Editorial

6 pages, 221 KiB

Open AccessEditorial

The Effects of Nutrition on Chronic Conditions

by Omorogieva Ojo and Amanda Rodrigues Amorim Adegboye

Nutrients 2023, 15(5), 1066; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu15051066 - 21 Feb 2023

Viewed by 2453

The effects of nutrition on chronic conditions, such as diabetes, obesity, heart disease, and stroke, continue to generate interest among researchers [...] Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nutrition in Chronic Conditions)

Research

Jump to: Editorial, Review, Other

11 pages, 1174 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Postprandial Responses to a Standardised Meal in Hypertension: The Mediatory Role of Visceral Fat Mass

by Panayiotis Louca, Sarah E. Berry, Kate Bermingham, Paul W. Franks, Jonathan Wolf, Tim D. Spector, Ana M. Valdes, Phil Chowienczyk and Cristina Menni

Nutrients 2022, 14(21), 4499; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu14214499 - 26 Oct 2022

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 6271

Abstract

Postprandial insulinaemia, triglyceridaemia and measures of inflammation are thought to be more closely associated with cardiovascular risk than fasting measures. Although hypertension is associated with altered fasting metabolism, it is unknown as to what extent postprandial lipaemic and inflammatory metabolic responses differ between [...] Read more.

Postprandial insulinaemia, triglyceridaemia and measures of inflammation are thought to be more closely associated with cardiovascular risk than fasting measures. Although hypertension is associated with altered fasting metabolism, it is unknown as to what extent postprandial lipaemic and inflammatory metabolic responses differ between hypertensive and normotensive individuals. Linear models adjusting for age, sex, body mass index (BMI), visceral fat mass (VFM) and multiple testing (false discovery rate), were used to investigate whether hypertensive cases and normotensive controls had different fasting and postprandial (in response to two standardised test meal challenges) lipaemic, glycaemic, insulinaemic, and inflammatory (glycoprotein acetylation (GlycA)) responses in 989 participants from the ZOE PREDICT-1 nutritional intervention study. Compared to normotensive controls, hypertensive individuals had significantly higher fasting and postprandial insulin, triglycerides, and markers of inflammation after adjusting for age, sex, and BMI (effect size: Beta (Standard Error) ranging from 0.17 (0.08), p = 0.04 for peak insulin to 0.29 (0.08), p = 4.4 × 10⁻⁴ for peak GlycA). No difference was seen for postprandial glucose. When further adjusting for VFM effects were attenuated. Causal mediation analysis suggests that 36% of the variance in postprandial insulin response and 33.8% of variance in postprandial triglyceride response were mediated by VFM. Hypertensive individuals have different postprandial insulinaemic and lipaemic responses compared to normotensive controls and this is partially mediated by visceral fat mass. Consequently, reducing VFM should be a key focus of health interventions in hypertension. Trial registration: The ClinicalTrials.gov registration identifier is NCT03479866. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nutrition in Chronic Conditions)

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15 pages, 314 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Association between Dietary Habits and Helicobacter pylori Infection among Bahraini Adults

by Fatema Habbash, Tariq Abdulkarim Alalwan, Simone Perna, Naila Ahmed, Omar Sharif, Adel Al Sayyad, Clara Gasparri, Cinzia Ferraris and Mariangela Rondanelli

Nutrients 2022, 14(19), 4215; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu14194215 - 10 Oct 2022

Cited by 6 | Viewed by 3523

Abstract

Helicobacter pylori (H. Pylori) infection is the main bacterial cause of several gastrointestinal disorders. This study aims to estimate the prevalence of H. pylori infection in a population of Bahraini adults seeking care in gastroenterology clinics in a tertiary care hospital [...] Read more.

Helicobacter pylori (H. Pylori) infection is the main bacterial cause of several gastrointestinal disorders. This study aims to estimate the prevalence of H. pylori infection in a population of Bahraini adults seeking care in gastroenterology clinics in a tertiary care hospital in the Kingdom of Bahrain and examine the association between dietary habits and other factors with H. pylori infection. The study is a hospital-based retrospective, cross-sectional analytical study that included 200 participants. H. pylori infection prevalence among the studied group was 55.5%, and it was significantly higher among participants with a high school education or less (44.1%). Among dietary habits, the mean of frequency of green tea, coffee and honey intake was significantly lower among the H. pylori infected participants compared to their non-infected counterparts. H. pylori infection was significantly higher among participants with vitamin D deficiency (63.6%) compared to participants with normal vitamin D (30%) (p = 0.001) and each unit decrease in serum vitamin D was associated with an increased risk of infection by 1.1 times (OR = 1.1; 95% CI: 1.05, 1.18; p < 0.001). The study revealed that high educational levels, consumption of honey, green tea, and coffee, as well as normal serum vitamin D level, were independent protectors against H. pylori infection. Additional studies are needed to estimate the prevalence and predisposing factors of H. pylori infection in the general population. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nutrition in Chronic Conditions)

13 pages, 1927 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Association of Dietary Fiber Intake with All-Cause Mortality and Cardiovascular Disease Mortality: A 10-Year Prospective Cohort Study

by Yu-Jin Kwon, Hye-Sun Lee, Goeun Park, Hyung-Mi Kim and Ji-Won Lee

Nutrients 2022, 14(15), 3089; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu14153089 - 27 Jul 2022

Cited by 9 | Viewed by 3455

Abstract

Although previous studies have established that dietary fiber (DF) intake reduces the total cardiovascular disease (CVD) mortality in general populations, limited studies have been conducted in individuals with pre-existing chronic conditions, especially in Asian countries. We aimed to investigate the association of DF [...] Read more.

Although previous studies have established that dietary fiber (DF) intake reduces the total cardiovascular disease (CVD) mortality in general populations, limited studies have been conducted in individuals with pre-existing chronic conditions, especially in Asian countries. We aimed to investigate the association of DF intake with all-cause and CVD mortality in the general population and in the subpopulation with hypertension, diabetes, and dyslipidemia. We examined the relationship between DF intake and all-cause and CVD mortality using the Korean genome and epidemiology study. Diet was assessed using a food-frequency questionnaire at baseline. Cox proportional hazard models were used to estimate the hazard ratio (HR) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) after adjusting for confounders. During the mean 10.1 years of follow-up, higher DF intake was significantly associated with a lower risk of all-cause mortality after adjusting for confounders (HR and 95% CIs for Q5 vs. Q1: 0.84 (0.76–0.93); p < 0.001). DF intake was inversely associated with a lower risk of CVD mortality after adjusting for the same confounders (HR and 95% CIs for Q5 vs. Q1: 0.61 (0.47–0.78); p < 0.001). Total DF intake was inversely associated with all-cause and CVD mortality in middle-aged and older adults. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nutrition in Chronic Conditions)

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11 pages, 776 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Comparison of Quality of Carbohydrate Metrics Related to Fasting Insulin, Glycosylated Hemoglobin and HOMA-IR in Brazilian Adolescents

by Camilla Medeiros Macedo da Rocha, Vanessa Proêza Maciel Gama, Amanda de Moura Souza, Edna Massae Yokoo, Eliseu Verly Junior, Katia Vergetti Bloch and Rosely Sichieri

Nutrients 2022, 14(12), 2544; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu14122544 - 19 Jun 2022

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2284

Abstract

Low glycemic index (GI) and glycemic load (GL) diets are effective for glycemic control (GC) associated with a carbohydrate-controlled meal plan. However, whether GI and GL peaks are related to GC is unknown. Objective: To compare the daily GI (DGI)/GL (DGL) and average [...] Read more.

Low glycemic index (GI) and glycemic load (GL) diets are effective for glycemic control (GC) associated with a carbohydrate-controlled meal plan. However, whether GI and GL peaks are related to GC is unknown. Objective: To compare the daily GI (DGI)/GL (DGL) and average GI (AvGI)/GL (AvGL) of meals (accounting for peaks) related to GC markers (GCM) in Brazilian adolescents. Methods: A representative national school-based (public/private) sample of students without diabetes, 12–17 years of age, was evaluated. Food intake was based on a 24 h recall. The models for complex cluster sampling were adjusted (sex, sexual maturation, age, and physical activity). Results: Of 35,737 students, 74% were from public schools, 60% girls, 17% overweight, and 8% obese. The minimum DGI and DGL were observed at lunch, with higher values at night. Fasting insulin was 1.5 times higher in overweight/obese (OW) girls, and 1.7 times higher in OW boys than in normal-weight (NW) girls. The same trend was observed for the homeostatic model assessment for insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) (OW = 2.82 vs. NW = 1.84 in girls; OW = 2.66 vs. NW = 1.54 in boys; p < 0.05). The daily and average metrics were greater for NW adolescents. Glycosylated hemoglobin was not associated with these metrics, except for AvGL. Insulin and HOMA-IR were associated with all metrics in NW adolescents, with greater coefficients associated with AvGL. Among overweight/obese adolescents, only GI metrics were associated (β = 0.23; AvGI and insulin) and appeared to have the best association with GCM. Conclusions: Among NW adolescents, GL is a better measure of carbohydrate quality, but for those with overweight/obesity, carbohydrate consumption is more associated with GC, probably because they eat/report small amounts of carbohydrates. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nutrition in Chronic Conditions)

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11 pages, 276 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Handgrip Strength Values Depend on Tumor Entity and Predict 180-Day Mortality in Malnourished Cancer Patients

by Pascal Tribolet, Nina Kaegi-Braun, Carla Gressies, Annic Baumgartner, Karl-Heinz Wagner, Zeno Stanga and Philipp Schuetz

Nutrients 2022, 14(10), 2173; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu14102173 - 23 May 2022

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 2038

Abstract

Background: Cancer-related malnutrition is a prevalent condition associated with a loss of muscle mass and impaired functional status, leading to immunodeficiency, impaired quality of life and adverse clinical outcomes. Handgrip strength (HGS) is a practical measure to assess muscle strength in individual patients [...] Read more.

Background: Cancer-related malnutrition is a prevalent condition associated with a loss of muscle mass and impaired functional status, leading to immunodeficiency, impaired quality of life and adverse clinical outcomes. Handgrip strength (HGS) is a practical measure to assess muscle strength in individual patients during clinical practice. However, HGS reference values refer to populations of healthy people, and population-specific values, such as those in the population of cancer patients, still need to be defined. Methods: Within a secondary analysis of a previous randomized controlled nutritional trial focusing on hospitalized cancer patients at risk for malnutrition, we investigated sex-specific HGS values stratified by age and tumor entity. Additionally, we examined the association between HGS and 180-day all-cause mortality. Results: We included data from 628 cancer patients, which were collected from eight hospitals in Switzerland. Depending on the age of patients, HGS varied among female patients from 7 kg to 26 kg and among male patients from 20.5 kg to 44 kg. An incremental decrease in handgrip strength by 10 kg resulted in a 50% increase in 180-day all-cause mortality (odds ratio 1.52 (95%CI 1.19 to 1.94), p = 0.001). Conclusion: Our data provide evidence of the prognostic implications of HGS measurement in cancer patients and validate the prognostic value of handgrip strength in regard to long-term mortality. In addition, our results provide expected HGS values in the population of hospitalized malnourished cancer patients, which may allow better interpretation of values in individual patients. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nutrition in Chronic Conditions)

20 pages, 1625 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Ginkgo Biloba Leaf Extract Improves an Innate Immune Response of Peripheral Blood Leukocytes of Alzheimer’s Disease Patients

by Marta Sochocka, Michał Ochnik, Maciej Sobczyński, Katarzyna Gębura, Aleksandra Zambrowicz, Piotr Naporowski and Jerzy Leszek

Nutrients 2022, 14(10), 2022; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu14102022 - 11 May 2022

Cited by 8 | Viewed by 2515

Abstract

Background: One of the main features of Alzheimer’s disease (AD) pathology is failure in innate immune response and chronic inflammation. Lack of effective AD treatment means that more attention is paid to alternative therapy and drugs of natural origin, such as extract of [...] Read more.

Background: One of the main features of Alzheimer’s disease (AD) pathology is failure in innate immune response and chronic inflammation. Lack of effective AD treatment means that more attention is paid to alternative therapy and drugs of natural origin, such as extract of Ginkgo biloba (EGb). The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of EGb on the mechanisms of innate immune response of peripheral blood leukocytes (PBLs) in AD patients. Methods: In AD patients and healthy-age matched controls, the effect of EGb on two of innate immune reactions, i.e., PBLs resistance to viral infection ex vivo and production of cytokines, namely TNF-α, IFN-γ, IL-1β, IL-10, IL-15, and IFN-α, were investigated. The influence of EGb on inflammatory-associated genes expression that regulate innate immune response to viral infection and cytokine production, namely IRF-3, IRF-7, tetherin, SOCS1, SOCS3, NFKB1, p65, and MxA was also examined. Results: A beneficial effect of EGb especially in AD women was observed. EGb decreased production of TNF-α, IFN-γ, and IL-10 and increased IL-15 and IL-1β. The effect was more pronouncement in AD group. EGb also downregulated expression of investigated genes. Conclusions: EGb may have an advantageous properties for health management in elderly and AD sufferers but especially in women with AD. Improving peripheral innate immune cells’ activity by adding EGb as accompanying treatment in AD may be, in the long term, a good course to modify the disease progression. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nutrition in Chronic Conditions)

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12 pages, 1102 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Side-Effects of the COVID-19 Pandemic: Increased BMI z-Score in Children with Overweight and Obesity in a Personalised Lifestyle Intervention One Year after the Start of the Pandemic in The Netherlands

by Lisanne Arayess, Nienke Knockaert, Bjorn Winkens, Judith W. Lubrecht, Marjoke Verweij and Anita C. E. Vreugdenhil

Nutrients 2022, 14(9), 1942; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu14091942 - 05 May 2022

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 2396

Abstract

Background: Early research showed weight gain in children during the COVID-19 pandemic. Objective: To compare changes in BMI z-score of children with overweight and obesity in a personalised lifestyle intervention before and during the pandemic. Methods: Changes in BMI z-score half a year [...] Read more.

Background: Early research showed weight gain in children during the COVID-19 pandemic. Objective: To compare changes in BMI z-score of children with overweight and obesity in a personalised lifestyle intervention before and during the pandemic. Methods: Changes in BMI z-score half a year (T6) and twelve months (T12) after the first lockdown were included for 71 children in the ‘2020 during COVID’ group and compared to 48 children in the ‘2019 before COVID’ group, using a marginal model for repeated measures (model 1). Model 2 corrected for lifestyle intervention characteristics, and model 3 corrected additionally for family characteristics. Results: The mean difference in BMI z-score change was significantly different at T12 (+0.07 in 2020 versus −0.09 in 2019, p = 0.022). Model 3 showed significant differences in BMI z-score change at both T6 (+0.15, p = 0.024) and T12 (+0.18, p = 0.016). This model also defined ‘having a mother with obesity’ (+0.13, p = 0.019) and the frequency of no-show consultations (+0.41 per missed consultation per month, p = 0.025) as related factors. Conclusions: Lifestyle intervention in children with overweight and obesity is less successful in decreasing BMI z-score during the COVID-pandemic. Identified risk factors for less success could contribute to identifying children with higher risks for, and possibly prevent, BMI z-score increase. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nutrition in Chronic Conditions)

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12 pages, 888 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Prevalence of Micronutrient Deficiencies in Patients Hospitalized with COVID-19: An Observational Cohort Study

by Manyola Voelkle, Claudia Gregoriano, Peter Neyer, Daniel Koch, Alexander Kutz, Luca Bernasconi, Anna Conen, Beat Mueller and Philipp Schuetz

Nutrients 2022, 14(9), 1862; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu14091862 - 29 Apr 2022

Cited by 23 | Viewed by 3435

Abstract

Background: A higher risk for severe clinical courses of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has been linked to deficiencies of several micronutrients. We therefore studied the prevalence of deficiencies of eight different micronutrients in a cohort of hospitalized COVID-19-patients. Methods: We measured admission serum/plasma [...] Read more.

Background: A higher risk for severe clinical courses of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has been linked to deficiencies of several micronutrients. We therefore studied the prevalence of deficiencies of eight different micronutrients in a cohort of hospitalized COVID-19-patients. Methods: We measured admission serum/plasma levels of vitamins A, B12, D, and E, as well as folic acid, zinc, selenium, and copper in 57 consecutively admitted adult patients with confirmed COVID-19 and analyzed prevalence of micronutrient deficiencies and correlations among micronutrient levels. Further, we studied associations of micronutrient levels with severe disease progression, a composite endpoint consisting of in-hospital mortality and/or need for intensive care unit (ICU) treatment with logistic regression. Results: Median age was 67.0 years (IQR 60.0, 74.2) and 60% (n = 34) were male. Overall, 79% (n = 45) of patients had at least one deficient micronutrient level and 33% (n = 19) had ≥3 deficiencies. Most prevalent deficiencies were found for selenium, vitamin D, vitamin A, and zinc (51%, 40%, 39%, and 39%, respectively). We found several correlations among micronutrients with correlation coefficients ranging from r = 0.27 to r = 0.42. The strongest associations with lower risk for severe COVID-19 disease progression (adjusted odds ratios) were found for higher levels of vitamin A (0.18, 95% CI 0.05–0.69, p = 0.01), zinc (0.73, 95% CI 0.55–0.98, p = 0.03), and folic acid (0.88, 95% CI 0.78–0.98, p = 0.02). Conclusions: We found a high prevalence of micronutrient deficiencies in mostly older patients hospitalized for COVID-19, particularly regarding selenium, vitamin D, vitamin A, and zinc. Several deficiencies were associated with a higher risk for more severe COVID-19 courses. Whether supplementation of micronutrients is useful for prevention of severe clinical courses or treatment of COVID-19 warrants further research. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nutrition in Chronic Conditions)

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13 pages, 515 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Economic Evaluation of Individualized Nutritional Support for Hospitalized Patients with Chronic Heart Failure

by Philipp Schuetz, Suela Sulo, Stefan Walzer, Sebastian Krenberger, Zeno Stagna, Filomena Gomes, Beat Mueller and Cory Brunton

Nutrients 2022, 14(9), 1703; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu14091703 - 20 Apr 2022

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 2833

Abstract

Background Malnutrition is a highly prevalent risk factor in hospitalized patients with chronic heart failure (CHF). A recent randomized trial found lower mortality and improved health outcomes when CHF patients with nutritional risk received individualized nutritional treatment. Objective To estimate the cost-effectiveness of [...] Read more.

Background Malnutrition is a highly prevalent risk factor in hospitalized patients with chronic heart failure (CHF). A recent randomized trial found lower mortality and improved health outcomes when CHF patients with nutritional risk received individualized nutritional treatment. Objective To estimate the cost-effectiveness of individualized nutritional support in hospitalized patients with CHF. Methods This analysis used data from CHF patients at risk of malnutrition (N = 645) who were part of the Effect of Early Nutritional Therapy on Frailty, Functional Outcomes and Recovery of Undernourished Medical Inpatients Trial (EFFORT). Study patients with CHF were randomized into (i) an intervention group (individualized nutritional support to reach energy, protein, and micronutrient goals) or (ii) a control group (receiving standard hospital food). We used a Markov model with daily cycles (over a 6-month interval) to estimate hospital costs and health outcomes in the comparator groups, thus modeling cost-effectiveness ratios of nutritional interventions. Results With nutritional support, the modeled total additional cost over the 6-month interval was 15,159 Swiss Francs (SF). With an additional 5.77 life days, the overall incremental cost-effectiveness ratio for nutritional support vs. no nutritional support was 2625 SF per life day gained. In terms of complications, patients receiving nutritional support had a cost savings of 6214 SF and an additional 4.11 life days without complications, yielding an incremental cost-effectiveness ratio for avoided complications of 1513 SF per life day gained. Conclusions On the basis of a Markov model, this economic analysis found that in-hospital nutritional support for CHF patients increased life expectancy at an acceptable incremental cost-effectiveness ratio. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nutrition in Chronic Conditions)

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9 pages, 523 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Influence of Obesity on Bone Turnover Markers and Fracture Risk in Postmenopausal Women

by Juan J. López-Gómez, José L. Pérez-Castrillón, Isabel García de Santos, María Pérez-Alonso, Olatz Izaola-Jauregui, David Primo-Martín and Daniel A. De Luis-Román

Nutrients 2022, 14(8), 1617; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu14081617 - 13 Apr 2022

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 2397

Abstract

Background and aims: The relationship between obesity and bone metabolism is controversial. In recent decades, the protective role of obesity in the development of osteoporosis is questioned. The aims of this study are the following: to evaluate the differences in bone turnover markers [...] Read more.

Background and aims: The relationship between obesity and bone metabolism is controversial. In recent decades, the protective role of obesity in the development of osteoporosis is questioned. The aims of this study are the following: to evaluate the differences in bone turnover markers between postmenopausal women with and without obesity and to compare the risk of fracture at five years between these groups. Methods: An observational longitudinal prospective cohort study of postmenopausal women with obesity (O) (body mass index (BMI) > 30 kg/m²) and non-obesity (NoO) (BMI < 30 kg/m²) is designed. 250 postmenopausal women are included in the study (NoO: 124 (49.6%) and O: 126 (50.4%)). It measures epidemiological variables, dietary variables (calcium intake, vitamin D intake, smoking, alcohol consumption, and physical activity), biochemicals (β-crosslap, type I procollagen amino-terminal peptide (P1NP), 25OH-vitamin D, and parathyroid hormone (PTH)), anthropometric variables, and fracture data five years after the start of the study. The mean age is 56.17 (3.91) years. Women with obesity showed lower levels of vitamin D (O: 17.27 (7.85) ng/mL, NoO: 24.51 (9.60) ng/mL; p < 0.01), and higher levels of PTH (O: 53.24 (38.44–65.96) pg/mL, NoO: 35.24 (25.36–42.40) pg/mL; p < 0.01). Regarding the bone formation marker (P1NP), it was found to be high in women without obesity, O: 45.46 (34.39–55.16) ng/mL, NoO: 56.74 (45.34–70.74) ng/mL; p < 0.01; the bone resorption marker (β-crosslap) was found to be high in women with obesity, being significant in those older than 59 years (O: 0.39 (0.14) ng/mL, NoO 0.24 (0.09) ng/mL; p < 0.05). No differences are observed in the risk of fracture at 5 years based on BMI (OR = 0.90 (95%CI 0.30–2.72); p = 0.85). Conclusions: Postmenopausal women with obesity showed lower levels of bone formation markers; older women with obesity showed higher markers of bone resorption. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nutrition in Chronic Conditions)

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11 pages, 1719 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Coffee Restores Expression of lncRNAs Involved in Steatosis and Fibrosis in a Mouse Model of NAFLD

by Stefania Di Mauro, Federico Salomone, Alessandra Scamporrino, Agnese Filippello, Filomena Morisco, Maria Guido, Vincenzo Lembo, Valentina Cossiga, Rosaria Maria Pipitone, Stefania Grimaudo, Roberta Malaguarnera, Francesco Purrello and Salvatore Piro

Nutrients 2021, 13(9), 2952; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu13092952 - 25 Aug 2021

Cited by 19 | Viewed by 3086

Abstract

Background and aim: Coffee intake exerts protective effects against non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), although without fully cleared mechanisms. In this study we aimed to assess whether coffee consumption may influence the expression of long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) in the liver. Methods: C57BL/6J [...] Read more.

Background and aim: Coffee intake exerts protective effects against non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), although without fully cleared mechanisms. In this study we aimed to assess whether coffee consumption may influence the expression of long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) in the liver. Methods: C57BL/6J mice were fed a 12-week standard diet (SD), high-fat diet (HFD) or HFD plus decaffeinated coffee solution (HFD + coffee). Expression of specific lncRNAs involved in NAFLD was analyzed by real-time PCR. For the most differentially expressed lncRNAs, the analysis was also extended to their mRNA targets. Results: Decaffeinated coffee intake reduced body weight gain, prevented NAFLD, lowered hyperglycemia and hypercholesterolemia. NAFLD was associated with lower hepatic expression of Gm16551, a lncRNA inhibiting de novo lipogenesis, and higher expression of H19, a lncRNA promoting fibrogenesis. Coffee intake restored Gm16551 to levels observed in lean mice and downregulated gene expression of its targets acetyl coenzyme A carboxylase 1 and stearoyl coenzyme A desaturase 1. Furthermore, coffee consumption markedly decreased hepatic expression of H19 and of its target gene collagen alpha-1(I) chain; consistently, in mice fed HFD + coffee liver expression of αSMA protein returned to levels of mice fed SD. Expression of lncRNA involved in circadian clock such as fatty liver-related lncRNA 1 (FLRL1) and fatty liver-related lncRNA 2 (FLRL2) were upregulated by HFD and were also modulated by coffee intake. Conclusion. Hepatoprotective effects of coffee may be depending on the modulation of lncRNAs involved in key pathways of NAFLD onset and progression. Full article

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Review

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24 pages, 2420 KiB

Open AccessReview

The Effect of Prebiotics and Oral Anti-Diabetic Agents on Gut Microbiome in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes: A Systematic Review and Network Meta-Analysis of Randomised Controlled Trials

by Omorogieva Ojo, Xiaohua Wang, Osarhumwese Osaretin Ojo, Joanne Brooke, Yiqing Jiang, Qingqing Dong and Trevor Thompson

Nutrients 2022, 14(23), 5139; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu14235139 - 02 Dec 2022

Cited by 11 | Viewed by 3947

Abstract

Background: Nutritional interventions such as the use of prebiotics can promote eubiosis of gut microbiome and maintain glucose homeostasis in patients with type 2 diabetes (T2D). However, it would appear that results of the effects of prebiotics on the community of microbes in [...] Read more.

Background: Nutritional interventions such as the use of prebiotics can promote eubiosis of gut microbiome and maintain glucose homeostasis in patients with type 2 diabetes (T2D). However, it would appear that results of the effects of prebiotics on the community of microbes in the gut are not consistent. Aim: To examine the effect of prebiotics and oral antidiabetic agents on gut microbiome in patients with T2D. Methods: The PRISMA Extension Statement for Systematic Reviews and Network Meta-analyses was used to conduct this review. Searches were carried out in EMBASE, EBSCO-host databases, Google Scholar and the reference lists of articles for studies that are relevant to the research question, from database inception to 15 August 2022. The search strategy was based on PICOS framework. Network Meta-analysis which allows the estimation of relative treatment effects by combing both direct trial evidence (e.g., treatment A vs. treatment B) and indirect evidence was conducted. Furthermore, pairwise meta-analysis was also carried out to estimate effect sizes based on head-to-head comparisons of treatments and/or control conditions. Results: Findings of the Network meta-analysis revealed that prebiotics significantly reduced HbA1c compared with control and the SMD was −0.43 [95% CI, −0.77, −0.08; p = 0.02], whereas there was no significant difference (p > 0.05) between the other treatments and control. In addition, anti-diabetic agents including glipizide and metformin also reduced HbA1C, although these were not significantly different (p > 0.05) from control. While prebiotics promoted Bifidobacterium and Akkermansia, the improvements were not significantly different (p > 0.05) from control. On the other hand, metformin decreased the relative abundance of Bifidobacterium, but increased Lactobacillus and Akkermansia, although the differences were not significant (p > 0.05) compared with control. With respect to fasting blood glucose and BMI, the effects of prebiotics and oral antidiabetic agents did not differ significantly (p > 0.05) from controls. Conclusions: The findings of the systematic review and Network meta-analysis demonstrated prebiotics were significantly (p < 0.05) more effective in reducing HbA1c than control in patients with T2D. However, the effects of prebiotics and oral antidiabetic agents did not differ significantly (p > 0.05) from the controls in relation to fasting blood glucose, post-prandial blood glucose, body mass index and the genera of gut bacteria examined. More studies are required to fully investigate the effects of prebiotics and oral antidiabetic agents in patients with T2D Full article

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17 pages, 2611 KiB

Open AccessReview

The Evolution of Ketosis: Potential Impact on Clinical Conditions

by Latha Nagamani Dilliraj, Giovanna Schiuma, Djidjell Lara, Giovanni Strazzabosco, James Clement, PierPaolo Giovannini, Claudio Trapella, Marco Narducci and Roberta Rizzo

Nutrients 2022, 14(17), 3613; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu14173613 - 01 Sep 2022

Cited by 19 | Viewed by 9781

Abstract

Ketone bodies are small compounds derived from fatty acids that behave as an alternative mitochondrial energy source when insulin levels are low, such as during fasting or strenuous exercise. In addition to the metabolic function of ketone bodies, they also have several signaling [...] Read more.

Ketone bodies are small compounds derived from fatty acids that behave as an alternative mitochondrial energy source when insulin levels are low, such as during fasting or strenuous exercise. In addition to the metabolic function of ketone bodies, they also have several signaling functions separate from energy production. In this perspective, we review the main current data referring to ketone bodies in correlation with nutrition and metabolic pathways as well as to the signaling functions and the potential impact on clinical conditions. Data were selected following eligibility criteria accordingly to the reviewed topic. We used a set of electronic databases (Medline/PubMed, Scopus, Web of Sciences (WOS), Cochrane Library) for a systematic search until July 2022 using MeSH keywords/terms (i.e., ketone bodies, BHB, acetoacetate, inflammation, antioxidant, etc.). The literature data reported in this review need confirmation with consistent clinical trials that might validate the results obtained in in vitro and in vivo in animal models. However, the data on exogenous ketone consumption and the effect on the ketone bodies’ brain uptake and metabolism might spur the research to define the acute and chronic effects of ketone bodies in humans and pursue the possible implication in the prevention and treatment of human diseases. Therefore, additional studies are required to examine the potential systemic and metabolic consequences of ketone bodies. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nutrition in Chronic Conditions)

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19 pages, 1708 KiB

Open AccessReview

The Effects of Almonds on Gut Microbiota, Glycometabolism, and Inflammatory Markers in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomised Controlled Trials

by Omorogieva Ojo, Xiao-Hua Wang, Osarhumwese Osaretin Ojo and Amanda Rodrigues Amorim Adegboye

Nutrients 2021, 13(10), 3377; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu13103377 - 26 Sep 2021

Cited by 13 | Viewed by 5039

Abstract

The use of nutritional interventions for managing diabetes is one of the effective strategies aimed at reducing the global prevalence of the condition, which is on the rise. Almonds are the most consumed tree nut and they are known to be rich sources [...] Read more.

The use of nutritional interventions for managing diabetes is one of the effective strategies aimed at reducing the global prevalence of the condition, which is on the rise. Almonds are the most consumed tree nut and they are known to be rich sources of protein, monounsaturated fatty acids, essential minerals, and dietary fibre. Therefore, the aim of this review was to evaluate the effects of almonds on gut microbiota, glycometabolism, and inflammatory parameters in patients with type 2 diabetes. Methods: This systematic review and meta-analysis was carried out according to the preferred reporting items for systematic review and meta-analysis (PRISMA). EBSCOhost, which encompasses the Health Sciences Research Databases; Google Scholar; EMBASE; and the reference lists of articles were searched based on population, intervention, control, outcome, and study (PICOS) framework. Searches were carried out from database inception until 1 August 2021 based on medical subject headings (MesH) and synonyms. The meta-analysis was carried out with the Review Manager (RevMan) 5.3 software. Results: Nine randomised studies were included in the systematic review and eight were used for the meta-analysis. The results would suggest that almond-based diets have significant effects in promoting the growth of short-chain fatty acid (SCFA)-producing gut microbiota. Furthermore, the meta-analysis showed that almond-based diets were effective in significantly lowering (p < 0.05) glycated haemoglobin (HbA1c) levels and body mass index (BMI) in patients with type 2 diabetes. However, it was also found that the effects of almonds were not significant (p > 0.05) in relation to fasting blood glucose, 2 h postprandial blood glucose, inflammatory markers (C-reactive protein and Tumour necrosis factor α, TNF-α), glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1), homeostatic model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA–IR), and fasting insulin. The biological mechanisms responsible for the outcomes observed in this review in relation to reduction in HbA1c and BMI may be based on the nutrient composition of almonds and the biological effects, including the high fibre content and the low glycaemic index profile. Conclusion: The findings of this systematic review and meta-analysis have shown that almond-based diets may be effective in promoting short-chain fatty acid-producing bacteria and lowering glycated haemoglobin and body mass index in patients with type 2 diabetes compared with control. However, the effects of almonds were not significant (p > 0.05) with respect to fasting blood glucose, 2 h postprandial blood glucose, inflammatory markers (C-reactive protein and TNF-α), GLP-1, HOMA–IR, and fasting insulin. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nutrition in Chronic Conditions)

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16 pages, 552 KiB

Open AccessReview

Chronic Kidney Disease: Role of Diet for a Reduction in the Severity of the Disease

by Tania Naber and Sharad Purohit

Nutrients 2021, 13(9), 3277; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu13093277 - 19 Sep 2021

Cited by 38 | Viewed by 16326

Abstract

Chronic kidney disease affects ~37 million adults in the US, and it is often undiagnosed due to a lack of apparent symptoms in early stages. Chronic kidney disease (CKD) interferes with the body’s physiological and biological mechanisms, such as fluid electrolyte and pH [...] Read more.

Chronic kidney disease affects ~37 million adults in the US, and it is often undiagnosed due to a lack of apparent symptoms in early stages. Chronic kidney disease (CKD) interferes with the body’s physiological and biological mechanisms, such as fluid electrolyte and pH balance, blood pressure regulation, excretion of toxins and waste, vitamin D metabolism, and hormonal regulation. Many CKD patients are at risk of hyperkalemia, hyperphosphatemia, chronic metabolic acidosis, bone deterioration, blood pressure abnormalities, and edema. These risks may be minimized, and the disease’s progression may be slowed through careful monitoring of protein, phosphorus, potassium, sodium, and calcium, relieving symptoms experienced by CKD patients. In this review, the current Kidney Disease Outcomes Quality Initiative (KDOQI) recommendations are highlighted, reflecting the 2020 update, including explanations for the pathophysiology behind the recommendations. The Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension, the Mediterranean diet, and the whole foods plant-based diet are currently being examined for their potential role in delaying CKD progression. Biological explanations for why the whole foods plant-based diet may benefit CKD patients compared to diets that include animal products are examined. Strong evidence continues to support the importance of diet meeting the daily requirement in the prevention and progression of kidney disease, and medical nutrition therapy with a registered dietitian is a critical aspect in medical intervention for CKD. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nutrition in Chronic Conditions)

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22 pages, 784 KiB

Open AccessReview

Metabolic Syndrome: Is It Time to Add the Central Nervous System?

by Milagros Rojas, Mervin Chávez-Castillo, Daniela Pirela, Heliana Parra, Manuel Nava, Maricarmen Chacín, Lissé Angarita, Roberto Añez, Juan Salazar, Rina Ortiz, Samuel Durán Agüero, Marbel Gravini-Donado, Valmore Bermúdez and Edgar Díaz-Camargo

Nutrients 2021, 13(7), 2254; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu13072254 - 30 Jun 2021

Cited by 20 | Viewed by 4661

Abstract

Metabolic syndrome (MS) is a set of cardio-metabolic risk factors that includes central obesity, hyperglycemia, hypertension, and dyslipidemias. The syndrome affects 25% of adults worldwide. The definition of MS has evolved over the last 80 years, with various classification systems and criteria, whose [...] Read more.

Metabolic syndrome (MS) is a set of cardio-metabolic risk factors that includes central obesity, hyperglycemia, hypertension, and dyslipidemias. The syndrome affects 25% of adults worldwide. The definition of MS has evolved over the last 80 years, with various classification systems and criteria, whose limitations and benefits are currently the subject of some controversy. Likewise, hypotheses regarding the etiology of MS add more confusion from clinical and epidemiological points of view. The leading suggestion for the pathophysiology of MS is insulin resistance (IR). IR can affect multiple tissues and organs, from the classic “triumvirate” (myocyte, adipocyte, and hepatocyte) to possible effects on organs considered more recently, such as the central nervous system (CNS). Mild cognitive impairment (MCI) and Alzheimer’s disease (AD) may be clinical expressions of CNS involvement. However, the association between MCI and MS is not understood. The bidirectional relationship that seems to exist between these factors raises the questions of which phenomenon occurs first and whether MCI can be a precursor of MS. This review explores shared pathophysiological mechanisms between MCI and MS and establishes a hypothesis of a possible MCI role in the development of IR and the appearance of MS. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nutrition in Chronic Conditions)

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10 pages, 1794 KiB

Open AccessSystematic Review

Prevalence of Zinc Deficiency in Inflammatory Bowel Disease: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

by Roberta Zupo, Annamaria Sila, Fabio Castellana, Roberto Bringiotti, Margherita Curlo, Giovanni De Pergola, Sara De Nucci, Gianluigi Giannelli, Mauro Mastronardi and Rodolfo Sardone

Nutrients 2022, 14(19), 4052; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu14194052 - 29 Sep 2022

Cited by 12 | Viewed by 6636

Abstract

Malabsorptive disorders are closely associated with micronutrient deficiencies. In inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), trace element deficiencies pose a clinical burden from disease onset throughout its course, contributing to morbidity and poor quality of life. We aimed to conduct a systematic review and meta-analysis [...] Read more.

Malabsorptive disorders are closely associated with micronutrient deficiencies. In inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), trace element deficiencies pose a clinical burden from disease onset throughout its course, contributing to morbidity and poor quality of life. We aimed to conduct a systematic review and meta-analysis of the prevalence of zinc deficiency in IBD. Literature screening was performed on six electronic databases until 1 May 2022. Two independent investigators assessed the 152 retrieved articles for inclusion criteria, met by only nine, that included 17 prevalence entries for Crohn’s disease (CD) (n = 9) and ulcerative colitis (UC) (n = 8). No exclusion criteria were applied to language, deficiency cut-offs, population age, general health status, country, or study setting (cohort or cross-sectional). The prevalence of zinc deficiency in blood was scored positive if due to a single disease, not cumulative factors. Zinc deficiency prevalence across selected studies showed higher values in CD than in UC. Pooled analyses by the IBD subgroup showed a total population of 1677 with CD, for an overall mean zinc deficiency prevalence of 54% and 95% confidence intervals (CI) ranging from 0.51 to 0.56, versus 41% (95%CI 0.38–0.45) in the UC population (n = 806). The overall prevalence at meta-analysis was estimated at 50% (95%CI 0.48–0.52), but with high heterogeneity, I² = 96%. The funnel plot analysis failed to show any evidence of publication bias. The risk of bias across selected studies was moderate to low. In IBD contexts, one of two patients suffers from zinc deficiency. Mismanagement of micronutrient deficiencies plays a role in inflammation trajectories and related cross-pathways. Clinicians in the field are advised to list zinc among trace elements to be monitored in serum. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nutrition in Chronic Conditions)

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