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Nutrients, Volume 15, Issue 9 (May-1 2023) – 222 articles

Cover Story (view full-size image): The purpose of this paper was to carry out a systematic review with a meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials that examined the combined effects of resistance training (RT) and creatine supplementation on regional changes in muscle mass, with direct imaging measures of hypertrophy. Moreover, we performed regression analyses to determine the potential influence of covariates. We included trials that had a duration of at least 6 weeks and examined the combined effects of creatine supplementation and RT on site-specific direct measures of hypertrophy (magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), computed tomography (CT), or ultrasound) in healthy adults. View this paper
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15 pages, 349 KiB  
Article
Response to Intravenous N-Acetylcysteine Supplementation in Critically Ill Patients with COVID-19
by Yenifer Gamarra-Morales, Lourdes Herrera-Quintana, Jorge Molina-López, Héctor Vázquez-Lorente, Juan Francisco Machado-Casas, José Castaño-Pérez, José Miguel Pérez-Villares and Elena Planells
Nutrients 2023, 15(9), 2235; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu15092235 - 08 May 2023
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2317
Abstract
Administering N-acetylcysteine (NAC) could counteract the effect of free radicals, improving the clinical evolution of patients admitted to the Intensive Care Unit (ICU). This study aimed to investigate the clinical and biochemical effects of administering NAC to critically ill patients with COVID-19. A [...] Read more.
Administering N-acetylcysteine (NAC) could counteract the effect of free radicals, improving the clinical evolution of patients admitted to the Intensive Care Unit (ICU). This study aimed to investigate the clinical and biochemical effects of administering NAC to critically ill patients with COVID-19. A randomized controlled clinical trial was conducted on ICU patients (n = 140) with COVID-19 and divided into two groups: patients treated with NAC (NAC-treated group) and patients without NAC treatment (control group). NAC was administered as a continuous infusion with a loading dose and a maintenance dose during the study period (from admission until the third day of ICU stay). NAC-treated patients showed higher PaO2/FiO2 (p ≤ 0.014) after 3 days in ICU than their control group counterparts. Moreover, C-reactive protein (p ≤ 0.001), D-dimer (p ≤ 0.042), and lactate dehydrogenase (p ≤ 0.001) levels decreased on the third day in NAC-treated patients. Glutathione concentrations decreased in both NAC-treated (p ≤ 0.004) and control (p ≤ 0.047) groups after 3 days in ICU; whereas glutathione peroxidase did not change during the ICU stay. The administration of NAC manages to improve the clinical and analytical response of seriously ill patients with COVID-19 compared to the control group. NAC is able to stop the decrease in glutathione concentrations. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nutrition and Critical Illness)
19 pages, 296 KiB  
Article
Maternal Bean Consumption during Pregnancy: Distribution and Nutritional Outcomes
by Bokun Yang, Mariyam S. Ferdousi, Julianna Morris, Rose H. Durnell, Daren Chan, Neila Rekić, Todd C. Rideout and Xiaozhong Wen
Nutrients 2023, 15(9), 2234; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu15092234 - 08 May 2023
Viewed by 1785
Abstract
(1) Background: Due to their high nutritional value, we aimed to characterize the frequency and amount of maternal consumption of beans during pregnancy and their associations with diet quality and nutrient intake. (2) Methods: We conducted a secondary data analysis of US pregnant [...] Read more.
(1) Background: Due to their high nutritional value, we aimed to characterize the frequency and amount of maternal consumption of beans during pregnancy and their associations with diet quality and nutrient intake. (2) Methods: We conducted a secondary data analysis of US pregnant women (n = 1444) from the Infant Feeding Practices Study II, a longitudinal study that followed mother–infant pairs from late pregnancy to 1 year postpartum. Maternal bean intake (food types [dried beans, chili, and bean soup], frequency, serving size, and amount), diet quality (Healthy Eating Index [HEI]), and nutrient intake were estimated with a Food Frequency Questionnaire taken in the third trimester of pregnancy. Associations of bean consumption with diet quality and nutrient intake were examined with analysis of variance, Fisher’s least significant difference tests, correlation coefficients, and coefficients of determination. (3) Results: In general, maternal bean consumption was low during pregnancy: 0.31 cups/week of dried beans, 0.37 cups/week of chili, and 0.10 cups/week of bean soup. Maternal bean consumption varied by socio-demographics and geographic regions. In comparison with those who never consumed dried beans, mothers who ate dried beans ≥ 1 time per week had a higher mean HEI score (67.5 vs. 63.6), intake of total fiber (24.4 vs. 17.4 g/day), and protein (93.4 vs. 79.9 g/day), but a lower percentage of energy from added sugar (12.6 vs. 15.2%). Higher dried bean consumption had weak-to-moderate correlations with intake of total fiber (correlation coefficient, 0.320), insoluble fiber (0.316), soluble fiber (0.310), and folate (0.286). Similar but less extensive correlations were observed for chili and bean soup consumption. (4) Conclusions: In this US cohort of pregnant women, bean consumption was low. Increased intake of beans (≥1 time per week) may improve maternal diet quality during pregnancy. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Nutrition in Women)
37 pages, 4656 KiB  
Review
Chemical Constituents, Biological Activities, and Proposed Biosynthetic Pathways of Steroidal Saponins from Healthy Nutritious Vegetable—Allium
by Huaxiang Wang, Qi Zheng, Aijun Dong, Junchi Wang and Jianyong Si
Nutrients 2023, 15(9), 2233; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu15092233 - 08 May 2023
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1698
Abstract
Allium is a common functional vegetable with edible and medicinal value. Allium plants have a special spicy taste, so they are often used as food and seasoning in people’s diets. As a functional food, Allium also has abundant biological activities, some of which [...] Read more.
Allium is a common functional vegetable with edible and medicinal value. Allium plants have a special spicy taste, so they are often used as food and seasoning in people’s diets. As a functional food, Allium also has abundant biological activities, some of which are used as drugs to treat diseases. By consuming Allium on a daily basis, people can receive active compounds of natural origin, thereby improving their health status and reducing the likelihood of disease. Steroidal saponins are important secondary metabolites of Allium, which are formed by the steroidal aglycone group and sugar. Steroidal saponins have various physiological activities, such as hypoglycemic, antiplatelet aggregation, anti-inflammatory, antitumor, antimicrobial, and enzyme activity inhibition, which is one of the key reasons why Allium has such significant health benefits. The structural diversity and rich biological activities of steroidal saponins make Allium important plants for both food and medicine. In this paper, the chemical structures, biological activities, and structure–activity relationships of steroidal saponins isolated from Allium are reviewed, and the biosynthetic pathways of some key compounds are proposed as well, to provide a molecular reference basis based on secondary metabolites for the health value of Allium. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Natural Products and Health)
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17 pages, 2478 KiB  
Article
6-Shogaol, an Active Component of Ginger, Inhibits p300 Histone Acetyltransferase Activity and Attenuates the Development of Pressure-Overload-Induced Heart Failure
by Yuto Kawase, Yoichi Sunagawa, Kana Shimizu, Masafumi Funamoto, Toshihide Hamabe-Horiike, Yasufumi Katanasaka, Satoshi Shimizu, Philip Hawke, Kiyoshi Mori, Maki Komiyama, Koji Hasegawa and Tatsuya Morimoto
Nutrients 2023, 15(9), 2232; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu15092232 - 08 May 2023
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1972
Abstract
Hypertrophic stress-induced cardiac remodeling is a compensatory mechanism associated with cardiomyocyte hypertrophy and cardiac fibrosis. Continuation of this response eventually leads to heart failure. The histone acetyltransferase p300 plays an important role in the development of heart failure, and may be a target [...] Read more.
Hypertrophic stress-induced cardiac remodeling is a compensatory mechanism associated with cardiomyocyte hypertrophy and cardiac fibrosis. Continuation of this response eventually leads to heart failure. The histone acetyltransferase p300 plays an important role in the development of heart failure, and may be a target for heart failure therapy. The phenolic phytochemical 6-shogaol, a pungent component of raw ginger, has various bioactive effects; however, its effect on cardiovascular diseases has not been investigated. One micromolar of 6-shogaol suppressed phenylephrine (PE)-induced increases in cardiomyocyte hypertrophy in rat primary cultured cardiomyocytes. In rat primary cultured cardiac fibroblasts, 6-shogaol suppressed transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-β)-induced increases in L-proline incorporation. It also blocked PE- and TGF-β-induced increases in histone H3K9 acetylation in the same cells and in vitro. An in vitro p300-HAT assay revealed that 6-shogaol suppressed histone acetylation. The mice underwent transverse aortic constriction (TAC) surgery, and were administered 0.2 or 1 mg/kg of 6-shogaol daily for 8 weeks. 6-shogaol prevented TAC-induced systolic dysfunction and cardiac hypertrophy in a dose-dependent manner. Furthermore, it also significantly inhibited TAC-induced increases in histone H3K9 acetylation. These results suggest that 6-shogaol may ameliorate heart failure through a variety of mechanisms, including the inhibition of p300-HAT activity. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Bioactive Foods and Ingredients for Cardiovascular Diseases)
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21 pages, 1819 KiB  
Review
Pharmacological Activity of Flavonoid Quercetin and Its Therapeutic Potential in Testicular Injury
by Xiaohui Zhang, Yufeng Tang, Guangping Lu and Junlian Gu
Nutrients 2023, 15(9), 2231; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu15092231 - 08 May 2023
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 2888
Abstract
Quercetin is a natural flavonoid widely found in natural fruits and vegetables. Recent studies have shown that quercetin mediates multiple beneficial effects in a variety of organ damage and diseases, and is considered a healthcare supplement with health-promoting potential. Male infertility is a [...] Read more.
Quercetin is a natural flavonoid widely found in natural fruits and vegetables. Recent studies have shown that quercetin mediates multiple beneficial effects in a variety of organ damage and diseases, and is considered a healthcare supplement with health-promoting potential. Male infertility is a major health concern, and testicular damage from multiple causes is an important etiology. Previous studies have shown that quercetin has a protective effect on reproductive function. This may be related to the antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-apoptotic biological activities of quercetin. Therefore, this paper reviews the mechanisms by which quercetin exerts its pharmacological activity and its role in testicular damage induced by various etiologies. In addition, this paper compiles the application of quercetin in clinical trials, demonstrating its practical effects in regulating blood pressure and inhibiting cellular senescence in human patients. However, more in-depth experimental studies and clinical trials are needed to confirm the true value of quercetin for the prevention and protection against testicular injury. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Phytochemicals and Human Health)
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14 pages, 1011 KiB  
Review
Effect of High Fat Diet on Disease Development of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome and Lifestyle Intervention Strategies
by Yingxue Han, Hao Wu, Siyuan Sun, Rong Zhao, Yifan Deng, Shenming Zeng and Juan Chen
Nutrients 2023, 15(9), 2230; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu15092230 - 08 May 2023
Cited by 4 | Viewed by 4178
Abstract
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a prevalent endocrine and metabolic disorder that affects premenopausal women. The etiology of PCOS is multifaceted, involving various genetic and epigenetic factors, hypothalamic–pituitary–ovarian dysfunction, androgen excess, insulin resistance, and adipose-related mechanisms. High-fat diets (HFDs) has been linked to [...] Read more.
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a prevalent endocrine and metabolic disorder that affects premenopausal women. The etiology of PCOS is multifaceted, involving various genetic and epigenetic factors, hypothalamic–pituitary–ovarian dysfunction, androgen excess, insulin resistance, and adipose-related mechanisms. High-fat diets (HFDs) has been linked to the development of metabolic disorders and weight gain, exacerbating obesity and impairing the function of the hypothalamic–pituitary–ovarian axis. This results in increased insulin resistance, hyperinsulinemia, and the release of inflammatory adipokines, leading to heightened fat synthesis and reduced fat breakdown, thereby worsening the metabolic and reproductive consequences of PCOS. Effective management of PCOS requires lifestyle interventions such as dietary modifications, weight loss, physical activity, and psychological well-being, as well as medical or surgical interventions in some cases. This article systematically examines the pathological basis of PCOS and the influence of HFDs on its development, with the aim of raising awareness of the connection between diet and reproductive health, providing a robust approach to lifestyle interventions, and serving as a reference for the development of targeted drug treatments. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Maternal and Infant Nutrition Strategy)
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20 pages, 1079 KiB  
Review
Browning of Adipocytes: A Potential Therapeutic Approach to Obesity
by Vittoria Schirinzi, Carolina Poli, Chiara Berteotti and Alessandro Leone
Nutrients 2023, 15(9), 2229; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu15092229 - 08 May 2023
Cited by 5 | Viewed by 2297
Abstract
The increasing prevalence of overweight and obesity suggests that current strategies based on diet, exercise, and pharmacological knowledge are not sufficient to tackle this epidemic. Obesity results from a high caloric intake and energy storage, the latter by white adipose tissue (WAT), and [...] Read more.
The increasing prevalence of overweight and obesity suggests that current strategies based on diet, exercise, and pharmacological knowledge are not sufficient to tackle this epidemic. Obesity results from a high caloric intake and energy storage, the latter by white adipose tissue (WAT), and when neither are counterbalanced by an equally high energy expenditure. As a matter of fact, current research is focused on developing new strategies to increase energy expenditure. Against this background, brown adipose tissue (BAT), whose importance has recently been re-evaluated via the use of modern positron emission techniques (PET), is receiving a great deal of attention from research institutions worldwide, as its main function is to dissipate energy in the form of heat via a process called thermogenesis. A substantial reduction in BAT occurs during normal growth in humans and hence it is not easily exploitable. In recent years, scientific research has made great strides and investigated strategies that focus on expanding BAT and activating the existing BAT. The present review summarizes current knowledge about the various molecules that can be used to promote white-to-brown adipose tissue conversion and energy expenditure in order to assess the potential role of thermogenic nutraceuticals. This includes tools that could represent, in the future, a valid weapon against the obesity epidemic. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Modulation by Dietary Supplements in Obesity)
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14 pages, 4938 KiB  
Article
Nobiletin Mitigates D-Galactose-Induced Memory Impairment via Improving Hippocampal Neurogenesis in Mice
by Wei Xiong, Rongzi Li, Boying Li, Xifan Wang, Huihui Wang, Yanan Sun, Xiaoyu Wang, Yixuan Li and Fazheng Ren
Nutrients 2023, 15(9), 2228; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu15092228 - 08 May 2023
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1641
Abstract
Memory impairment is a characteristic of brain aging, and it is associated with a decrease in neurogenesis. Therefore, enhancing neurogenesis is a potential method for mitigating brain aging. Nobiletin (NOB) is a natural polymethoxylated flavonoid derived from citrus peels. It acts as an [...] Read more.
Memory impairment is a characteristic of brain aging, and it is associated with a decrease in neurogenesis. Therefore, enhancing neurogenesis is a potential method for mitigating brain aging. Nobiletin (NOB) is a natural polymethoxylated flavonoid derived from citrus peels. It acts as an antioxidant, enhances anti-inflammation, and displays neuroprotective properties. However, the mechanism of NOB on brain aging has not been elucidated. In this study, D-galactose-induced aging mice were treated with NOB (100 mg/kg/day) for 10 weeks. NOB administration attenuated D-galactose-induced memory impairment and restored hippocampal neurogenesis, including the number of newborn neurons and neural stem cells in mice. Furthermore, it downregulated the pro-inflammatory mediators IL-1 β, IL-6, and pP65 (by 42.2%, 22.9%, and 46.4% of those in the D-galactose treated group, respectively) in the hippocampus and blocked microglia and astrocyte activation. In vitro, NOB inhibited D-galactose-induced inflammatory responses in BV2 cells, and the conditioned medium prepared from NOB- and D-galactose-co-treated BV2 cells elevated the viability (90.3% of control) and differential ability (94.9% of control) of C17.2 cells, compared to the D-galactose-treated group alone. It was concluded that NOB could restore memory impairment via the improvement of neurogenesis by ameliorating neuroinflammation in the hippocampus. Overall, NOB is a potential candidate neurogenesis enhancer for improving brain function. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Phytochemicals and Human Health)
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13 pages, 4090 KiB  
Article
Medicinal Mushroom Extracts from Hericium coralloides and Trametes versicolor Exert Differential Immunomodulatory Effects on Immune Cells from Older Adults In Vitro
by Lily M. Williams, Bronwyn S. Berthon, Isobel L. Stoodley, Evan J. Williams and Lisa G. Wood
Nutrients 2023, 15(9), 2227; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu15092227 - 08 May 2023
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1759
Abstract
Medicinal mushroom extracts (MMEs) exert immunomodulatory effects on innate immunity. The present study aimed to examine the effect of medicinal mushroom components on in vitro immune cell responses to inflammatory stimuli by peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) isolated from older adults, where immune [...] Read more.
Medicinal mushroom extracts (MMEs) exert immunomodulatory effects on innate immunity. The present study aimed to examine the effect of medicinal mushroom components on in vitro immune cell responses to inflammatory stimuli by peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) isolated from older adults, where immune function is altered. PBMCs were treated with extracts from Hericium coralloides (HC) and Trametes versicolor (TV) prior to stimulation with rhinovirus A1 (RVA1), influenza A/H1N1pdm09 (H1N1), lipopolysaccharide (LPS), or house dust mite (HDM) for 48 h. In the presence of virus, type I and II IFN significantly (p < 0.05) decreased following treatment with at least one concentration of all extracts compared to the untreated cell controls, along with significant increases in pro-inflammatory cytokines (IL-1β, IL-6, IL-8). In the presence of LPS, extracts from TV reduced IL-1β compared to untreated cells. In the presence of HDM, the concentration of IL-5 and/or IL-13 was significantly decreased with at least one dose of all extracts. MMEs exert differential effects on the release of inflammatory and antiviral mediators in vitro. Reduced type 2 cytokine responses to HDM may be beneficial in conditions where allergic inflammation is present, including asthma, allergic rhinitis, and eczema. Further research is needed to examine extracts in vivo. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Nutritional Immunology)
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14 pages, 1753 KiB  
Article
Association between Dietary Patterns and Metabolic Syndrome and Modification Effect of Altitude: A Cohort Study of Tibetan Adults in China
by Haijing Wang, Yanxiang Wang, Zumin Shi, Lei Zhao, Wenxiu Jian, Ke Li, Ruihua Xu, Yan Wu, Fei Xu, Youfa Wang and Wen Peng
Nutrients 2023, 15(9), 2226; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu15092226 - 08 May 2023
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1549
Abstract
Little is known about the longitudinal association between dietary patterns (DPs) and metabolic disorders in people living at high altitude areas, such as Tibetans. We constructed the first open cohort, with 1832 Tibetans, and collected data in 2018 and in 2022. The metabolic [...] Read more.
Little is known about the longitudinal association between dietary patterns (DPs) and metabolic disorders in people living at high altitude areas, such as Tibetans. We constructed the first open cohort, with 1832 Tibetans, and collected data in 2018 and in 2022. The metabolic syndrome (MetS) prevalence was 30.1% (32.3% in men and 28.3% in women). Three different DPs were identified: modern DP (pulses, poultry, offal, and processed meat), urban DP (vegetables, refined grain, beef/mutton, and eggs), and pastoral DP (Tibetan cheese, tsamba, butter/milk tea, and desserts). Participants within the third tertile of the urban DP had a 3.42-fold (95% CI 1.65–7.10) higher risk of MetS than those with the first tertile. Modern DP was positively associated with elevated blood pressure (BP) and elevated triglycerides (TAG), while it was inversely associated with low HDL-C. The urban DP was associated with a higher risk of low HDL-C, but a lower risk of impaired fasting blood glucose (FBG). The pastoral DP was a risk factor for impaired FBG, but protective for central obesity and elevated BP. Associations of modern DP with elevated BP, and pastoral DP with low HDL-C, were modified by altitude. In conclusion, among Tibetan adults, DPs were associated with MetS and its components, and the associations were modified by altitude among Tibetans. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Dietary Intake and Health throughout the Life Cycle)
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14 pages, 564 KiB  
Article
Division of Responsibility in Child Feeding and Eating Competence among Brazilian Caregivers
by Rafaella Dusi, Raquel Braz Assunção Botelho, Eduardo Yoshio Nakano, Fabiana Lopes Nalon de Queiroz and Renata Puppin Zandonadi
Nutrients 2023, 15(9), 2225; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu15092225 - 08 May 2023
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1368
Abstract
This cross-sectional study aimed to assess Brazilian child caregivers’ eating competence (EC) and their adherence to the division of responsibility (sDOR) in child feeding. The research had national coverage in all Brazilian regions. The sample comprised 549 caregivers of Brazilian children (24 up [...] Read more.
This cross-sectional study aimed to assess Brazilian child caregivers’ eating competence (EC) and their adherence to the division of responsibility (sDOR) in child feeding. The research had national coverage in all Brazilian regions. The sample comprised 549 caregivers of Brazilian children (24 up to 72 months) recruited by social media (snowball method). Data on sDOR and EC were collected using the sDOR.2-6yTM Portuguese—Brazil (sDOR.2-6y-BR) and ecSI2.0TMBR, both instruments validated to the Brazilian population. The scores of the sDOR.2-6y-BR were described in terms of means, standard deviations (SD), medians, and interquartile range. Student’s t-test and analysis of variance (ANOVA) followed by Tukey’s post hoc tests were used to compare the scores of sDOR.2-6y-BR and ecSI2.0TMBR with interest variables. The association between the sDOR.2-6y-BR and ecSI2.0TMBR scores was verified by Pearson’s correlation coefficient. Most of the participants were female (n = 88.7%), 37.8 ± 5.1 y/o, had a high schooling level (70.31%), and high monthly income (more than 15 minimum wages—MW) (31.69%). The children for whom the participants were responsible were mostly girls (53.19%), with an average age of 3.6 ± 1.3 y/o. The instrument presented good responsiveness (floor and ceiling effects = 0%). Cronbach’s Alpha = 0.268. There was no statistical difference in sDOR.2-6y-BR scores between caregiver’s gender, age, level of education, number of people living in the household, or by gender or age of the child. Caregivers who reported (n = 100) that their children had some medical diagnosis (e.g., food allergy, autism, or Down syndrome) had lower sDOR adherence scores than caregivers who indicated their children had no medical diagnosis (p = 0.031). There was no statistical difference in ecSI2.0TMBR scores between the categories of caregiver’s gender, age, occupancy, and child’s gender and age. Caregivers with income higher than 10 MW, living in houses with more than 3 people, and with graduate schooling showed higher EC scores. Caregivers considered competent eaters by ecSI2.0TMBR scores differed only for educational level, which was more frequent among graduate participants. The total EC score was positively associated with total and mealtime structure (D1), how food is available to the child (D3), and the parent gives respect to the child’s autonomy in eating (D4) sDOR.2-6yTM domains. There was a negative association with the what is available to the child (D2) sDOR.2-6yTM domain. In general, the sDOR.2-6y-BR had a positive association with the ecSI2.0TMBR in all domains and total, with a low but significant correlation. This study enables the investigation of the division of responsibility in feeding and EC of a sample of caregivers of children in Brazil. This is the first study to apply the translated and validated version of the sDOR.2-6y-BR and showed good results, where competent eaters’ caregivers adhere more to the principles of sDOR. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Parental Strategies and Childhood Feeding Problems)
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18 pages, 5672 KiB  
Article
Effects of Creatine Supplementation on the Myostatin Pathway and Myosin Heavy Chain Isoforms in Different Skeletal Muscles of Resistance-Trained Rats
by Marianna Rabelo de Carvalho, Ellen Fernandes Duarte, Maria Lua Marques Mendonça, Camila Souza de Morais, Gabriel Elias Ota, Jair José Gaspar-Junior, Wander Fernando de Oliveira Filiú, Felipe Cesar Damatto, Marina Politi Okoshi, Katashi Okoshi, Rodrigo Juliano Oliveira, Paula Felippe Martinez and Silvio Assis de Oliveira-Junior
Nutrients 2023, 15(9), 2224; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu15092224 - 08 May 2023
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2294
Abstract
Creatine has been used to maximize resistance training effects on skeletal muscles, including muscle hypertrophy and fiber type changes. This study aimed to evaluate the impact of creatine supplementation on the myostatin pathway and myosin heavy chain (MyHC) isoforms in the slow- and [...] Read more.
Creatine has been used to maximize resistance training effects on skeletal muscles, including muscle hypertrophy and fiber type changes. This study aimed to evaluate the impact of creatine supplementation on the myostatin pathway and myosin heavy chain (MyHC) isoforms in the slow- and fast-twitch muscles of resistance-trained rats. Twenty-eight male Wistar rats were divided into four groups: a sedentary control (Cc), sedentary creatine supplementation (Cr), resistance training (Tc), and resistance training combined with creatine supplementation (Tcr). Cc and Tc received standard commercial chow; Cr and Tcr received a 2% creatine-supplemented diet. Tc and Tcr performed a resistance training protocol on a ladder for 12 weeks. Morphology, MyHC isoforms, myostatin, follistatin, and ActRIIB protein expressions were analyzed in soleus and white gastrocnemius portion samples. The results were analyzed using two-way ANOVA and Tukey’s test. Tc and Tcr exhibited higher performance than their control counterparts. Resistance training increased the ratio between muscle and body weight, the cross-sectional area, as well as the interstitial collagen fraction. Resistance training alone increased MyHC IIx and follistatin while reducing myostatin (p < 0.001) and ActRIIB (p = 0.040) expressions in the gastrocnemius. Resistance training induced skeletal muscle hypertrophy and interstitial remodeling, which are more evident in the gastrocnemius muscle. The effects were not impacted by creatine supplementation. Full article
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20 pages, 701 KiB  
Article
Dietary Supplements Containing Oat Beta-Glucan and/or Green Coffee (Poly)phenols Showed Limited Effect in Modulating Cardiometabolic Risk Biomarkers in Overweight/Obese Patients without a Lifestyle Intervention
by Joaquín García-Cordero, Raquel Mateos, Susana González-Rámila, Miguel A. Seguido, José Luis Sierra-Cinos, Beatriz Sarriá and Laura Bravo
Nutrients 2023, 15(9), 2223; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu15092223 - 08 May 2023
Viewed by 1947
Abstract
Obesity has reached pandemic proportions and has become a major health concern worldwide. Therefore, it is necessary to find new strategies against this condition and its associated comorbidities. Green coffee polyphenols (GCP) and oat beta-glucans (BGs) have proven their hypolipidaemic and hypoglycaemic effects. [...] Read more.
Obesity has reached pandemic proportions and has become a major health concern worldwide. Therefore, it is necessary to find new strategies against this condition and its associated comorbidities. Green coffee polyphenols (GCP) and oat beta-glucans (BGs) have proven their hypolipidaemic and hypoglycaemic effects. This study aimed to examine the effects of the long-term consumption of supplements containing GCP, BG or the novel GCP/BG combination on lipid and glucose metabolism biomarkers in overweight/obese subjects who maintained their dietary habits and physical activity, hence addressing the difficulty that this population faces in adapting to lifestyle changes. A randomised, crossover, blind trial was carried out in 29 volunteers who consumed either GCP (300 mg), BG (2.5 g) or GCP/BG (300 mg + 2.5 g) twice a day for 8 weeks. Blood samples were collected, and blood pressure and body composition were measured at the beginning and end of each intervention. Total cholesterol, triglycerides, high-density lipoprotein (HDL-C), low-density lipoprotein (LDL-C), very low-density lipoprotein (VLDL-C) cholesterol, glycated haemoglobin, fasting glucose, insulin, aspartate transaminase, alanine transaminase and different hormones and adipokines were analysed. Only VLDL-C (p = 0.01) and diastolic blood pressure (p = 0.027) decreased after the intervention, especially with the BG supplement. There were no other significant changes in the analysed biomarkers. In conclusion, the regular intake of GCP, BG and GCP/BG without lifestyle changes is not an efficient strategy to improve lipid and glucose homeostasis in overweight/obese subjects. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Novel Insights into Dietary Polyphenols and Obesity)
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19 pages, 9478 KiB  
Article
Nutrient-Dependent Mitochondrial Fission Enhances Osteoblast Function
by Ciro Menale, Giovanna Trinchese, Immacolata Aiello, Giulia Scalia, Monica Dentice, Maria Pina Mollica, Nal Ae Yoon and Sabrina Diano
Nutrients 2023, 15(9), 2222; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu15092222 - 08 May 2023
Viewed by 1561
Abstract
Background: The bone synthesizing function of osteoblasts (OBs) is a highly demanding energy process that requires nutrients. However, how nutrient availability affects OBs behavior and bone mineralization remain to be fully understood. Methods: MC3T3-E1 cell line and primary OBs (OBs) cultures were treated [...] Read more.
Background: The bone synthesizing function of osteoblasts (OBs) is a highly demanding energy process that requires nutrients. However, how nutrient availability affects OBs behavior and bone mineralization remain to be fully understood. Methods: MC3T3-E1 cell line and primary OBs (OBs) cultures were treated with physiological levels of glucose (G; 5.5 mM) alone or with the addition of palmitic acid (G+PA) at different concentrations. Mitochondria morphology and activity were evaluated by fluorescence microscopy, qPCR, and oxygen consumption rate (OCR) measurement, and OBs function was assessed by mineralization assay. Results: The addition of non-lipotoxic levels of 25 μM PA to G increased mineralization in OBs. G+25 μM PA exposure reduced mitochondria size in OBs, which was associated with increased activation of dynamin-related protein 1, a mitochondrial fission protein, enhanced mitochondria OCR and ATP production, and increased expression of oxidative phosphorylation genes. Treatment with Mdivi-1, a putative inhibitor of mitochondrial fission, reduced osteogenesis and mitochondrial respiration in OBs. Conclusions: Our results revealed that OBs function was enhanced in the presence of glucose and PA at 25 μM. This was associated with increased OBs mitochondrial respiration and dynamics. These results suggest a role for nutrient availability in bone physiology and pathophysiology. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advance in Nutrition and Metabolic Homeostasis)
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11 pages, 449 KiB  
Review
Clinical Outcomes of the Deleterious Effects of Aluminum on Neuro-Cognition, Inflammation, and Health: A Review
by Guilherme Renke, Vanessa Borges Pinheiro Almeida, Everton Almeida Souza, Suzana Lessa, Raila Linhares Teixeira, Leticia Rocha, Pamela Lopes Sousa and Bernardo Starling-Soares
Nutrients 2023, 15(9), 2221; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu15092221 - 08 May 2023
Cited by 5 | Viewed by 2601
Abstract
Introduction: In the scenario of metal toxicity, aluminum (Al) stands out as a ubiquitous type of metal that can be combined with other elements and form different compounds. Al is widely used daily as an adjuvant in vaccines, antacids, food additives (as components [...] Read more.
Introduction: In the scenario of metal toxicity, aluminum (Al) stands out as a ubiquitous type of metal that can be combined with other elements and form different compounds. Al is widely used daily as an adjuvant in vaccines, antacids, food additives (as components of AI-containing food additives), skin care products, cosmetics, and kitchenware, and can be an element or contaminant present in our daily life. Objective: To present a review of the main deleterious effects of Al on human health. Methods: The search was carried out from September 2022 to February 2023 in the Scopus, PubMed, Science Direct, Scielo, and Google Scholar databases, using scientific articles from 2012 to 2023. The quality of the studies was based on the GRADE instrument, and the risk of bias was analyzed according to the Cochrane instrument. Results and Conclusions: A total of 115 files were search returned. Further, 95 articles were evaluated, and 44 were included in this review. Based on the results, measuring Al’s relevance to health is essential in medicine. Several studies have demonstrated clinical outcomes and metabolic alterations with Al exposure. The tolerable weekly intake established by the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) of 1 mg Al/kg body weight can be achieved through dietary exposure alone. Proven neurotoxicity in humans is the critical adverse effect of Al. A carcinogenic effect of Al has not been proven so far. Preventive medicine advocates that exposure to Al should be kept as low as possible. Chelating agents, such as calcium disodium ethylene diamine tetraacetic acid and deferoxamine, are options for acute poisoning, and monomethysilanetriol supplementation may be a long-term strategy with chelation potential. Further studies are needed to assess the impacts of Al on human health. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Vitamins and Human Health)
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10 pages, 274 KiB  
Article
Nutrition Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices (KAPs) among Jordanian Elderly—A Cross-Sectional Study
by Fadwa Hammouh, Mai Abdullah, Ala’a Al-Bakheit, Narmeen Jamal Al-Awwad, Ibrahim Dabbour and Ayoub Al-Jawaldeh
Nutrients 2023, 15(9), 2220; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu15092220 - 08 May 2023
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 3683
Abstract
Nutrition knowledge, attitudes, and good practices are essential for preventing malnutrition, ensuring good health, and maintaining life quality. However, to the best of our knowledge, no studies have been published on the nutritional knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAPs) of Jordanian older people. For [...] Read more.
Nutrition knowledge, attitudes, and good practices are essential for preventing malnutrition, ensuring good health, and maintaining life quality. However, to the best of our knowledge, no studies have been published on the nutritional knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAPs) of Jordanian older people. For this reason, our study aimed to assess the KAPs in the Jordanian elderly. A cross-sectional survey was conducted among 1200 people aged 60 and over. The results revealed that 52.8% of participants had poor knowledge, 52.7% had negative attitude scores, and 72.6% had poor practices. Significant differences were found between the three regions in the KAP prevalence (p < 0.001). The northern region had a higher prevalence of nutritionally poor knowledge (65.6%) compared to 52.5% and 40.4% for the central and southern regions, respectively. Participants from the central region had a higher prevalence of a positive attitude (55.4%), whereas the northern and the southern participants had a higher prevalence of a negative attitude (65.6% and 54.4%, respectively). All regions reported poor practices, yet, significantly, the northern regions had the highest prevalence of poor practices. Participants with a low educational level reported a significantly higher prevalence of poor knowledge, negative attitudes, and poor practices compared to participants with a high educational level. The results obtained underline the importance of taking into account the lack of nutrition-related KAPs among the elderly in Jordan. It is crucial to raise awareness on this issue and to implement the national nutrition strategy, with particular attention paid to the elderly. Concrete measures must be taken to ensure that the nutritional needs of older people are met and to improve their quality of life. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Assessment of Nutritional Status in Older Persons)
14 pages, 981 KiB  
Review
Dietary Oncopharmacognosy as a Crosswalk between Precision Oncology and Precision Nutrition
by Henry J. Thompson, Tymofiy Lutsiv, John N. McGinley, Hisham Hussan and Mary C. Playdon
Nutrients 2023, 15(9), 2219; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu15092219 - 08 May 2023
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2009
Abstract
While diet and nutrition are modifiable risk factors for many chronic and infectious diseases, their role in cancer prevention and control remains under investigation. The lack of clarity of some diet–cancer relationships reflects the ongoing debate about the relative contribution of genetic factors, [...] Read more.
While diet and nutrition are modifiable risk factors for many chronic and infectious diseases, their role in cancer prevention and control remains under investigation. The lack of clarity of some diet–cancer relationships reflects the ongoing debate about the relative contribution of genetic factors, environmental exposures, and replicative errors in stem cell division as determinate drivers of cancer risk. In addition, dietary guidance has often been based upon research assuming that the effects of diet and nutrition on carcinogenesis would be uniform across populations and for various tumor types arising in a specific organ, i.e., that one size fits all. Herein, we present a paradigm for investigating precision dietary patterns that leverages the approaches that led to successful small-molecule inhibitors in cancer treatment, namely understanding the pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of small molecules for targeting carcinogenic mechanisms. We challenge the scientific community to refine the paradigm presented and to conduct proof-in-concept experiments that integrate existing knowledge (drug development, natural products, and the food metabolome) with developments in artificial intelligence to design and then test dietary patterns predicted to elicit drug-like effects on target tissues for cancer prevention and control. We refer to this precision approach as dietary oncopharmacognosy and envision it as the crosswalk between the currently defined fields of precision oncology and precision nutrition with the goal of reducing cancer deaths. Full article
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9 pages, 615 KiB  
Brief Report
Evaluation of Primary DNA Damage in Young Healthy Females Based on Their Dietary Preferences
by Goran Gajski, Katarina Matković, Luka Delić and Marko Gerić
Nutrients 2023, 15(9), 2218; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu15092218 - 08 May 2023
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1569
Abstract
DNA damage is known to be associated with many adverse health outcomes, including cancer and chronic diseases, but also with the process of aging. Empirical evidence has shown that environmental exposures, such as certain lifestyle factors, can affect a variety of health-related biomarkers [...] Read more.
DNA damage is known to be associated with many adverse health outcomes, including cancer and chronic diseases, but also with the process of aging. Empirical evidence has shown that environmental exposures, such as certain lifestyle factors, can affect a variety of health-related biomarkers and also impact the stability of DNA through the upregulation of the antioxidant defense system and alteration of its repair capacity. In addition to exercising, diet is an important lifestyle factor that can affect the development of a variety of chronic diseases and growing evidence suggests that plant-based diets, including vegetarianism, may promote health, longevity, and well-being. Therefore, we aimed to assess the primary DNA damage in 32 young healthy females from Zagreb, Croatia, based on their dietary preferences. The participants were divided into two groups: vegetarians and non-vegetarians, where the non-vegetarian group was further divided into omnivores (traditional mixed diet) and pescatarians (consumption of fish and seafood). According to statistical analysis, the DNA damage measured in whole blood cells expressed as the % tail DNA was significantly (p < 0.05) higher in vegetarians (3.6 ± 1.1%) compared to non-vegetarians (2.8 ± 1.0%). When further dividing the participants into specific sub-groups, lower DNA damage was observed amongst omnivorous subjects (3.2 ± 0.8%) compared to vegetarians, with the lowest DNA damage found in females practicing a pescatarian diet (2.4 ± 1.1%). Although a vegetarian diet can lead to a higher intake of specific vitamins and micronutrients, it can also lead to a deficiency of iron, calcium, and total proteins, which may affect genome stability and induce oxidative stress. Even though our results have shown that the pescatarian diet would be more beneficial in terms of maintaining DNA integrity, further research should be carried out to assess how specific dietary preferences affect DNA integrity on a larger scale. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Nutrition and Public Health)
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29 pages, 1160 KiB  
Review
Beta Cell Dysfunction in Youth- and Adult-Onset Type 2 Diabetes: An Extensive Narrative Review with a Special Focus on the Role of Nutrients
by Anastasios Serbis, Vasileios Giapros, Konstantinos Tsamis, Foteini Balomenou, Assimina Galli-Tsinopoulou and Ekaterini Siomou
Nutrients 2023, 15(9), 2217; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu15092217 - 07 May 2023
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2662
Abstract
Traditionally a disease of adults, type 2 diabetes (T2D) has been increasingly diagnosed in youth, particularly among adolescents and young adults of minority ethnic groups. Especially, during the recent COVID-19 pandemic, obesity and prediabetes have surged not only in minority ethnic groups but [...] Read more.
Traditionally a disease of adults, type 2 diabetes (T2D) has been increasingly diagnosed in youth, particularly among adolescents and young adults of minority ethnic groups. Especially, during the recent COVID-19 pandemic, obesity and prediabetes have surged not only in minority ethnic groups but also in the general population, further raising T2D risk. Regarding its pathogenesis, a gradually increasing insulin resistance due to central adiposity combined with a progressively defective β-cell function are the main culprits. Especially in youth-onset T2D, a rapid β-cell activity decline has been observed, leading to higher treatment failure rates, and early complications. In addition, it is well established that both the quantity and quality of food ingested by individuals play a key role in T2D pathogenesis. A chronic imbalance between caloric intake and expenditure together with impaired micronutrient intake can lead to obesity and insulin resistance on one hand, and β-cell failure and defective insulin production on the other. This review summarizes our evolving understanding of the pathophysiological mechanisms involved in defective insulin secretion by the pancreatic islets in youth- and adult-onset T2D and, further, of the role various micronutrients play in these pathomechanisms. This knowledge is essential if we are to curtail the serious long-term complications of T2D both in pediatric and adult populations. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Insulin 100th Anniversary: Century of Innovation for Diabetes)
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13 pages, 319 KiB  
Article
Young Japanese Underweight Women with “Cinderella Weight” Are Prone to Malnutrition, including Vitamin Deficiencies
by Katsumi Iizuka, Hiroko Sato, Kazuko Kobae, Kotone Yanagi, Yoshiko Yamada, Chihiro Ushiroda, Konomi Hirano, Satomi Ichimaru, Yusuke Seino, Akemi Ito, Atsushi Suzuki, Eiichi Saitoh and Hiroyuki Naruse
Nutrients 2023, 15(9), 2216; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu15092216 - 07 May 2023
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 5445
Abstract
Undernutrition among young women at “Cinderella weight” is socially important in Japan. To determine the nutritional status of Cinderella-weight women, we conducted an exploratory cross-sectional study on the health examination results of employees aged 20 to 39 (n = 1457 and 643 for [...] Read more.
Undernutrition among young women at “Cinderella weight” is socially important in Japan. To determine the nutritional status of Cinderella-weight women, we conducted an exploratory cross-sectional study on the health examination results of employees aged 20 to 39 (n = 1457 and 643 for women and men, respectively). The percentage of underweight women was found to be much higher than that of men (16.8% vs. 4.5%, respectively). In underweight women (n = 245), handgrip strength (22.82 ± 5.55 vs. 25.73 ± 5.81 kg, p < 0.001), cholesterol level (177.8 ± 25.2 vs. 194.7 ± 31.2 mg/dL, p < 0.05), and lymphocyte count (1883 ± 503 vs. 2148 ± 765/μL, p < 0.001) were significantly lower than in overweight women (n = 116). Then, the BMI < 17.5 group (n = 44) was referred to the outpatient nutrition evaluation clinic. Lower prealbumin, cholesterol, and lymphocyte levels were also observed in 34%, 59%, and 32% of the patients, respectively. Regarding dietary characteristics, 32% of the underweight women in this study skipped breakfast, and 50% had low dietary diversity scores. Lower total energy intake, carbohydrate and fiber intake, and Ca and Fe intake were also observed in 90% of the patients. Deficiencies in vitamin B1, B12, D, and folate were diagnosed in 4.6%, 25%, 14%, and 98% of the patients, respectively. Thus, young underweight women may be prone to malnutrition. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Nutrition in Women)
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30 pages, 4319 KiB  
Article
Membrane Lipids in Ultra-High-Risk Patients: Potential Predictive Biomarkers of Conversion to Psychosis
by Ariel Frajerman, Boris Chaumette, Dominique Farabos, Gaétan Despres, Christelle Simonard, Antonin Lamazière, Marie-Odile Krebs and Oussama Kebir
Nutrients 2023, 15(9), 2215; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu15092215 - 07 May 2023
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2287
Abstract
Alterations in membrane lipids are reported in schizophrenia. However, no conclusion can be drawn regarding the extended and predictive value of these alterations in persons at ultra-high risk of psychosis (UHR). Recent studies suggested that sterols’ impact on psychiatric disorders was underestimated. Here, [...] Read more.
Alterations in membrane lipids are reported in schizophrenia. However, no conclusion can be drawn regarding the extended and predictive value of these alterations in persons at ultra-high risk of psychosis (UHR). Recent studies suggested that sterols’ impact on psychiatric disorders was underestimated. Here, we simultaneously explored sterols, fatty acids (FA), and phospholipids (PL) in UHR persons for the first time. We analysed erythrocyte membrane lipids in 61 UHR persons, including 29 who later converted to psychosis (UHR-C) and 32 who did not (UHC-NC). We used gas chromatography for FA and liquid chromatography tandem with mass spectrometry for sterols and phospholipids. Among UHR individuals, elevated baseline membrane linoleic acid level was associated with conversion to psychosis (26.1% vs. 60.5%, p = 0.02). Combining sterols, FA, and PL membrane composition improved the prediction of psychosis onset (AUC = 0.73). This is the first report showing that membrane sterol participates, with other membrane lipids, in modulating the risk of psychosis. It suggests that membrane lipids could be used as biomarkers for personalised medicine in UHR patients. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Lipids)
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14 pages, 472 KiB  
Article
Influence of the TAS2R38 Gene Single Nucleotide Polymorphisms in Metabolism and Anthropometry in Thyroid Dysfunction
by Marta Mendes Costa, Alda Pereira Da Silva, Carolina Santos, Joana Ferreira, Mário Rui Mascarenhas, Manuel Bicho and Ana Paula Barbosa
Nutrients 2023, 15(9), 2214; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu15092214 - 06 May 2023
Viewed by 1940
Abstract
The gene TAS2R38 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs-P49A, A262V and V296I) can condition bitter tasting by PAV (proline–alanine–valine) and non-bitter-tasting by AVI (alanine–valine–isoleucine) homozygosity. We evaluated this polymorphisms association with thyroid function, metabolism and anthropometry parameters determined by: Endpoint analysis (SNPs); DXA (fat mass-%, [...] Read more.
The gene TAS2R38 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs-P49A, A262V and V296I) can condition bitter tasting by PAV (proline–alanine–valine) and non-bitter-tasting by AVI (alanine–valine–isoleucine) homozygosity. We evaluated this polymorphisms association with thyroid function, metabolism and anthropometry parameters determined by: Endpoint analysis (SNPs); DXA (fat mass-%, total fat mass—kg, lean mass—kg); Standard methods (lipid metabolism parameters, HbA1c-%, glycemia—mg/dL, insulinemia—µIU/mL, HOMA-IR, uricemia—mg/dL, calcemia—mg/dL and BMI—kg/m2); ELISA (leptinemia—ng/mL); Spectrophotometry (Angiotensin Converting Enzyme activity—UI/L). Statistics: SPSS program; OR [IC95%]; p < 0.05. Sample: 114 hypothyroid, 49 hyperthyroid, and 179 controls. An association between A262V-valine–valine and hypothyroidism/hyperthyroidism was verified (OR = 2.841; IC95% [1.726–4.676]), p < 0.001/OR = 8.915; IC95% [4.286–18.543]), p < 0.001). Protector effect from thyroid dysfunction: A262V-alanine–valine (OR = 0.467; IC95% [0.289–0.757], p = 0.002/OR = 0.132; IC95% [0.056–0.309], p < 0.001) and PAV (OR = 0.456; IC95% [0.282–0.737], p = 0.001/OR = 0.101; IC95% [0.041–0.250], p < 0.001). Higher parameter values associated with genotypes were: fat-mass-% (V296I-valine–isoleucine), lean-mass (P49A-proline–proline; PVI), leptin (AVI), HbA1c (A262V-alanine–valine) and lower values in lean-Mass (AVI; PVV), leptin (A262V-alanine–alanine), HbA1c (PVV), uricemia (V296I-valine–isoleucine), glycemia (A262V-alanine–alanine; AAV) and plasma triglycerides (PVV). In conclusion, TAS2R38 influences thyroid function, body composition and metabolism. Bitter taste perception (PAV) and the genotype A262V-alanine–valine can protect from thyroid dysfunction. AVV, PVV and genotype A262V-valine–valine may confer higher predisposition for thyroid dysfunction, particularly PVV for hyperthyroidism. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Effect of Nutritional Aspect on Obesity and Hypertension)
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2 pages, 169 KiB  
Editorial
Current Findings from the Japan National Health and Nutrition Survey
by Nobuo Nishi and Hidemi Takimoto
Nutrients 2023, 15(9), 2213; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu15092213 - 06 May 2023
Viewed by 1256
Abstract
In this Special Issue, six articles using the Japan National Health and Nutrition Survey (NHNS) were published [...] Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Japan National Health and Nutrition Survey)
3 pages, 179 KiB  
Editorial
An Evolving Definition of a “Healthy Diet”
by Arrigo F. G. Cicero, Federica Fogacci and Claudio Borghi
Nutrients 2023, 15(9), 2212; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu15092212 - 06 May 2023
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1748
Abstract
Throughout life, most of us eat at least three meals a day for 365 days a year [...] Full article
22 pages, 1196 KiB  
Review
Short-Chain Fatty-Acid-Producing Bacteria: Key Components of the Human Gut Microbiota
by William Fusco, Manuel Bernabeu Lorenzo, Marco Cintoni, Serena Porcari, Emanuele Rinninella, Francesco Kaitsas, Elena Lener, Maria Cristina Mele, Antonio Gasbarrini, Maria Carmen Collado, Giovanni Cammarota and Gianluca Ianiro
Nutrients 2023, 15(9), 2211; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu15092211 - 06 May 2023
Cited by 42 | Viewed by 8042
Abstract
Short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) play a key role in health and disease, as they regulate gut homeostasis and their deficiency is involved in the pathogenesis of several disorders, including inflammatory bowel diseases, colorectal cancer, and cardiometabolic disorders. SCFAs are metabolites of specific bacterial [...] Read more.
Short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) play a key role in health and disease, as they regulate gut homeostasis and their deficiency is involved in the pathogenesis of several disorders, including inflammatory bowel diseases, colorectal cancer, and cardiometabolic disorders. SCFAs are metabolites of specific bacterial taxa of the human gut microbiota, and their production is influenced by specific foods or food supplements, mainly prebiotics, by the direct fostering of these taxa. This Review provides an overview of SCFAs’ roles and functions, and of SCFA-producing bacteria, from their microbiological characteristics and taxonomy to the biochemical process that lead to the release of SCFAs. Moreover, we will describe the potential therapeutic approaches to boost the levels of SCFAs in the human gut and treat different related diseases. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Prebiotics and Probiotics)
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19 pages, 3208 KiB  
Article
Walnut (Juglans regia L.) Oligopeptides Alleviate Alcohol-Induced Acute Liver Injury through the Inhibition of Inflammation and Oxidative Stress in Rats
by Rui Liu, Yun-Tao Hao, Na Zhu, Xin-Ran Liu, Rui-Xue Mao, Jia-Wei Kang, Chao Hou, Ting Zhang and Yong Li
Nutrients 2023, 15(9), 2210; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu15092210 - 06 May 2023
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1739
Abstract
The study was aimed at investigating the effects of walnut oligopeptides (WOPs) on alcohol-induced acute liver injury and its underlying mechanisms. Male Sprague Dawley (SD) rats were randomly assigned to six groups: normal control, alcohol control, whey protein (440 mg/kg.bw), and three WOPs [...] Read more.
The study was aimed at investigating the effects of walnut oligopeptides (WOPs) on alcohol-induced acute liver injury and its underlying mechanisms. Male Sprague Dawley (SD) rats were randomly assigned to six groups: normal control, alcohol control, whey protein (440 mg/kg.bw), and three WOPs (220 mg/kg.bw, 440 mg/kg.bw, 880 mg/kg.bw) groups. After 30 days of gavage, ethanol with a volume fraction of 50%, administered at a dose of 7 g/kg.bw., caused acute liver injury. A righting reflex experiment and a blood ethanol concentration evaluation were then performed. Serum biochemical parameters, inflammatory cytokines, liver alcohol metabolism enzymes, oxidative stress biomarkers, liver nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB p65), and cytochrome P4502E1 expression were determined. The results revealed that the intervention of 440 mg/kg and 880 mg/kg WOPs could alleviate the degree of intoxication, decrease blood ethanol concentration, alleviate alcohol-induced hepatic steatosis, enhance the activity of hepatic ethanol metabolizing enzymes and antioxidant capacity, reduce lipid oxidation products and pro-inflammatory factor contents, and inhibit the expression of NF-κBp65 in the livers of rats. The outcomes of the study suggest that WOPs have beneficial effects on liver damage caused by acute ethanol binge drinking, with the high-dose WOPs (880 mg/kg.bw) exerting the most pronounced hepatoprotective effect. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Proteins and Amino Acids)
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13 pages, 2361 KiB  
Article
Guided Metabolic Detoxification Program Supports Phase II Detoxification Enzymes and Antioxidant Balance in Healthy Participants
by Chinmayee Panda, Slavko Komarnytsky, Michelle Norton Fleming, Carissa Marsh, Keri Barron, Sara Le Brun-Blashka and Brandon Metzger
Nutrients 2023, 15(9), 2209; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu15092209 - 06 May 2023
Viewed by 3670
Abstract
Adequate antioxidant supply is essential for maintaining metabolic homeostasis and reducing oxidative stress during detoxification. The emerging evidence suggests that certain classes of phytonutrients can help support the detoxification process by stimulating the liver to produce detoxification enzymes or acting as antioxidants that [...] Read more.
Adequate antioxidant supply is essential for maintaining metabolic homeostasis and reducing oxidative stress during detoxification. The emerging evidence suggests that certain classes of phytonutrients can help support the detoxification process by stimulating the liver to produce detoxification enzymes or acting as antioxidants that neutralize the harmful effects of free radicals. This study was designed to examine the effects of a guided 28-day metabolic detoxification program in healthy adults. The participants were randomly assigned to consume a whole food, multi-ingredient supplement (n = 14, education and intervention) or control (n = 18, education and healthy meal) daily for the duration of the trial. The whole food supplement contained 37 g/serving of a proprietary, multicomponent nutritional blend in the form of a rehydratable shake. Program readiness was ensured at baseline using a validated self-perceived wellness score and a blood metabolic panel, indicating stable emotional and physical well-being in both groups. No significant changes or adverse effects were found on physical or emotional health, cellular glutathione (GSH) and the GSH:GSSG ratio, porphyrin, and hepatic detoxification biomarkers in urine. The intervention was positively associated with a 23% increase in superoxide dismutase (p = 0.06) and a 13% increase in glutathione S-transferase (p = 0.003) activities in the blood. This resulted in a 40% increase in the total cellular antioxidant capacity (p = 0.001) and a 13% decrease in reactive oxygen species (p = 0.002) in isolated PBMCs from participants in the detoxification group. Our findings indicate that consuming a whole food nutritional intervention as a part of the guided detoxification program supported phase II detoxification, in part, by promoting enhanced free radical scavenging and maintaining redox homeostasis under the body’s natural glutathione recycling capacity. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Nutrition and Metabolism)
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17 pages, 1470 KiB  
Review
Dietary Fibers in Healthy Children and in Pediatric Gastrointestinal Disorders: A Practical Guide
by Silvia Salvatore, Maria Serena Battigaglia, Elena Murone, Eugenia Dozio, Licia Pensabene and Massimo Agosti
Nutrients 2023, 15(9), 2208; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu15092208 - 06 May 2023
Cited by 9 | Viewed by 3238
Abstract
Dietary fibers include non-digestible plant carbohydrates, lignin and resistant starch. Dietary fibers provide immune, cardiovascular, metabolic and intestinal beneficial effects in humans. Fibers naturally present in foods (fruits, vegetables, legumes, cereals) or used as supplements have different physical, chemical and functional profiles. This [...] Read more.
Dietary fibers include non-digestible plant carbohydrates, lignin and resistant starch. Dietary fibers provide immune, cardiovascular, metabolic and intestinal beneficial effects in humans. Fibers naturally present in foods (fruits, vegetables, legumes, cereals) or used as supplements have different physical, chemical and functional profiles. This narrative review provides an update to the knowledge on the effects of dietary fibers in healthy subjects and in children with gastrointestinal disorders. Soluble fibers are digested by gut bacteria, producing short-chain fatty acids and energy for colonocytes, and may exert prebiotic effects that promote the growth of bifidobacteria and lactobacilli. Non-soluble fibers are bulking agents and may improve intestinal transit. The exact amount and characteristics of the fiber requirement in infants and children need to be further established. There are limited data evaluating fibers in children with gastrointestinal disorders. The low intake of fibers has been associated with constipation, but the intake of excessive fibers is not recommended as it may cause flatulence and abdominal discomfort. Certain fibers (particularly psyllium in irritable bowel syndrome) have shown beneficial effects in children with gastrointestinal disorders, but the limited and heterogenous data do not currently allow a specific recommendation. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nutritional Management of Gastrointestinal Dysfunction in Children)
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21 pages, 1015 KiB  
Review
Limosilactobacillus fermentum CECT5716: Clinical Potential of a Probiotic Strain Isolated from Human Milk
by Metehan Ozen, Hugues Piloquet and Monika Schaubeck
Nutrients 2023, 15(9), 2207; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu15092207 - 06 May 2023
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 3104
Abstract
Breastfeeding provides the ideal nutrition for infants. Human milk contains a plethora of functional ingredients which foster the development of the immune system. The human milk microbiota predominantly contributes to this protective effect. This is mediated by various mechanisms, such as an antimicrobial [...] Read more.
Breastfeeding provides the ideal nutrition for infants. Human milk contains a plethora of functional ingredients which foster the development of the immune system. The human milk microbiota predominantly contributes to this protective effect. This is mediated by various mechanisms, such as an antimicrobial effect, pathogen exclusion and barrier integrity, beneficial effects on the gastrointestinal microbiota, vitamin synthesis, immunity enhancement, secreted probiotic factors, and postbiotic mechanisms. Therefore, human milk is a good source for isolating probiotics for infants who cannot be exclusively breastfed. One such probiotic which was isolated from human milk is Limosilactobacillus fermentum CECT5716. In this review, we give an overview of available interventional studies using Limosilactobacillus fermentum CECT5716 and summarise preclinical trials in several animal models of different pathologies, which have given first insights into its mechanisms of action. We present several randomised clinical studies, which have been conducted to investigate the clinical efficacy of the Limosilactobacillus fermentum CECT5716 strain in supporting the host’s health. Full article
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14 pages, 2050 KiB  
Article
Molecular Oxygen Levels and Percentages of DNA Damage in TPN Patients
by Karolina Dąbrowska, Zuzanna Zaczek, Mariusz Panczyk, Sylwia Osowska, Paweł Kowalczyk, Karol Kramkowski and Jacek Sobocki
Nutrients 2023, 15(9), 2206; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu15092206 - 06 May 2023
Viewed by 1537
Abstract
Total parenteral nutrition (TPN) is a life-saving therapy for patients with intestinal failure, but it carries the risk of complications, including an increase in liver enzymes alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST) after long-term use. Patients receiving chronic TPN are also exposed [...] Read more.
Total parenteral nutrition (TPN) is a life-saving therapy for patients with intestinal failure, but it carries the risk of complications, including an increase in liver enzymes alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST) after long-term use. Patients receiving chronic TPN are also exposed to metabolic stress from both the underlying disease and parenteral nutrition. The aim of this study was to compare the concentration of liver transaminases AST and ALT in relation to the rate of oxygen consumption in platelet mitochondria in patients receiving long-term TPN with the degree of oxidative stress induced by lipid emulsions, and to explain their role in cellular energy metabolism and changes in the liver based on the percentage of genomic DNA damage. The study group consisted of 86 TPN patients, while the control group consisted of 86 healthy volunteers who were fed only orally. The results of the study showed that the percentage of molecular oxygen depended on the type of lipid emulsion supplied. Analyzing time on TPN as a factor, we observed a decrease in percentage genomic DNA damage and an increase in percentage molecular oxygen in cells. It remains unclear whether TPN has a direct effect on genomic DNA damage and the level of molecular oxygen in cells during the course of treatment. In conclusion, this study provides important insights into the potential effects of TPN on liver enzymes and cellular metabolism. Further research is needed to better understand the underlying mechanisms and to develop strategies to minimize the risk of complications associated with TPN. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Role of Lipids and Lipid Emulsifiers in Clinical Nutrition)
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