Journal Description
Nutrients
Nutrients
is an international, peer-reviewed, open access journal of human nutrition published semimonthly online by MDPI. The Asia Pacific Nutrigenomics Nutrigenetics Organisation (APNNO), Italian Society for Pediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition (SIGENP), Nutrition Society of New Zealand (NSNZ), Ocular Wellness & Nutrition Society (OWNS) and others are affiliated with Nutrients and their members receive a discount on article processing charges.
- Open Access— free for readers, with article processing charges (APC) paid by authors or their institutions.
- High Visibility: indexed within Scopus, SCIE (Web of Science), PubMed, MEDLINE, PMC, Embase, PubAg, AGRIS, and other databases.
- Journal Rank: JCR - Q1 (Nutrition & Dietetics) / CiteScore - Q1 (Nutrition and Dietetics)
- Rapid Publication: manuscripts are peer-reviewed and a first decision is provided to authors approximately 14.5 days after submission; acceptance to publication is undertaken in 2.4 days (median values for papers published in this journal in the second half of 2023).
- Recognition of Reviewers: reviewers who provide timely, thorough peer-review reports receive vouchers entitling them to a discount on the APC of their next publication in any MDPI journal, in appreciation of the work done.
- Companion journal: Dietetics
Impact Factor:
5.9 (2022);
5-Year Impact Factor:
6.6 (2022)
Latest Articles
Association between Food or Nutrients and Gut Microbiota in Healthy and Helminth-Infected Women of Reproductive Age from Zanzibar, Tanzania
Nutrients 2024, 16(9), 1266; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu16091266 (registering DOI) - 24 Apr 2024
Abstract
Modulating the gut microbiota is recognised as one strategy for preventing and fighting diseases. While the significant impact of diet on the gut microbiota’s composition and function has been extensively researched, there is a notable lack of studies on the interactions between diet,
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Modulating the gut microbiota is recognised as one strategy for preventing and fighting diseases. While the significant impact of diet on the gut microbiota’s composition and function has been extensively researched, there is a notable lack of studies on the interactions between diet, microbiota, and helminth infections. Here, we used a combination of self-reported food intake and a 16S rDNA sequencing approach to analyse the composition of the gut microbiota in women of reproductive age from the two main islands of the Zanzibar archipelago, where helminth infections are endemic. We also applied a Spearman correlation analysis to food/nutrients and gut microbiota. Our results reveal that, despite close ethnic and cultural ties, the participants’ gut microbiota differs depending on their location. A nutrient intake analysis revealed deficiencies in minerals and vitamins, indicating an imbalanced diet. A correlation analysis identified bacterial taxa consistently correlated with specific food or nutrients in healthy women from both locations, and in two types of helminth infections. Escherichia/Shigella abundances, usually associated with Trichuris trichiura infection, consistently correlated with insufficient levels of vitamins B2 and B12. In conclusion, our findings suggest that the increased consumption of specific food like cassava and fish, as well as essential nutrients such as calcium, B vitamins, and vitamin A, may modulate the gut microbiota of populations residing in regions where helminth infections are endemic.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Nutrition in Women)
Open AccessArticle
Influence of Dietary Polyunsaturated Fatty Acid Intake on Potential Lipid Metabolite Diagnostic Markers in Renal Cell Carcinoma: A Case-Control Study
by
Yeon-Hee Kim, Jin-Soo Chung, Hyung-Ho Lee, Jin-Hee Park and Mi-Kyung Kim
Nutrients 2024, 16(9), 1265; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu16091265 - 24 Apr 2024
Abstract
Non-invasive diagnostics are crucial for the timely detection of renal cell carcinoma (RCC), significantly improving survival rates. Despite advancements, specific lipid markers for RCC remain unidentified. We aimed to discover and validate potent plasma markers and their association with dietary fats. Using lipid
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Non-invasive diagnostics are crucial for the timely detection of renal cell carcinoma (RCC), significantly improving survival rates. Despite advancements, specific lipid markers for RCC remain unidentified. We aimed to discover and validate potent plasma markers and their association with dietary fats. Using lipid metabolite quantification, machine-learning algorithms, and marker validation, we identified RCC diagnostic markers in studies involving 60 RCC and 167 healthy controls (HC), as well as 27 RCC and 74 HC, by analyzing their correlation with dietary fats. RCC was associated with altered metabolism in amino acids, glycerophospholipids, and glutathione. We validated seven markers (l-tryptophan, various lysophosphatidylcholines [LysoPCs], decanoylcarnitine, and l-glutamic acid), achieving a 96.9% AUC, effectively distinguishing RCC from HC. Decreased decanoylcarnitine, due to reduced carnitine palmitoyltransferase 1 (CPT1) activity, was identified as affecting RCC risk. High intake of polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) was negatively correlated with LysoPC (18:1) and LysoPC (18:2), influencing RCC risk. We validated seven potential markers for RCC diagnosis, highlighting the influence of high PUFA intake on LysoPC levels and its impact on RCC occurrence via CPT1 downregulation. These insights support the efficient and accurate diagnosis of RCC, thereby facilitating risk mitigation and improving patient outcomes.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Impact of Lipids in Cancer)
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Open AccessArticle
Prenatal Choline Supplementation Improves Glucose Tolerance and Reduces Liver Fat Accumulation in Mouse Offspring Exposed to Ethanol during the Prenatal and Postnatal Periods
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Isma’il Kadam, Steven E. Trasino, Hunter Korsmo, Jessica Lucas, Myriam Pinkas and Xinyin Jiang
Nutrients 2024, 16(9), 1264; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu16091264 - 24 Apr 2024
Abstract
Prenatal alcohol exposure (AE) affects cognitive development. However, it is unclear whether prenatal AE influences the metabolic health of offspring and whether postnatal AE exacerbates metabolic deterioration resulting from prenatal AE. Choline is a semi-essential nutrient that has been demonstrated to mitigate the
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Prenatal alcohol exposure (AE) affects cognitive development. However, it is unclear whether prenatal AE influences the metabolic health of offspring and whether postnatal AE exacerbates metabolic deterioration resulting from prenatal AE. Choline is a semi-essential nutrient that has been demonstrated to mitigate the cognitive impairment of prenatal AE. This study investigated how maternal choline supplementation (CS) may modify the metabolic health of offspring with prenatal and postnatal AE (AE/AE). C57BL/6J female mice were fed either a Lieber–DeCarli diet with 1.4% ethanol between embryonic day (E) 9.5 and E17.5 or a control diet. Choline was supplemented with 4 × concentrations versus the control throughout pregnancy. At postnatal week 7, offspring mice were exposed to 1.4% ethanol for females and 3.9% ethanol for males for 4 weeks. AE/AE increased hepatic triglyceride accumulation in male offspring only, which was normalized by prenatal CS. Prenatal CS also improved glucose tolerance compared to AE/AE animals. AE/AE suppressed hepatic gene expression of peroxisome proliferator activated receptor alpha (Ppara) and low-density lipoprotein receptor (Ldlr), which regulate fatty acid catabolism and cholesterol reuptake, respectively, in male offspring. However, these changes were not rectified by prenatal CS. In conclusion, AE/AE led to an increased risk of steatosis and was partially prevented by prenatal CS in male mice.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Early Maternal Nutrition and Its Impact: Unraveling the Short- and Long-Term Health Consequences)
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Open AccessReview
Amino Acids during Pregnancy and Offspring Cardiovascular–Kidney–Metabolic Health
by
You-Lin Tain and Chien-Ning Hsu
Nutrients 2024, 16(9), 1263; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu16091263 - 24 Apr 2024
Abstract
Amino acids are essential for normal pregnancy and fetal development. Disruptions in maternal amino acid metabolism have been associated with various adult diseases later in life, a phenomenon referred to as the developmental origins of health and disease (DOHaD). In this review, we
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Amino acids are essential for normal pregnancy and fetal development. Disruptions in maternal amino acid metabolism have been associated with various adult diseases later in life, a phenomenon referred to as the developmental origins of health and disease (DOHaD). In this review, we examine the recent evidence highlighting the significant impact of amino acids on fetal programming, their influence on the modulation of gut microbiota, and their repercussions on offspring outcomes, particularly in the context of cardiovascular–kidney–metabolic (CKM) syndrome. Furthermore, we delve into experimental studies that have unveiled the protective effects of therapies targeting amino acids. These interventions have demonstrated the potential to reprogram traits associated with CKM in offspring. The discussion encompasses the challenges of translating the findings from animal studies to clinical applications, emphasizing the complexity of this process. Additionally, we propose potential solutions to overcome these challenges. Ultimately, as we move forward, future research endeavors should aim to pinpoint the most effective amino-acid-targeted therapies, determining the optimal dosage and mode of administration. This exploration is essential for maximizing the reprogramming effects, ultimately contributing to the enhancement of cardiovascular–kidney–metabolic health in offspring.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Effects of Nutritional Intake during Pregnancy on Maternal and Offspring Health)
Open AccessArticle
Isoeugenol Inhibits Adipogenesis in 3T3-L1 Preadipocytes with Impaired Mitotic Clonal Expansion
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Yae Rim Choi, Hyun-Jin Na, Jaekwang Lee, Young-Suk Kim and Min Jung Kim
Nutrients 2024, 16(9), 1262; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu16091262 - 24 Apr 2024
Abstract
Isoeugenol (IEG), a natural component of clove oil, possesses antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antibacterial properties. However, the effects of IEG on adipogenesis have not yet been elucidated. Here, we showed that IEG blocks adipogenesis in 3T3-L1 cells at an early stage. IEG inhibits lipid
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Isoeugenol (IEG), a natural component of clove oil, possesses antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antibacterial properties. However, the effects of IEG on adipogenesis have not yet been elucidated. Here, we showed that IEG blocks adipogenesis in 3T3-L1 cells at an early stage. IEG inhibits lipid accumulation in adipocytes in a concentration-dependent manner and reduces the expression of mature adipocyte-related factors including PPARγ, C/EBPα, and FABP4. IEG treatment at different stages of adipogenesis showed that IEG inhibited adipocyte differentiation by suppressing the early stage, as confirmed by lipid accumulation and adipocyte-related biomarkers. The early stage stimulates growth-arrested preadipocytes to enter mitotic clonal expansion (MCE) and initiates their differentiation into adipocytes by regulating cell cycle-related factors. IEG arrested 3T3-L1 preadipocytes in the G0/G1 phase of the cell cycle and attenuated cell cycle-related factors including cyclinD1, CDK6, CDK2, and cyclinB1 during the MCE stage. Furthermore, IEG suppresses reactive oxygen species (ROS) production during MCE and inhibits ROS-related antioxidant enzymes, including superoxide dismutase1 (SOD1) and catalase. The expression of cell proliferation-related biomarkers, including pAKT and pERK1/2, was attenuated by the IEG treatment of 3T3-L1 preadipocytes. These findings suggest that it is a potential therapeutic agent for the treatment of obesity.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Phytochemicals and Human Health)
Open AccessArticle
Validation of Nutritional Approaches to Modulate Cardiovascular and Diabetic Risk Factors in Patients with Hypertriglyceridemia or Prediabetes—The MoKaRi II Randomized Controlled Study
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Theresa S. Braun, Timo Drobner, Kristin Kipp, Michael Kiehntopf, Peter Schlattmann, Stefan Lorkowski and Christine Dawczynski
Nutrients 2024, 16(9), 1261; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu16091261 - 24 Apr 2024
Abstract
Hypertriglyceridemia and diabetes mellitus type 2 are among the most important metabolic diseases globally. Diet plays a vital role in the development and progression of both clinical pictures. For the 10-week randomized, controlled, intervention study, 67 subjects with elevated plasma triglyceride (TG) concentrations
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Hypertriglyceridemia and diabetes mellitus type 2 are among the most important metabolic diseases globally. Diet plays a vital role in the development and progression of both clinical pictures. For the 10-week randomized, controlled, intervention study, 67 subjects with elevated plasma triglyceride (TG) concentrations (≥1.7 mmol/L) and 69 subjects with elevated fasting glucose concentrations (≥5.6 < 7.0 mmol/L) were recruited. The intervention groups received specially developed, individualized menu plans and regular counseling sessions to lower (A) TG or (B) fasting glucose and glycated hemoglobin A1c as well as other cardiovascular and diabetic risk factors. The hypertriglyceridemia intervention group was further supplemented with fish oil (3.5 g/d eicosapentaenoic acid + docosahexaenoic acid). The two control groups maintained a typical Western diet. Blood samples were taken every 2 weeks, and anthropometric data were collected. A follow-up examination was conducted after another 10 weeks. In both intervention groups, there were comparable significant reductions in blood lipids, glucose metabolism, and anthropometric parameters. These results were, with a few exceptions, significantly more pronounced in the intervention groups than in the corresponding control groups (comparison of percentage change from baseline). In particular, body weight was reduced by 7.4% (6.4 kg) and 7.5% (5.9 kg), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol concentrations by 19.8% (0.8 mmol/L) and 13.0% (0.5 mmol/L), TG concentrations by 18.2% (0.3 mmol/L) and 13.0% (0.2 mmol/L), and homeostatic model assessment for insulin resistance by 31.8% (1.1) and 26.4% (0.9) (p < 0.05) in the hypertriglyceridemia and prediabetes intervention groups, respectively. Some of these changes were maintained until follow-up. In patients with elevated TG or fasting glucose, implementing individualized menu plans in combination with regular counseling sessions over 10 weeks led to a significant improvement in cardiovascular and diabetic risk factors.
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(This article belongs to the Section Clinical Nutrition)
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Pre-Pregnancy Obesity and Infants’ Motor Development within the First Twelve Months of Life: Who Is Expected to Be the Ultimate Carrier of the Obesity Burden?
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Milan Lackovic, Dejan Nikolic, Biljana Milicic, Dejan Dimitrijevic, Ivona Jovanovic, Sofija Radosavljevic and Sladjana Mihajlovic
Nutrients 2024, 16(9), 1260; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu16091260 - 24 Apr 2024
Abstract
Introduction: Pre-pregnancy obesity is a significant public health concern with profound implications for maternal and child health. The burgeoning evidence suggests that maternal obesity prior to conception is intricately linked with an increased risk of gestational complications, as well as with adverse neonatal
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Introduction: Pre-pregnancy obesity is a significant public health concern with profound implications for maternal and child health. The burgeoning evidence suggests that maternal obesity prior to conception is intricately linked with an increased risk of gestational complications, as well as with adverse neonatal outcomes. Furthermore, the long and short-term health of offspring, including the risk of early motor development impairment, obesity, and metabolic syndrome in childhood and adulthood, may be adversely affected as well. Addressing pre-pregnancy obesity is critical for improving overall maternal and child health outcomes, and therefore, the aim of this study was to evaluate the connections linking pre-pregnancy obesity with infants’ motor development within the first twelve months of infants’ lives. Material and Methods: This study included 200 mother–infant pairs divided into two groups based on their pre-pregnancy body mass index values. To assess infants’ early motor development, we used the Alberta Infant Motor Scale (AIMS) and evaluated the parameters of infants’ early motor development at the ages of three, six, nine, and twelve months. Results: Pre-pregnancy overweight/obesity was significantly associated with excessive gestational weight gain (p < 0.001), fetal macrosomia (p = 0.022), and a family history of diabetes and cardiovascular diseases (p = 0.048 and p = 0.041, respectively), as well as with all observed parameters of early motor development at the ages of three, six, nine, and twelve months: AIMS 3 months total (p < 0.001), AIMS 6 months total (p < 0.001), AIMS 9 months total (p < 0.001), and AIMS 12 months total (p < 0.001). Furthermore, pre-pregnancy overweight/obesity was a significant predictor for AIMS 6 months total (p = 0.043) and AIMS 6 months supination (p = 0.017). Conclusions: Pre-pregnancy obesity is a critical determinant of pregnancy outcomes and offspring early motor development, with possible far-reaching implications for children’s long-term well-being. Addressing this issue requires a comprehensive approach that includes preconception weight management, targeted interventions during the pregnancy and postpartum periods, and ongoing research to better understand the underlying mechanisms and develop effective strategies for prevention and management.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Early Maternal Nutrition and Its Impact: Unraveling the Short- and Long-Term Health Consequences)
Open AccessArticle
Spatial Barriers to Transforming toward a Healthy Food System in the Noreste of Mexico
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Rob Roggema, Aleksandra Krstikj and Brianda Flores
Nutrients 2024, 16(9), 1259; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu16091259 - 24 Apr 2024
Abstract
In the past five decades, global food systems have undergone a notable transition, moving from predominantly rural settings to increasingly urban and industrialized environments, largely driven by processes of globalization and supply chain integration. However, this evolution has not adequately addressed equitable access
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In the past five decades, global food systems have undergone a notable transition, moving from predominantly rural settings to increasingly urban and industrialized environments, largely driven by processes of globalization and supply chain integration. However, this evolution has not adequately addressed equitable access to nutritious diets and food environments, resulting in adverse health outcomes. This study delves into the spatial and non-spatial barriers that impede the adoption of healthy diets in the Noreste of Mexico, particularly focusing on the challenges associated with accessing and cultivating plant-based foods. Through an examination of suitable areas for urban agriculture and an exploration of the socio-cultural factors influencing the adoption of plant-based diets, the research focuses on interventions aimed at promoting healthier and more sustainable eating practices in Monterrey. The findings of the study reveal significant disparities in food access across the Monterrey metropolitan area, with central urban zones exhibiting superior access to fresh foods compared to suburban and peripheral regions. This inequality disproportionately affects marginalized areas characterized by higher poverty rates, exacerbating issues of food insecurity. Nevertheless, traditional dietary practices could offer promising avenues for creating culturally significant and healthier dietary transitions, even amidst the ongoing process of urbanization.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Plant-Based Diets for Human and Planetary Health from Diverse Food Cultures: Nutrient Adequacy and Health Effects)
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Ketogenic Diet in the Treatment of Epilepsy
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Kinga Borowicz-Reutt, Marlena Krawczyk and Julia Czernia
Nutrients 2024, 16(9), 1258; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu16091258 - 24 Apr 2024
Abstract
Epilepsy is one of the most disabling neurological diseases. Despite proper pharmacotherapy and the availability of 2nd and 3rd generation antiepileptic drugs, deep brain stimulation, and surgery, up to 30–40% of epilepsy patients remain drug-resistant. Consequences of this phenomenon include not only decreased
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Epilepsy is one of the most disabling neurological diseases. Despite proper pharmacotherapy and the availability of 2nd and 3rd generation antiepileptic drugs, deep brain stimulation, and surgery, up to 30–40% of epilepsy patients remain drug-resistant. Consequences of this phenomenon include not only decreased a quality of life, and cognitive, behavioral, and personal disorders, but also an increased risk of death, i.e., in the mechanism of sudden unexpected death in epilepsy patients (SUDEP). The main goals of epilepsy treatment include three basic issues: achieving the best possible seizure control, avoiding the undesired effects of treatment, and maintaining/improving the quality of patients’ lives. Therefore, numerous attempts are made to offer alternative treatments for drug-resistant seizures, an example of which is the ketogenic diet. It is a long-known but rarely used dietary therapy for intractable seizures. One of the reasons for this is the unpalatability of the classic ketogenic diet, which reduces patient compliance and adherence rates. However, its antiseizure effects are often considered to be worth the effort. Until recently, the diet was considered the last-resort treatment. Currently, it is believed that a ketogenic diet should be used much earlier in patients with well-defined indications. In correctly qualified patients, seizure activity may be reduced by over 90% or even abolished for long periods after the diet is stopped. A ketogenic diet can be used in all age groups, although most of the available literature addresses pediatric epilepsy. In this article, we focus on the mechanisms of action, effectiveness, and adverse effects of different variants of the ketogenic diet, including its classic version, a medium-chain triglyceride diet, a modified Atkins diet, and a low glycemic index treatment.
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(This article belongs to the Section Nutrition and Public Health)
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Inhibition of Prostate Cancer Cell Survival and Proliferation by Carnosic Acid Is Associated with Inhibition of Akt and Activation of AMPK Signaling
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Matteo Nadile, Newman Siu Kwan Sze, Val A. Fajardo and Evangelia Tsiani
Nutrients 2024, 16(9), 1257; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu16091257 - 24 Apr 2024
Abstract
Prostate cancer, accounting for 375,304 deaths in 2020, is the second most prevalent cancer in men worldwide. While many treatments exist for prostate cancer, novel therapeutic agents with higher efficacy are needed to target aggressive and hormone-resistant forms of prostate cancer, while sparing
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Prostate cancer, accounting for 375,304 deaths in 2020, is the second most prevalent cancer in men worldwide. While many treatments exist for prostate cancer, novel therapeutic agents with higher efficacy are needed to target aggressive and hormone-resistant forms of prostate cancer, while sparing healthy cells. Plant-derived chemotherapy drugs such as docetaxel and paclitaxel have been established to treat cancers including prostate cancer. Carnosic acid (CA), a phenolic diterpene found in the herb rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis) has been shown to have anticancer properties but its effects in prostate cancer and its mechanisms of action have not been examined. CA dose-dependently inhibited PC-3 and LNCaP prostate cancer cell survival and proliferation (IC50: 64, 21 µM, respectively). Furthermore, CA decreased phosphorylation/activation of Akt, mTOR, and p70 S6K. A notable increase in phosphorylation/activation of AMP-activated kinase (AMPK), acetyl-CoA carboxylase (ACC) and its upstream regulator sestrin-2 was seen with CA treatment. Our data indicate that CA inhibits AKT-mTORC1-p70S6K and activates Sestrin-2-AMPK signaling leading to a decrease in survival and proliferation. The use of inhibitors and small RNA interference (siRNA) approaches should be employed, in future studies, to elucidate the mechanisms involved in carnosic acid’s inhibitory effects of prostate cancer.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Editorial Board Members’ Collection Series: Dietary Patterns and Cancer)
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Caffeinated Chewing Gum Improves Basketball Shooting Accuracy and Physical Performance Indicators of Trained Basketball Players: A Double-Blind Crossover Trial
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Hou-Shao Liu, Chi-Chu Liu, Yi-Jie Shiu, Pei-Tzu Lan, An-Yu Wang and Chih-Hui Chiu
Nutrients 2024, 16(9), 1256; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu16091256 - 24 Apr 2024
Abstract
(1) Background: This study investigated the effects of caffeinated chewing gum on the basketball-specific performance of trained basketball players. A double-blind, randomized crossover design was employed. (2) Methods: Fifteen participants (age: 20.9 ± 1.0 years; height: 180.9 ± 5.4 cm; mass: 77.2 ±
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(1) Background: This study investigated the effects of caffeinated chewing gum on the basketball-specific performance of trained basketball players. A double-blind, randomized crossover design was employed. (2) Methods: Fifteen participants (age: 20.9 ± 1.0 years; height: 180.9 ± 5.4 cm; mass: 77.2 ± 7.5 kg; training age: 8.2 ± 0.3 years) were recruited and divided into a caffeine trial (CAF) and placebo trial (PL). The participants in the CAF trial chewed gum containing 3 mg/kg of caffeine for 10 min, while those in the PL trial chewed a placebo gum without caffeine. Following a 15 min rest, all the participants completed basketball-specific performance tests. (3) Results: The free throw accuracy for the CAF trial was significantly higher than that for the PL trial (CAF: 79.0 ± 4.31%; PL: 73.0 ± 9.16%; p = 0.012; Cohen’s d = 0.94). Additionally, the CAF trial demonstrated significantly better performance in the 20 m segmented dash (CAF: 2.94 ± 1.12 s; PL: 3.13 ± 0.10 s; p < 0.001; Cohen’s d =1.8) and squats (p < 0.05), and exhibited lower fatigue indexes (CAF: 3.6 ± 1.6%; PL: 5.2 ± 1.6%; p = 0.009; Cohen’s d =1.0). (4) Conclusions: These findings suggest that chewing gum containing 3 mg/kg of caffeine offers moderate-to-large improvements in key performance aspects relevant to professionally trained basketball players.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Ergogenic Aid Supplementation Methods and Exercise Performance)
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Efficacy and Safety of Oral Supplementation with Liposomal Iron in Non-Dialysis Chronic Kidney Disease Patients with Iron Deficiency
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Davide Cesarano, Silvio Borrelli, Giorgia Campilongo, Annarita D’Ambra, Federica Papadia, Carlo Garofalo, Antonia De Marco, Federica Marzano, Chiara Ruotolo, Loreto Gesualdo, Pietro Cirillo and Roberto Minutolo
Nutrients 2024, 16(9), 1255; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu16091255 - 24 Apr 2024
Abstract
Introduction. Iron deficiency is common in patients with non-dialysis-dependent chronic kidney disease (NDD-CKD). Oral iron supplementation is recommended in these patients, but it is associated with a higher incidence of gastrointestinal adverse reactions. Liposomal iron therapy has been proposed as a new iron
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Introduction. Iron deficiency is common in patients with non-dialysis-dependent chronic kidney disease (NDD-CKD). Oral iron supplementation is recommended in these patients, but it is associated with a higher incidence of gastrointestinal adverse reactions. Liposomal iron therapy has been proposed as a new iron formulation, improving iron bioavailability with less side effects; however, few data are available in patients with NDD-CKD. Methods. We designed a single-arm pilot study to evaluate the efficacy of liposomal iron administered for six months in correcting iron deficiency (defined as serum ferritin < 100 ng/mL and/or transferrin saturation < 20%) in patients with NDD-CKD stages 1–5. The primary endpoints were the achievement of serum ferritin ≥ 100 ng/mL and transferrin saturation ≥ 20%. Secondary outcomes were hemoglobin (Hb) changes and the safety of liposomal iron. Results. The efficacy population included 34/38 patients, who completed at least one visit after baseline. Liposomal iron increased the achievement of transferrin saturation targets from 11.8% at baseline to 50.0% at month 6 (p = 0.002), while no significant correction of serum ferritin (p = 0.214) and Hb was found (p = 0.465). When patients were stratified by anemia (Hb < 12 g/dL in women and Hb < 13 g/dL in men), a significant improvement of transferrin saturation was observed only in anemic patients (from 13.3 ± 5.8% to 20.2 ± 8.1%, p = 0.012). Hb values slightly increased at month 6 only in anemic patients (+0.60 g/dL, 95%CI −0.27 to +1.48), but not in those without anemia (+0.08 g/dL, 95%CI −0.73 to +0.88). In patients taking at least one dose of liposomal iron (safety population, n = 38), the study drug was discontinued in eight patients due to death (n = 2), a switch to intravenous iron (n = 2), and the occurrence of side effects (n = 4). Conclusions. The use of liposomal iron in patients with NDD-CKD is associated with a partial correction of transferrin saturation, with no significant effect on iron storage and Hb levels.
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(This article belongs to the Section Micronutrients and Human Health)
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Increased FGF-21 Improves Ectopic Lipid Deposition in the Liver and Skeletal Muscle
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Ying Jia, Huixin Yu, Jia Liang, Qiang Zhang, Jiawei Sun, Hongqing Yang, Haijing Yan, Shuping Zhang, Yana Li, Yongjun Jin and Meizi Yang
Nutrients 2024, 16(9), 1254; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu16091254 - 23 Apr 2024
Abstract
Obesity can lead to excessive lipid accumulation in non-adipose tissues, such as the liver and skeletal muscles, leading to ectopic lipid deposition and damaging target organ function through lipotoxicity. FGF-21 is a key factor in regulating lipid metabolism, so we aim to explore
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Obesity can lead to excessive lipid accumulation in non-adipose tissues, such as the liver and skeletal muscles, leading to ectopic lipid deposition and damaging target organ function through lipotoxicity. FGF-21 is a key factor in regulating lipid metabolism, so we aim to explore whether FGF-21 is involved in improving ectopic lipid deposition. We observed the characteristics of ectopic lipid deposition in the liver and skeletal muscles of obesity-resistant mice, detected the expression of FGF-21 and perilipin, and found that obesity-resistant mice showed a decrease in ectopic lipid deposition in the liver and skeletal muscles and increased expression of FGF-21. After inhibiting the expression of FGF-21, a more severe lipid deposition in liver cells and skeletal muscle cells was found. The results indicate that inhibiting FGF-21 can exacerbate ectopic lipid deposition via regulating lipid droplet synthesis and decomposition, as well as free fatty acid translocation and oxidation. In conclusion, FGF-21 is involved in improving ectopic lipid deposition caused by obesity in the liver and skeletal muscles.
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(This article belongs to the Section Nutrition and Metabolism)
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Caffeine Improves Sprint Time in Simulated Freestyle Swimming Competition but Not the Vertical Jump in Female Swimmers
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Kürşat Acar, Ahmet Mor, Hakkı Mor, Zehra Kargın, Dan Iulian Alexe, Mekki Abdioğlu, Raci Karayiğit, Cristina Ioana Alexe, Adin Marian Cojocaru and George Danuț Mocanu
Nutrients 2024, 16(9), 1253; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu16091253 - 23 Apr 2024
Abstract
Caffeine (CAF) has been shown to be an effective ergogenic aid in enhancing sports performance, including vertical jump (VJ), sprint, balance, agility, and freestyle swimming performance (FSP). However, whether acute CAF supplementation improves FSP in moderately trained female swimmers has not been well
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Caffeine (CAF) has been shown to be an effective ergogenic aid in enhancing sports performance, including vertical jump (VJ), sprint, balance, agility, and freestyle swimming performance (FSP). However, whether acute CAF supplementation improves FSP in moderately trained female swimmers has not been well documented. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the effects of CAF intake on vertical jump, balance, auditory reaction time (ART), and swimming performance in female swimmers. In a double-blind, cross-over design, eight moderately trained female swimmers (age: 21.3 ± 1.4 years, height: 161.2 ± 7.1 cm, body mass: 56.3 ± 6.7 kg, body mass index (BMI): 21.9 ± 1.3 kg/m2, and habitual CAF intake: 246.4 ± 111.4 mg/day) ingested caffeine (CAF) (6 mg/kg) or a placebo (PLA) 60 min before completing VJ, balance, ART, and 25/50 m FSP. CAF supplementation resulted in a significantly lower time both in 25m (p = 0.032) and 50m (p = 0.033) FSP. However, CAF resulted in no significant difference in VJ, ART, and RPE (p > 0.05). Balance test results showed a non-significant moderate main effect (d = 0.58). In conclusion, CAF seems to reduce time in short-distance swimming performances, which could be the determinant of success considering the total time of the race. Thus, we recommend coaches and practitioners incorporate CAF into swimmers’ nutrition plans before competitions, which may meet the high performance demands.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Effect of Dietary Intake on Athletic Performance)
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Electrophysiological Characteristics of Inhibitive Control for Adults with Different Physiological or Psychological Obesity
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Jiaqi Guo, Xiaofang Wan, Junwei Lian, Hanqing Ma, Debo Dong, Yong Liu and Jia Zhao
Nutrients 2024, 16(9), 1252; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu16091252 - 23 Apr 2024
Abstract
Individuals exhibiting high scores on the fatness subscale of the negative-physical-self scale (NPSS-F) are characterized by heightened preoccupation with body fat accompanied by negative body image perceptions, often leading to excessive dieting behaviors. This demographic constitutes a considerable segment of the populace in
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Individuals exhibiting high scores on the fatness subscale of the negative-physical-self scale (NPSS-F) are characterized by heightened preoccupation with body fat accompanied by negative body image perceptions, often leading to excessive dieting behaviors. This demographic constitutes a considerable segment of the populace in China, even among those who are not obese. Nonetheless, scant empirical inquiries have delved into the behavioral and neurophysiological profiles of individuals possessing a healthy body mass index (BMI) alongside elevated NPSS-F scores. This study employed an experimental paradigm integrating go/no-go and one-back tasks to assess inhibitory control and working memory capacities concerning food-related stimuli across three adult cohorts: those with normal weight and low NPSS-F scores, those with normal weight and high NPSS-F scores, and individuals classified as obese. Experimental stimuli comprised high- and low-caloric-food pictures with concurrent electroencephalogram (EEG) and photoplethysmogram (PPG) recordings. Individuals characterized by high NPSS-F scores and normal weight exhibited distinctive electrophysiological responses compared to the other two cohorts, evident in event-related potential (ERP) components, theta and alpha band oscillations, and heart rate variability (HRV) patterns. In essence, the findings underscore alterations in electrophysiological reactivity among individuals possessing high NPSS-F scores and a healthy BMI in the context of food-related stimuli, underscoring the necessity for increased attention to this demographic alongside individuals affected by obesity.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Healthy Eating and Determinants of Food Choice)
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Health System and Individual Barriers to Supporting Healthy Gestational Weight Gain and Nutrition: A Qualitative Study of the Experiences of Midwives and Obstetricians in Publicly Funded Antenatal Care in Tasmania, Australia
by
Michelle L. Kilpatrick, Alison J. Venn, Kristine R. Barnden, Kristy Newett, Cheryce L. Harrison, Helen Skouteris, Andrew P. Hills, Briony Hill, Siew S. Lim and Kim A. Jose
Nutrients 2024, 16(9), 1251; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu16091251 - 23 Apr 2024
Abstract
Individual and health system barriers can impede clinicians from supporting weight-related behaviour change for pregnant women, particularly in publicly funded antenatal care accessed by women from diverse socioeconomic backgrounds. The aim was to understand clinicians’ experiences of supporting healthy gestational weight gain for
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Individual and health system barriers can impede clinicians from supporting weight-related behaviour change for pregnant women, particularly in publicly funded antenatal care accessed by women from diverse socioeconomic backgrounds. The aim was to understand clinicians’ experiences of supporting healthy gestational weight gain for pregnant women in a publicly funded antenatal setting. The work was undertaken to guide the implementation of systems changes, resource development, and workforce capacity building related to nutrition, physical activity, and gestational weight gain in the service. The qualitative descriptive study used purposive sampling and semi-structured interviews conducted between October 2019 and February 2020. Nine midwives and five obstetricians from a publicly funded hospital antenatal service in Tasmania, Australia participated. Interview transcripts were analysed using inductive thematic analysis. The three dominant themes were prioritising immediate needs, continuity of care support weight-related conversations, and limited service capacity for weight- and nutrition-related support. The subthemes were different practices for women according to weight and the need for appropriately tailored resources. Improving access to continuity of care and clinician training, and providing resources that appropriately consider women’s socioeconomic circumstances and health literacy would enhance the ability and opportunities for clinicians to better support all women.
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(This article belongs to the Section Nutrition in Women)
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Efficacy of Laurus nobilis L. for Tight Junction Protein Imbalance in Leaky Gut Syndrome
by
Yelim Shin, Jiyeon Kim, Youngcheon Song, Sangbum Kim and Hyunseok Kong
Nutrients 2024, 16(9), 1250; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu16091250 - 23 Apr 2024
Abstract
Laurus nobilis L. (LNL) belongs to the evergreen Lauraceae family. It is native to the Mediterranean and widely distributed in the southern United States, Europe, and the Middle East. LNL is rich in active ingredients of the sesquiterpene lactone series and has been
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Laurus nobilis L. (LNL) belongs to the evergreen Lauraceae family. It is native to the Mediterranean and widely distributed in the southern United States, Europe, and the Middle East. LNL is rich in active ingredients of the sesquiterpene lactone series and has been reported to have antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anticancer effects. And parthenolide, known as a sesquiterpene lactone-based compound, inhibits the activation of lipopolysaccharide-binding protein (LBP), which is a major trigger for leaky gut syndrome. However, the effectiveness of LNL in improving the state of increased intestinal permeability has not yet been reported. Therefore, we demonstrated the efficacy of LNL, which is known to be rich in parthenolide, in improving intestinal permeability induced by IL-13. We investigated the improvement in permeability and analyzed major tight junction proteins (TJs), permeability-related mechanisms, weight and disease activity indices, and corresponding cytokine mechanisms. LNL maintained TJs homeostasis and clinical improvement by reducing increased claudin-2 through the inhibition of IL-13/STAT6 activation in TJ-damaged conditions. These results are expected to be effective in preventing leaky gut syndrome through the TJ balance and to further improve intestinal-related diseases, such as inflammatory bowel disease.
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(This article belongs to the Section Phytochemicals and Human Health)
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Association between Diet Quality and Risk of Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus in Patients with Coronary Heart Disease: Findings from the CORDIOPREV Study
by
Lorenzo Rivas-Garcia, Gracia M. Quintana-Navarro, Juan F. Alcala-Díaz, Jose D. Torres-Peña, Antonio P. Arenas-de Larriva, Oriol Alberto Rangel-Zuñiga, Alejandro López-Moreno, Maria M. Malagon, Niki Katsiki, Pablo Perez-Martinez, Jose Lopez-Miranda and Javier Delgado-Lista
Nutrients 2024, 16(8), 1249; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu16081249 - 22 Apr 2024
Abstract
The incidence of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is growing in Western countries. Nutritional interventions that promote high-quality dietary patterns could help reverse this trend. We aimed to evaluate whether changes in Nutrient-Rich Food Index 9.3 (NRF9.3) were related to the risk of
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The incidence of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is growing in Western countries. Nutritional interventions that promote high-quality dietary patterns could help reverse this trend. We aimed to evaluate whether changes in Nutrient-Rich Food Index 9.3 (NRF9.3) were related to the risk of developing T2DM in patients with coronary heart disease (CHD). The study was carried out in the context of two healthy dietary interventions (a Mediterranean and a low-fat diet). For this purpose, we evaluated all the patients in the CORDIOPREV study without T2DM at baseline. Data were obtained during the first 5 years of dietary intervention. The score was calculated using the Food Frequency Questionnaires at baseline and after 1 year of intervention. After 5 years of follow-up, 106 patients developed T2DM (incident-T2DM), while 316 subjects did not (non-T2DM). Total NRF9.3 score and changes during the first year of intervention were compared between incident-T2DM and non-T2DM. Incident-T2DM showed less improvement in NRF9.3 than non-T2DM (p = 0.010). In the multi-adjusted Cox proportional hazard study, patients with greater improvement in NRF9.3 had over 50% less risk of developing T2DM compared with the lowest tertile (HR 2.10, 95%, CI = 1.12–3.56). In conclusion, improved diet quality in terms of nutrient density after the dietary intervention was associated with a lower risk of T2DM in patients with CHD.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Mediterranean Diet – Health Benefits and Advances)
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Carbohydrate Mouth Rinses before Exercise Improve Performance of Romanian Deadlift Exercise: A Randomized Crossover Study
by
Tsung-Jen Yang, Yi-Jie Shiu, Che-Hsiu Chen, Sheng-Yan Yu, Ya-Ying Hsu and Chih-Hui Chiu
Nutrients 2024, 16(8), 1248; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu16081248 - 22 Apr 2024
Abstract
(1) Background: This study compared the effects of mouth rinsing with a carbohydrate trial (CMR) and a placebo trial (PL) on concentric and eccentric contraction strength in multi-joint resistance exercise performance. (2) Methods: Twenty healthy adult men (age: 22.4 ± 3.7 years, body
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(1) Background: This study compared the effects of mouth rinsing with a carbohydrate trial (CMR) and a placebo trial (PL) on concentric and eccentric contraction strength in multi-joint resistance exercise performance. (2) Methods: Twenty healthy adult men (age: 22.4 ± 3.7 years, body mass index: 26 ± 3.8, peak power: 378.3 ± 138.7 W) were recruited in this study. Participants were employed in a double-blind, randomized crossover design to divide participants into carbohydrate mouth rinsing trial (CMR) and placebo trial (PL). After warming up, participants used 6.6% maltodextrin (CMR) or mineral water (PL) to rinse their mouth for 20 s. Next, the participants underwent tests of maximum inertial Romanian deadlift resistance exercise comprising five sets of six reps, with 3 min rests between sets. After deducting the first repetition of each set, the mean values from the five sets were analyzed. (3) Results: The concentric peak power of the CMR trial was significantly higher than that of the PL trial (p = 0.001, Cohen’s d = 0.46), the eccentric peak power of the CMR trial was significantly higher than that of the PL trial (p = 0.008, Cohen’s d = 0.56), and the total work of the CMR trial was significantly higher than that of PL trial (p = 0.002, Cohen’s d = 0.51). (4) Conclusions: These findings demonstrate that mouth rinsing with carbohydrates before exercise can improve concentric and eccentric contraction strength in multi-joint resistance exercise performance.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Energy Metabolism and Nutrition Related to Sports)
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Osteogenic Effects of the Diospyros lotus L. Leaf Extract on MC3T3-E1 Pre-Osteoblasts and Ovariectomized Mice via BMP2/4 and TGF β Pathways
by
Soyeon Hong, Nadzeya Lazerka, Byeong Jun Jeon, Jeong Do Kim, Saruul Erdenebileg, Chu Won Nho and Gyhye Yoo
Nutrients 2024, 16(8), 1247; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu16081247 - 22 Apr 2024
Abstract
Osteoporosis, a disease defined by the primary bone strength due to a low bone mineral density, is a bone disorder associated with increased mortality in the older adult population. Osteoporosis is mainly treated via hormone replacement therapy, bisphosphates, and anti-bone resorption agents. However,
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Osteoporosis, a disease defined by the primary bone strength due to a low bone mineral density, is a bone disorder associated with increased mortality in the older adult population. Osteoporosis is mainly treated via hormone replacement therapy, bisphosphates, and anti-bone resorption agents. However, these agents exert severe side effects, necessitating the development of novel therapeutic agents. Many studies are focusing on osteogenic agents as they increase the bone density, which is essential for osteoporosis treatment. Here, we aimed to investigate the effects of Diospyros lotus L. leaf extract (DLE) and its components on osteoporosis in MC3T3-E1 pre-osteoblasts and ovariectomized mice and to elucidate the underlying related pathways. DLE enhanced the differentiation of MC3T3-E1 pre-osteoblasts, with a 1.5-fold elevation in ALP activity, and increased the levels of osteogenic molecules, RUNX family transcription factor 2, and osterix. This alteration resulted from the activation of bone morphogenic protein 2/4 (BMP2/4) and transformation of growth factor β (TGF β) pathways. In ovariectomized mice, DLE suppressed the decrease in bone mineral density by 50% and improved the expression of other bone markers, which was confirmed by the 3~40-fold increase in osteogenic proteins and mRNA expression levels in bone marrow cells. The three major compounds identified in DLE exhibited osteogenic and estrogenic activities with their aglycones, as previously reported. Among the major compounds, myricitrin alone was not as strong as whole DLE with all its constituents. The osteogenic activity of DLE was partially suppressed by the inhibitor of estrogen signaling, indicating that the estrogenic activity of DLE participated in its osteogenic activity. Overall, DLE suppresses osteoporosis by inducing osteoblast differentiation.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Plant Derivatives and Bioactive Food Components for Health Promotion)
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