milk induces attenuation of the pro-inflammatory pathways, whereas ω3-milk induces improvement in lipid metabolic pathways. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Dietary Supplements)

▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

12 pages, 748 KiB

Open AccessReview

Targeting Overconsumption of Sugar-Sweetened Beverages vs. Overall Poor Diet Quality for Cardiometabolic Diseases Risk Prevention: Place Your Bets!

by Benoit J. Arsenault^1,2,*, Benoît Lamarche³ and Jean-Pierre Després^1,4

¹ Centre de recherche de l’Institut universitaire de cardiologie et de pneumologie de Québec, Y-2110, Pavillon Marguerite D’Youville, 2725 chemin Ste-Foy, Québec City, QC G1V 4G5, Canada

² Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Université Laval, Québec City, QC G1V 0A6, Canada

³ School of Nutrition, Université Laval, Québec City, QC G1V 0A6, Canada

⁴ Department of Kinesiology, Faculty of Medicine, Université Laval, Québec City, QC G1V 0A6, Canada

Nutrients 2017, 9(6), 600; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu9060600 - 13 Jun 2017

Cited by 31 | Viewed by 11727

Abstract

Chronic overconsumption of sugar-sweetened beverages (SSBs) is amongst the dietary factors most consistently found to be associated with obesity, type 2 diabetes (T2D) and cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk in large epidemiological studies. Intervention studies have shown that SSB overconsumption increases intra-abdominal obesity and [...] Read more.

Chronic overconsumption of sugar-sweetened beverages (SSBs) is amongst the dietary factors most consistently found to be associated with obesity, type 2 diabetes (T2D) and cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk in large epidemiological studies. Intervention studies have shown that SSB overconsumption increases intra-abdominal obesity and ectopic lipid deposition in the liver, and also exacerbates cardiometabolic risk. Similar to the prevalence of obesity and T2D, national surveys of food consumption have shown that chronic overconsumption of SSBs is skyrocketing in many parts of the world, yet with marked heterogeneity across countries. SSB overconsumption is also particularly worrisome among children and adolescents. Although the relationships between SSB overconsumption and obesity, T2D, and CVD are rather consistent in epidemiological studies, it has also been shown that SSB overconsumption is part of an overall poor dietary pattern and is particularly prevalent among subgroups of the population with low socioeconomic status, thereby questioning the major focus on SSBs to target/prevent cardiometabolic diseases. Public health initiatives aimed specifically at decreasing SSB overconsumption will most likely be successful in influencing SSB consumption per se. However, comprehensive strategies targeting poor dietary patterns and aiming at improving global dietary quality are likely to have much more impact in addressing the unprecedented public health challenges that we are currently facing. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Dietary Fructose and Glucose: The Multifacetted Aspects of their Metabolism and Implication for Human Health)

▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

13 pages, 246 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Alpha- and Gamma-Tocopherol and Telomere Length in 5768 US Men and Women: A NHANES Study

by Larry A. Tucker

Department of Exercise Sciences, Brigham Young University, Provo, UT 84602, USA

Nutrients 2017, 9(6), 601; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu9060601 - 13 Jun 2017

Cited by 24 | Viewed by 8061

Abstract

Antioxidants have a number of potential health benefits. The present investigation was designed to determine the relationship between serum alpha- and gamma-tocopherol levels (powerful antioxidants), and leukocyte telomere length (a biomarker of biological aging). A cross-sectional design was employed to study 5768 adults [...] Read more.

Antioxidants have a number of potential health benefits. The present investigation was designed to determine the relationship between serum alpha- and gamma-tocopherol levels (powerful antioxidants), and leukocyte telomere length (a biomarker of biological aging). A cross-sectional design was employed to study 5768 adults from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES). DNA was obtained via blood samples. Telomere length was assessed using the quantitative polymerase chain reaction method. Serum concentrations of alpha- and gamma-tocopherol were measured using high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). Results showed that for each one-year increase in age, telomeres were 15.6 base pairs shorter (F = 410.4, p < 0.0001). After adjusting for differences in the demographic covariates, for each µg/dL higher level of gamma-tocopherol, telomeres were 0.33 base pairs shorter (F = 7.1, p = 0.0126). Telomeres were approximately 1 year shorter (15.6 base pairs) for each increment of 47.3 to 55.7 µg/dL of gamma-tocopherol in the blood, depending on the variables controlled. Adults at the 75th percentile of gamma-tocopherol had 2.8–3.4 years greater cellular aging than those at the 25th percentile, depending on the covariates in the model. However, alpha-tocopherol was not related to telomere length. Evidently, gamma-tocopherol levels, but not alpha-tocopherol, account for meaningful increases in biological aging. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Antioxidants in Health and Disease)

15 pages, 743 KiB

Open AccessReview

Are the Gut Bacteria Telling Us to Eat or Not to Eat? Reviewing the Role of Gut Microbiota in the Etiology, Disease Progression and Treatment of Eating Disorders

by Yan Y. Lam^1,2,*, Sarah Maguire¹, Talia Palacios¹ and Ian D. Caterson¹

¹ Boden Institute of Obesity, Nutrition, Exercise & Eating Disorders, Charles Perkins Centre, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia

² Department of Biochemistry and Microbiology, School of Environmental and Biological Sciences, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, New Brunswick, NJ 08901, USA

Nutrients 2017, 9(6), 602; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu9060602 - 14 Jun 2017

Cited by 56 | Viewed by 15396

Abstract

Traditionally recognized as mental illnesses, eating disorders are increasingly appreciated to be biologically-driven. There is a growing body of literature that implicates a role of the gut microbiota in the etiology and progression of these conditions. Gut bacteria may act on the gut–brain [...] Read more.

Traditionally recognized as mental illnesses, eating disorders are increasingly appreciated to be biologically-driven. There is a growing body of literature that implicates a role of the gut microbiota in the etiology and progression of these conditions. Gut bacteria may act on the gut–brain axis to alter appetite control and brain function as part of the genesis of eating disorders. As the illnesses progress, extreme feeding patterns and psychological stress potentially feed back to the gut ecosystem that can further compromise physiological, cognitive, and social functioning. Given the established causality between dysbiosis and metabolic diseases, an altered gut microbial profile is likely to play a role in the co-morbidities of eating disorders with altered immune function, short-chain fatty acid production, and the gut barrier being the key mechanistic links. Understanding the role of the gut ecosystem in the pathophysiology of eating disorders will provide critical insights into improving current treatments and developing novel microbiome-based interventions that will benefit patients with eating disorders. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Eating Disorders, Diet-Related Diseases, and Metabolic Health)

▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

11 pages, 1637 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Adherence to a Vegetarian Diet and Diabetes Risk: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Observational Studies

by Yujin Lee

and Kyong Park^*

Department of Food and Nutrition, Yeungnam University, Gyeongsan 38541, Gyeongbuk, Korea

Nutrients 2017, 9(6), 603; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu9060603 - 14 Jun 2017

Cited by 110 | Viewed by 22006

Abstract

We quantitatively assessed the association between a vegetarian diet and diabetes risk using pooled estimates from observational studies. Electronic database searches for articles published from January 1980 to May 2016 were independently performed by two investigators, and 13 articles (14 studies) were identified. [...] Read more.

We quantitatively assessed the association between a vegetarian diet and diabetes risk using pooled estimates from observational studies. Electronic database searches for articles published from January 1980 to May 2016 were independently performed by two investigators, and 13 articles (14 studies) were identified. The pooled odds ratio (OR) for diabetes in vegetarians vs. non-vegetarians was 0.726 (95% confidence interval (CI): 0.608, 0.867). In the subgroup analyses, this inverse association was stronger for the studies conducted in the Western Pacific region (OR 0.514, 95% CI: 0.304, 0.871) and Europe/North America (OR 0.756, 95% CI: 0.589, 0.971) than studies conducted in Southeast Asia (OR 0.888, 95% CI: 0.718, 1.099). No study had a substantial effect on the pooled effect size in the influence analysis, and the Egger’s (p = 0.465) and Begg’s tests (p = 0.584) revealed no publication bias. This meta-analysis indicates that a vegetarian diet is inversely associated with diabetes risk. Our results support the need for further investigations into the effects of the motivations for vegetarianism, the duration of the adherence to a vegetarian diet, and type of vegetarian on diabetes risk. Full article

▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

15 pages, 275 KiB

Open AccessArticle

A Socio-Ecological Examination of Weight-Related Characteristics of the Home Environment and Lifestyles of Households with Young Children

by Virginia Quick^1,*

, Jennifer Martin-Biggers¹, Gayle Alleman Povis², Nobuko Hongu², John Worobey¹ and Carol Byrd-Bredbenner¹

¹ Department of Nutritional Sciences, Rutgers University, 26 Nichol Avenue, New Brunswick, NJ 08901, USA

² Department of Nutritional Sciences, University of Arizona, 406 Shantz Building, 1177 E. 4th Street, Tucson, AZ 85721, USA

Nutrients 2017, 9(6), 604; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu9060604 - 14 Jun 2017

Cited by 35 | Viewed by 8170

Abstract

Home environment and family lifestyle practices have an influence on child obesity risk, thereby making it critical to systematically examine these factors. Thus, parents (n = 489) of preschool children completed a cross-sectional online survey which was the baseline data collection conducted, [...] Read more.

Home environment and family lifestyle practices have an influence on child obesity risk, thereby making it critical to systematically examine these factors. Thus, parents (n = 489) of preschool children completed a cross-sectional online survey which was the baseline data collection conducted, before randomization, in the HomeStyles program. The survey comprehensively assessed these factors using a socio-ecological approach, incorporating intrapersonal, interpersonal and environmental measures. Healthy intrapersonal dietary behaviors identified were parent and child intakes of recommended amounts of 100% juice and low intakes of sugar-sweetened beverages. Unhealthy behaviors included low milk intake and high parent fat intake. The home environment’s food supply was found to support healthy intakes of 100% juice and sugar-sweetened beverages, but provided too little milk and ample quantities of salty/fatty snacks. Physical activity levels, sedentary activity and the home’s physical activity and media environment were found to be less than ideal. Environmental supports for active play inside homes were moderate and somewhat better in the area immediately outside homes and in the neighborhood. Family interpersonal interaction measures revealed several positive behaviors, including frequent family meals. Parents had considerable self-efficacy in their ability to perform food- and physical activity-related childhood obesity protective practices. This study identified lifestyle practices and home environment characteristics that health educators could target to help parents promote optimal child development and lower their children’s risk for obesity. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Dietary Intake and Behavior in Children)

15 pages, 5635 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Strawberry-Based Cosmetic Formulations Protect Human Dermal Fibroblasts against UVA-Induced Damage

by Massimiliano Gasparrini^1,†

, Tamara Y. Forbes-Hernandez^1,2,†

, Sadia Afrin¹

, Patricia Reboredo-Rodriguez^1,3, Danila Cianciosi¹, Bruno Mezzetti⁴, Josè L. Quiles⁵

, Stefano Bompadre⁶, Maurizio Battino^1,7,*

and Francesca Giampieri^1,*

¹ Dipartimento di Scienze Cliniche Specialistiche ed Odontostomatologiche (DISCO)-Sez. Biochimica, Facoltà di Medicina, Università Politecnica delle Marche, 60131 Ancona, Italy

² Area de Nutrición y Salud, Universidad Internacional Iberoamericana (UNINI), 24040 Campeche, Mexico

³ Departamento de Quimica Analıtica y Alimentaria, Grupo de Nutricion y Bromatologıa, Universidade de Vigo, 32004 Ourense, Spain

⁴ Dipartimento di Scienze Agrarie, Alimentari e Ambientali, Università Politecnica delle Marche, 60131 Ancona, Italy

⁵ Department of Physiology, Institute of Nutrition and Food Technology “José Mataix”, Biomedical Research Centre, University of Granada, 18000 Granada, Spain

⁶ Dipartimento di Scienze Biomediche e Sanità Pubblica, Facoltà di Medicina, Università Politecnica delle Marche Via Ranieri 65, 60131 Ancona, Italy

⁷ Centre for Nutrition & Health, Universidad Europea del Atlantico (UEA), 39011 Santander, Spain

^† These authors contributed equally to this work.

Nutrients 2017, 9(6), 605; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu9060605 - 14 Jun 2017

Cited by 53 | Viewed by 11665

Abstract

Extreme exposure of skin to Ultraviolet A (UVA)-radiation may induce a dysregulated production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) which can interact with cellular biomolecules leading to oxidative stress, inflammation, DNA damage, and alteration of cellular molecular pathways, responsible for skin photoaging, hyperplasia, erythema, [...] Read more.

Extreme exposure of skin to Ultraviolet A (UVA)-radiation may induce a dysregulated production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) which can interact with cellular biomolecules leading to oxidative stress, inflammation, DNA damage, and alteration of cellular molecular pathways, responsible for skin photoaging, hyperplasia, erythema, and cancer. For these reasons, the use of dietary natural bioactive compounds with remarkable antioxidant activity could be a strategic tool to counteract these UVA-radiation-caused deleterious effects. Thus, the purpose of the present work was to test the efficacy of strawberry (50 μg/mL)-based formulations supplemented with Coenzyme Q₁₀ (100 μg/mL) and sun protection factor 10 in human dermal fibroblasts irradiated with UVA-radiation. The apoptosis rate, the amount of intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) production, the expression of proteins involved in antioxidant and inflammatory response, and mitochondrial functionality were evaluated. The results showed that the synergic topical use of strawberry and Coenzyme Q₁₀ provided a significant (p < 0.05) photoprotective effect, reducing cell death and ROS, increasing antioxidant defense, lowering inflammatory markers, and improving mitochondrial functionality. The obtained results suggest the use of strawberry-based formulations as an innovative, natural, and useful tool for the prevention of UVA exposure-induced skin diseases in order to decrease or substitute the amount of synthetic sunscreen agents. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Antioxidants in Health and Disease)

▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

17 pages, 471 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Lifestyle Patterns and Weight Status in Spanish Adults: The ANIBES Study

by Carmen Pérez-Rodrigo¹

, Marta Gianzo-Citores²

, Ángel Gil^3,4

, Marcela González-Gross^4,5

, Rosa M. Ortega⁶

, Lluis Serra-Majem^4,7

, Gregorio Varela-Moreiras^8,9 and Javier Aranceta-Bartrina^4,10,*

¹ FIDEC Foundation, University of the Basque Country (UPV/EHU), Gurtubay s/n, 48010 Bilbao, Spain

² Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine and Nursery, University of the Basque Country (UPV/EHU), Bo Sarriena s/n, Leioa, 48940 Bizkaia, Spain

³ Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology II, Institute of Nutrition and Food Sciences, Centre of Biomedical Research, University of Granada, Campus de la Salud, Avda. del Conocimiento, Armilla, 18100 Granada, Spain

⁴ CIBEROBN, Biomedical Research Networking Center for Physiopathology of Obesity and Nutrition, Carlos III Health Institute, Madrid 28029, Spain

⁵ ImFINE Research Group, Department of Health and Human Performance, Universidad Politécnica de Madrid, C/Martín Fierro 7, 28040 Madrid, Spain

⁶ Department of Nutrition, Faculty of Pharmacy, Complutense University of Madrid, Plaza Ramón y Cajal s/n, 28040 Madrid, Spain

⁷ Research Institute of Biomedical and Health Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, Paseo Blas Cabrera Felipe “Físico” s/n, 35016 Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, Spain

⁸ Department of Pharmaceutical and Health Sciences, Faculty of Pharmacy, CEU San Pablo University, Urb. Montepríncipe, Crta. Boadilla Km. 5.3, Boadilla del Monte, 28668 Madrid, Spain

⁹ Spanish Nutrition Foundation (FEN), C/General Álvarez de Castro 20. 1a pta, 28010 Madrid, Spain

¹⁰ Department of Food Sciences and Physiology, University of Navarra, C/Irunlarrea 1, 31008 Pamplona, Spain

Nutrients 2017, 9(6), 606; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu9060606 - 14 Jun 2017

Cited by 28 | Viewed by 6447

Abstract

Limited knowledge is available on lifestyle patterns in Spanish adults. We investigated dietary patterns and possible meaningful clustering of physical activity, sedentary behavior, sleep time, and smoking in Spanish adults aged 18–64 years and their association with obesity. Analysis was based on a [...] Read more.

Limited knowledge is available on lifestyle patterns in Spanish adults. We investigated dietary patterns and possible meaningful clustering of physical activity, sedentary behavior, sleep time, and smoking in Spanish adults aged 18–64 years and their association with obesity. Analysis was based on a subsample (n = 1617) of the cross-sectional ANIBES study in Spain. We performed exploratory factor analysis and subsequent cluster analysis of dietary patterns, physical activity, sedentary behaviors, sleep time, and smoking. Logistic regression analysis was used to explore the association between the cluster solutions and obesity. Factor analysis identified four dietary patterns, “Traditional DP”, “Mediterranean DP”, “Snack DP” and “Dairy-sweet DP”. Dietary patterns, physical activity behaviors, sedentary behaviors, sleep time, and smoking in Spanish adults aggregated into three different clusters of lifestyle patterns: “Mixed diet-physically active-low sedentary lifestyle pattern”, “Not poor diet-low physical activity-low sedentary lifestyle pattern” and “Poor diet-low physical activity-sedentary lifestyle pattern”. A higher proportion of people aged 18–30 years was classified into the “Poor diet-low physical activity-sedentary lifestyle pattern”. The prevalence odds ratio for obesity in men in the “Mixed diet-physically active-low sedentary lifestyle pattern” was significantly lower compared to those in the “Poor diet-low physical activity-sedentary lifestyle pattern”. Those behavior patterns are helpful to identify specific issues in population subgroups and inform intervention strategies. The findings in this study underline the importance of designing and implementing interventions that address multiple health risk practices, considering lifestyle patterns and associated determinants. Full article

▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

20 pages, 1272 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Vitamin E Modifies High-Fat Diet-Induced Increase of DNA Strand Breaks, and Changes in Expression and DNA Methylation of Dnmt1 and MLH1 in C57BL/6J Male Mice

by Marlene Remely^1,*, Franziska Ferk², Sonja Sterneder¹, Tahereh Setayesh², Tatjana Kepcija¹, Sylvia Roth¹, Rahil Noorizadeh², Martina Greunz¹, Irene Rebhan¹, Karl-Heinz Wagner¹, Siegfried Knasmüller² and Alexander Haslberger¹

¹ Department of Nutritional Sciences, University Vienna, 1010 Vienna, Austria

² Institute of Cancer Research, Department of Medicine I, Medical University of Vienna, 1090 Vienna, Austria

Nutrients 2017, 9(6), 607; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu9060607 - 14 Jun 2017

Cited by 47 | Viewed by 6689

Abstract

Obesity is associated with low-grade inflammation, increased ROS production and DNA damage. Supplementation with antioxidants might ameliorate DNA damage and support epigenetic regulation of DNA repair. C57BL/6J male mice were fed a high-fat (HFD) or a control diet (CD) with and without vitamin [...] Read more.

Obesity is associated with low-grade inflammation, increased ROS production and DNA damage. Supplementation with antioxidants might ameliorate DNA damage and support epigenetic regulation of DNA repair. C57BL/6J male mice were fed a high-fat (HFD) or a control diet (CD) with and without vitamin E supplementation (4.5 mg/kg body weight (b.w.)) for four months. DNA damage, DNA promoter methylation and gene expression of Dnmt1 and a DNA repair gene (MLH1) were assayed in liver and colon. The HFD resulted in organ specific changes in DNA damage, the epigenetically important Dnmt1 gene, and the DNA repair gene MLH1. Vitamin E reduced DNA damage and showed organ-specific effects on MLH1 and Dnmt1 gene expression and methylation. These results suggest that interventions with antioxidants and epigenetic active food ingredients should be developed as an effective prevention for obesity—and oxidative stress—induced health risks. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Immunology: Nutrition, Exercise and Adiposity Relationships)

▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

16 pages, 273 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Identifying Eating Occasion-Based Opportunities to Improve the Overall Diets of Australian Adolescents

by Flavia Fayet-Moore^1,*, Andrew McConnell¹, Jean Kim² and Kevin C. Mathias³

¹ Nutrition Research Australia, Sydney, NSW 2000, Australia

² Nestlé Australia Ltd., Rhodes, NSW 2138, Australia

³ Nestlé Research Center, 1000 Lausanne, Switzerland

Nutrients 2017, 9(6), 608; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu9060608 - 14 Jun 2017

Cited by 18 | Viewed by 7014

Abstract

Adolescents in Australia have a poor dietary intake, leading to large numbers of them being at risk for inadequate intake of micronutrients, and excessive intake of less healthful dietary components. This study examined dietary intakes at multiple eating occasions to identify opportunities for [...] Read more.

Adolescents in Australia have a poor dietary intake, leading to large numbers of them being at risk for inadequate intake of micronutrients, and excessive intake of less healthful dietary components. This study examined dietary intakes at multiple eating occasions to identify opportunities for more targeted recommendations and strategies to improve dietary intakes among adolescents. Data from the first 24-h recall of 14–18 years old in the 2011–2012 National Nutrition and Physical Activity Survey were analysed (n = 772). Participant-defined eating occasions were classified as breakfast, lunch, dinner or other eating occasions combined. The mean percent contribution to the total day intake of top shortfall nutrients (calcium, magnesium, vitamin A, iron), discretionary calories, saturated fat, free sugars and sodium, as well as nutrient density, the foods consumed and the percent of consumers at each eating occasion, were calculated. Breakfast had the lowest prevalence of consumers (81%), contributed the least to total daily energy (14.6%) and almost a quarter of daily calcium and iron. Other eating occasions combined contributed 47.5% of free sugars and were top contributors of daily calcium (34.6%) and magnesium (31.7%). Discretionary foods contributed 32.4% of the energy at lunch, and the sodium content at lunch was 415 mg/1000 kJ. Key opportunities identified for adolescents were to increase breakfast consumption, given the high nutrient densities of breakfasts consumed; improve overall lunch quality, particularly the sodium content; promote the intake of milk, fruit and a variety of vegetables at both lunch and dinner; maintain healthful choices at in-between meal eating occasions while focusing on decreasing the intake of discretionary foods. Full article

18 pages, 652 KiB

Open AccessReview

Protein Hydrolysates as Promoters of Non-Haem Iron Absorption

by Yanan Li¹, Han Jiang¹ and Guangrong Huang^1,2,3,*

¹ College of Life Sciences, China Jiliang University, Hangzhou 310018, China

² Key Lab of Marine Food Quality and Hazard Controlling Technology of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou 310018, China

³ National and Local United Engineering Lab of Quality Controlling Technology and Instrument for Marine Food, Hangzhou 310018, China

Nutrients 2017, 9(6), 609; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu9060609 - 15 Jun 2017

Cited by 65 | Viewed by 14814

Abstract

Iron (Fe) is an essential micronutrient for human growth and health. Organic iron is an excellent iron supplement due to its bioavailability. Both amino acids and peptides improve iron bioavailability and absorption and are therefore valuable components of iron supplements. This review focuses [...] Read more.

Iron (Fe) is an essential micronutrient for human growth and health. Organic iron is an excellent iron supplement due to its bioavailability. Both amino acids and peptides improve iron bioavailability and absorption and are therefore valuable components of iron supplements. This review focuses on protein hydrolysates as potential promoters of iron absorption. The ability of protein hydrolysates to chelate iron is thought to be a key attribute for the promotion of iron absorption. Iron-chelatable protein hydrolysates are categorized by their absorption forms: amino acids, di- and tri-peptides and polypeptides. Their structural characteristics, including their size and amino acid sequence, as well as the presence of special amino acids, influence their iron chelation abilities and bioavailabilities. Protein hydrolysates promote iron absorption by keeping iron soluble, reducing ferric iron to ferrous iron, and promoting transport across cell membranes into the gut. We also discuss the use and relative merits of protein hydrolysates as iron supplements. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Dietary Supplements)

▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

12 pages, 878 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Emerging Disparities in Dietary Sodium Intake from Snacking in the US Population

by Elizabeth K. Dunford^1,2,*

, Jennifer M. Poti^2,3 and Barry M. Popkin^2,3

¹ Food Policy Division, The George Institute for Global Health, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW 2042, Australia

² Carolina Population Center, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27516, USA

³ Department of Nutrition, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27516, USA

Nutrients 2017, 9(6), 610; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu9060610 - 17 Jun 2017

Cited by 20 | Viewed by 6034

Abstract

Background: The US population consumes dietary sodium well in excess of recommended levels. It is unknown how the contribution of snack foods to sodium intake has changed over time, and whether disparities exist within specific subgroups of the US population. Objective: To examine [...] Read more.

Background: The US population consumes dietary sodium well in excess of recommended levels. It is unknown how the contribution of snack foods to sodium intake has changed over time, and whether disparities exist within specific subgroups of the US population. Objective: To examine short and long term trends in the contribution of snack food sources to dietary sodium intake for US adults and children over a 37-year period from 1977 to 2014. Methods: We used data collected from eight nationally representative surveys of food intake in 50,052 US children aged 2–18 years, and 73,179 adults aged 19+ years between 1977 and 2014. Overall, patterns of snack food consumption, trends in sodium intake from snack food sources and trends in food and beverage sources of sodium from snack foods across race-ethnic, age, gender, body mass index, household education and income groups were examined. Results: In all socio-demographic subgroups there was a significant increase in both per capita sodium intake, and the proportion of sodium intake derived from snacks from 1977–1978 to 2011–2014 (p < 0.01). Those with the lowest household education, Non-Hispanic Black race-ethnicity, and the lowest income had the largest increase in sodium intake from snacks. While in 1977–1978 Non-Hispanic Blacks had a lower sodium intake from snacks compared to Non-Hispanic Whites (p < 0.01), in 2011–2014 they had a significantly higher intake. Conclusions: Important disparities are emerging in dietary sodium intake from snack sources in Non-Hispanic Blacks. Our findings have implications for future policy interventions targeting specific US population subgroups. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Reducing Dietary Sodium and Improving Human Health)

▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

11 pages, 246 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Long-Term Consumption of Oats in Celiac Disease Patients Is Safe: A Large Cross-Sectional Study

by Katri Aaltonen^1,2, Pilvi Laurikka³, Heini Huhtala⁴

, Markku Mäki¹, Katri Kaukinen^2,3,5 and Kalle Kurppa^1,*

¹ Center for Child Health Research, Tampere University Hospital, 33521 Tampere, Finland

² The Faculty of Medicine and Life Sciences, University of Tampere, 33014 Tampere, Finland

³ Celiac Disease Research Centre, Tampere University Hospital, 33521 Tampere, Finland

⁴ Faculty of Social Sciences, University of Tampere, 33014 Tampere, Finland

⁵ Department of Internal Medicine, Tampere University Hospital, 33521 Tampere, Finland

Nutrients 2017, 9(6), 611; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu9060611 - 15 Jun 2017

Cited by 46 | Viewed by 8847

Abstract

A strict gluten-free diet (GFD) can be diversified by non-contaminated oats, but there is a shortage of long-term studies concerning its safety. We compared long-term treatment outcomes and factors associated with the introduction of oats between celiac patients on a GFD with or [...] Read more.

A strict gluten-free diet (GFD) can be diversified by non-contaminated oats, but there is a shortage of long-term studies concerning its safety. We compared long-term treatment outcomes and factors associated with the introduction of oats between celiac patients on a GFD with or without oats. Eight hundred sixty-nine previously diagnosed celiac patients were interviewed. The validated Gastrointestinal Symptom Rating Scale (GSRS), Psychological General Well-Being (PGWB), and Short-Form 36 Health Survey (SF-36) questionnaires were used to assess symptoms and quality of life, serological tests were performed, and results of histology were confirmed from patient records. We found the median duration of GFD to be 10 years and 82% using oats. Factors predicting the consumption of oats were diagnosis after the year 2000, advice from a dietitian, detection by screening, and mild clinical presentation. Oat consumers and non-consumers did not differ in dietary adherence (96.5% vs. 97.4%, p = 0.746), the prevalence of symptoms (22.9% vs. 22.5%, p = 0.931), positivity for endomysial antibodies (8.8% vs. 6.0%, p = 0.237), histological recovery after one year (63.1% vs. 60.0%, p = 0.773), malignancy (4.8% vs. 3.3%, p = 0.420), osteoporosis/osteopenia (9.2% vs. 11.0%, p = 0.489), or fractures (26.9% vs. 27.9%, p = 0.791). The oat consumers had better SF-36 physical role limitations and general health scores. Based on our results, the long-term consumption of oats in celiac disease patients is safe and may improve quality of life. Full article

10 pages, 475 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Know Your Noodles! Assessing Variations in Sodium Content of Instant Noodles across Countries

by Clare Farrand^1,*

, Karen Charlton^2,3, Michelle Crino¹

, Joseph Santos¹, Rodrigo Rodriguez-Fernandez⁴, Cliona Ni Mhurchu⁵

and Jacqui Webster¹

¹ The George Institute for Global Health, The University of New South Wales, P.O. Box M20 Missenden Rd, Sydney 2006, Australia

² School of Medicine, Faculty of Science, Medicine and Health, University of Wollongong, Wollongong 2522, Australia

³ Illawarra Health and Medical Research Institute, Building 32, University of Wollongong Campus, Wollongong 2522, Australia

⁴ Non-Communicable Diseases, International SOS, NCD Asia Pacific Alliance, Chiswick Park, 566 Chiswick High Rd, Chiswick, London W4 5YE, UK

⁵ National Institute for Health Innovation, University of Auckland, Private Bag 92019, Auckland Mail Centre, Auckland 1142, New Zealand

Nutrients 2017, 9(6), 612; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu9060612 - 16 Jun 2017

Cited by 30 | Viewed by 13963

Abstract

Reducing salt intake is a cost-effective public health intervention to reduce the global burden of non-communicable disease (NCDs). Ultra-processed foods contribute ~80% of dietary salt in high income countries, and are becoming prominent in low-middle income countries. Instant noodle consumption is particularly high [...] Read more.

Reducing salt intake is a cost-effective public health intervention to reduce the global burden of non-communicable disease (NCDs). Ultra-processed foods contribute ~80% of dietary salt in high income countries, and are becoming prominent in low-middle income countries. Instant noodle consumption is particularly high in the Asia Pacific region. The aim of this study was to compare the sodium content of instant noodles sold worldwide to identify potential for reformulation. Analysis was undertaken for 765 instant noodle products from 10 countries using packaged food composition databases of ultra-processed foods compiled by the Global Food Monitoring Group (GFMG) and national shop survey data. Sodium levels were high and variable, within and between countries. Instant noodles in China had the highest mean sodium content (1944 mg/100 g; range: 397–3678/100 g) compared to New Zealand (798 mg/100 g; range: 249–2380 mg/100 g). Average pack size ranged from 57 g (Costa Rica) to 98 g (China). The average packet contributed 35% to 95% of the World Health Organization recommended daily salt intake of <5 g. Forty percent of products met the Pacific Island (PICs) regional sodium targets, 37% met the South Africa 2016 targets, and 72% met the UK 2017 targets. This study emphasises a need for stronger regulation and closer monitoring to drive rigorous reformulation of salt in ultra-processed foods. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Reducing Dietary Sodium and Improving Human Health)

▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

11 pages, 241 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Perceived Health and Nutrition Concerns as Predictors of Dietary Patterns among Polish Females Aged 13–21 Years (GEBaHealth Project)

by Marzena Jezewska-Zychowicz¹

, Lidia Wadolowska²

, Joanna Kowalkowska²

, Marta Lonnie^2,*

, Jolanta Czarnocinska³ and Ewa Babicz-Zielinska⁴

¹ Department of Organization and Consumption Economics, Warsaw University of Life Sciences, Nowoursynowska 159 C, 02-776 Warsaw, Poland

² Department of Human Nutrition, University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn, Sloneczna 45F, 10-718 Olsztyn, Poland

³ Department of Human Nutrition and Hygiene, Poznan University of Life Sciences, Wojska Polskiego 28, 60-637 Poznan, Poland

⁴ Faculty of Physiotherapy and Health Sciences, Gdansk Management College, Pelplinska 7, 80-335 Gdansk, Poland

Nutrients 2017, 9(6), 613; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu9060613 - 16 Jun 2017

Cited by 15 | Viewed by 4960

Abstract

Health-related concerns can often be factors influencing health-related behaviours. It remains unclear whether a high level of concerns is associated with pro-healthy or unhealthy dietary behaviours and whether any associations between nutrition-related concerns and dietary behaviours exist in a population of girls and [...] Read more.

Health-related concerns can often be factors influencing health-related behaviours. It remains unclear whether a high level of concerns is associated with pro-healthy or unhealthy dietary behaviours and whether any associations between nutrition-related concerns and dietary behaviours exist in a population of girls and young women. The aim of the study was to investigate the associations between perceived health and nutrition concerns and dietary patterns in a representative sample of Polish young females. Data was collected in 2012 through a cross-sectional quantitative survey within the GEBaHealth (Girls Eating Behaviours and Health) project in a group of 1107 Polish girls aged 13–21 years old. Dietary patterns were identified by Principal Component Analysis (PCA) based on dietary data collected with Food Frequency Questionnaires (FFQs). Nutrition and health concerns were assessed separately by two indices: Health Concern Index (HCI) and Nutrition Concern Index (NCI); both based on the Health Concern Scale (HCS). The associations between perceived health and nutrition concerns and each dietary pattern were investigated using logistic regression analysis. Displaying a higher level of health concerns increased the chances of adherence to the upper tertile of ‘Fruit & vegetables’ pattern (adjusted odds ratio [adj. ORs]: 1.46, 95% Confidence Interval [95% CI]: 1.02–2.10). Displaying a lower level of health concerns increased the chances of the adherence to the upper tertiles of ‘Traditional Polish’, ‘Dairy & fats’, ‘Fruit and vegetables’ and ‘Fast food & sweets’ patterns (adj. ORs: 1.87, 95% CI: 1.31–2.67; 1.66, 95% CI: 1.18–2.34; 1.57, 95% CI: 1.11–2.22; 1.52, 95% CI: 1.08–2.13; respectively). No significant associations were found between levels of nutrition concerns and dietary patterns in the adjusted model. We found associations between self-perceived health concerns and dietary patterns in our study sample, suggesting health concerns can be an important predictor of dietary behaviours in girls and young women. To increase the effectiveness of healthy eating, an emphasis should be laid on health, reinforced with awareness of nutrition, when advising on food-related decisions. Full article

1 pages, 147 KiB

Open AccessErratum

Erratum: Intake of Marine-Derived Omega-3 Polyunsaturated Fatty Acids and Mortality in Renal Transplant Recipients; Nutrients 2017, 9, 363

by Nutrients Editorial Office

MDPI AG, St. Alban-Anlage 66, 4052 Basel, Switzerland

Nutrients 2017, 9(6), 614; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu9060614 - 16 Jun 2017

Viewed by 3478

Abstract

Due to a mistake during the production process, there was a spelling error in one of the author names in the original published version [1]. [...]
Full article

15 pages, 617 KiB

Open AccessReview

Microbiota and Probiotics in Health and HIV Infection

by Chiara D’Angelo

, Marcella Reale^*

and Erica Costantini

Unit of Immunodiagnostic and Molecular Pathology, Department of Medical, Oral and Biotechnological Sciences, University “G. d’Annunzio” Chieti-Pescara, 66100 Chieti, Italy

Nutrients 2017, 9(6), 615; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu9060615 - 16 Jun 2017

Cited by 61 | Viewed by 11833

Abstract

Microbiota play a key role in various body functions, as well as in physiological, metabolic, and immunological processes, through different mechanisms such as the regulation of the development and/or functions of different types of immune cells in the intestines. Evidence indicates that alteration [...] Read more.

Microbiota play a key role in various body functions, as well as in physiological, metabolic, and immunological processes, through different mechanisms such as the regulation of the development and/or functions of different types of immune cells in the intestines. Evidence indicates that alteration in the gut microbiota can influence infectious and non-infectious diseases. Bacteria that reside on the mucosal surface or within the mucus layer interact with the host immune system, thus, a healthy gut microbiota is essential for the development of mucosal immunity. In patients with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), including those who control their disease with antiretroviral drugs (ART), the gut microbiome is very different than the microbiome of those not infected with HIV. Recent data suggests that, for these patients, dysbiosis may lead to a breakdown in the gut’s immunologic activity, causing systemic bacteria diffusion and inflammation. Since in HIV-infected patients in this state, including those in ART therapy, the treatment of gastrointestinal tract disorders is frustrating, many studies are in progress to investigate the ability of probiotics to modulate epithelial barrier functions, microbiota composition, and microbial translocation. This mini-review analyzed the use of probiotics to prevent and attenuate several gastrointestinal manifestations and to improve gut-associated lymphoid tissue (GALT) immunity in HIV infection. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nutrients, Infectious and Inflammatory Diseases)

▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

10 pages, 383 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Iron Deficiency Anemia as a Risk Factor for Osteoporosis in Taiwan: A Nationwide Population-Based Study

by Mei-Lien Pan¹, Li-Ru Chen^2,3, Hsiao-Mei Tsao¹ and Kuo-Hu Chen^4,5,*

¹ Institute of Information Science, Academia Sinica, Taipei 115, Taiwan

² Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Mackay Memorial Hospital, Taipei 104, Taiwan

³ Department of Mechanical Engineering, National Chiao-Tung University, Hsinchu 300, Taiwan

⁴ Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Taipei Tzu-Chi Hospital, The Buddhist Tzu-Chi Medical Foundation, Taipei 231, Taiwan

⁵ School of Medicine, Tzu-Chi University, Hualien 970, Taiwan

Nutrients 2017, 9(6), 616; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu9060616 - 16 Jun 2017

Cited by 47 | Viewed by 8044

Abstract

The cause-effect relationship between iron deficiency anemia (IDA) and osteoporosis has not been established in the general population. Thus, the current longitudinal study determined the role of IDA as a risk factor for osteoporosis by analyzing a large nationwide population-based sample. In a [...] Read more.

The cause-effect relationship between iron deficiency anemia (IDA) and osteoporosis has not been established in the general population. Thus, the current longitudinal study determined the role of IDA as a risk factor for osteoporosis by analyzing a large nationwide population-based sample. In a sample of 1,000,000 randomly sampled individuals from the 1998–2012. Taiwan National Health Insurance Research Database, patients with IDA (case group (n = 35,751)) and individuals without IDA (control group (n = 178,755)) were compared. Patients who were <20 years of age and who had pre-existing osteoporosis prior to the diagnosis of IDA were excluded. Each patient with IDA was age- and gender-matched to five individuals without IDA. The diagnoses of IDA and osteoporosis (coded using ICD-9CM) were further confirmed with blood test results and X-ray bone densitometry to ensure the accuracy of the diagnoses. Osteoporosis occurred more often among patients with IDA compared to individuals without IDA (2.27% vs. 1.32%, p < 0.001). Cox proportional hazard analysis revealed that the risk for osteoporosis was significantly higher in the case than the control group (hazard ratio (HR) = 1.74; 95% CI = 1.61–1.88) and remained similar after adjustment for covariates (adjusted HR = 1.81; 95% CI = 1.67–1.97). Compared with individuals without IDA, the risk for osteoporosis was even higher for patients with IDA who received intravenous ferrum therapy (adjusted HR = 2.21; 95% CI = 1.85–2.63). In contrast, the risk for osteoporosis was reduced for patients with IDA who received a blood transfusion (adjusted HR = 1.47; 95% CI = 1.20–1.80). As a predictor, prior IDA is a significant and independent risk factor for development of osteoporosis. Full article

▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

13 pages, 3542 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Long-Term Dexamethasone Exposure Down-Regulates Hepatic TFR1 and Reduces Liver Iron Concentration in Rats

by Huifang Li, Shuxia Jiang, Chun Yang, Shu Yang, Bin He, Wenqiang Ma^* and Ruqian Zhao

Key Laboratory of Animal Physiology and Biochemistry, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, China

Nutrients 2017, 9(6), 617; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu9060617 - 17 Jun 2017

Cited by 18 | Viewed by 6352

Abstract

Exposure to stress is known to cause hepatic iron dysregulation, but the relationship between prolonged stress and liver iron metabolism is not yet fully understood. Thirty 13-week-old female Sprague–Dawley rats were randomly divided into two groups, as follows: the control group (saline-injection) and [...] Read more.

Exposure to stress is known to cause hepatic iron dysregulation, but the relationship between prolonged stress and liver iron metabolism is not yet fully understood. Thirty 13-week-old female Sprague–Dawley rats were randomly divided into two groups, as follows: the control group (saline-injection) and the dexamethasone group (Dexamethasone (Dex)-injection 0.1 mg/kg/day). After the 21-day stress trial, the results showed that chronic Dex administration not only impaired serum corticosterone (p = 0.00) and interleukin-6 (IL-6) (p = 0.01) levels, but also decreased white blood cell counts (p = 0.00), and reduced blood lymphocyte counts (p = 0.00). The daily Dex-injection also significantly reduced body weight (p < 0.01) by inhibiting food intake. Consecutive Dex administration resulted in decreased iron intake (p = 0.00), enhanced serum iron levels (p = 0.01), and increased the serum souble transferrin receptor (sTfR) content (p = 0.00) in rats. Meanwhile, long-term Dex exposure down-regulated duodenal cytochrome b (DCYTB) (p = 0.00) and the divalent metal transporter 1 (DMT1) (p = 0.04) protein expression, but up-regulated ferroportin (FPN) protein expression (p = 0.04). Chronic Dex administration reduced liver iron concentration (p = 0.02) in rats. Hepatic transferrin receptor 1 (TFR1) expression was lowered at the protein level (p = 0.03), yet with uncoupled mRNA abundance in Dex-treated rats. Enhanced iron-regulatory protein (IRP)/iron-responsive element (IRE) binding activity was observed, but did not line up with lowered hepatic TFR1 protein expression. This study indicates that long-term Dex exposure reduces liver iron content, which is closely associated with down-regulated hepatic TFR1 protein expression. Full article

▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

2 pages, 156 KiB

Open AccessCorrection

Correction: Rachel Brown and Sheila Skeaff. Nutrition Society of New Zealand Annual Conference Held in Christchurch, New Zealand, 8–9 December 2016. Nutrients 2017, 9, 348

by Rachel Brown^*

and Sheila Skeaff

Department of Human Nutrition, University of Otago, Dunedin 9054, New Zealand

Nutrients 2017, 9(6), 618; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu9060618 - 16 Jun 2017

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 3698

Abstract

We would like to submit the following as a correction to our recently published Special Issue on the annual conference and scientific meeting of the Nutrition Society of New Zealand, 2016 [1]. [...]
Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Selected Papers from 2016 Annual Scientific Meeting of the Nutrition Society of New Zealand)

13 pages, 1012 KiB

Open AccessArticle

A High-Fructose-High-Coconut Oil Diet Induces Dysregulating Expressions of Hippocampal Leptin and Stearoyl-CoA Desaturase, and Spatial Memory Deficits in Rats

by Ching-I Lin¹, Chu-Fu Shen², Tsui-Han Hsu² and Shyh-Hsiang Lin^2,3,*

¹ Department of Nutrition and Health Sciences, Kainan University, No. 1, Kainan Rd., Luchu, Taoyuan 338, Taiwan

² School of Nutrition and Health Sciences, Taipei Medical University, No. 250, Wu-Hsing Street, Taipei 110, Taiwan

³ Research Center of Geriatric Nutrition, Taipei Medical University, No. 250, Wu-Hsing Street, Taipei 110, Taiwan

Nutrients 2017, 9(6), 619; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu9060619 - 16 Jun 2017

Cited by 13 | Viewed by 6441

Abstract

We investigated the effects of high-fructose-high-fat diets with different fat compositions on metabolic parameters, hippocampal-dependent cognitive function, and brain leptin (as well as stearoyl-CoA desaturase (SCD1) mRNA expressions). Thirty-two male Wistar rats were divided into 3 groups, a control group (n = [...] Read more.

We investigated the effects of high-fructose-high-fat diets with different fat compositions on metabolic parameters, hippocampal-dependent cognitive function, and brain leptin (as well as stearoyl-CoA desaturase (SCD1) mRNA expressions). Thirty-two male Wistar rats were divided into 3 groups, a control group (n = 8), a high-fructose soybean oil group (37.5% of fat calories, n = 12), and a high-fructose coconut oil group (37.5% of fat calories, n = 12) for 20 weeks. By the end of the study, the coconut oil group exhibited significantly higher serum fasting glucose, fructosamine, insulin, leptin, and triglyceride levels compared to those of the control and soybean oil groups. However, hippocampal leptin expression and leptin receptor mRNA levels were significantly lower, while SCD1 mRNA was significantly higher in rats fed the high-fructose-high-coconut oil diet than in rats fed the other experimental diets. In addition, the coconut oil group spent significantly less time in the target quadrant on the probe test in the Morris water maze (MWM) task. Rats fed the high-fructose-high-coconut oil diet for 20 weeks were prone to develop hyperglycemia, hyperinsulinemia, hyperleptinemia, and hypertriglyceridemia. These metabolic consequences may contribute to hippocampal-dependent memory impairment, accompanied by a lower central leptin level, and a higher SCD1 gene expression in the brain. Full article

▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

11 pages, 1124 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Impact of Virtual Touch Quantification in Acoustic Radiation Force Impulse for Skeletal Muscle Mass Loss in Chronic Liver Diseases

by Hiroki Nishikawa, Takashi Nishimura, Hirayuki Enomoto^*, Yoshinori Iwata, Akio Ishii, Yuho Miyamoto, Noriko Ishii, Yukihisa Yuri, Ryo Takata, Kunihiro Hasegawa, Chikage Nakano, Kazunori Yoh, Nobuhiro Aizawa, Yoshiyuki Sakai, Naoto Ikeda, Tomoyuki Takashima, Shuhei Nishiguchi and Hiroko Iijima

Division of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic disease, Department of Internal Medicine, Hyogo College of Medicine, Hyogo 6638501, Japan

Nutrients 2017, 9(6), 620; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu9060620 - 16 Jun 2017

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 4543

Abstract

Background and aims: We sought to clarify the relationship between virtual touch quantification (VTQ) in acoustic radiation force impulse and skeletal muscle mass as assessed by bio-electronic impedance analysis in patients with chronic liver diseases (CLDs, n = 468, 222 males and 246 [...] Read more.

Background and aims: We sought to clarify the relationship between virtual touch quantification (VTQ) in acoustic radiation force impulse and skeletal muscle mass as assessed by bio-electronic impedance analysis in patients with chronic liver diseases (CLDs, n = 468, 222 males and 246 females, median age = 62 years). Patients and methods: Decreased skeletal muscle index (D-SMI) was defined as skeletal muscle index (SMI) <7.0 kg/m² for males and as SMI <5.7 kg/m² for females, according to the recommendations in current Japanese guidelines. We examined the correlation between SMI and VTQ levels and investigated factors linked to D-SMI in the univariate and multivariate analyses. The area under the receiver operating curve (AUROC) for the presence of D-SMI was also calculated. Results: In patients with D-SMI, the median VTQ level was 1.64 meters/second (m/s) (range, 0.93–4.32 m/s), while in patients without D-SMI, the median VTQ level was 1.11 m/s (range, 0.67–4.09 m/s) (p < 0.0001). In the multivariate analysis, higher VTQ was found to be an independent predictor linked to the presence of D-SMI (p < 0.0001). In receiver operating characteristic analysis, body mass index had the highest AUROC (0.805), followed by age (0.721) and VTQ (0.706). Conclusion: VTQ levels can be useful for predicting D-SMI in patients with CLDs. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nutrition and Liver Disease)

▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

19 pages, 4107 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Lipid Accumulation in HepG2 Cells Is Attenuated by Strawberry Extract through AMPK Activation

by Tamara Y. Forbes-Hernández^1,2

, Francesca Giampieri¹

, Massimiliano Gasparrini¹

, Sadia Afrin¹

, Luca Mazzoni³, Mario D. Cordero⁴, Bruno Mezzetti³, José L. Quiles⁵

and Maurizio Battino^1,6,*

¹ Dipartimento di Scienze Cliniche Specialistiche ed Odontostomatologiche (DISCO)-Sez. Biochimica, Facoltà di Medicina, Università Politecnica delle Marche, 60131 Ancona, Italy

² Área de Nutrición y Salud, Universidad Internacional Iberoamericana (UNINI), Campeche 24040, Mexico

³ Dipartimento di Scienze Agrarie, Alimentari e Ambientali, Università Politecnica delle Marche, 60131 Ancona, Italy.

⁴ Research Laboratory, Dental School, University of Sevilla, 41009 Sevilla, Spain

⁵ Department of Physiology, Institute of Nutrition and Food Technology “José Mataix”, Biomedical Research Centre, University of Granada, 18000 Granada, Spain

⁶ Centre for Nutrition & Health, Universidad Europea del Atlantico (UEA), 39011 Santander, Spain

Nutrients 2017, 9(6), 621; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu9060621 - 16 Jun 2017

Cited by 88 | Viewed by 10601

Abstract

Regulation of lipid metabolism is essential for treatment and prevention of several chronic diseases such as obesity, diabetes, and cardiovascular diseases, which are responsible for most deaths worldwide. It has been demonstrated that the AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) has a direct impact on [...] Read more.

Regulation of lipid metabolism is essential for treatment and prevention of several chronic diseases such as obesity, diabetes, and cardiovascular diseases, which are responsible for most deaths worldwide. It has been demonstrated that the AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) has a direct impact on lipid metabolism by modulating several downstream-signaling components. The main objective of the present work was to evaluate the in vitro effect of a methanolic strawberry extract on AMPK and its possible repercussion on lipid metabolism in human hepatocellular carcinoma cells (HepG2). For such purpose, the lipid profile and the expression of proteins metabolically related to AMPK were determined on cells lysates. The results demonstrated that strawberry methanolic extract decreased total cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein (LDL)-cholesterol, and triglycerides levels (up to 0.50-, 0.30-, and 0.40-fold, respectively) while it stimulated the p-AMPK/AMPK expression (up to 3.06-fold), compared to the control. AMPK stimulation led to the phosphorylation and consequent inactivation of acetyl coenzyme A carboxylase (ACC) and inhibition of 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl-CoA reductase (HMGCR), the major regulators of fatty acids and cholesterol synthesis, respectively. Strawberry treatment also entailed a 4.34-, 2.37-, and 2.47-fold overexpression of LDL receptor, sirtuin 1 (Sirt1), and the peroxisome proliferator activated receptor gamma coactivator 1-alpha (PGC-1α), respectively, compared to control. The observed results were counteracted by treatment with compound C, an AMPK pharmacological inhibitor, confirming that multiple effects of strawberries on lipid metabolism are mediated by the activation of this protein. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Antioxidants in Health and Disease)

▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

10 pages, 513 KiB

Open AccessReview

Dietary Management of Skin Health: The Role of Genistein

by Natasha Irrera^1,†, Gabriele Pizzino^1,†, Rosario D’Anna², Mario Vaccaro¹, Vincenzo Arcoraci¹, Francesco Squadrito^1,*, Domenica Altavilla³ and Alessandra Bitto¹

¹ Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Messina, Messina 98125, Italy

² Department of Human Pathology, University of Messina, Messina 98125, Italy

³ Department of Biomedical Sciences, Dentistry and Morphological and Functional Images, University of Messina, Messina 98125, Italy

^† N.I. and G.P. equally contributed to this paper.

Nutrients 2017, 9(6), 622; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu9060622 - 17 Jun 2017

Cited by 59 | Viewed by 9840

Abstract

In women, aging and declining estrogen levels are associated with several cutaneous changes, many of which can be reversed or improved by estrogen supplementation. Two estrogen receptors—α and β—have been cloned and found in various tissue types. Epidermal thinning, declining dermal collagen content, [...] Read more.

In women, aging and declining estrogen levels are associated with several cutaneous changes, many of which can be reversed or improved by estrogen supplementation. Two estrogen receptors—α and β—have been cloned and found in various tissue types. Epidermal thinning, declining dermal collagen content, diminished skin moisture, decreased laxity, and impaired wound healing have been reported in postmenopausal women. Experimental and clinical studies in postmenopausal conditions indicate that estrogen deprivation is associated with dryness, atrophy, fine wrinkling, and poor wound healing. The isoflavone genistein binds to estrogen receptor β and has been reported to improve skin changes. This review article will focus on the effects of genistein on skin health. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nutraceuticals and the Skin: Roles in Health and Disease)

▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

10 pages, 241 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Effects of Vitamin D Supplementation on IGF-1 and Calcitriol: A Randomized-Controlled Trial

by Christian Trummer¹, Verena Schwetz^1,*, Marlene Pandis¹, Martin R. Grübler^1,2, Nicolas Verheyen³, Martin Gaksch¹, Armin Zittermann⁴, Winfried März⁵, Felix Aberer¹, Angelika Lang¹, Claudia Friedl⁶, Andreas Tomaschitz^3,7,8, Barbara Obermayer-Pietsch^1,9, Thomas R. Pieber^1,9, Stefan Pilz¹ and Gerlies Treiber¹

¹ Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Endocrinology and Diabetology, Medical University of Graz, 8036 Graz, Austria

² Swiss Cardiovascular Center Bern, Department of Cardiology, Bern University Hospital, 3010 Bern, Switzerland

³ Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Cardiology, Medical University of Graz, 8036 Graz, Austria

⁴ Clinic for Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery, Heart and Diabetes Center NRW, 32545 Bad Oeynhausen, Germany

⁵ Clinical Institute of Medical and Chemical Laboratory Diagnostics, Medical University of Graz, 8036 Graz, Austria

⁶ Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Nephrology, Medical University of Graz, 8036 Graz, Austria

⁷ Bad Gleichenberg Clinic, 8344 Bad Gleichenberg, Austria

⁸ Medical Clinic V (Nephrology, Hypertensiology, Endocrinology), Medical Faculty Mannheim, Ruperto Carola University Heidelberg, 68167 Mannheim, Germany

⁹ CBmed, Center for Biomarker Research in Medicine, 8010 Graz, Austria

Nutrients 2017, 9(6), 623; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu9060623 - 17 Jun 2017

Cited by 38 | Viewed by 6732

Abstract

Increasing evidence suggests a possible interaction between vitamin D and insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1). We aimed to investigate effects of vitamin D supplementation on IGF-1 (primary outcome) and calcitriol (1,25(OH)₂D) concentrations (secondary outcome). This is a post-hoc analysis of the Styrian [...] Read more.

Increasing evidence suggests a possible interaction between vitamin D and insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1). We aimed to investigate effects of vitamin D supplementation on IGF-1 (primary outcome) and calcitriol (1,25(OH)₂D) concentrations (secondary outcome). This is a post-hoc analysis of the Styrian Vitamin D Hypertension Trial—a single-center, double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled trial (RCT) conducted from 2011 to 2014 at the Medical University of Graz, Austria. Two-hundred subjects with arterial hypertension and 25(OH)D concentrations <30 ng/mL were randomized to either receive 2800 IU of vitamin D daily or placebo for eight weeks. A total of 175 participants (mean ± standard deviation age, 60 ± 11 years; 49% women) with available IGF-1 concentrations were included in the present analysis. At baseline, IGF-1 concentrations were significantly correlated with 1,25(OH)₂D (r = 0.21; p = 0.005) but not with 25(OH)D (r = −0.008; p = 0.91). In the RCT, vitamin D had no significant effect on IGF-1 (mean treatment effect 3.1; 95% confidence interval −5.6 to 11.9 ng/mL; p = 0.48), but it increased 1,25(OH)₂D concentrations (mean treatment effect 9.2; 95% confidence interval 4.4 to 13.9 pg/mL; p ≤ 0.001). In this RCT, in hypertensive patients with low 25(OH)D concentrations, there was no significant effect of vitamin D supplementation on IGF-1 concentrations. However, we observed a cross-sectional correlation between 1,25(OH)₂D and IGF-1 and an increase of 1,25(OH)₂D after vitamin D supplementation. Full article

25 pages, 1772 KiB

Open AccessReview

Zinc in Infection and Inflammation

by Nour Zahi Gammoh and Lothar Rink^*

Institute of Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, RWTH Aachen University, University Hospital, Pauwelstrasse 30, 52074 Aachen, Germany

Nutrients 2017, 9(6), 624; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu9060624 - 17 Jun 2017

Cited by 592 | Viewed by 37633

Abstract

Micronutrient homeostasis is a key factor in maintaining a healthy immune system. Zinc is an essential micronutrient that is involved in the regulation of the innate and adaptive immune responses. The main cause of zinc deficiency is malnutrition. Zinc deficiency leads to cell-mediated [...] Read more.

Micronutrient homeostasis is a key factor in maintaining a healthy immune system. Zinc is an essential micronutrient that is involved in the regulation of the innate and adaptive immune responses. The main cause of zinc deficiency is malnutrition. Zinc deficiency leads to cell-mediated immune dysfunctions among other manifestations. Consequently, such dysfunctions lead to a worse outcome in the response towards bacterial infection and sepsis. For instance, zinc is an essential component of the pathogen-eliminating signal transduction pathways leading to neutrophil extracellular traps (NET) formation, as well as inducing cell-mediated immunity over humoral immunity by regulating specific factors of differentiation. Additionally, zinc deficiency plays a role in inflammation, mainly elevating inflammatory response as well as damage to host tissue. Zinc is involved in the modulation of the proinflammatory response by targeting Nuclear Factor Kappa B (NF-κB), a transcription factor that is the master regulator of proinflammatory responses. It is also involved in controlling oxidative stress and regulating inflammatory cytokines. Zinc plays an intricate function during an immune response and its homeostasis is critical for sustaining proper immune function. This review will summarize the latest findings concerning the role of this micronutrient during the course of infections and inflammatory response and how the immune system modulates zinc depending on different stimuli. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nutrients, Infectious and Inflammatory Diseases)

▼ Show Figures

Graphical abstract

14 pages, 429 KiB

Open AccessReview

Role of Nigella sativa and Its Constituent Thymoquinone on Chemotherapy-Induced Nephrotoxicity: Evidences from Experimental Animal Studies

by Marco Cascella^1,†

, Giuseppe Palma^2,†

, Antonio Barbieri^2,*,†, Sabrina Bimonte^1,†

, Nagoth Joseph Amruthraj^2,3, Maria Rosaria Muzio⁴, Vitale Del Vecchio², Domenica Rea², Michela Falco², Antonio Luciano², Claudio Arra^2,‡ and Arturo Cuomo^1,‡

¹ Division of Anesthesia and Pain Medicine, Istituto Nazionale Tumori—IRCCS–“Fondazione G. Pascale”, Via Mariano Semmola, 80131 Naples, Italy

² S.S.D. Sperimentazione Animale, Istituto Nazionale Tumori—IRCCS—“Fondazione G. Pascale”, 80131 Naples, Italy

³ Clinical, Experimental and Medical Sciences, Chair of Nephrology, Department of Cardio-Vascular Medicine, University of Study of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, 81100 Caserta, Italy

⁴ Division of Infantile Neuropsychiatry, UOMI-Maternal and Infant Health, Asl NA 3 SUD, Torre del Greco, Via Marconi, 80059 Naples, Italy

^† These authors have contributed equally.

^‡ These authors are co-last authors.

Nutrients 2017, 9(6), 625; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu9060625 - 17 Jun 2017

Cited by 45 | Viewed by 7542

Abstract

Background: Most chemotherapeutic drugs are known to cause nephrotoxicity. Therefore, new strategies have been considered to prevent chemotherapy-induced nephrotoxicity. It is of note that Nigella sativa (NS), or its isolated compound Thymoquinone (TQ), has a potential role in combating chemotherapy-induced nephrotoxicity. AIM: To [...] Read more.

Background: Most chemotherapeutic drugs are known to cause nephrotoxicity. Therefore, new strategies have been considered to prevent chemotherapy-induced nephrotoxicity. It is of note that Nigella sativa (NS), or its isolated compound Thymoquinone (TQ), has a potential role in combating chemotherapy-induced nephrotoxicity. AIM: To analyze and report the outcome of experimental animal studies on the protective effects of NS/TQ on chemotherapy-associated kidney complications. Design: Standard systematic review and narrative synthesis. Data Sources: MEDLINE, EMBASE databases were searched for relevant articles published up to March 2017. Additionally, a manual search was performed. Criteria for a study’s inclusion were: conducted in animals, systematic reviews and meta-analysis, containing data on nephroprotective effects of NS/TQ compared to a placebo or other substance. All strains and genders were included. Results: The database search yielded 71 studies, of which 12 (cisplatin-induced nephrotoxicity 8; methotrexate-induced nephrotoxicity 1; doxorubicin-induced nephrotoxicity 2; ifosfamide-induced nephrotoxicity 1) were included in this review. Conclusions: Experimental animal studies showed the protective effect of NS, or TQ, on chemotherapy-induced nephrotoxicity. These effects are caused by decreasing lipid peroxidation and increasing activity of antioxidant enzymes in renal tissue of chemotherapy-treated animals. Full article

▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

10 pages, 2662 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Involvement of CD36 in Modulating the Decrease of NPY and AgRP Induced by Acute Palmitic Acid Stimulation in N1E-115 Cells

by Yan Ma^1,2

, Xiaoyi Wang^1,2, Hongying Yang³, Xu Zhang^1,2 and Nianhong Yang^1,2,*

¹ Department of Nutrition and Food Hygiene, Hubei Key Laboratory of Food Nutrition and Safety, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, China

² Ministry of Education Key Lab of Environment and Health, School of Public Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, China

³ Hubei Provincial Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Wuhan 430030, China

Nutrients 2017, 9(6), 626; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu9060626 - 17 Jun 2017

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 4653

Abstract

Central nervous system (CNS) fatty acid sensing plays an important role in the regulation of food intake, and palmitic acid (PA) is the most important long chain fatty acid (LCFA) in the mammalian diet. To explore the effect of PA on central neuropeptide [...] Read more.

Central nervous system (CNS) fatty acid sensing plays an important role in the regulation of food intake, and palmitic acid (PA) is the most important long chain fatty acid (LCFA) in the mammalian diet. To explore the effect of PA on central neuropeptide expression and the role of the cluster of the differentiation of 36 (CD36) in the process, N1E-115 cells were cultured with PA in the presence or absence of sulfosuccinimidyl-oleate (SSO), a CD36 inhibitor. Results showed that 10 μmol/L PA significantly reduced NPY and AgRP mRNA expression after 20 min of exposure, while the expression of CD36 was upregulated. The presence of SSO significantly attenuated the decrease of NPY and AgRP expression that was induced by PA alone, although no notable effect on PA- induced CD36 gene expression was observed. In conclusion, our study suggests the involvement of CD36 in the PA-induced decrease of NPY and AgRP in N1E-115 cells. Full article

▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

12 pages, 229 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Impact of Second Trimester Maternal Dietary Intake on Gestational Weight Gain and Neonatal Birth Weight

by Malshani L. Pathirathna^1,2,*

, Kayoko Sekijima¹, Mieko Sadakata¹, Naoshi Fujiwara³, Yoshiyuki Muramatsu¹ and Kuruppu M.S. Wimalasiri⁴

¹ Department of Nursing, Graduate School of Health Sciences, Niigata University, 2-746 Asahimachi-dori, Chuo-ku, Niigata 951-8518, Japan

² Department of Nursing, Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, University of Peradeniya, Peradeniya 20400, Sri Lanka

³ Department of Medical Technology, Graduate School of Health Sciences, Niigata University, 2-746 Asahimachi-dori, Chuo-ku, Niigata 951-8518, Japan

⁴ Department of Food Science and Technology, Faculty of Agriculture, University of Peradeniya, Peradeniya 20400, Sri Lanka

Nutrients 2017, 9(6), 627; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu9060627 - 17 Jun 2017

Cited by 31 | Viewed by 10211

Abstract

Poor maternal nutrition is a major contributor to the high incidence of low birth weight deliveries in developing countries. This study aimed to assess the impact of second trimester maternal dietary intake on gestational weight gain and neonatal birth weight. A longitudinal study [...] Read more.

Poor maternal nutrition is a major contributor to the high incidence of low birth weight deliveries in developing countries. This study aimed to assess the impact of second trimester maternal dietary intake on gestational weight gain and neonatal birth weight. A longitudinal study was conducted in a tertiary care hospital in Sri Lanka. Participants were 141 pregnant women at 18–24 weeks gestation who were followed up until delivery. Maternal dietary intake was assessed using a validated Food Frequency Questionnaire at 21.1 ± 1.8 gestational weeks. Gestational weight gain was examined at the end of 28 weeks gestation and at the end of pregnancy. Energy and nutrient intakes were calculated using NutriSurvey 2007 (EBISpro, Willstaett, Germany) nutrient analysis software, modified for Sri Lankan foods. The mean total gestational weight gain of women with low carbohydrate intake (229–429 g/day) was 2.2 kg less than that of women with moderate carbohydrate intake (430–629 g/day) (95% confidence interval (CI) 0.428–4.083 kg; p = 0.016). Similarly, babies of women with low carbohydrate intake were 312 g lighter compared with those of women with a moderate carbohydrate intake (95% CI 91–534 g; p = 0.006). Our results suggest that second trimester maternal carbohydrate intake has significant impacts on total gestational weight gain and neonatal birth weight. Full article

▼ Show Figures

Graphical abstract

15 pages, 1264 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Alcohol Warnings and Moderate Drinking Patterns among Italian University Students: An Exploratory Study

by Azzurra Annunziata^1,*

, Riccardo Vecchio²

and Angela Mariani¹

¹ Department of Economic and Legal Studies, University of Naples Parthenope, 80133 Naples, Italy

² Department of Agricultural Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, 80055 Portici (Na), Italy

Nutrients 2017, 9(6), 628; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu9060628 - 17 Jun 2017

Cited by 13 | Viewed by 5672

Abstract

The introduction of health warnings on labels to correct externalities associated with alcohol consumption is heavily debated and has been explored from different perspectives. The current paper aims to analyse the interest and attitudes of Italian university students regarding health warnings on alcoholic [...] Read more.

The introduction of health warnings on labels to correct externalities associated with alcohol consumption is heavily debated and has been explored from different perspectives. The current paper aims to analyse the interest and attitudes of Italian university students regarding health warnings on alcoholic beverages and to verify the existence of segments that differ in terms of attitudes towards such warnings. Our results show that young consumers consider health warnings quite important, although the degree of perceived utility differs in relation to the type of warning. Cluster analysis shows the existence of three groups of young consumers with different degrees of attention and perceived utility of warnings on alcoholic beverages, but also in relation to drinking behaviour and awareness of social and health risks related to alcohol consumption. In brief, Italian young adults with moderate consumption behaviour view label warnings positively, while this attitude is weaker among younger adults and those with riskier consumption behaviours. Our findings, albeit limited and based on stated and not revealed data, support the need for appropriate tools to improve the availability of information among young adults on the risks of excessive alcohol consumption and increased awareness of the importance of moderate drinking. Full article

▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

17 pages, 1575 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Bioavailability of Dietary Omega-3 Fatty Acids Added to a Variety of Sausages in Healthy Individuals

by Anton Köhler

, Johanna Heinrich and Clemens Von Schacky^*

Department of Preventive Cardiology, Medizinische Klinik and Poliklinik I, Campus Innenstadt, Ludwig Maximilians University, Ziemssen str.1, D-80336 Munich, Germany

Nutrients 2017, 9(6), 629; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu9060629 - 19 Jun 2017

Cited by 14 | Viewed by 7611

Abstract

A low Omega-3 Index (eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) in erythrocytes) is associated with cardiac, cerebral, and other health issues. Intake of EPA and DHA, but not of alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), increases the Omega-3 Index. We investigated bioavailability, safety, palatability and [...] Read more.

A low Omega-3 Index (eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) in erythrocytes) is associated with cardiac, cerebral, and other health issues. Intake of EPA and DHA, but not of alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), increases the Omega-3 Index. We investigated bioavailability, safety, palatability and tolerability of EPA and DHA in a novel source: a variety of sausages. We screened 96 healthy volunteers, and recruited 44 with an Omega-3 Index <5%. Participants were randomly assigned to receive a variety of sausages enriched with approximately 250 mg EPA and DHA per 80 g (n = 22) daily for 8 weeks, or matching placebo sausages (n = 22). All sausages contained approximately 250 mg ALA/80 g. In the verum group, the mean Omega-3 Index increased from 4.18 ± 0.54 to 5.72 ± 0.66% (p < 0.001), while it remained unchanged in the placebo group. While ALA levels increased only in the placebo group, DPA levels increased in both groups. Inter-individual variability in the response was large. The mean increase of the Omega-3 Index per intake of EPA and DHA we observed was higher than for other sources previously studied, indicating superior bioavailability. As increasing production of EPA and DHA is difficult, improvements of bioavailability can facilitate reaching the target range for the Omega-3 Index (8–11%). Full article

▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

17 pages, 285 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Consumption of Dairy Products Is Associated with Reduced Risks of Obesity and Metabolic Syndrome in Korean Women but not in Men

by Kyung Won Lee¹

and Wookyoun Cho^2,*

¹ Department of Food Science and Human Nutrition, Michigan State University, 469 Wilson Road, Trout FSHN Building, East Lansing, MI 48824, USA

² Department of Food and Nutrition, Gachon University, 1342 Seongnam-daero, Sujeong-gu, Seongnam-si, Gyeonggi 13120, Korea

Nutrients 2017, 9(6), 630; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu9060630 - 19 Jun 2017

Cited by 35 | Viewed by 7516

Abstract

We aimed to investigate the association between dairy product consumption and the risk of obesity and metabolic syndrome (MetS) in Korean adults. Data from 13,692 Korean adults aged ≥19 years from the KNHANES 2010–2013 were used. The study participants were divided into three [...] Read more.

We aimed to investigate the association between dairy product consumption and the risk of obesity and metabolic syndrome (MetS) in Korean adults. Data from 13,692 Korean adults aged ≥19 years from the KNHANES 2010–2013 were used. The study participants were divided into three groups according to the serving size of dairy products they consumed based on a single 24-h recall. About 58% of the Korean adults did not consume any dairy products in one day. In both the sexes, only those who adhered to the recommendation for dairy products (≥1 serving/day) achieved the daily requirement of calcium. Women who consumed ≥1 serving/day of dairy products had lower risks of obesity (body mass index ≥ 25 kg/m²) (adjusted odds ratio (AOR), 0.77; 95% confidence interval (CI), 0.66–0.89; p for trend < 0.01) and MetS (AOR, 0.67; 95% CI, 0.56–0.80; p for trend < 0.01) than women who did not consume dairy products. However, these significant associations were not observed in men. In conclusion, consuming ≥ 1 serving/day of dairy products could be an easy and efficient strategy for meeting daily calcium requirement as well as lowering risks of obesity and MetS among Korean women. Full article

16 pages, 1412 KiB

Open AccessArticle

An Increased Dietary Supply of Medium-Chain Fatty Acids during Early Weaning in Rodents Prevents Excessive Fat Accumulation in Adulthood

by Bert J. M. Van de Heijning^1,*, Annemarie Oosting¹, Diane Kegler¹ and Eline M. Van der Beek^1,2

¹ Nutricia Research, Early Life Nutrition, Utrecht, The Netherlands

² Department of Pediatrics, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands

Nutrients 2017, 9(6), 631; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu9060631 - 20 Jun 2017

Cited by 21 | Viewed by 5721

Abstract

Medium-chain fatty acids (MCFA) are a directly and readily absorbed source of energy. Exposure early-in-life to increased MCFA levels might affect development and impact (lipid) metabolism later in life. We tested whether an increased MCFA intake early-in-life positively affects adult body composition and [...] Read more.

Medium-chain fatty acids (MCFA) are a directly and readily absorbed source of energy. Exposure early-in-life to increased MCFA levels might affect development and impact (lipid) metabolism later in life. We tested whether an increased MCFA intake early-in-life positively affects adult body composition and metabolic status when challenged by a western-style diet (WSD). Male offspring of C57Bl/6j mice and Wistar rats were fed a control diet (CTRL; 10 w% fat, 14% MCFA) or a medium-chain triglycerides (MCT) diet with 20% MCFA until postnatal (PN) day 42, whereupon animals were fed a WSD (10 w% fat) until PN day 98. Body composition was monitored by Dual Energy X-ray Absorptiometry (DEXA). In rats, glucose homeostasis was assessed by glucose tolerance test (GTT) and insulin tolerance test (ITT); in mice, the HOmeostasis Model Assessment of Insulin Resistance (HOMA-IR) was calculated. At autopsy on PN day 98, plasma lipid profiles, glucose, insulin, and adipokines were measured; organs and fat pads were collected and the adipocyte size distribution was analysed. Milk analysis in mice showed that the maternal MCT diet was not translated into milk, and pups were thus only exposed to high MCT levels from early weaning onward: PN day 16 until 42. Mice exposed to MCT showed 28% less fat accumulation vs. CTRL during WSD. The average adipocyte cell size, fasting plasma triglycerides (TG), and leptin levels were reduced in MCT mice. In rats, no effects were found on the adult body composition, but the adipocyte cell size distribution shifted towards smaller adipocytes. Particularly mice showed positive effects on glucose homeostasis and insulin sensitivity. Increased MCFA intake early-in-life protected against the detrimental effects of an obesogenic diet in adulthood. Full article

▼ Show Figures

Graphical abstract

17 pages, 927 KiB

Open AccessArticle

PREVIEW: Prevention of Diabetes through Lifestyle Intervention and Population Studies in Europe and around the World. Design, Methods, and Baseline Participant Description of an Adult Cohort Enrolled into a Three-Year Randomised Clinical Trial

by Mikael Fogelholm^1,*

, Thomas Meinert Larsen²

, Margriet Westerterp-Plantenga³

, Ian Macdonald⁴

, J. Alfredo Martinez^5,6

, Nadka Boyadjieva⁷, Sally Poppitt⁸

, Wolfgang Schlicht⁹, Gareth Stratton¹⁰

, Jouko Sundvall¹¹, Tony Lam¹²

, Elli Jalo¹, Pia Christensen², Mathijs Drummen³, Elizabeth Simpson⁴

, Santiago Navas-Carretero^5,6

, Teodora Handjieva-Darlenska⁷, Roslyn Muirhead¹³, Marta P. Silvestre⁸

, Daniela Kahlert¹⁴, Laura Pastor-Sanz², Jennie Brand-Miller¹³

and Anne Raben²

Show full author list Hide full author list

¹ Department of Food and Environmental Sciences, University of Helsinki, 00014 Helsinki, Finland

² Department of Nutrition, Exercise and Sports, Faculty of Science, University of Copenhagen, Rolighedsvej 30, Frederiksberg C, DK-1958 Copenhagen, Denmark

³ Department of Human Biology, Maastricht University, P.O. Box 616, 6200 MD Maastricht, The Netherlands

⁴ School of Life Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Nottingham, Nottingham NG7 2UH, UK

⁵ Center for Nutrition Research, University of Navarra, 31008 Pamplona, Spain

⁶ CIBERobn, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, 28029 Madrid, Spain

⁷ Department of pharmacology and toxicology, Medical University of Sofia, 1431 Sofia, Bulgaria

⁸ Human Nutrition Unit, School of Biological Sciences, University of Auckland, Auckland 1024, New Zealand

⁹ Department of Exercise and Health Sciences, University of Stuttgart, 70569 Stuttgart, Germany

¹⁰ School of Sport and Exercise Sciences, A.STEM Research Centre, Swansea University, Swansea SA1 8EN, UK

¹¹ National Institute for Health and Welfare THL, 00300 Helsinki, Finland

¹² NetUnion sarl, Ave des Figuires 20, 1007 Lausanne, Switzerland

¹³ Charles Perkins Centre, University of Sydney, Sydney 2006, Australia

¹⁴ Department of Health Science, University of Education Schwäbisch Gmünd, 73525 Gmünd, Germany

Show full affiliation list Hide full affiliation list

Nutrients 2017, 9(6), 632; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu9060632 - 20 Jun 2017

Cited by 80 | Viewed by 15833

Abstract

Type-2 diabetes (T2D) is one of the fastest growing chronic diseases worldwide. The PREVIEW project has been initiated to find the most effective lifestyle (diet and physical activity) for the prevention of T2D, in overweight and obese participants with increased risk for T2D. [...] Read more.

Type-2 diabetes (T2D) is one of the fastest growing chronic diseases worldwide. The PREVIEW project has been initiated to find the most effective lifestyle (diet and physical activity) for the prevention of T2D, in overweight and obese participants with increased risk for T2D. The study is a three-year multi-centre, 2 × 2 factorial, randomised controlled trial. The impact of a high-protein, low-glycaemic index (GI) vs. moderate protein, moderate-GI diet in combination with moderate or high-intensity physical activity on the incidence of T2D and the related clinical end-points are investigated. The intervention started with a two-month weight reduction using a low-calorie diet, followed by a randomised 34-month weight maintenance phase comprising four treatment arms. Eight intervention centres are participating (Denmark, Finland, United Kingdom, The Netherlands, Spain, Bulgaria, Australia, and New Zealand). Data from blood specimens, urine, faeces, questionnaires, diaries, body composition assessments, and accelerometers are collected at months 0, 2, 6, 12, 18, 24, and 36. In total, 2326 adults were recruited. The mean age was 51.6 (SD 11.6) years, 67% were women. PREVIEW is, to date, the largest multinational trial to address the prevention of T2D in pre-diabetic adults through diet and exercise intervention. Participants will complete the final intervention in March, 2018. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nutrition and Diet Factors in Type 2 Diabetes)

▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

13 pages, 2039 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Spirulina Protects against Hepatic Inflammation in Aging: An Effect Related to the Modulation of the Gut Microbiota?

by Audrey M. Neyrinck¹

, Bernard Taminiau², Hannah Walgrave¹, Georges Daube², Patrice D. Cani^1,3

, Laure B. Bindels¹

and Nathalie M. Delzenne^1,*

¹ Metabolism and Nutrition Research Group, Louvain Drug Research Institute, Université Catholique de Louvain, B-1200 Brussels, Belgium

² Fundamental and Applied Research for Animal and Health (FARAH), Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Liège, 4000 Liège, Belgium

³ Walloon Excellence in Life Sciences and BIOtechnology (WELBIO), Louvain Drug Research Institute, UCL, B-1200 Brussels, Belgium

Nutrients 2017, 9(6), 633; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu9060633 - 20 Jun 2017

Cited by 60 | Viewed by 17324

Abstract

Aging predisposes to hepatic dysfunction and inflammation that can contribute to the development of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. Spirulina, a cyanobacterium used as a food additive or food supplement, has been shown to impact immune function. We have tested the potential hepatoprotective effect [...] Read more.

Aging predisposes to hepatic dysfunction and inflammation that can contribute to the development of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. Spirulina, a cyanobacterium used as a food additive or food supplement, has been shown to impact immune function. We have tested the potential hepatoprotective effect of a Spirulina in aged mice and to determine whether these effects can be related to a modulation of the gut microbiota. Old mice have been fed a standard diet supplemented with or without 5% Spirulina for six weeks. Among several changes of gut microbiota composition, an increase in Roseburia and Lactobacillus proportions occurs upon Spirulina treatment. Interestingly, parameters related to the innate immunity are upregulated in the small intestine of Spirulina-treated mice. Furthermore, the supplementation with Spirulina reduces several hepatic inflammatory and oxidative stress markers that are upregulated in old mice versus young mice. We conclude that the oral administration of a Spirulina is able to modulate the gut microbiota and to activate the immune system in the gut, a mechanism that may be involved in the improvement of the hepatic inflammation in aged mice. Those data open the way to new therapeutic tools in the management of immune alterations in aging, based on gut microbe-host interactions. Full article

▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

23 pages, 1134 KiB

Open AccessReview

Toxic AGE (TAGE) Theory for the Pathophysiology of the Onset/Progression of NAFLD and ALD

by Masayoshi Takeuchi^1,*, Jun-ichi Takino², Akiko Sakasai-Sakai¹, Takanobu Takata¹ and Mikihiro Tsutsumi³

¹ Department of Advanced Medicine, Medical Research Institute, Kanazawa Medical University, 1-1 Daigaku, Uchinada, Kahoku, Ishikawa 920-0293, Japan

² Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Hiroshima International University, 5-1-1, Hirokoshingai, Kure, Hiroshima 737-0112, Japan

³ Department of Hepatology, Kanazawa Medical University, 1-1 Daigaku, Uchinada, Kahoku, Ishikawa 920-0293, Japan

Nutrients 2017, 9(6), 634; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu9060634 - 20 Jun 2017

Cited by 40 | Viewed by 9963

Abstract

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and alcoholic liver disease (ALD) are among the most common causes of chronic liver diseases in the westernized world. NAFLD and ALD are frequently accompanied by extrahepatic complications, including hepatocellular carcinoma and cardiovascular diseases, which have a negative [...] Read more.

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and alcoholic liver disease (ALD) are among the most common causes of chronic liver diseases in the westernized world. NAFLD and ALD are frequently accompanied by extrahepatic complications, including hepatocellular carcinoma and cardiovascular diseases, which have a negative impact on patient survival. The chronic ingestion of an excessive daily diet containing sugar/high-fructose corn syrup increases the level of the fructose/glucose metabolite, glyceraldehyde (GA), while the chronic consumption of an excessive number of alcoholic beverages increases the level of the alcohol metabolite, acetaldehyde (AA) in the liver. GA and AA are known to react non-enzymatically with the ε- or α-amino groups of proteins, thereby generating advanced glycation end-products (AGEs, GA-AGEs, and AA-AGEs, respectively) in vivo. The interaction between GA-AGEs and the receptor for AGEs (RAGE) alters intracellular signaling, gene expression, and the release of pro-inflammatory molecules and also elicits the production of reactive oxygen species by human hepatocytes and hepatic stellate cells, all of which may contribute to the pathological changes associated with chronic liver diseases. We herein discuss the pathophysiological roles of GA-AGEs and AA-AGEs (toxic AGEs, TAGE) and a related novel theory for preventing the onset/progression of NAFLD and ALD. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nutrition and Non-alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease)

▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

11 pages, 3907 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Modulatory Effects of Guarana (Paullinia cupana) on Adipogenesis

by Natália Da Silva Lima^1,*

, Erica De Paula Numata¹, Leonardo Mendes de Souza Mesquita², Pollyana Hammoud Dias², Wagner Vilegas²

, Alessandra Gambero¹ and Marcelo Lima Ribeiro^1,*

¹ Laboratory of Immunopharmacology and Molecular Biology, Clinical Pharmacology and Gastroenterology Unit, Sao Francisco University Medical School, Braganca Paulista-SP 12916-900, Brazil

² Laboratory of Bioprospection and Natural products (LBPN), UNESP-São Paulo State University/Coastal Campus of Sao Vicente, Pça Infante Dom Henrique S/N, São Vicente, São Paulo 11330-900, Brazil

Nutrients 2017, 9(6), 635; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu9060635 - 20 Jun 2017

Cited by 29 | Viewed by 8476

Abstract

Guarana (Paullinia cupana) is a plant originated in Brazil that presents a beneficial effect on body weight control and metabolic alterations. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of guarana on genes and miRNAs related to adipogenesis in [...] Read more.

Guarana (Paullinia cupana) is a plant originated in Brazil that presents a beneficial effect on body weight control and metabolic alterations. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of guarana on genes and miRNAs related to adipogenesis in 3T3L1 cells. The anti-adipogenic effect of guarana was evaluated by Oil Red-O staining. Gene and miRNA expression levels were determined by real time PCR. The Cebpα and β-catenin nuclear translocation were evaluated using immunocytochemistry. Our data indicated that the triglyceride-reducing effect of guarana was dose-dependent from 100 to 300 µg/mL (−12%, −20%, −24% and −40%, respectively, p < 0.0001). An up-regulation of the anti-adipogenic genes Wnt10b, Wnt3a, Wnt1, Gata3 and Dlk1 and a down-regulation of pro-adipogenic genes Cebpα, Pparγ and Creb1 were also observed. Furthermore, guarana repressed mmu-miR-27b-3p, mmu-miR-34b-5p and mmu-miR-760-5p, that contributed for up-regulation of their molecular targets Wnt3a, Wnt1 and Wnt10b. Additionally, cells treated with guarana presented an increase on β-catenin nuclear translocation (p < 0.0018). In summary, our data indicate that guarana has an anti-adipogenic potential due to its ability to modulate miRNAs and genes related to this process. Together our data demonstrate the important role of guarana as a putative therapeutic agent. Full article

▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

13 pages, 2921 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Lack of Association between Serum Vitamin B₆, Vitamin B₁₂, and Vitamin D Levels with Different Types of Glaucoma: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

by Shengjie Li^1,†, Danhui Li^2,†, Mingxi Shao¹, Wenjun Cao^1,3,*

and Xinghuai Sun^3,4,5,6,*

¹ Department of Clinical Laboratory, Eye & ENT Hospital, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai 200031, China

² Key Laboratory of Environment and Genes Related to Diseases, Ministry of Education, Medical School, Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an 710061, China

³ Department of Ophthalmology & Visual Science, Eye & ENT Hospital, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai 200031, China

⁴ State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology, Institutes of Brain Science and Collaborative Innovation Center for Brain Science, Fudan University, Shanghai 200031, China

⁵ Key Laboratory of Myopia, Ministry of Health, Fudan University, Shanghai 200031, China

⁶ Shanghai Key Laboratory of Visual Impairment and Restoration, Fudan University, Shanghai 200031, China

^† These authors contributed equally to this work.

Nutrients 2017, 9(6), 636; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu9060636 - 21 Jun 2017

Cited by 30 | Viewed by 6233

Abstract

Although vitamins play a major role in health, and their deficiency may be linked to symptoms of optic-nerve dysfunction, the association between serum vitamin levels and glaucoma in humans remains controversial. In this study, articles in the PubMed, Web of Science, and EMBASE [...] Read more.

Although vitamins play a major role in health, and their deficiency may be linked to symptoms of optic-nerve dysfunction, the association between serum vitamin levels and glaucoma in humans remains controversial. In this study, articles in the PubMed, Web of Science, and EMBASE databases were searched up to 25March 2017. Nine studies on primary open-angle glaucoma (POAG), four studies on normal tension glaucoma (NTG), and six studies on exfoliative glaucoma (EXG) were retrieved. The combined results showed no differences in the levels of serum vitamin B₆ between POAG (p = 0.406) and EXG (p = 0.139) patients and controls. The weighted mean differences (WMDs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were 2.792 ng/mL (−3.793 to 9.377) and 1.342 ng/mL (−3.120 to 0.436), respectively. There was no difference between POAG (p = 0.952), NTG (p = 0.757), or EXG (p = 0.064) patients and controls in terms of serum vitamin B₁₂. The WMDs with 95% CIs were 0.933 pg/mL (−31.116 to 29.249), 6.652 pg/mL (−35.473 to 48.777), and 49.946 pg/mL (−102.892 to 3.001), respectively. The serum vitamin D levels exhibited no differences (p = 0.064) between POAG patients and controls; the WMD with 95% CI was 2.488 ng/mL (−5.120 to 0.145). In conclusion, there was no association found between serum vitamin B₆, vitamin B₁₂, or vitamin D levels and the different types of glaucoma. Full article

▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

20 pages, 782 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Despite Inflammation, Supplemented Essential Amino Acids May Improve Circulating Levels of Albumin and Haemoglobin in Patients after Hip Fractures

by Roberto Aquilani¹, Ginetto Carlo Zuccarelli², Anna Maria Condino³, Michele Catani², Carla Rutili², Consiglia Del Vecchio², Pietro Pisano², Manuela Verri¹, Paolo Iadarola⁴, Simona Viglio⁵ and Federica Boschi^3,*

¹ Dipartimento di Biologia e Biotecnologie Università degli Studi di Pavia, Via Ferrata, 1. I-27100 Pavia, Italy

² Istituto Geriatrico P. Redaelli -Reparti di Riabilitazione Geriatrica e di Mantenimento, Via Leopardi, 3. I-20090 Vimodrone, Milano, Italy

³ Dipartimento di Scienze del Farmaco, Università degli Studi di Pavia, Viale Taramelli, 14. I-27100 Pavia, Italy

⁴ Dipartimento di Biologia e Biotecnologie Università degli Studi di Pavia, Via Ferrata, 1. I-27100 Pavia, Italy

⁵ Dipartimento di Medicina Molecolare, Università degli Studi di Pavia, Viale Taramelli, 3/B. I-27100 Pavia, Italy

Nutrients 2017, 9(6), 637; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu9060637 - 21 Jun 2017

Cited by 23 | Viewed by 6901

Abstract

Essential amino acids (EAAs) are nutritional substrates that promote body protein synthesis; thus we hypothesised that their supplementation may improve circulating albumin (Alb) and haemoglobin (Hb) in rehabilitative elderly patients following hip fractures (HF). Out of the 145 HF patients originally enrolled in [...] Read more.

Essential amino acids (EAAs) are nutritional substrates that promote body protein synthesis; thus we hypothesised that their supplementation may improve circulating albumin (Alb) and haemoglobin (Hb) in rehabilitative elderly patients following hip fractures (HF). Out of the 145 HF patients originally enrolled in our study, 112 completed the protocol. These subjects were divided into two randomised groups, each containing 56 patients. For a period of two months, one group (age 81.4 ± 8.1 years; male/female 27/29) received a placebo, and the other (age 83.1 ± 7.5 years; male/female 25/31) received 4 + 4 g/day oral EAAs. At admission, the prevalence of both hypoAlb (<3.5 g/dL) and hypoHb (<13 g/dL male, <12 g/dL female) was similar in the placebo group (64.3% hypoAlb, 66% hypoHb) and the treated group of patients (73.2% hypoAlb, 67.8% hypoHb). At discharge, however, the prevalence of hypoAlb had reduced more in EAAs than in placebo subjects (31.7% in EAAs vs. 77.8% in placebo; p < 0.001). There was a 34.2% reduction of anaemia in hypoHb in EAA subjects and 18.9% in placebo subjects, but the difference was not statistically significant. Oral supplementation of EAAs improves hypoAlb and, to a lesser extent, Hb in elderly rehabilitative subjects with hip fractures. Anaemia was reduced in more than one third of patients, which, despite not being statistically significant, may be clinically relevant. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Dietary Supplements)

▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

Journal Menu

Journal Browser

Nutrients, Volume 9, Issue 6 (June 2017) – 109 articles

Further Information

Guidelines

MDPI Initiatives

Follow MDPI