Nutrients

13 pages, 7085 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Low Zinc Levels at Admission Associates with Poor Clinical Outcomes in SARS-CoV-2 Infection

by Marina Vogel-González, Marc Talló-Parra, Víctor Herrera-Fernández, Gemma Pérez-Vilaró, Miguel Chillón, Xavier Nogués, Silvia Gómez-Zorrilla, Inmaculada López-Montesinos, Isabel Arnau-Barrés, Maria Luisa Sorli-Redó, Juan Pablo Horcajada, Natalia García-Giralt, Julio Pascual, Juana Díez, Rubén Vicente and Robert Güerri-Fernández

Nutrients 2021, 13(2), 562; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu13020562 - 09 Feb 2021

Cited by 66 | Viewed by 26367

Abstract

Background: Zinc is an essential micronutrient that impacts host–pathogen interplay at infection. Zinc balances immune responses, and also has a proven direct antiviral action against some viruses. Importantly, zinc deficiency (ZD) is a common condition in elderly and individuals with chronic diseases, two [...] Read more.

Background: Zinc is an essential micronutrient that impacts host–pathogen interplay at infection. Zinc balances immune responses, and also has a proven direct antiviral action against some viruses. Importantly, zinc deficiency (ZD) is a common condition in elderly and individuals with chronic diseases, two groups with an increased risk for severe severe coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) outcomes. We hypothesize that serum zinc content (SZC) influences COVID-19 disease progression, and thus might represent a useful biomarker. Methods: We ran an observational cohort study with 249 COVID-19 patients admitted in Hospital del Mar. We have studied COVID-19 severity and progression attending to SZC at admission. In parallel, we have studied severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV2) replication in the Vero E6 cell line modifying zinc concentrations. Findings: Our study demonstrates a correlation between serum zinc levels and COVID-19 outcome. Serum zinc levels lower than 50 µg/dL at admission correlated with worse clinical presentation, longer time to reach stability, and higher mortality. Our in vitro results indicate that low zinc levels favor viral expansion in SARS-CoV-2 infected cells. Interpretation: Low SZC is a risk factor that determines COVID-19 outcome. We encourage performing randomized clinical trials to study zinc supplementation as potential prophylaxis and treatment with people at risk of zinc deficiency. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Micronutrients and Human Health)

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10 pages, 893 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceReview

Dietary Polyphenols and Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease

by Ludovico Abenavoli, Tiziana Larussa, Alessandro Corea, Anna Caterina Procopio, Luigi Boccuto, Marcello Dallio, Alessandro Federico and Francesco Luzza

Nutrients 2021, 13(2), 494; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu13020494 - 03 Feb 2021

Cited by 70 | Viewed by 6112

Abstract

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), which is emerging as a major public health issue worldwide, is characterized by a wide spectrum of liver disorders, ranging from simple fat accumulation in hepatocytes, also known as steatosis, to non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) and cirrhosis. At present, [...] Read more.

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), which is emerging as a major public health issue worldwide, is characterized by a wide spectrum of liver disorders, ranging from simple fat accumulation in hepatocytes, also known as steatosis, to non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) and cirrhosis. At present, the pharmacological treatment of NAFLD is still debated and dietary strategies for the prevention and the treatment of this condition are strongly considered. Polyphenols are a group of plant-derived compounds whose anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties are associated with a low prevalence of metabolic diseases, including obesity, hypertension, and insulin resistance. Since inflammation and oxidative stress are the main risk factors involved in the pathogenesis of NAFLD, recent studies suggest that the consumption of polyphenol-rich diets is involved in the prevention and treatment of NAFLD. However, few clinical trials are available on human subjects with NAFLD. Here, we reviewed the emerging existing evidence on the potential use of polyphenols to treat NAFLD. After introducing the physiopathology of NAFLD, we focused on the most investigated phenolic compounds in the setting of NAFLD and described their potential benefits, starting from basic science studies to animal models and human trials. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nutrition and Non-alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease: Gene Storm)

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20 pages, 1086 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceReview

Magnesium in Aging, Health and Diseases

by Mario Barbagallo, Nicola Veronese and Ligia J. Dominguez

Nutrients 2021, 13(2), 463; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu13020463 - 30 Jan 2021

Cited by 119 | Viewed by 26844

Abstract

Several changes of magnesium (Mg) metabolism have been reported with aging, including diminished Mg intake, impaired intestinal Mg absorption and renal Mg wasting. Mild Mg deficits are generally asymptomatic and clinical signs are usually non-specific or absent. Asthenia, sleep disorders, hyperemotionality, and cognitive [...] Read more.

Several changes of magnesium (Mg) metabolism have been reported with aging, including diminished Mg intake, impaired intestinal Mg absorption and renal Mg wasting. Mild Mg deficits are generally asymptomatic and clinical signs are usually non-specific or absent. Asthenia, sleep disorders, hyperemotionality, and cognitive disorders are common in the elderly with mild Mg deficit, and may be often confused with age-related symptoms. Chronic Mg deficits increase the production of free radicals which have been implicated in the development of several chronic age-related disorders. Numerous human diseases have been associated with Mg deficits, including cardiovascular diseases, hypertension and stroke, cardio-metabolic syndrome and type 2 diabetes mellitus, airways constrictive syndromes and asthma, depression, stress-related conditions and psychiatric disorders, Alzheimer’s disease (AD) and other dementia syndromes, muscular diseases (muscle pain, chronic fatigue, and fibromyalgia), bone fragility, and cancer. Dietary Mg and/or Mg consumed in drinking water (generally more bioavailable than Mg contained in food) or in alternative Mg supplements should be taken into consideration in the correction of Mg deficits. Maintaining an optimal Mg balance all through life may help in the prevention of oxidative stress and chronic conditions associated with aging. This needs to be demonstrated by future studies. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Micronutrients and Human Health)

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27 pages, 515 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceReview

Creatine in Health and Disease

by Richard B. Kreider and Jeffery R. Stout

Nutrients 2021, 13(2), 447; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu13020447 - 29 Jan 2021

Cited by 72 | Viewed by 44210

Abstract

Although creatine has been mostly studied as an ergogenic aid for exercise, training, and sport, several health and potential therapeutic benefits have been reported. This is because creatine plays a critical role in cellular metabolism, particularly during metabolically stressed states, and limitations in [...] Read more.

Although creatine has been mostly studied as an ergogenic aid for exercise, training, and sport, several health and potential therapeutic benefits have been reported. This is because creatine plays a critical role in cellular metabolism, particularly during metabolically stressed states, and limitations in the ability to transport and/or store creatine can impair metabolism. Moreover, increasing availability of creatine in tissue may enhance cellular metabolism and thereby lessen the severity of injury and/or disease conditions, particularly when oxygen availability is compromised. This systematic review assesses the peer-reviewed scientific and medical evidence related to creatine’s role in promoting general health as we age and how creatine supplementation has been used as a nutritional strategy to help individuals recover from injury and/or manage chronic disease. Additionally, it provides reasonable conclusions about the role of creatine on health and disease based on current scientific evidence. Based on this analysis, it can be concluded that creatine supplementation has several health and therapeutic benefits throughout the lifespan. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Creatine Supplementation for Health and Clinical Diseases)

34 pages, 5444 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceReview

The Immunopathogenesis of Alzheimer’s Disease Is Related to the Composition of Gut Microbiota

by Friedrich Leblhuber, Daniela Ehrlich, Kostja Steiner, Simon Geisler, Dietmar Fuchs, Lukas Lanser and Katharina Kurz

Nutrients 2021, 13(2), 361; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu13020361 - 25 Jan 2021

Cited by 65 | Viewed by 12425

Abstract

The microbiota–gut–brain axis plays an important role in the development of neurodegenerative diseases. Commensal and pathogenic enteric bacteria can influence brain and immune system function by the production of lipopolysaccharides and amyloid. Dysbiosis of the intestinal microbiome induces local and consecutively systemic immune-mediated [...] Read more.

The microbiota–gut–brain axis plays an important role in the development of neurodegenerative diseases. Commensal and pathogenic enteric bacteria can influence brain and immune system function by the production of lipopolysaccharides and amyloid. Dysbiosis of the intestinal microbiome induces local and consecutively systemic immune-mediated inflammation. Proinflammatory cytokines then trigger neuroinflammation and finally neurodegeneration. Immune-mediated oxidative stress can lead to a deficiency of vitamins and essential micronutrients. Furthermore, the wrong composition of gut microbiota might impair the intake and metabolization of nutrients. In patients with Alzheimer’s disease (AD) significant alterations of the gut microbiota have been demonstrated. Standard Western diet, infections, decreased physical activity and chronic stress impact the composition and diversity of gut microbiota. A higher abundancy of “pro-inflammatory” gut microbiota goes along with enhanced systemic inflammation and neuroinflammatory processes. Thus, AD beginning in the gut is closely related to the imbalance of gut microbiota. Modulation of gut microbiota by Mediterranean diet, probiotics and curcumin can slow down cognitive decline and alter the gut microbiome significantly. A multi-domain intervention approach addressing underlying causes of AD (inflammation, infections, metabolic alterations like insulin resistance and nutrient deficiency, stress) appears very promising to reduce or even reverse cognitive decline by exerting positive effects on the gut microbiota. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Gut Microbiota in Cognition, Behaviour and Alzheimer's Disease)

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16 pages, 1574 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Patterns of Change in Dietary Habits and Physical Activity during Lockdown in Spain Due to the COVID-19 Pandemic

by Carmen Pérez-Rodrigo, Marta Gianzo Citores, Gotzone Hervás Bárbara, Fátima Ruiz-Litago, Luis Casis Sáenz, Victoria Arija, Ana M. López-Sobaler, Emilio Martínez de Victoria, Rosa M. Ortega, Teresa Partearroyo, Joan Quiles-Izquierdo, Lourdes Ribas-Barba, Amelia Rodríguez-Martín, Gemma Salvador Castell, Josep A. Tur, Gregorio Varela-Moreiras, Lluis Serra-Majem and Javier Aranceta-Bartrina

Nutrients 2021, 13(2), 300; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu13020300 - 21 Jan 2021

Cited by 95 | Viewed by 16551

Abstract

Background: Lockdown due to COVID-19 influenced food habits and lifestyles with potential negative health impact. This study aims to identify patterns of change in eating habits and physical activity during COVID-19 lockdown in Spain and to identify associations with sociodemographic factors and usual [...] Read more.

Background: Lockdown due to COVID-19 influenced food habits and lifestyles with potential negative health impact. This study aims to identify patterns of change in eating habits and physical activity during COVID-19 lockdown in Spain and to identify associations with sociodemographic factors and usual habits. Methods: This cross-sectional study included 1155 adults recruited online to answer a 10-section questionnaire. The protocol assessed usual diet by means of a semi-quantitative food frequency questionnaire, usual physical activity (PA) and supplement use, dietary changes, sedentary time, PA, exposure to sunlight, sleep quality, and smoking during confinement. Patterns of dietary change were identified by factor analysis. Factor scores were included in cluster analysis together with change in PA. Results: Six patterns of dietary change were identified that together with PA changes during lockdown defined three clusters of lifestyle change: a cluster less active, a more active cluster, and a third cluster as active as usual. People who were usually less active were more likely to be classified in the cluster that increased physical activity in confinement. Scores of the Healthy Mediterranean-Style dietary pattern were higher in this group. Conclusions: Different patterns of change in lifestyles in confinement suggest the need to tailor support and advice to different population groups. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Nutrition and Public Health)

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30 pages, 548 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceReview

Polyphenols and Human Health: The Role of Bioavailability

by Chiara Di Lorenzo, Francesca Colombo, Simone Biella, Creina Stockley and Patrizia Restani

Nutrients 2021, 13(1), 273; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu13010273 - 19 Jan 2021

Cited by 358 | Viewed by 17384

Abstract

Polyphenols are a group of phytochemicals with potential health-promoting effects. They are classified as flavonoid (flavonols, flavanols, flavones, flavanones, isoflavones, and anthocyanins) and non-flavonoid molecules (phenolic acids, hydroxycinnamic acids, lignans, stilbenes, and tannins). Although an increasing number of trials have shown a correlation [...] Read more.

Polyphenols are a group of phytochemicals with potential health-promoting effects. They are classified as flavonoid (flavonols, flavanols, flavones, flavanones, isoflavones, and anthocyanins) and non-flavonoid molecules (phenolic acids, hydroxycinnamic acids, lignans, stilbenes, and tannins). Although an increasing number of trials have shown a correlation among polyphenol consumption and a reduction in risk factors for chronic diseases, discrepancies in explaining their positive effects have been found in terms of the bioavailability. In fact, polyphenols show a low bioavailability due to several factors: interaction with the food matrix, the metabolic processes mediated by the liver (phase I and II metabolism), intestine and microbiota. On the other hand, the biological activities of phenol compounds may be mediated by their metabolites, which are produced in vivo, and recent studies have confirmed that these molecules may have antioxidant and anti-phlogistic properties. This review discusses the studies performed in vivo, which consider the polyphenol bioavailability and their different food sources. Factors influencing the biological effects of the main classes of polyphenols are also considered. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Polyphenol-Rich Foods for Human Health)

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23 pages, 3486 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceReview

Curcumin, Quercetin, Catechins and Metabolic Diseases: The Role of Gut Microbiota

by Umair Shabbir, Momna Rubab, Eric Banan-Mwine Daliri, Ramachandran Chelliah, Ahsan Javed and Deog-Hwan Oh

Nutrients 2021, 13(1), 206; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu13010206 - 12 Jan 2021

Cited by 158 | Viewed by 17422

Abstract

Polyphenols (PPs) are the naturally occurring bioactive components in fruits and vegetables, and they are the most abundant antioxidant in the human diet. Studies are suggesting that ingestion of PPs might be helpful to ameliorate metabolic syndromes that may contribute in the prevention [...] Read more.

Polyphenols (PPs) are the naturally occurring bioactive components in fruits and vegetables, and they are the most abundant antioxidant in the human diet. Studies are suggesting that ingestion of PPs might be helpful to ameliorate metabolic syndromes that may contribute in the prevention of several chronic disorders like diabetes, obesity, hypertension, and colon cancer. PPs have structural diversity which impacts their bioavailability as they accumulate in the large intestine and are extensively metabolized through gut microbiota (GM). Intestinal microbiota transforms PPs into their metabolites to make them bioactive. Interestingly, not only GM act on PPs to metabolize them but PPs also modulate the composition of GM. Thus, change in GM from pathogenic to beneficial ones may be helpful to ameliorate gut health and associated diseases. However, to overcome the low bioavailability of PPs, various approaches have been developed to improve their solubility and transportation through the gut. In this review, we present evidence supporting the structural changes that occur after metabolic reactions in PPs (curcumin, quercetin, and catechins) and their effect on GM composition that leads to improving overall gut health and helping to ameliorate metabolic disorders. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Dietary Polyphenols and Their Role in Gut Health)

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31 pages, 3582 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceReview

Bioactive Compounds for Skin Health: A Review

by Monika Michalak, Monika Pierzak, Beata Kręcisz and Edyta Suliga

Nutrients 2021, 13(1), 203; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu13010203 - 12 Jan 2021

Cited by 100 | Viewed by 30545

Abstract

Human skin is continually changing. The condition of the skin largely depends on the individual’s overall state of health. A balanced diet plays an important role in the proper functioning of the human body, including the skin. The present study draws attention to [...] Read more.

Human skin is continually changing. The condition of the skin largely depends on the individual’s overall state of health. A balanced diet plays an important role in the proper functioning of the human body, including the skin. The present study draws attention to bioactive substances, i.e., vitamins, minerals, fatty acids, polyphenols, and carotenoids, with a particular focus on their effects on the condition of the skin. The aim of the study was to review the literature on the effects of bioactive substances on skin parameters such as elasticity, firmness, wrinkles, senile dryness, hydration and color, and to define their role in the process of skin ageing. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Natural and Synthetic Bioactives for Skin Health, Disease and Management)

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18 pages, 1226 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceReview

A Narrative Review on Sarcopenia in Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus: Prevalence and Associated Factors

by Anna Izzo, Elena Massimino, Gabriele Riccardi and Giuseppe Della Pepa

Nutrients 2021, 13(1), 183; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu13010183 - 09 Jan 2021

Cited by 157 | Viewed by 13638

Abstract

Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) represents a major health burden for the elderly population, affecting approximately 25% of people over the age of 65 years. This percentage is expected to increase dramatically in the next decades in relation to the increased longevity of [...] Read more.

Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) represents a major health burden for the elderly population, affecting approximately 25% of people over the age of 65 years. This percentage is expected to increase dramatically in the next decades in relation to the increased longevity of the population observed in recent years. Beyond microvascular and macrovascular complications, sarcopenia has been described as a new diabetes complication in the elderly population. Increasing attention has been paid by researchers and clinicians to this age-related condition—characterized by loss of skeletal muscle mass together with the loss of muscle power and function—in individuals with T2DM; this is due to the heavy impact that sarcopenia may have on physical and psychosocial health of diabetic patients, thus affecting their quality of life. The aim of this narrative review is to provide an update on: (1) the risk of sarcopenia in individuals with T2DM, and (2) its association with relevant features of patients with T2DM such as age, gender, body mass index, disease duration, glycemic control, presence of microvascular or macrovascular complications, nutritional status, and glucose-lowering drugs. From a clinical point of view, it is necessary to improve the ability of physicians and dietitians to recognize early sarcopenia and its risk factors in patients with T2DM in order to make appropriate therapeutic approaches able to prevent and treat this condition. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Nutritional Epidemiology)

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33 pages, 2067 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceReview

Regulation of Postabsorptive and Postprandial Glucose Metabolism by Insulin-Dependent and Insulin-Independent Mechanisms: An Integrative Approach

by George D. Dimitriadis, Eirini Maratou, Aikaterini Kountouri, Mary Board and Vaia Lambadiari

Nutrients 2021, 13(1), 159; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu13010159 - 06 Jan 2021

Cited by 67 | Viewed by 12547

Abstract

Glucose levels in blood must be constantly maintained within a tight physiological range to sustain anabolism. Insulin regulates glucose homeostasis via its effects on glucose production from the liver and kidneys and glucose disposal in peripheral tissues (mainly skeletal muscle). Blood levels of [...] Read more.

Glucose levels in blood must be constantly maintained within a tight physiological range to sustain anabolism. Insulin regulates glucose homeostasis via its effects on glucose production from the liver and kidneys and glucose disposal in peripheral tissues (mainly skeletal muscle). Blood levels of glucose are regulated simultaneously by insulin-mediated rates of glucose production from the liver (and kidneys) and removal from muscle; adipose tissue is a key partner in this scenario, providing nonesterified fatty acids (NEFA) as an alternative fuel for skeletal muscle and liver when blood glucose levels are depleted. During sleep at night, the gradual development of insulin resistance, due to growth hormone and cortisol surges, ensures that blood glucose levels will be maintained within normal levels by: (a) switching from glucose to NEFA oxidation in muscle; (b) modulating glucose production from the liver/kidneys. After meals, several mechanisms (sequence/composition of meals, gastric emptying/intestinal glucose absorption, gastrointestinal hormones, hyperglycemia mass action effects, insulin/glucagon secretion/action, de novo lipogenesis and glucose disposal) operate in concert for optimal regulation of postprandial glucose fluctuations. The contribution of the liver in postprandial glucose homeostasis is critical. The liver is preferentially used to dispose over 50% of the ingested glucose and restrict the acute increases of glucose and insulin in the bloodstream after meals, thus protecting the circulation and tissues from the adverse effects of marked hyperglycemia and hyperinsulinemia. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Dietary Glycemic Index and Glycemic Load: Clinical Significance and Limitations in the Prevention, Pathophysiology, and Treatment of Disease)

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13 pages, 457 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceReview

Dietary Factors Modulating Colorectal Carcinogenesis

by Filippo Vernia, Salvatore Longo, Gianpiero Stefanelli, Angelo Viscido and Giovanni Latella

Nutrients 2021, 13(1), 143; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu13010143 - 03 Jan 2021

Cited by 68 | Viewed by 9091

Abstract

The development of colorectal cancer, responsible for 9% of cancer-related deaths, is favored by a combination of genetic and environmental factors. The modification of diet and lifestyle may modify the risk of colorectal cancer (CRC) and prevent neoplasia in up to 50% of [...] Read more.

The development of colorectal cancer, responsible for 9% of cancer-related deaths, is favored by a combination of genetic and environmental factors. The modification of diet and lifestyle may modify the risk of colorectal cancer (CRC) and prevent neoplasia in up to 50% of cases. The Western diet, characterized by a high intake of fat, red meat and processed meat has emerged as an important contributor. Conversely, a high intake of dietary fiber partially counteracts the unfavorable effects of meat through multiple mechanisms, including reduced intestinal transit time and dilution of carcinogenic compounds. Providing antioxidants (e.g., vitamins C and E) and leading to increased intraluminal production of protective fermentation products, like butyrate, represent other beneficial and useful effects of a fiber-rich diet. Protective effects on the risk of developing colorectal cancer have been also advocated for some specific micronutrients like vitamin D, selenium, and calcium. Diet-induced modifications of the gut microbiota modulate colonic epithelial cell homeostasis and carcinogenesis. This can have, under different conditions, opposite effects on the risk of CRC, through the production of mutagenic and carcinogenic agents or, conversely, of protective compounds. The aim of this review is to summarize the most recent evidence on the role of diet as a potential risk factor for the development of colorectal malignancies, as well as providing possible prevention dietary strategies. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Assessing the Role of Diet and Nutrients in Immunity, Autoimmunity and Cancer)

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