Nutrients

10 pages, 114 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Contribution of Fortified Ready-to-Eat Cereal to Vitamin and Mineral Intake in the U.S. Population, NHANES 2007–2010

by Victor L. Fulgoni III^1,*

and Rita B. Buckley²

¹ Nutrition Impact, LLC, 9725D Drive North, Battle Creek, MI 49014, USA

² Buckley/Swartz, 300 Lynn Shore Drive, #603, Lynn, MA 01902, USA

Nutrients 2015, 7(6), 3949-3958; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu7063949 - 25 May 2015

Cited by 29 | Viewed by 8333

Abstract

Micronutrients play a pivotal role in achieving and maintaining optimum health across all life stages. Much of the U.S. population fails to meet Estimated Average Requirements (EARs) for key nutrients. This analysis aims to assess the contribution of fortified ready-to-eat cereals (RTEC) to [...] Read more.

Micronutrients play a pivotal role in achieving and maintaining optimum health across all life stages. Much of the U.S. population fails to meet Estimated Average Requirements (EARs) for key nutrients. This analysis aims to assess the contribution of fortified ready-to-eat cereals (RTEC) to micronutrient intake for U.S. residents aged 2–18, 19–99, and 2–99 years of age according to National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) 2007–2010 data. We used the National Cancer Institute (NCI) method to assess usual intake of 21 micronutrients and the percentage of the population under EARs and above Tolerable Upper Intake Levels (UL). Without fortification of RTECs, the percentage of those aged 2–18 years that were below EARs increased by 155, 163, 113, and 35% for niacin, iron, thiamin, and vitamin A, respectively. For vitamins B6 and zinc, the respective numbers were 118% and 60%. Adults aged 19–99 and 2–99 had lower percentages but similar outcomes. RTECs are associated with improved nutrient adequacy and do not widely affect prevalence above the UL. The data indicate that large proportions of the population fail to achieve micronutrient sufficiency without fortification, and that its use can help Americans reach national nutrient intake goals. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Assessment of Nutrient Intakes)

40 pages, 337 KiB

Open AccessReview

Apples and Cardiovascular Health—Is the Gut Microbiota a Core Consideration?

by Athanasios Koutsos^1,2, Kieran M. Tuohy²

and Julie A. Lovegrove^1,*

¹ Hugh Sinclair Unit of Human Nutrition and Institute for Cardiovascular and Metabolic Research (ICMR), Department of Food and Nutritional Sciences, University of Reading, Reading RG6 6AP, UK

² Nutrition and Nutrigenomics Group, Department of Food Quality and Nutrition, Research and Innovation Centre, Fondazione Edmund Mach, San Michele all'Adige, Trento 38010, Italy

Nutrients 2015, 7(6), 3959-3998; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu7063959 - 26 May 2015

Cited by 138 | Viewed by 38564

Abstract

There is now considerable scientific evidence that a diet rich in fruits and vegetables can improve human health and protect against chronic diseases. However, it is not clear whether different fruits and vegetables have distinct beneficial effects. Apples are among the most frequently [...] Read more.

There is now considerable scientific evidence that a diet rich in fruits and vegetables can improve human health and protect against chronic diseases. However, it is not clear whether different fruits and vegetables have distinct beneficial effects. Apples are among the most frequently consumed fruits and a rich source of polyphenols and fiber. A major proportion of the bioactive components in apples, including the high molecular weight polyphenols, escape absorption in the upper gastrointestinal tract and reach the large intestine relatively intact. There, they can be converted by the colonic microbiota to bioavailable and biologically active compounds with systemic effects, in addition to modulating microbial composition. Epidemiological studies have identified associations between frequent apple consumption and reduced risk of chronic diseases such as cardiovascular disease. Human and animal intervention studies demonstrate beneficial effects on lipid metabolism, vascular function and inflammation but only a few studies have attempted to link these mechanistically with the gut microbiota. This review will focus on the reciprocal interaction between apple components and the gut microbiota, the potential link to cardiovascular health and the possible mechanisms of action. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nutrition and CVD)

17 pages, 921 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Pyrosequencing Analysis Reveals Changes in Intestinal Microbiota of Healthy Adults Who Received a Daily Dose of Immunomodulatory Probiotic Strains

by Julio Plaza-Díaz^1,2

, Jose Ángel Fernández-Caballero³, Natalia Chueca³, Federico García³

, Carolina Gómez-Llorente^1,2

, María José Sáez-Lara⁴

, Luis Fontana^1,2,* and Ángel Gil^1,2

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

² Institute of Nutrition and Food Technology "José Mataix", Biomedical Research Center, University of Granada, Armilla 18100, Spain

³ Department of Microbiology, Complejo Hospitalario Universitario de Granada, Instituto de Investigación Biosanitaria (IBS), Granada 18012, Spain

⁴ Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology I, School of Sciences, University of Granada, Granada 18071, Spain

Nutrients 2015, 7(6), 3999-4015; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu7063999 - 26 May 2015

Cited by 53 | Viewed by 10618

Abstract

The colon microbiota plays a crucial role in human gastrointestinal health. Current attempts to manipulate the colon microbiota composition are aimed at finding remedies for various diseases. We have recently described the immunomodulatory effects of three probiotic strains (Lactobacillus rhamnosus CNCM I-4036, [...] Read more.

The colon microbiota plays a crucial role in human gastrointestinal health. Current attempts to manipulate the colon microbiota composition are aimed at finding remedies for various diseases. We have recently described the immunomodulatory effects of three probiotic strains (Lactobacillus rhamnosus CNCM I-4036, Lactobacillus paracasei CNCM I-4034, and Bifidobacterium breve CNCM I-4035). The goal of the present study was to analyze the compositions of the fecal microbiota of healthy adults who received one of these strains using high-throughput 16S ribosomal RNA gene sequencing. Bacteroides was the most abundant genus in the groups that received L. rhamnosus CNCM I-4036 or L. paracasei CNCM I-4034. The Shannon indices were significantly increased in these two groups. Our results also revealed a significant increase in the Lactobacillus genus after the intervention with L. rhamnosus CNCM I-4036. The initially different colon microbiota became homogeneous in the subjects who received L. rhamnosus CNCM I-4036. While some orders that were initially present disappeared after the administration of L. rhamnosus CNCM I-4036, other orders, such as Sphingobacteriales, Nitrospirales, Desulfobacterales, Thiotrichales, and Synergistetes, were detected after the intervention. In summary, our results show that the intake of these three bacterial strains induced changes in the colon microbiota. Full article

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

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17 pages, 425 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Development of a UK Online 24-h Dietary Assessment Tool: myfood24

by Michelle C. Carter^1,*

, Salwa A. Albar^1,2,†, Michelle A. Morris^1,3,†, Umme Z. Mulla⁴, Neil Hancock¹, Charlotte E. Evans¹, Nisreen A. Alwan^1,5, Darren C. Greenwood⁶

, Laura J. Hardie⁷, Gary S. Frost⁸

, Petra A. Wark⁴ and Janet E. Cade¹

^† These authors contributed equally to this work.

¹ Nutritional Epidemiology Group, School of Food Science and Nutrition, University of Leeds, Leeds LS2 9JT, UK

² School of Food Science and Nutrition, King Abdul-Aziz University, PO Box 42807, 21551 Jeddah, Saudi Arabia

³ Centre for Spatial Analysis and Policy, School of Geography, University of Leeds, Leeds LS2 9JT, UK

⁴ Global eHealth Unit, Department of Primary Care and Public Health, London School of Public Health, Imperial College London, London W6 8RP, UK

⁵ Academic Unit of Primary Care and Population Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, Southampton General Hospital, Southampton SO16 6YD, UK

⁶ Division of Biostatistics, Leeds Institute of Genetics, Health and Therapeutics, University of Leeds, Leeds LS2 9JT, UK

⁷ Molecular Epidemiology Unit, Leeds Institute of Genetics, Health and Therapeutics, University of Leeds, Leeds LS2 9JT, UK

⁸ Nutrition and Dietetic Research Group, Department of Investigative Medicine, Hammersmith Hospital, Imperial College London, London W12 0NN, UK

^† These authors contributed equally to this work.

Nutrients 2015, 7(6), 4016-4032; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu7064016 - 27 May 2015

Cited by 135 | Viewed by 16272

Abstract

Assessment of diet in large epidemiological studies can be costly and time consuming. An automated dietary assessment system could potentially reduce researcher burden by automatically coding food records. myfood24 (Measure Your Food on One Day) an online 24-h dietary assessment tool (with the [...] Read more.

Assessment of diet in large epidemiological studies can be costly and time consuming. An automated dietary assessment system could potentially reduce researcher burden by automatically coding food records. myfood24 (Measure Your Food on One Day) an online 24-h dietary assessment tool (with the flexibility to be used for multiple 24 h-dietary recalls or as a food diary), has been developed for use in the UK population. Development of myfood24 was a multi-stage process. Focus groups conducted with three age groups, adolescents (11–18 years) (n = 28), adults (19–64 years) (n = 24) and older adults (≥65 years) (n = 5) informed the development of the tool, and usability testing was conducted with beta (adolescents n = 14, adults n = 8, older adults n = 1) and live (adolescents n = 70, adults n = 20, older adults n = 4) versions. Median system usability scale (SUS) scores (measured on a scale of 0–100) in adolescents and adults were marginal for the beta version (adolescents median SUS = 66, interquartile range (IQR) = 20; adults median SUS = 68, IQR = 40) and good for the live version (adolescents median SUS = 73, IQR = 22; adults median SUS = 80, IQR = 25). Myfood24 is the first online 24-h dietary recall tool for use with different age groups in the UK. Usability testing indicates that myfood24 is suitable for use in UK adolescents and adults. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Assessment of Nutrient Intakes)

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21 pages, 777 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Glycemic Responses, Appetite Ratings and Gastrointestinal Hormone Responses of Most Common Breads Consumed in Spain. A Randomized Control Trial in Healthy Humans

by Carolina Gonzalez-Anton¹, Maria C. Rico¹, Estefania Sanchez-Rodriguez¹, Maria D. Ruiz-Lopez²

, Angel Gil^1,*

and Maria D. Mesa¹

¹ Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology II, Institute of Nutrition and Food Technology "Jose Mataix", University of Granada, Avenida del Conocimiento s/n, 18100 Armilla (Granada), Spain

² Department of Nutrition and Food Science, Institute of Nutrition and Food Technology "Jose Mataix", University of Granada, Campus Universitario de Cartuja C.P., 18071 Granada (Granada), Spain

Nutrients 2015, 7(6), 4033-4053; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu7064033 - 27 May 2015

Cited by 25 | Viewed by 8301

Abstract

The present study was carried out to determine the glycemic index (GI), glycemic load (GL), insulinemic index (InI), appetite ratings and postprandial plasma concentrations of gastrointestinal hormones related to the control of food intake after the ingestion of the five most common breads [...] Read more.

The present study was carried out to determine the glycemic index (GI), glycemic load (GL), insulinemic index (InI), appetite ratings and postprandial plasma concentrations of gastrointestinal hormones related to the control of food intake after the ingestion of the five most common breads consumed in Spain with different compositions and manufacturing processes. Twenty-two healthy adults participated in a randomized crossover study. The breads tested were Ordinary, Precooked-Frozen, Candeal-flour, Alfacar whites and Wholemeal. All breads portions were calculated to supply 50 g of available carbohydrates. In addition, 50 g of glucose was used as a reference. A linear mixed-effects model was used to compare data calculated for all breads with glucose load. The GI value varied from 61 for the Wholemeal, to Alfacar 68, Ordinary 76, and 78 and 86 for the Precooked-Frozen and Candeal-flour breads, respectively. Wholemeal and Alfacar had lower GI than glucose. All tested breads had a lower GL (ranged 9 to 18) compared with glucose. Wholemeal GL was similar to Alfacar, but lower than the other white breads. InI were significantly lower for all breads (ranged 68 to 73) compared with glucose, and similar among them. The intake of the Wholemeal bread led to a higher release of gastric inhibitory polypeptide compared with the Ordinary and Precooked breads and to a higher release of pancreatic polypeptide compared with the Precooked-Frozen bread. All breads affected appetite ratings similarly. In conclusion, based on GL, the Wholemeal bread would be expected to exert a favorable glycemic response. Full article

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14 pages, 206 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Changes in the Sodium Content of New Zealand Processed Foods: 2003–2013

by David Monro¹, Cliona Ni Mhurchu²

, Yannan Jiang², Delvina Gorton¹ and Helen Eyles^2,3,*

¹ Heart Foundation of New Zealand, PO Box 17160, Greenlane, Auckand 1546, New Zealand

² National Institute for Health Innovation, The University of Auckland, Private Bag 92019, Auckland 1142, New Zealand

³ Epidemiology and Biostatistics, The University of Auckland, Private Bag 92019, Auckland 1142, New Zealand

Nutrients 2015, 7(6), 4054-4067; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu7064054 - 27 May 2015

Cited by 24 | Viewed by 7567

Abstract

Decreasing population sodium intake has been identified as a “best buy” for reducing non-communicable disease. The aim of this study was to explore 10-year changes in the sodium content of New Zealand processed foods. Nutrient data for nine key food groups were collected [...] Read more.

Decreasing population sodium intake has been identified as a “best buy” for reducing non-communicable disease. The aim of this study was to explore 10-year changes in the sodium content of New Zealand processed foods. Nutrient data for nine key food groups were collected in supermarkets in 2003 (n = 323) and 2013 (n = 885). Mean (SD) and median (min, max) sodium content were calculated by food group, year and label type (private/branded). Paired t-tests explored changes in sodium content for all products available for sale in both years (matched; n = 182). The mean (SD) sodium content of all foods was 436 (263) mg (100 g)⁻¹ in 2003 and 433 (304) mg (100 g)⁻¹ in 2013, with no significant difference in matched products over time (mean (SD) difference, −56 (122) mg (100 g)⁻¹, 12%; p = 0.22). The largest percentage reductions in sodium (for matched products) were observed for Breakfast Cereals (28%; −123 (125) mg (100 g)⁻¹), Canned Spaghetti (15%; −76 (111) mg (100 g)⁻¹) and Bread (14%; −68 (69) mg (100 g)⁻¹). The reduction in sodium was greater for matched private vs. branded foods (−69 vs. −50 mg (100 g)⁻¹, both p < 0.001). There has been modest progress with sodium reduction in some New Zealand food categories over the past 10 years. A renewed focus across the whole food supply is needed if New Zealand is to meet its global commitment to reducing population sodium intake. Full article

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25 pages, 600 KiB

Open AccessReview

PON1 and Mediterranean Diet

by José M. Lou-Bonafonte^1,2, Clara Gabás-Rivera^2,3, María A. Navarro^2,3

and Jesús Osada^2,3,*

¹ Departamento de Farmacología y Fisiología, Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud y del Deporte, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria de Aragón-Universidad de Zaragoza, Huesca, E-22002, Spain

² CIBER de Fisiopatología de la Obesidad y Nutrición, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, E-28029, Spain

³ Departamento de Bioquímica y Biología Molecular y Celular, Facultad de Veterinaria, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria de Aragón-Universidad de Zaragoza, Zaragoza, E-50013, Spain

Nutrients 2015, 7(6), 4068-4092; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu7064068 - 27 May 2015

Cited by 59 | Viewed by 13207

Abstract

The Mediterranean diet has been proven to be highly effective in the prevention of cardiovascular diseases. Paraoxonase 1 (PON1) has been implicated in the development of those conditions, especially atherosclerosis. The present work describes a systematic review of current evidence supporting the influence [...] Read more.

The Mediterranean diet has been proven to be highly effective in the prevention of cardiovascular diseases. Paraoxonase 1 (PON1) has been implicated in the development of those conditions, especially atherosclerosis. The present work describes a systematic review of current evidence supporting the influence of Mediterranean diet and its constituents on this enzyme. Despite the differential response of some genetic polymorphisms, the Mediterranean diet has been shown to exert a protective action on this enzyme. Extra virgin olive oil, the main source of fat, has been particularly effective in increasing PON1 activity, an action that could be due to low saturated fatty acid intake, oleic acid enrichment of phospholipids present in high-density lipoproteins that favor the activity, and increasing hepatic PON1 mRNA and protein expressions induced by minor components present in this oil. Other Mediterranean diet constituents, such as nuts, fruits and vegetables, have been effective in modulating the activity of the enzyme, pomegranate and its compounds being the best characterized items. Ongoing research on compounds isolated from all these natural products, mainly phenolic compounds and carotenoids, indicates that some of them are particularly effective, and this may enhance the use of nutraceuticals and functional foods capable of potentiating PON1 activity. Full article

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14 pages, 231 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Patterns of Food Parenting Practices and Children’s Intake of Energy-Dense Snack Foods

by Dorus W. M. Gevers^1,*, Stef P. J. Kremers¹, Nanne K. De Vries^1,2 and Patricia Van Assema¹

¹ Department of Health Promotion, NUTRIM School for Nutrition and Translational Research in Metabolism, Maastricht University Medical Centre, P.O. Box 616, Maastricht 6200, The Netherlands

² Department of Health Promotion, CAPHRI School for Public Health and Primary Care, Maastricht University Medical Centre, P.O. Box 616, Maastricht 6200, The Netherlands

Nutrients 2015, 7(6), 4093-4106; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu7064093 - 27 May 2015

Cited by 30 | Viewed by 7441

Abstract

Most previous studies of parental influences on children’s diets included just a single or a few types of food parenting practices, while parents actually employ multiple types of practices. Our objective was to investigate the clustering of parents regarding food parenting practices and [...] Read more.

Most previous studies of parental influences on children’s diets included just a single or a few types of food parenting practices, while parents actually employ multiple types of practices. Our objective was to investigate the clustering of parents regarding food parenting practices and to characterize the clusters in terms of background characteristics and children’s intake of energy-dense snack foods. A sample of Dutch parents of children aged 4–12 was recruited by a research agency to fill out an online questionnaire. A hierarchical cluster analysis (n = 888) was performed, followed by k-means clustering. ANOVAs, ANCOVAs and chi-square tests were used to investigate associations between cluster membership, parental and child background characteristics, as well as children’s intake of energy-dense snack foods. Four distinct patterns were discovered: “high covert control and rewarding”, “low covert control and non-rewarding”, “high involvement and supportive” and “low involvement and indulgent”. The “high involvement and supportive” cluster was found to be most favorable in terms of children’s intake. Several background factors characterized cluster membership. This study expands the current knowledge about parental influences on children’s diets. Interventions should focus on increasing parental involvement in food parenting. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nutritional Approaches to the Prevention and Management of Childhood Obesity)

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17 pages, 187 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Blueberries Improve Endothelial Function, but Not Blood Pressure, in Adults with Metabolic Syndrome: A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Clinical Trial

by April J. Stull^1,2,*, Katherine C. Cash¹, Catherine M. Champagne¹, Alok K. Gupta³, Raymond Boston⁴, Robbie A. Beyl¹, William D. Johnson^1,2 and William T. Cefalu^1,2

¹ Pennington Biomedical Research Center, Louisiana State University System, Baton Rouge, LA 70808, USA

² Center for the Study of Botanicals and Metabolic Syndrome, Pennington Biomedical Research Center, Louisiana State University System, Baton Rouge, LA 70808, USA

³ Baton Rouge VA Outpatient Clinic, Southeast Louisiana Veterans Health Care System, 7968 Essen Park Avenue, Baton Rouge, LA 70809, USA

⁴ Department of Clinical Studies, New Bolton Center, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19348, USA

Nutrients 2015, 7(6), 4107-4123; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu7064107 - 27 May 2015

Cited by 134 | Viewed by 16715

Abstract

Blueberry consumption has been shown to have various health benefits in humans. However, little is known about the effect of blueberry consumption on blood pressure, endothelial function and insulin sensitivity in humans. The present study investigated the role of blueberry consumption on modifying [...] Read more.

Blueberry consumption has been shown to have various health benefits in humans. However, little is known about the effect of blueberry consumption on blood pressure, endothelial function and insulin sensitivity in humans. The present study investigated the role of blueberry consumption on modifying blood pressure in subjects with metabolic syndrome. In addition, endothelial function and insulin sensitivity (secondary measurements) were also assessed. A double-blind and placebo-controlled study was conducted in 44 adults (blueberry, n = 23; and placebo, n = 21). They were randomized to receive a blueberry or placebo smoothie twice daily for six weeks. Twenty-four-hour ambulatory blood pressure, endothelial function and insulin sensitivity were assessed pre- and post-intervention. The blood pressure and insulin sensitivity did not differ between the blueberry and placebo groups. However, the mean change in resting endothelial function, expressed as reactive hyperemia index (RHI), was improved significantly more in the group consuming the blueberries versus the placebo group (p = 0.024). Even after adjusting for confounding factors, i.e., the percent body fat and gender, the blueberry group still had a greater improvement in endothelial function when compared to their counterpart (RHI; 0.32 ± 0.13 versus −0.33 ± 0.14; p = 0.0023). In conclusion, daily dietary consumption of blueberries did not improve blood pressure, but improved (i.e., increased) endothelial function over six weeks in subjects with metabolic syndrome. Full article

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15 pages, 536 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Dietary Inflammatory Index and Incidence of Cardiovascular Disease in the PREDIMED Study

by Ana Garcia-Arellano^1,2,3,4,†, Raul Ramallal^4,5,†, Miguel Ruiz-Canela^2,3,4, Jordi Salas-Salvadó^2,3,6

, Dolores Corella^3,7

, Nitin Shivappa⁸, Helmut Schröder^3,9, James R. Hébert⁸, Emilio Ros^3,10

, Enrique Gómez-Garcia^2,3,11, Ramon Estruch^2,3,12, José Lapetra^3,13, Fernando Arós^2,3,14, Miquel Fiol^3,15, Lluis Serra-Majem^2,3,16, Xavier Pintó^2,3,17

, Nancy Babio^2,3,6

, José I. González^3,7, Montse Fitó^3,9, J. Alfredo Martínez^2,3,18,*

, Miguel A. Martínez-González^2,3,4 and The PREDIMED Investigators^1,‡ Show full author list Hide full author list

¹ Department of Emergency, Complejo Hospitalario de Navarra, Servicio Navarro de Salud, Pamplona 31008, Spain

² The PREDIMED (Prevención con Dieta Mediterránea) Research Network (RD 06/0045), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid 28029, Spain

³ Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Epidemiología y Salud Pública, Madrid 28029, Spain

⁴ Department of Preventive Medicine and Public Health, School of Medicine, University of Navarra, Pamplona 31008, Spain

⁵ Department of Cardiology, Complejo Hospitalario de Navarra, Servicio Navarro de Salud, Pamplona 31008, Spain

⁶ Human Nutrition Department, Hospital Universitari Sant Joan, Institut d'Investigació Sanitaria Pere Virgili, Universitat Rovira i Virgili, Reus 43201, Spain

⁷ Department of Preventive Medicine, University of Valencia, Valencia 46071, Spain

⁸ South Carolina Statewide Cancer Prevention and Control Program, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC, 29208 USA

⁹ Cardiovascular and Nutrition Research Group, Institut de Recerca Hospital del Mar, Barcelona 08003, Spain

¹⁰ Lipid Clinic, Department of Endocrinology and Nutrition, Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer, Hospital Clinic, University of Barcelona, Barcelona 08036, Spain

¹¹ Department of Preventive Medicine, University of Malaga, Malaga 29010, Spain

¹² Department of Internal Medicine Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer, Hospital Clinic, University of Barcelona, Barcelona 08036, Spain

¹³ Department of Family Medicine, Primary Care Division of Seville, San Pablo Health Center, Seville 41007, Spain

¹⁴ Department of Cardiology, University Hospital of Alava, Vitoria 01009, Spain

¹⁵ Institute of Health Sciences (IUNICS), University of Balearic Islands, and Hospital Son Espases, Palma de Mallorca 07120, Spain

¹⁶ Research Institut of Biomedical and Health Sciences, University of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, Las Palmas 35001, Spain

¹⁷ Lipids and Vascular Risk Unit, Internal Medicine, Hospital Universitario de Bellvitge, Hospitalet de Llobregat, Barcelona 08907, Spain

¹⁸ Department of Physiology and Nutrition, University of Navarra, Pamplona 31008, Spain

^† These authors contributed equally to this work.

^‡ The complete list of PREDIMED investigators can be found at the end of the manuscript.

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Nutrients 2015, 7(6), 4124-4138; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu7064124 - 29 May 2015

Cited by 200 | Viewed by 18412

Abstract

Previous studies have reported an association between a more pro-inflammatory diet profile and various chronic metabolic diseases. The Dietary Inflammatory Index (DII) was used to assess the inflammatory potential of nutrients and foods in the context of a dietary pattern. We prospectively examined [...] Read more.

Previous studies have reported an association between a more pro-inflammatory diet profile and various chronic metabolic diseases. The Dietary Inflammatory Index (DII) was used to assess the inflammatory potential of nutrients and foods in the context of a dietary pattern. We prospectively examined the association between the DII and the incidence of cardiovascular disease (CVD: myocardial infarction, stroke or cardiovascular death) in the PREDIMED (Prevención con Dieta Mediterránea) study including 7216 high-risk participants. The DII was computed based on a validated 137-item food frequency questionnaire. Multivariate-adjusted hazard ratios (HR) and 95% confidence intervals of CVD risk were computed across quartiles of the DII where the lowest (most anti-inflammatory) quartile is the referent. Risk increased across the quartiles (i.e., with increasing inflammatory potential): HR_quartile2= 1.42 (95%CI = 0.97–2.09); HR_quartile3= 1.85 (1.27–2.71); and HR_quartile4= 1.73 (1.15–2.60). When fit as continuous the multiple-adjusted hazard ratio for each additional standard deviation of the DII was 1.22 (1.06–1.40). Our results provide direct prospective evidence that a pro-inflammatory diet is associated with a higher risk of cardiovascular clinical events. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nutrition and CVD)

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15 pages, 266 KiB

Open AccessReview

The Role of Vitamin D in Reproductive Health—A Trojan Horse or the Golden Fleece?

by Filip A. Dabrowski, Barbara Grzechocinska^* and Miroslaw Wielgos

Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, Medical University of Warsaw, Starynkiewicza Sq. 1/3, 02-015 Warsaw, Poland

Nutrients 2015, 7(6), 4139-4153; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu7064139 - 29 May 2015

Cited by 76 | Viewed by 12172

Abstract

In the last decade, vitamin D was in the spotlight in many fields of research. Despite numerous publications, its influence on reproductive health remains ambiguous. This paper presents an up-to-date review of current knowledge concerning the role of cholecalciferol in human reproduction. It [...] Read more.

In the last decade, vitamin D was in the spotlight in many fields of research. Despite numerous publications, its influence on reproductive health remains ambiguous. This paper presents an up-to-date review of current knowledge concerning the role of cholecalciferol in human reproduction. It covers various infertility issues, such as polycystic ovary syndrome, endometriosis, myoma-induced infertility, male infertility, premature ovary failure and in vitro fertilization techniques. Vitamin D deficiency, defined as serum concentration of 25-hydroxycalciferol of less than 50 nmol/L, is commonly noted more frequently than only in fertility clinic patients. It is a global trend that is observed in all age groups. The results of original publications dated up to 2015 have been summarized and discussed in a critical manner. Most experts agree that vitamin D supplementation is a necessity, particularly in women suffering from obesity, insulin resistance or small ovarian reserve, as well as in men with oligo- and asthenozoospermia if serum concentration should fall below 50 nmol/L (normal range up to 125 nmol/L). High concentration of vitamin D and its metabolites in decidua during the 1st trimester suggests its important role in the implantation process and a local immunological embryo-protection. On the other hand, evidence-based research did not prove a significant difference so far in ovulation stimulation or embryo development depending on vitamin D level. In one of the publications, it was also found that vitamin D binding protein (VDBP) has a molecular similarity to anti-sperm antibodies, and another one concluded that both low (<50 nmol/L) and high (>125 nmol/L) concentration of vitamin D are associated with decreased number and quality of spermatozoa in semen. Vitamin D is definitely not a Trojan Horse in reproductive health, since there were no adverse effects reported for vitamin D intake of up to 10,000 IU/day, but to proclaim it the Golden Fleece, more evidence is needed. Full article

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16 pages, 454 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Dietary Patterns Derived by Cluster Analysis are Associated with Cognitive Function among Korean Older Adults

by Jihye Kim¹, Areum Yu¹, Bo Youl Choi², Jung Hyun Nam³, Mi Kyung Kim², Dong Hoon Oh³ and Yoon Jung Yang^4,*

¹ Department of clinical nutrition, Graduate School of Health Sciences, Dongduk Women's University, 23-1 Wolgok-dong, Sungbuk-gu, Seoul 136-714, Korea

² Department of Preventive Medicine, College of Medicine, Hanyang University, 17 Haengdang Dong, Sungdong Gu, Seoul 133-791, Korea

³ Department of Psychiatry, College of Medicine, Hanyang University, 17 Haengdang Dong, Sungdong Gu, Seoul 133-791, Korea

⁴ Department of Foods and Nutrition, College of Natural Sciences, Dongduk Women’s University, 23-1 Wolgok-dong, Sungbuk-gu, Seoul 136-714, Korea

Nutrients 2015, 7(6), 4154-4169; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu7064154 - 29 May 2015

Cited by 31 | Viewed by 9641

Abstract

The objective of this study was to investigate major dietary patterns among older Korean adults through cluster analysis and to determine an association between dietary patterns and cognitive function. This is a cross-sectional study. The data from the Korean Multi-Rural Communities Cohort Study [...] Read more.

The objective of this study was to investigate major dietary patterns among older Korean adults through cluster analysis and to determine an association between dietary patterns and cognitive function. This is a cross-sectional study. The data from the Korean Multi-Rural Communities Cohort Study was used. Participants included 765 participants aged 60 years and over. A quantitative food frequency questionnaire with 106 items was used to investigate dietary intake. The Korean version of the MMSE-KC (Mini-Mental Status Examination–Korean version) was used to assess cognitive function. Two major dietary patterns were identified using K-means cluster analysis. The “MFDF” dietary pattern indicated high consumption of Multigrain rice, Fish, Dairy products, Fruits and fruit juices, while the “WNC” dietary pattern referred to higher intakes of White rice, Noodles, and Coffee. Means of the total MMSE-KC and orientation score of the participants in the MFDF dietary pattern were higher than those of the WNC dietary pattern. Compared with the WNC dietary pattern, the MFDF dietary pattern showed a lower risk of cognitive impairment after adjusting for covariates (OR 0.64, 95% CI 0.44–0.94). The MFDF dietary pattern, with high consumption of multigrain rice, fish, dairy products, and fruits may be related to better cognition among Korean older adults. Full article

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

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19 pages, 294 KiB

Open AccessReview

Vitamin D Every Day to Keep the Infection Away?

by Juliana De Castro Kroner^1,2,†, Andrea Sommer^1,† and Mario Fabri^1,2,*

¹ Department of Dermatology, University of Cologne, 50937 Cologne, Germany

² Center for Molecular Medicine Cologne, University of Cologne, 50937 Cologne, Germany

^† These authors contributed equally to this work.

Nutrients 2015, 7(6), 4170-4188; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu7064170 - 29 May 2015

Cited by 47 | Viewed by 12191

Abstract

Within the last decade, vitamin D has emerged as a central regulator of host defense against infections. In this regard, vitamin D triggers effective antimicrobial pathways against bacterial, fungal and viral pathogens in cells of the human innate immune system. However, vitamin D [...] Read more.

Within the last decade, vitamin D has emerged as a central regulator of host defense against infections. In this regard, vitamin D triggers effective antimicrobial pathways against bacterial, fungal and viral pathogens in cells of the human innate immune system. However, vitamin D also mediates potent tolerogenic effects: it is generally believed that vitamin D attenuates inflammation and acquired immunity, and thus potentially limits collateral tissue damage. Nevertheless, several studies indicate that vitamin D promotes aspects of acquired host defense. Clinically, vitamin D deficiency has been associated with an increased risk for various infectious diseases in epidemiological studies; yet, robust data from controlled trials investigating the use of vitamin D as a preventive or therapeutic agent are missing. In this review, we summarize the current knowledge regarding the effect of vitamin D on innate and acquired host defense, and speculate on the difficulties to translate the available molecular medicine data into practical therapeutic or preventive recommendations. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Immune Regulation by Vitamin D)

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10 pages, 388 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Iodized Salt in Cambodia: Trends from 2008 to 2014

by Arnaud Laillou^1,*, Borath Mam², Sam Oeurn¹ and Chantum Chea²

¹ UNICEF, Maternal Child Health and Nutrition Programme, no. 11 St. 75, 12000 Phnom Penh, Cambodia

² National Sub-Committee for Food Fortification, Ministry of Planning, 386 Monivong Blvd., 12000 Phnom Penh, Cambodia

Nutrients 2015, 7(6), 4189-4198; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu7064189 - 29 May 2015

Cited by 20 | Viewed by 7462

Abstract

Though the consequences of nutritional iodine deficiency have been known for a long time, in Cambodia its elimination has only become a priority in the last 18 years. The Royal Government of Cambodia initiated the National Sub-Committee for Control of Iodine Deficiency Disorders [...] Read more.

Though the consequences of nutritional iodine deficiency have been known for a long time, in Cambodia its elimination has only become a priority in the last 18 years. The Royal Government of Cambodia initiated the National Sub-Committee for Control of Iodine Deficiency Disorders in 1996 to fight this problem. Using three different surveys providing information across all provinces, we examined the compliance of salt iodization in Cambodia over the last 6 years. Salt samples from the 24 provinces were collect at the household level in 2008 (n = 566) and 2011 (n = 1275) and at the market level in 2014 (n = 1862) and analysed through a wavelength spectrophotometer for iodine content. According to the samples collected, the median iodine content significantly dropped from 22 mg/kg (25th/75th percentile: 2/37 mg/kg) in 2011 to 0 mg/kg in 2014 (25th/75th percentile: 0/8.9 mg/kg) (p < 0.001). The proportion of non-iodized salt within our collected salt drastically increased from 22% in 2011 to 62% in 2014 (p < 0.001). Since the international organizations ceased to support the procurement of iodine, the prevalence of salt compliant with the Cambodian declined within our samples. To date, the current levels of iodine added to tested salt are unsatisfactory as 92% of those salts do not meet the government requirements (99.6% of the coarse salt and 82.4% of the fine salt). This inappropriate iodization could illustrate the lack of periodic monitoring and enforcement from government entities. Therefore, government quality inspection should be reinforced to reduce the quantity of salt not meeting the national requirement. Full article

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41 pages, 1495 KiB

Open AccessReview

Selenium Cycling Across Soil-Plant-Atmosphere Interfaces: A Critical Review

by Lenny H.E. Winkel^1,2,*, Bas Vriens^1,2, Gerrad D. Jones², Leila S. Schneider¹, Elizabeth Pilon-Smits³ and Gary S. Bañuelos⁴

¹ Swiss Federal Institute of Technology (ETH), Institute of Biogeochemistry and Pollutant Dynamics, ETH Zurich, CH-8092 Zurich, Switzerland

² Eawag: Swiss Federal Institute of Aquatic Science and Technology, Ueberlandstrasse 133, P.O. Box 611, CH-8600 Duebendorf, Switzerland

³ Colorado State University, Biology Department, Fort Collins, CO 80523, USA

⁴ USDA, Agricultural Research Service, San Joaquin Valley Agricultural Center, 9611 South Riverbend Avenue, Parlier, CA 93648, USA

Nutrients 2015, 7(6), 4199-4239; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu7064199 - 29 May 2015

Cited by 386 | Viewed by 22743

Abstract

Selenium (Se) is an essential element for humans and animals, which occurs ubiquitously in the environment. It is present in trace amounts in both organic and inorganic forms in marine and freshwater systems, soils, biomass and in the atmosphere. Low Se levels in [...] Read more.

Selenium (Se) is an essential element for humans and animals, which occurs ubiquitously in the environment. It is present in trace amounts in both organic and inorganic forms in marine and freshwater systems, soils, biomass and in the atmosphere. Low Se levels in certain terrestrial environments have resulted in Se deficiency in humans, while elevated Se levels in waters and soils can be toxic and result in the death of aquatic wildlife and other animals. Human dietary Se intake is largely governed by Se concentrations in plants, which are controlled by root uptake of Se as a function of soil Se concentrations, speciation and bioavailability. In addition, plants and microorganisms can biomethylate Se, which can result in a loss of Se to the atmosphere. The mobilization of Se across soil-plant-atmosphere interfaces is thus of crucial importance for human Se status. This review gives an overview of current knowledge on Se cycling with a specific focus on soil-plant-atmosphere interfaces. Sources, speciation and mobility of Se in soils and plants will be discussed as well as Se hyperaccumulation by plants, biofortification and biomethylation. Future research on Se cycling in the environment is essential to minimize the adverse health effects associated with unsafe environmental Se levels. Full article

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

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31 pages, 908 KiB

Open AccessReview

Modulation of the Immune Response to Respiratory Viruses by Vitamin D

by Claire L. Greiller^* and Adrian R. Martineau^*

Barts and the London School of Medicine and Dentistry, Queen Mary University of London, London E1 2AB, UK

Nutrients 2015, 7(6), 4240-4270; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu7064240 - 29 May 2015

Cited by 361 | Viewed by 25168

Abstract

Background: Vitamin D deficiency has been shown to be independently associated with increased risk of viral acute respiratory infection (ARI) in a number of observational studies, and meta-analysis of clinical trials of vitamin D supplementation for prevention of ARI has demonstrated protective effects. [...] Read more.

Background: Vitamin D deficiency has been shown to be independently associated with increased risk of viral acute respiratory infection (ARI) in a number of observational studies, and meta-analysis of clinical trials of vitamin D supplementation for prevention of ARI has demonstrated protective effects. Several cellular studies have investigated the effects of vitamin D metabolites on immune responses to respiratory viruses, but syntheses of these reports are lacking. Scope: In this article, we review the literature reporting results of in vitro experiments investigating immunomodulatory actions of vitamin D metabolites in human respiratory epithelial cells infected with respiratory viruses. Key findings: Vitamin D metabolites do not consistently influence replication or clearance of rhinovirus, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) or influenza A virus in human respiratory epithelial cell culture, although they do modulate expression and secretion of type 1 interferon, chemokines including CXCL8 and CXCL10 and pro-inflammatory cytokines, such as TNF and IL-6. Future research: More studies are needed to clarify the effects of vitamin D metabolites on respiratory virus-induced expression of cell surface markers mediating viral entry and bacterial adhesion to respiratory epithelial cells. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Immune Regulation by Vitamin D)

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25 pages, 300 KiB

Open AccessReview

The Potential for Zinc Stable Isotope Techniques and Modelling to Determine Optimal Zinc Supplementation

by Cuong D. Tran^1,2,*, Geetha L. Gopalsamy^1,3,†, Elissa K. Mortimer^3,† and Graeme P. Young³

¹ CSIRO Food and Nutrition Flagship, Gate 13, Kintore Ave, Adelaide SA 5000, Australia

² School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide SA 5005, Australia

³ Flinders University of South Australia, Bedford Park, GPO Box 2100, Adelaide SA 5001, Australia

^† These authors contributed equally to this work.

Nutrients 2015, 7(6), 4271-4295; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu7064271 - 29 May 2015

Cited by 11 | Viewed by 7741

Abstract

It is well recognised that zinc deficiency is a major global public health issue, particularly in young children in low-income countries with diarrhoea and environmental enteropathy. Zinc supplementation is regarded as a powerful tool to correct zinc deficiency as well as to treat [...] Read more.

It is well recognised that zinc deficiency is a major global public health issue, particularly in young children in low-income countries with diarrhoea and environmental enteropathy. Zinc supplementation is regarded as a powerful tool to correct zinc deficiency as well as to treat a variety of physiologic and pathologic conditions. However, the dose and frequency of its use as well as the choice of zinc salt are not clearly defined regardless of whether it is used to treat a disease or correct a nutritional deficiency. We discuss the application of zinc stable isotope tracer techniques to assess zinc physiology, metabolism and homeostasis and how these can address knowledge gaps in zinc supplementation pharmacokinetics. This may help to resolve optimal dose, frequency, length of administration, timing of delivery to food intake and choice of zinc compound. It appears that long-term preventive supplementation can be administered much less frequently than daily but more research needs to be undertaken to better understand how best to intervene with zinc in children at risk of zinc deficiency. Stable isotope techniques, linked with saturation response and compartmental modelling, also have the potential to assist in the continued search for simple markers of zinc status in health, malnutrition and disease. Full article

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

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12 pages, 318 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Zinc Status Affects Glucose Homeostasis and Insulin Secretion in Patients with Thalassemia

by Ellen B. Fung^1,2,*, Ginny Gildengorin³, Siddhant Talwar², Leah Hagar² and Ashutosh Lal¹

¹ Department of Hematology/Oncology at the UCSF Benioff Children's Hospital, 747 52nd Street Oakland, CA 94609, USA

² Children's Hospital Oakland Research Institute, 5700 Martin Luther King Jr Way, Oakland, CA 94609, USA

³ The Pediatric Clinical Research Center, 747 52nd Street Oakland, CA 94609, USA

Nutrients 2015, 7(6), 4296-4307; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu7064296 - 2 Jun 2015

Cited by 43 | Viewed by 7370

Abstract

Up to 20% of adult patients with Thalassemia major (Thal) live with diabetes, while 30% may be zinc deficient. The objective of this study was to explore the relationship between zinc status, impaired glucose tolerance and insulin sensitivity in Thal patients. Charts from [...] Read more.

Up to 20% of adult patients with Thalassemia major (Thal) live with diabetes, while 30% may be zinc deficient. The objective of this study was to explore the relationship between zinc status, impaired glucose tolerance and insulin sensitivity in Thal patients. Charts from thirty subjects (16 male, 27.8 ± 9.1 years) with Thal were reviewed. Patients with low serum zinc had significantly lower fasting insulin, insulinogenic and oral disposition indexes (all p < 0.05) and elevated glucose response curve, following a standard 75 g oral load of glucose compared to those with normal serum zinc after controlling for baseline (group × time interaction p = 0.048). Longitudinal data in five patients with a decline in serum zinc over a two year follow up period (−19.0 ± 9.6 μg/dL), showed consistent increases in fasting glucose (3.6 ± 3.2 mg/dL) and insulin to glucose ratios at 120 min post glucose dose (p = 0.05). Taken together, these data suggest that the frequently present zinc deficiency in Thal patients is associated with decreased insulin secretion and reduced glucose disposal. Future zinc trials will require modeling of oral glucose tolerance test data and not simply measurement of static indices in order to understand the complexities of pancreatic function in the Thal patient. Full article

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

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10 pages, 167 KiB

Open AccessArticle

A Comparison of Postoperative Early Enteral Nutrition with Delayed Enteral Nutrition in Patients with Esophageal Cancer

by Gongchao Wang^1,2,*,†, Hongbo Chen^1,†, Jun Liu^1,†, Yongchen Ma³ and Haiyong Jia⁴

¹ School of Nursing, Shandong University, 44 Wenhua West Road, Jinan 250012, China

² Thoracic Surgery of Shandong Provincial Hospital, Shandong University, 9677 Jingshi Road, Jinan 250014, China

³ School of Medicine, Shandong University, 44 Wenhua West Road, Jinan 250012, China

⁴ Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology (Ministry of Education), School of Pharmaceutica Sciences, Shandong University, 44 Wenhua West Road, Jinan 250012, China

^† These authors contributed equally to this work.

Nutrients 2015, 7(6), 4308-4317; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu7064308 - 2 Jun 2015

Cited by 47 | Viewed by 7722

Abstract

We examined esophageal cancer patients who received enteral nutrition (EN) to evaluate the validity of early EN compared to delayed EN, and to determine the appropriate time to start EN. A total of 208 esophagectomy patients who received EN postoperatively were divided into [...] Read more.

We examined esophageal cancer patients who received enteral nutrition (EN) to evaluate the validity of early EN compared to delayed EN, and to determine the appropriate time to start EN. A total of 208 esophagectomy patients who received EN postoperatively were divided into three groups (Group 1, 2 and 3) based on whether they received EN within 48 h, 48 h–72 h or more than 72 h, respectively. The postoperative complications, length of hospital stay (LOH), days for first fecal passage, cost of hospitalization, and the difference in serum albumin values between pre-operation and post-operation were all recorded. The statistical analyses were performed using the t-test, the Mann-Whitney U test and the chi square test. Statistical significance was defined as p < 0.05. Group 1 had the lowest thoracic drainage volume, the earliest first fecal passage, and the lowest LOH and hospitalization expenses of the three groups. The incidence of pneumonia was by far the highest in Group 3 (p = 0.019). Finally, all the postoperative outcomes of nutritional conditions were the worst by a significant margin in Group 3. It is therefore safe and valid to start early enteral nutrition within 48 h for postoperative esophageal cancer patients. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Advances in Enteral Nutrition)

18 pages, 267 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Folate and Nutrients Involved in the 1-Carbon Cycle in the Pretreatment of Patients for Colorectal Cancer

by Ariana Ferrari^1,*, Aline Martins De Carvalho², Josiane Steluti², Juliana Teixeira², Dirce Maria Lobo Marchioni² and Samuel Aguiar, Jr.¹

¹ Department of Pelvic Surgery, A.C. Camargo Cancer Center, Rua Professor Antônio Prudente, 211, Liberdade, São Paulo (SP) CEP 01509-010, Brazil

² Department of Nutrition, School of Public Health, University of São Paulo, Av. Dr. Arnaldo 715, Consolação, São Paulo (SP) CEP 01246-904, Brazil

Nutrients 2015, 7(6), 4318-4335; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu7064318 - 2 Jun 2015

Cited by 8 | Viewed by 5933

Abstract

To assess the ingestion of folate and nutrients involved in the 1-carbon cycle in non-treated patients with colorectal adenocarcinoma in a reference center for oncology in southeastern Brazil. In total, 195 new cases with colorectal adenocarcinoma completed a clinical evaluation questionnaire and a [...] Read more.

To assess the ingestion of folate and nutrients involved in the 1-carbon cycle in non-treated patients with colorectal adenocarcinoma in a reference center for oncology in southeastern Brazil. In total, 195 new cases with colorectal adenocarcinoma completed a clinical evaluation questionnaire and a Food Frequency Questionnaire (FFQ). Blood samples from 161 patients were drawn for the assessment of serum folate. A moderate correlation was found between serum concentrations of folate, folate intake and the dietary folate equivalent (DFE) of synthetic supplements. Mulatto or black male patients with a primary educational level had a higher intake of dietary folate. Of patients obtaining folate from the diet alone or from dietary supplements, 11.00% and 0.10%, respectively, had intake below the recommended level. Of the patients using dietary supplements, 35% to 50% showed high levels of folic acid intake. There was a prevalence of inadequacy for vitamins B2, B6 and B12, ranging from 12.10% to 20.18%, while 13.76% to 22.55% of patients were likely to have adequate choline intake. The considerable percentage of patients with folate intake above the recommended levels deserves attention because of the harmful effects that this nutrient may have in the presence of established neoplastic lesions. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Assessment of Nutrient Intakes)

9 pages, 148 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Lack of Efficacy of a Salience Nudge for Substituting Selection of Lower-Calorie for Higher-Calorie Milk in the Work Place

by Amy L. Wilson^1,*, Svetlana Bogomolova^1,† and Jonathan D. Buckley^2,†

¹ Ehrenberg-Bass Institute for Marketing Science, University of South Australia, Adelaide 5000, Australia

² Alliance for Research in Exercise, Nutrition and Activity (ARENA), Sansom Institute for Health Research, University of South Australia, Adelaide 5000, Australia

^† These authors contributed equally to this work.

Nutrients 2015, 7(6), 4336-4344; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu7064336 - 2 Jun 2015

Cited by 16 | Viewed by 7377

Abstract

Obesity is a major burden on healthcare systems. Simple, cost effective interventions that encourage healthier behaviours are required. The present study evaluated the efficacy of a salience nudge for promoting a change in milk selection from full-cream to low-fat (lower calorie) in the [...] Read more.

Obesity is a major burden on healthcare systems. Simple, cost effective interventions that encourage healthier behaviours are required. The present study evaluated the efficacy of a salience nudge for promoting a change in milk selection from full-cream to low-fat (lower calorie) in the kitchen of a university-based research institute that provided full-cream and low-fat milk free of charge. Milk selection was recorded for 12 weeks (baseline). A sign with the message “Pick me! I am low calorie” was then placed on the low-fat milk and consumption was recorded for a further 12 weeks. During baseline, selection of low-fat milk was greater than selection of full-cream milk (p = 0.001) with no significant milk-type × time interaction (p = 0.12). During the intervention period overall milk selection was not different from baseline (p = 0.22), with low-fat milk consumption remaining greater than full-cream milk selection (p < 0.001) and no significant milk-type × time interaction (p = 0.41). However, sub-analysis of the first two weeks of the intervention period indicated an increase in selection of both milk types (p = 0.03), but with a greater increase in low-fat milk selection (p = 0.01, milk-type × time interaction). However, milk selection then returned towards baseline during the rest of the intervention period. Thus, in the present setting, salience nudging promoted a transient increase in low-fat milk consumption, but also increased selection of full-cream milk, indicating that nudging was not effective in promoting healthier milk choices. Full article

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18 pages, 259 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Profiling Physical Activity, Diet, Screen and Sleep Habits in Portuguese Children

by Sara Pereira¹

, Peter T. Katzmarzyk², Thayse Natacha Gomes¹

, Alessandra Borges¹, Daniel Santos¹, Michele Souza¹, Fernanda K. dos Santos³, Raquel N. Chaves⁴, Catherine M. Champagne², Tiago V. Barreira^2,5 and José A.R. Maia^1,*

¹ CIFI2D, Faculty of Sport, University of Porto, Rua Plácido Costa, 91, 4200-450 Porto, Portugal

² Pennington Biomedical Research Center, Louisiana State University System, Baton Rouge, LA 70808, USA

³ Department of Physical Education and Sports Science, CAV, Federal University of Pernambuco, Vitória de Santo Antão 55608-680, Brazil

⁴ Federal University of Technology—Paraná (UTFPR), Campus Curitiba, Curitiba 80230-901, Brazil

⁵ School of Education, Syracuse University, Syracuse, NY 13244, USA

Nutrients 2015, 7(6), 4345-4362; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu7064345 - 2 Jun 2015

Cited by 38 | Viewed by 8083

Abstract

Obesity in children is partly due to unhealthy lifestyle behaviours, e.g., sedentary activity and poor dietary choices. This trend has been seen globally. To determine the extent of these behaviours in a Portuguese population of children, 686 children 9.5 to 10.5 years of [...] Read more.

Obesity in children is partly due to unhealthy lifestyle behaviours, e.g., sedentary activity and poor dietary choices. This trend has been seen globally. To determine the extent of these behaviours in a Portuguese population of children, 686 children 9.5 to 10.5 years of age were studied. Our aims were to: (1) describe profiles of children’s lifestyle behaviours; (2) identify behaviour pattern classes; and (3) estimate combined effects of individual/ socio-demographic characteristics in predicting class membership. Physical activity and sleep time were estimated by 24-h accelerometry. Nutritional habits, screen time and socio-demographics were obtained. Latent Class Analysis was used to determine unhealthy lifestyle behaviours. Logistic regression analysis predicted class membership. About 78% of children had three or more unhealthy lifestyle behaviours, while 0.2% presented no risk. Two classes were identified: Class 1-Sedentary, poorer diet quality; and Class 2-Insufficiently active, better diet quality, 35% and 65% of the population, respectively. More mature children (Odds Ratio (OR) = 6.75; 95%CI = 4.74–10.41), and boys (OR = 3.06; 95% CI = 1.98–4.72) were more likely to be overweight/obese. However, those belonging to Class 2 were less likely to be overweight/obese (OR = 0.60; 95% CI = 0.43–0.84). Maternal education level and household income did not significantly predict weight status (p ≥ 0.05). Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nutritional Approaches to the Prevention and Management of Childhood Obesity)

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20 pages, 270 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Do Overweight Adolescents Adhere to Dietary Intervention Messages? Twelve-Month Detailed Dietary Outcomes from Curtin University’s Activity, Food and Attitudes Program

by Kyla L. Smith^1,*,†, Deborah A. Kerr^1,†

, Erin K. Howie^2,† and Leon M. Straker^2,†

¹ School of Public Health, Curtin University, GPO Box U1987, Perth 6845, Australia

² School of Physiotherapy and Exercise Science, Curtin University, GPO Box U1987, Perth 6845, Australia

^† These authors contributed equally to this work.

Nutrients 2015, 7(6), 4363-4382; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu7064363 - 2 Jun 2015

Cited by 14 | Viewed by 6596

Abstract

Dietary components of adolescent obesity interventions are rarely evaluated with comprehensive reporting of dietary change. The objective was to assess dietary change in overweight adolescents, including adherence to dietary intervention. The dietary intervention was part of a multi-component intervention (CAFAP) targeting the physical [...] Read more.

Dietary components of adolescent obesity interventions are rarely evaluated with comprehensive reporting of dietary change. The objective was to assess dietary change in overweight adolescents, including adherence to dietary intervention. The dietary intervention was part of a multi-component intervention (CAFAP) targeting the physical activity, sedentary and healthy eating behaviors of overweight adolescents (n = 69). CAFAP was a staggered entry, within-subject, waitlist controlled clinical trial with 12 months of follow up. Diet was assessed using three-day food records and a brief eating behavior questionnaire. Changes in dietary outcomes were assessed using linear mixed models, adjusted for underreporting. Food record data suggested reduced adherence to dietary intervention messages over time following the intervention, despite conflicting information from the brief eating behavior questionnaire. During the intervention, energy intake was stable but favorable nutrient changes occurred. During the 12 month maintenance period; self-reported eating behaviors improved, energy intake remained stable but dietary fat and saturated fat intake gradually returned to baseline levels. Discrepancies between outcomes from brief dietary assessment methods and three-day food records show differences between perceived and actual intake, highlighting the need for detailed dietary reporting. Further, adherence to dietary intervention principles reduces over time, indicating a need for better maintenance support. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Assessment of Nutrient Intakes)

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20 pages, 2259 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Resveratrol Inhibits the Invasion of Glioblastoma-Initiating Cells via Down-Regulation of the PI3K/Akt/NF-κB Signaling Pathway

by Yuming Jiao^1,2, Hao Li^1,2, Yaodong Liu^1,2, Anchen Guo^2,3, Xiaoxue Xu⁴, Xianjun Qu⁵, Shuo Wang^1,2, Jizong Zhao^1,2, Ye Li^5,* and Yong Cao^1,2,*

¹ Department of Neurosurgery, Beijing Tiantan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100050, China

² China National Clinical Research Center for Neurological Diseases, Beijing 100050, China

³ Laborotary of Clinical Medicine Research, Beijing Tiantan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100050, China

⁴ Medical Experiments and Testing Center, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100069, China

⁵ Department of Pharmacology, School of Chemical Biology & Pharmaceutical Sciences, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100069, China

Nutrients 2015, 7(6), 4383-4402; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu7064383 - 2 Jun 2015

Cited by 76 | Viewed by 9311

Abstract

Invasion and metastasis of glioblastoma-initiating cells (GICs) are thought to be responsible for the progression and recurrence of glioblastoma multiforme (GBM). A safe drug that can be applied during the rest period of temozolomide (TMZ) maintenance cycles would greatly improve the prognosis of [...] Read more.

Invasion and metastasis of glioblastoma-initiating cells (GICs) are thought to be responsible for the progression and recurrence of glioblastoma multiforme (GBM). A safe drug that can be applied during the rest period of temozolomide (TMZ) maintenance cycles would greatly improve the prognosis of GBM patients by inhibiting GIC invasion. Resveratrol (RES) is a natural compound that exhibits anti-invasion properties in multiple tumor cell lines. The current study aimed to evaluate whether RES can inhibit GIC invasion in vitro and in vivo. GICs were identified using CD133 and Nestin immunofluorescence staining and tumorigenesis in non-obese diabetic severe combined immunodeficient (NOD/SCID) mice. Invasive behaviors, including the adhesion, invasion and migration of GICs, were determined by tumor invasive assays in vitro and in vivo. The activity of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) was measured by the gelatin zymography assay. Western blotting analysis and immunofluorescence staining were used to determine the expression of signaling effectors in GICs. We demonstrated that RES suppressed the adhesion, invasion and migration of GICs in vitro and in vivo. Moreover, we proved that RES inhibited the invasion of GICs via the inhibition of PI3K/Akt/NF-κB signal transduction and the subsequent suppression of MMP-2 expression. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Natural Products for Human Health)

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13 pages, 208 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Feasibility and Use of the Mobile Food Record for Capturing Eating Occasions among Children Ages 3–10 Years in Guam

by Tanisha F. Aflague^1,†, Carol J. Boushey^2,*,†

, Rachael T. Leon Guerrero^3,†, Ziad Ahmad⁴, Deborah A. Kerr⁵

and Edward J. Delp⁴

¹ Human Nutrition, Food, and Animal Sciences University of Hawaii at Mānoa, Honolulu, HI96822, USA

² Epidemiology Program University of Hawaii Cancer Center, Honolulu, HI96813, USA

³ College of Natural and Applied Sciences University of Guam, Mangilao, GU 96923, USA

⁴ School of Electrical and Computer Engineering Purdue University, Lafayette, IN 47907, USA

⁵ School of Public Health, Curtin University, Bentley, Perth WA 6102, Australia

^† These authors contributed equally to this work.

Nutrients 2015, 7(6), 4403-4415; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu7064403 - 2 Jun 2015

Cited by 36 | Viewed by 7109

Abstract

Children’s readiness to use technology supports the idea of children using mobile applications for dietary assessment. Our goal was to determine if children 3–10 years could successfully use the mobile food record (mFR) to capture a usable image pair or pairs. Children in [...] Read more.

Children’s readiness to use technology supports the idea of children using mobile applications for dietary assessment. Our goal was to determine if children 3–10 years could successfully use the mobile food record (mFR) to capture a usable image pair or pairs. Children in Sample 1 were tasked to use the mFR to capture an image pair of one eating occasion while attending summer camp. For Sample 2, children were tasked to record all eating occasions for two consecutive days at two time periods that were two to four weeks apart. Trained analysts evaluated images. In Sample 1, 90% (57/63) captured one usable image pair. All children (63/63) returned the mFR undamaged. Sixty-two children reported: The mFR was easy to use (89%); willingness to use the mFR again (87%); and the fiducial marker easy to manage (94%). Children in Sample 2 used the mFR at least one day at Time 1 (59/63, 94%); Time 2 (49/63, 78%); and at both times (47/63, 75%). This latter group captured 6.21 ± 4.65 and 5.65 ± 3.26 mean (±SD) image pairs for Time 1 and Time 2, respectively. Results support the potential for children to independently record dietary intakes using the mFR. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Assessment of Nutrient Intakes)

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10 pages, 119 KiB

Open AccessReview

Effect of Dietary Fatty Acids on Human Lipoprotein Metabolism: A Comprehensive Update

by Esther M.M. Ooi¹, Gerald F. Watts^1,2, Theodore W.K. Ng¹ and P. Hugh R. Barrett^1,3,*

¹ Metabolic Research Centre, School of Medicine and Pharmacology, University of Western Australia, Perth, 6000, Western Australia, Australia

² Lipid Disorders Clinic, Cardiometabolic Service, Department of Internal Medicine, Royal Perth Hospital, 6000, Western Australia, Australia

³ Faculty of Engineering, Computing and Mathematics, University of Western Australia, Perth, 6000, Western Australia, Australia

Nutrients 2015, 7(6), 4416-4425; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu7064416 - 2 Jun 2015

Cited by 114 | Viewed by 12203

Abstract

Dyslipidemia is a major risk factor for cardiovascular disease (CVD). Dietary fatty-acid composition regulates lipids and lipoprotein metabolism and may confer CVD benefit. This review updates understanding of the effect of dietary fatty-acids on human lipoprotein metabolism. In elderly participants with hyperlipidemia, high [...] Read more.

Dyslipidemia is a major risk factor for cardiovascular disease (CVD). Dietary fatty-acid composition regulates lipids and lipoprotein metabolism and may confer CVD benefit. This review updates understanding of the effect of dietary fatty-acids on human lipoprotein metabolism. In elderly participants with hyperlipidemia, high n-3 polyunsaturated fatty-acids (PUFA) consumption diminished hepatic triglyceride-rich lipoprotein (TRL) secretion and enhanced TRL to low-density lipoprotein (LDL) conversion. n-3 PUFA also decreased TRL-apoB-48 concentration by decreasing TRL-apoB-48 secretion. High n-6 PUFA intake decreased very low-density lipoprotein (VLDL) cholesterol and triglyceride concentrations by up-regulating VLDL lipolysis and uptake. In a study of healthy subjects, the intake of saturated fatty-acids with increased palmitic acid at the sn-2 position was associated with decreased postprandial lipemia. Low medium-chain triglyceride may not appreciably alter TRL metabolism. Replacing carbohydrate with monounsaturated fatty-acids increased TRL catabolism. Trans-fatty-acid decreased LDL and enhanced high-density lipoprotein catabolism. Interactions between APOE genotype and n-3 PUFA in regulating lipid responses were also described. The major advances in understanding the effect of dietary fatty-acids on lipoprotein metabolism has centered on n-3 PUFA. This knowledge emphasizes the importance of regulating lipoprotein metabolism as a mode to improve plasma lipids and potentially CVD risk. Additional studies are required to better characterize the cardiometabolic effects of other dietary fatty-acids. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Lipoprotein Metabolism and Atherosclerosis)

12 pages, 349 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Food Choice Architecture: An Intervention in a Secondary School and its Impact on Students’ Plant-based Food Choices

by Hannah Ensaff^1,*, Matt Homer², Pinki Sahota¹, Debbie Braybrook¹, Susan Coan¹ and Helen McLeod³

¹ Nutrition & Dietetics, School of Health & Wellbeing, Leeds Beckett University, Leeds, LS1 3HE, UK

² School of Education, University of Leeds, Leeds, LS2 9JT, UK

³ Health & Wellbeing Service, Leeds City Council, Leeds, LS12 1DB, UK

Nutrients 2015, 7(6), 4426-4437; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu7064426 - 2 Jun 2015

Cited by 68 | Viewed by 19930

Abstract

With growing evidence for the positive health outcomes associated with a plant-based diet, the study’s purpose was to examine the potential of shifting adolescents’ food choices towards plant-based foods. Using a real world setting of a school canteen, a set of small changes [...] Read more.

With growing evidence for the positive health outcomes associated with a plant-based diet, the study’s purpose was to examine the potential of shifting adolescents’ food choices towards plant-based foods. Using a real world setting of a school canteen, a set of small changes to the choice architecture was designed and deployed in a secondary school in Yorkshire, England. Focussing on designated food items (whole fruit, fruit salad, vegetarian daily specials, and sandwiches containing salad) the changes were implemented for six weeks. Data collected on students’ food choice (218,796 transactions) enabled students’ (980 students) selections to be examined. Students’ food choice was compared for three periods: baseline (29 weeks); intervention (six weeks); and post-intervention (three weeks). Selection of designated food items significantly increased during the intervention and post-intervention periods, compared to baseline (baseline, 1.4%; intervention 3.0%; post-intervention, 2.2%) χ²(2) = 68.1, p < 0.001. Logistic regression modelling also revealed the independent effect of the intervention, with students 2.5 times as likely (p < 0.001) to select the designated food items during the intervention period, compared to baseline. The study’s results point to the influence of choice architecture within secondary school settings, and its potential role in improving adolescents’ daily food choices. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Food Choice and Nutrition: A Social Psychological Perspective)

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15 pages, 112 KiB

Open AccessReview

Crosstalk between Zinc Status and Giardia Infection: A New Approach

by Humberto Astiazarán-García^1,*,†

, Gemma Iñigo-Figueroa^1,†, Luis Quihui-Cota^2,† and Iván Anduro-Corona^1,†

¹ Departamento de Nutrición y Metabolismo, Coordinación de Nutrición, Centro de Investigación en Alimentación y Desarrollo, A.C. Carretera a La Victoria Km 0.6, Hermosillo, Sonora, CP 83304, Mexico

² Departamento de Nutrición Pública y Salud, Coordinación de Nutrición, Centro de Investigación en Alimentación y Desarrollo, A.C. Carretera a La Victoria Km 0.6, Hermosillo, Sonora, C.P. 83304, Mexico

^† These authors contributed equally to this work.

Nutrients 2015, 7(6), 4438-4452; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu7064438 - 3 Jun 2015

Cited by 19 | Viewed by 8069

Abstract

Zinc supplementation has been shown to reduce the incidence and prevalence of diarrhea; however, its anti-diarrheal effect remains only partially understood. There is now growing evidence that zinc can have pathogen-specific protective effects. Giardiasis is a common yet neglected cause of acute-chronic diarrheal [...] Read more.

Zinc supplementation has been shown to reduce the incidence and prevalence of diarrhea; however, its anti-diarrheal effect remains only partially understood. There is now growing evidence that zinc can have pathogen-specific protective effects. Giardiasis is a common yet neglected cause of acute-chronic diarrheal illness worldwide which causes disturbances in zinc metabolism of infected children, representing a risk factor for zinc deficiency. How zinc metabolism is compromised by Giardia is not well understood; zinc status could be altered by intestinal malabsorption, organ redistribution or host-pathogen competition. The potential metal-binding properties of Giardia suggest unusual ways that the parasite may interact with its host. Zinc supplementation was recently found to reduce the rate of diarrhea caused by Giardia in children and to upregulate humoral immune response in Giardia-infected mice; in vitro and in vivo, zinc-salts enhanced the activity of bacitracin in a zinc-dose-dependent way, and this was not due to zinc toxicity. These findings reflect biological effect of zinc that may impact significantly public health in endemic areas of infection. In this paper, we shall explore one direction of this complex interaction, discussing recent information regarding zinc status and its possible contribution to the outcome of the encounter between the host and Giardia. Full article

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

12 pages, 435 KiB

Open AccessReview

Low-Density Lipoprotein Receptor-Related Protein 6 (LRP6) Is a Novel Nutritional Therapeutic Target for Hyperlipidemia, Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease, and Atherosclerosis

by Gwang-woong Go

Department of Food and Nutrition, Kookmin University, Seoul 136-702, Korea

Nutrients 2015, 7(6), 4453-4464; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu7064453 - 3 Jun 2015

Cited by 69 | Viewed by 14748

Abstract

Low-density lipoprotein receptor-related protein 6 (LRP6) is a member of the low-density lipoprotein receptor family and has a unique structure, which facilitates its multiple functions as a co-receptor for Wnt/β-catenin signaling and as a ligand receptor for endocytosis. The role LRP6 plays in [...] Read more.

Low-density lipoprotein receptor-related protein 6 (LRP6) is a member of the low-density lipoprotein receptor family and has a unique structure, which facilitates its multiple functions as a co-receptor for Wnt/β-catenin signaling and as a ligand receptor for endocytosis. The role LRP6 plays in metabolic regulation, specifically in the nutrient-sensing pathway, has recently garnered considerable interest. Patients carrying an LRP6 mutation exhibit elevated levels of LDL cholesterol, triglycerides, and fasting glucose, which cooperatively constitute the risk factors of metabolic syndrome and atherosclerosis. Since the discovery of this mutation, the general role of LRP6 in lipid homeostasis, glucose metabolism, and atherosclerosis has been thoroughly researched. These studies have demonstrated that LRP6 plays a role in LDL receptor-mediated LDL uptake. In addition, when the LRP6 mutant impaired Wnt-LRP6 signaling, hyperlipidemia, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, and atherosclerosis developed. LRP6 regulates lipid homeostasis and body fat mass via the nutrient-sensing mechanistic target of the rapamycin (mTOR) pathway. Furthermore, the mutant LRP6 triggers atherosclerosis by activating platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF)-dependent vascular smooth muscle cell differentiation. This review highlights the exceptional opportunities to study the pathophysiologic contributions of LRP6 to metabolic syndrome and cardiovascular diseases, which implicate LRP6 as a latent regulator of lipid metabolism and a novel therapeutic target for nutritional intervention. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Lipoprotein Metabolism and Atherosclerosis)

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15 pages, 220 KiB

Open AccessArticle

NF-κBp65 and Expression of Its Pro-Inflammatory Target Genes Are Upregulated in the Subcutaneous Adipose Tissue of Cachectic Cancer Patients

by Rodolfo Gonzalez Camargo^1,*,†, Daniela Mendes dos Reis Riccardi^1,†, Henrique Quintas Teixeira Ribeiro¹, Luiz Carlos Carnevali, Jr.¹, Emidio Marques De Matos-Neto¹, Lucas Enjiu¹, Rodrigo Xavier Neves¹, Joanna Darck Carola Correia Lima¹, Raquel Galvão Figuerêdo¹, Paulo Sérgio Martins De Alcântara², Linda Maximiano², José Otoch², Miguel Luiz Batista, Jr.³, Gerhard Püschel⁴ and Marilia Seelaender¹

¹ Cancer Metabolism Research Group, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, University of Sao Paulo, Av. Prof. Lineu Prestes, 1524—Cidade Universitária, Sao Paulo, 05508-000, Brazil

² Department of Clinical Surgery, University of Sao Paulo, Av. Prof. Lineu Prestes, 2565—Cidade Universitária, São Paulo, 05508-000, Brazil

³ Biotechnology Group, Laboratory of Adipose Tissue Biology, University of Mogi das Cruzes, Mogi das Cruzes, Sao Paulo, 05508-100, Brazil

⁴ Department of Nutritional Biochemistry, University of Potsdam, Potsdam, 14558, Germany,

^† These authors contributed equally to the work.

Nutrients 2015, 7(6), 4465-4479; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu7064465 - 4 Jun 2015

Cited by 34 | Viewed by 7375

Abstract

Cancer cachexia, of which the most notable symptom is severe and rapid weight loss, is present in the majority of patients with advanced cancer. Inflammatory mediators play an important role in the development of cachexia, envisaged as a chronic inflammatory syndrome. The white [...] Read more.

Cancer cachexia, of which the most notable symptom is severe and rapid weight loss, is present in the majority of patients with advanced cancer. Inflammatory mediators play an important role in the development of cachexia, envisaged as a chronic inflammatory syndrome. The white adipose tissue (WAT) is one of the first compartments affected in cancer cachexia and suffers a high rate of lipolysis. It secretes several cytokines capable of directly regulating intermediate metabolism. A common pathway in the regulation of the expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines in WAT is the activation of the nuclear transcription factor kappa-B (NF-κB). We have examined the gene expression of the subunits NF-κBp65 and NF-κBp50, as well as NF-κBp65 and NF-κBp50 binding, the gene expression of pro-inflammatory mediators under NF-κB control (IL-1β, IL-6, INF-γ, TNF-α, MCP-1), and its inhibitory protein, nuclear factor of kappa light polypeptide gene enhancer in B-cells inhibitor, alpha (IκB-α). The observational study involved 35 patients (control group, n = 12 and cancer group, n = 23, further divided into cachectic and non-cachectic). NF-κBp65 and its target genes expression (TNF-α, IL-1β, MCP-1 and IκB-α) were significantly higher in cachectic cancer patients. Moreover, NF-κBp65 gene expression correlated positively with the expression of its target genes. The results strongly suggest that the NF-κB pathway plays a role in the promotion of WAT inflammation during cachexia. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nutrition and Cancer)

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18 pages, 533 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Prebiotics Modulate the Effects of Antibiotics on Gut Microbial Diversity and Functioning in Vitro

by Laura P. Johnson¹, Gemma E. Walton², Arianna Psichas³, Gary S. Frost³

, Glenn R. Gibson² and Timothy G. Barraclough^1,*

¹ Department of Life Sciences, Imperial College London, Silwood Park Campus, Ascot, Berkshire, SL5 7PY, UK

² Food Microbial Sciences Unit, Department of Food and Nutritional Sciences, The University of Reading, Reading, Berkshire RG6 6AH, UK

³ Section of Investigative Medicine, Division of Diabetes, Endocrinology and Metabolism, Imperial College London, Hammersmith Hospital, London W12 0HS, UK

Nutrients 2015, 7(6), 4480-4497; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu7064480 - 4 Jun 2015

Cited by 54 | Viewed by 12282

Abstract

Intestinal bacteria carry out many fundamental roles, such as the fermentation of non-digestible dietary carbohydrates to produce short chain fatty acids (SCFAs), which can affect host energy levels and gut hormone regulation. Understanding how to manage this ecosystem to improve human health is [...] Read more.

Intestinal bacteria carry out many fundamental roles, such as the fermentation of non-digestible dietary carbohydrates to produce short chain fatty acids (SCFAs), which can affect host energy levels and gut hormone regulation. Understanding how to manage this ecosystem to improve human health is an important but challenging goal. Antibiotics are the front line of defence against pathogens, but in turn they have adverse effects on indigenous microbial diversity and function. Here, we have investigated whether dietary supplementation—another method used to modulate gut composition and function—could be used to ameliorate the side effects of antibiotics. We perturbed gut bacterial communities with gentamicin and ampicillin in anaerobic batch cultures in vitro. Cultures were supplemented with either pectin (a non-fermentable fibre), inulin (a commonly used prebiotic that promotes the growth of beneficial bacteria) or neither. Although antibiotics often negated the beneficial effects of dietary supplementation, in some treatment combinations, notably ampicillin and inulin, dietary supplementation ameliorated the effects of antibiotics. There is therefore potential for using supplements to lessen the adverse effects of antibiotics. Further knowledge of such mechanisms could lead to better therapeutic manipulation of the human gut microbiota. Full article

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

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14 pages, 285 KiB

Open AccessArticle

A Protein Extract from Chicken Reduces Plasma Homocysteine in Rats

by Vegard Lysne^1,2, Bodil Bjørndal¹, Rita Vik¹, Jan Erik Nordrehaug¹, Jon Skorve¹, Ottar Nygård^1,2,3 and Rolf K. Berge^1,2,*

¹ Department of Clinical Science, University of Bergen, 5020 Bergen, Norway

² Department of Heart Disease, Haukeland University Hospital, 5021 Bergen, Norway

³ KG Jebsen Centre for Diabetes Research, University of Bergen, 5020 Bergen, Norway

Nutrients 2015, 7(6), 4498-4511; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu7064498 - 4 Jun 2015

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 9047

Abstract

The present study aimed to evaluate effects of a water-soluble protein fraction of chicken (CP), with a low methionine/glycine ratio, on plasma homocysteine and metabolites related to homocysteine metabolism. Male Wistar rats were fed either a control diet with 20% w/w casein as [...] Read more.

The present study aimed to evaluate effects of a water-soluble protein fraction of chicken (CP), with a low methionine/glycine ratio, on plasma homocysteine and metabolites related to homocysteine metabolism. Male Wistar rats were fed either a control diet with 20% w/w casein as the protein source, or an experimental diet where 6, 14 or 20% w/w of the casein was replaced with the same amount of CP for four weeks. Rats fed CP had reduced plasma total homocysteine level and markedly increased levels of the choline pathway metabolites betaine, dimethylglycine, sarcosine, glycine and serine, as well as the transsulfuration pathway metabolites cystathionine and cysteine. Hepatic mRNA level of enzymes involved in homocysteine remethylation, methionine synthase and betaine-homocysteine S-methyltransferase, were unchanged, whereas cystathionine gamma-lyase of the transsulfuration pathway was increased in the CP treated rats. Plasma concentrations of vitamin B2, folate, cobalamin, and the B-6 catabolite pyridoxic acid were increased in the 20% CP-treated rats. In conclusion, the CP diet was associated with lower plasma homocysteine concentration and higher levels of serine, choline oxidation and transsulfuration metabolites compared to a casein diet. The status of related B-vitamins was also affected by CP. Full article

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14 pages, 271 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Zinc Status of Vegetarians during Pregnancy: A Systematic Review of Observational Studies and Meta-Analysis of Zinc Intake

by Meika Foster¹, Ursula Nirmala Herulah², Ashlini Prasad³, Peter Petocz³ and Samir Samman^1,2,*

¹ Department of Human Nutrition, University of Otago, PO Box 56, Dunedin 9054, New Zealand

² Discipline of Nutrition and Metabolism, School of Molecular Bioscience, University of Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia

³ Department of Statistics, Macquarie University, NSW 2109, Australia

Nutrients 2015, 7(6), 4512-4525; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu7064512 - 5 Jun 2015

Cited by 37 | Viewed by 15786

Abstract

Pregnant women are vulnerable to a low zinc status due to the additional zinc demands associated with pregnancy and foetal development. The present systematic review explores the relationship between habitual vegetarian diets and dietary zinc intake/status during pregnancy. The association between vegetarian diets [...] Read more.

Pregnant women are vulnerable to a low zinc status due to the additional zinc demands associated with pregnancy and foetal development. The present systematic review explores the relationship between habitual vegetarian diets and dietary zinc intake/status during pregnancy. The association between vegetarian diets and functional pregnancy outcome also is considered. A literature search was conducted of MEDLINE; PubMed; Embase; the Cochrane Library; Web of Science; and Scopus electronic databases up to September 2014. Six English-language observational studies qualified for inclusion in the systematic review. A meta-analysis was conducted that compared the dietary zinc intake of pregnant vegetarian and non-vegetarian (NV) groups; the zinc intake of vegetarians was found to be lower than that of NV (−1.38 ± 0.35 mg/day; p < 0.001); and the exclusion of low meat eaters from the analysis revealed a greater difference (−1.53 ± 0.44 mg/day; p = 0.001). Neither vegetarian nor NV groups met the recommended dietary allowance (RDA) for zinc. In a qualitative synthesis; no differences were found between groups in serum/plasma zinc or in functional outcomes associated with pregnancy. In conclusion; pregnant vegetarian women have lower zinc intakes than NV control populations and both groups consume lower than recommended amounts. Further information is needed to determine whether physiologic adaptations in zinc metabolism are sufficient to meet maternal and foetal requirements during pregnancy on a low zinc diet. Full article

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

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16 pages, 556 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Long-Term Supplementation with Beta Serum Concentrate (BSC), a Complex of Milk Lipids, during Post-Natal Brain Development Improves Memory in Rats

by Jian Guan^1,2,*, Alastair MacGibbon³, Bertram Fong³, Rong Zhang¹, Karen Liu¹, Angela Rowan⁴ and Paul McJarrow³

¹ Liggins Institute, University of Auckland, 85 Park Road, Grafton, Auckland 1142 , New Zealand

² Centre for Brain Research, the Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Auckland, 85 Park Road, Grafton, Auckland 1142, New Zealand

³ Fonterra Research and Development Centre, Private Bag 11029, Palmerston North 4442, New Zealand

⁴ Fonterra Co-operative Group Ltd., Palmerston North 4442, New Zealand

Nutrients 2015, 7(6), 4526-4541; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu7064526 - 5 Jun 2015

Cited by 35 | Viewed by 7712

Abstract

We have previously reported that the supplementation of ganglioside-enriched complex-milk-lipids improves cognitive function and that a phospholipid-enriched complex-milk-lipid prevents age-related cognitive decline in rats. This current study evaluated the effects of post-natal supplementation of ganglioside- and phospholipid-enriched complex-milk-lipids beta serum concentrate (BSC) on [...] Read more.

We have previously reported that the supplementation of ganglioside-enriched complex-milk-lipids improves cognitive function and that a phospholipid-enriched complex-milk-lipid prevents age-related cognitive decline in rats. This current study evaluated the effects of post-natal supplementation of ganglioside- and phospholipid-enriched complex-milk-lipids beta serum concentrate (BSC) on cognitive function in young rats. The diet of male rats was supplemented with either gels formulated BSC (n = 16) or blank gels (n = 16) from post-natal day 10 to day 70. Memory and anxiety-like behaviors were evaluated using the Morris water maze, dark–light boxes, and elevated plus maze tests. Neuroplasticity and white matter were measured using immunohistochemical staining. The overall performance in seven-day acquisition trials was similar between the groups. Compared with the control group, BSC supplementation reduced the latency to the platform during day one of the acquisition tests. Supplementation improved memory by showing reduced latency and improved path efficiency to the platform quadrant, and smaller initial heading error from the platform zone. Supplemented rats showed an increase in striatal dopamine terminals and hippocampal glutamate receptors. Thus BSC supplementation during post-natal brain development improved learning and memory, independent from anxiety. The moderately enhanced neuroplasticity in dopamine and glutamate may be biological changes underlying the improved cognitive function. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nutrition in Cognitive Function)

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13 pages, 503 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Non-Celiac Gluten Sensitivity Has Narrowed the Spectrum of Irritable Bowel Syndrome: A Double-Blind Randomized Placebo-Controlled Trial

by Bijan Shahbazkhani^1,2,3, Amirsaeid Sadeghi^1,*, Reza Malekzadeh^2,3, Fatima Khatavi⁴, Mehrnoosh Etemadi⁴, Ebrahim Kalantri⁵, Mohammad Rostami-Nejad⁶ and Kamran Rostami⁷

¹ Gastroenterology Unit, Imam Khomeini Hospital, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran 5715915199, Iran

² Digestive Disease Research Center, Digestive Disease Research Institute, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Shariati Hospital, Tehran 1599666615, Iran

³ Sasan Alborz Biomedical Research Center, Masoud Gastroenterology and Hepatology Clinic, Tehran 14117-13135, Iran

⁴ Students' Scientific Research Center, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran 1449614535, Iran

⁵ Gholhak Medical Laboratory, Tehran 1913913948, Iran

⁶ Gastroenterology and Liver Diseases Research Center, Research Institute for Gastroenterology and Liver Diseases, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran 1985714711, Iran

⁷ Department of Gastroenterology, Alexandra Hospital, Worcestershire B98 7UB, UK

Nutrients 2015, 7(6), 4542-4554; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu7064542 - 5 Jun 2015

Cited by 126 | Viewed by 15234

Abstract

Several studies have shown that a large number of patients who are fulfilling the criteria for irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) are sensitive to gluten. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of a gluten-free diet on gastrointestinal symptoms in patients [...] Read more.

Several studies have shown that a large number of patients who are fulfilling the criteria for irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) are sensitive to gluten. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of a gluten-free diet on gastrointestinal symptoms in patients with IBS. In this double-blind randomized, placebo-controlled trial, 148 IBS patients fulfilling the Rome III criteria were enrolled between 2011 and 2013. However, only 72 out of the 148 commenced on a gluten-free diet for up to six weeks and completed the study; clinical symptoms were recorded biweekly using a standard visual analogue scale (VAS). In the second stage after six weeks, patients whose symptoms improved to an acceptable level were randomly divided into two groups; patients either received packages containing powdered gluten (35 cases) or patients received placebo (gluten free powder) (37 cases). Overall, the symptomatic improvement was statistically different in the gluten-containing group compared with placebo group in 9 (25.7%), and 31 (83.8%) patients respectively (p < 0.001). A large number of patients labelled as irritable bowel syndrome are sensitive to gluten. Using the term of IBS can therefore be misleading and may deviate and postpone the application of an effective and well-targeted treatment strategy in gluten sensitive patients. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Gluten Related Disorders: People Shall not Live on Bread Alone)

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23 pages, 788 KiB

Open AccessReview

Serum Vitamin D Levels and Polycystic Ovary syndrome: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

by Chunla He¹, Zhoumeng Lin²

, Sara Wagner Robb¹ and Amara E. Ezeamama^1,*

¹ Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, College of Public Health, University of Georgia, 101 Buck Road, Health Sciences Campus, B.S. Miller Hall, Athens, GA 30602, USA

² Institute of Computational Comparative Medicine (ICCM), Department of Anatomy and Physiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Kansas State University, Manhattan, KS 66506, USA

Nutrients 2015, 7(6), 4555-4577; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu7064555 - 8 Jun 2015

Cited by 187 | Viewed by 18814

Abstract

Vitamin D deficiency (VDD) is common in women with and without polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and may be associated with metabolic and endocrine disorders in PCOS. The aim of this meta-analysis is to assess the associations of serum vitamin D levels with metabolic [...] Read more.

Vitamin D deficiency (VDD) is common in women with and without polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and may be associated with metabolic and endocrine disorders in PCOS. The aim of this meta-analysis is to assess the associations of serum vitamin D levels with metabolic and endocrine dysregulations in women with PCOS, and to determine effects of vitamin D supplementation on metabolic and hormonal functions in PCOS patients. The literature search was undertaken through five databases until 16 January 2015 for both observational and experimental studies concerning relationships between vitamin D and PCOS. A total of 366 citations were identified, of which 30 were selected (n = 3182). We found that lower serum vitamin D levels were related to metabolic and hormonal disorders in women with PCOS. Specifically, PCOS patients with VDD were more likely to have dysglycemia (e.g., increased levels of fasting glucose and homeostatic model assessment-insulin resistance index (HOMA-IR)) compared to those without VDD. This meta-analysis found no evidence that vitamin D supplementation reduced or mitigated metabolic and hormonal dysregulations in PCOS. VDD may be a comorbid manifestation of PCOS or a minor pathway in PCOS associated metabolic and hormonal dysregulation. Future prospective observational studies and randomized controlled trials with repeated VDD assessment and better characterization of PCOS disease severity at enrollment are needed to clarify whether VDD is a co-determinant of hormonal and metabolic dysregulations in PCOS, represents a consequence of hormonal and metabolic dysregulations in PCOS or both. Full article

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15 pages, 489 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Quercetin Decreases Claudin-2 Expression Mediated by Up-Regulation of microRNA miR-16 in Lung Adenocarcinoma A549 Cells

by Hiroyuki Sonoki¹, Tomonari Sato², Satoshi Endo¹, Toshiyuki Matsunaga¹, Masahiko Yamaguchi², Yasuhiro Yamazaki², Junko Sugatani² and Akira Ikari^1,*

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

² School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Shizuoka, Shizuoka 422-8526, Japan

Nutrients 2015, 7(6), 4578-4592; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu7064578 - 8 Jun 2015

Cited by 90 | Viewed by 8258

Abstract

Claudin-2 is highly expressed in human lung adenocarcinoma tissues and cells. Knockdown of claudin-2 decreases cell proliferation and migration. Claudin-2 may be a novel target for lung adenocarcinoma. However, there are no physiologically active substances of foods which decrease claudin-2 expression. We here [...] Read more.

Claudin-2 is highly expressed in human lung adenocarcinoma tissues and cells. Knockdown of claudin-2 decreases cell proliferation and migration. Claudin-2 may be a novel target for lung adenocarcinoma. However, there are no physiologically active substances of foods which decrease claudin-2 expression. We here found that quercetin, a flavonoid present in fruits and vegetables, time- and concentration-dependently decreases claudin-2 expression in lung adenocarcinoma A549 cells. In the present study, we examined what regulatory mechanism is involved in the decrease in claudin-2 expression by quercetin. Claudin-2 expression was decreased by LY-294002, a phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3-K) inhibitor, and U0126, a MEK inhibitor. These drugs inhibited the phosphorylation of Akt and ERK1/2, which are downstream targets of PI3-K and MEK, respectively. In contrast, quercetin did not inhibit the phosphorylation. Both LY-294002 and U0126 inhibited promoter activity of claudin-2, but quercetin did not. The stability of claudin-2 mRNA was decreased by quercetin. Quercetin increased the expression of microRNA miR-16. An inhibitor of miR-16 rescued quercetin-induced decrease in the claudin-2 expression. These results suggest that quercetin decreases claudin-2 expression mediated by up-regulation of miR-16 expression and instability of claudin-2 mRNA in lung adenocarcinoma cells. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Flavonoids, Inflammation and Immune System)

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26 pages, 747 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Contribution of Food Groups to Energy and Nutrient Intakes in Five Developed Countries

by Nancy Auestad^1,2,*, Judith S. Hurley³, Victor L. Fulgoni III⁴

and Cindy M. Schweitzer⁵

¹ Dairy Research Institute/National Dairy Council, 10255 West Higgins Road, Suite 900, Rosemont, IL 60018, USA

² Nutrition Insights, LLC, 44 South 2740 West, St. George, UT 84770, USA

³ Hurley Consulting, P.O. Box 90044, Albuquerque, NM 87199, USA

⁴ Nutrition Impact, LLC, 9725 D Drive North, Battle Creek, MI 49014, USA

⁵ Global Dairy Platform, 10255 West Higgins Road, Suite 820, Rosemont, IL 60018, USA

Nutrients 2015, 7(6), 4593-4618; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu7064593 - 8 Jun 2015

Cited by 40 | Viewed by 11444

Abstract

Economic growth in developing countries and globalization of the food sector is leading to increasingly similar food consumption patterns worldwide. The aim of this study was to describe similarities and differences in the contributions of main food groups to energy and nutrient intakes [...] Read more.

Economic growth in developing countries and globalization of the food sector is leading to increasingly similar food consumption patterns worldwide. The aim of this study was to describe similarities and differences in the contributions of main food groups to energy and nutrient intakes in five developed countries across three continents. We obtained summary reports of national food consumption survey data from Australia, France, Denmark, the Netherlands, and the United States. Survey years spanned 2003–2012; sample size ranged from 1444 to 17,386. To mitigate heterogeneity of food groups across countries, we recategorized each survey’s reported food groups and subgroups into eight main food groups and, for three countries, a ninth “mixed dishes” group. We determined the percent contribution of each food group to mean daily intakes of energy, saturated fat, sodium, fiber, and ten vitamins and minerals that are commonly under-consumed. Differences in findings from surveys utilizing a foods-as-consumed versus a disaggregated or ingredients approach to food group composition and contributions from the milk and milk products group, a source of several under-consumed nutrients, were explored. Patterns of food group contributions to energy and nutrient intakes were generally similar across countries. Some differences were attributable to the analytical approach used by the surveys. For the meat/protein, milk and milk products, vegetables, and fruit groups, percent contributions to key nutrient intakes exceeded percent contributions to energy intake. The mixed dishes group provided 10%–20% of total daily energy and a similar 10%–25% of the daily intake of several nutrients. This descriptive study contributes to an understanding of food group consumption patterns in developed countries. Full article

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19 pages, 130 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Adolescents’ Food Choice and the Place of Plant-Based Foods

by Hannah Ensaff^1,*, Susan Coan¹, Pinki Sahota¹, Debbie Braybrook¹, Humaira Akter¹ and Helen McLeod²

¹ Nutrition & Dietetics, School of Health & Wellbeing, Leeds Beckett University, Leeds LS1 3HE, UK

² Health & Wellbeing Service, Leeds City Council, Leeds LS12 1DB, UK

Nutrients 2015, 7(6), 4619-4637; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu7064619 - 9 Jun 2015

Cited by 40 | Viewed by 17295

Abstract

A diet dominated by plant foods, with limited amounts of refined processed foods and animal products conveys substantial health benefits. This study sought to explore adolescents’ attitudes and perceptions towards plant-based foods. Semi-structured focus group interviews were conducted with adolescents (age 14–15 years) [...] Read more.

A diet dominated by plant foods, with limited amounts of refined processed foods and animal products conveys substantial health benefits. This study sought to explore adolescents’ attitudes and perceptions towards plant-based foods. Semi-structured focus group interviews were conducted with adolescents (age 14–15 years) (n = 29) attending an inner city school in Yorkshire, UK. Using a grounded theory methodology, data analysis provided four main categories and related concepts revolving around adolescents’ perspectives on plant-based foods: food choice parameters; perceived drivers and benefits of plant-based foods; environmental food cues; barriers to plant-based food choice. In the emergent grounded theory, a clear disconnect between plant-based foods and the parameters that adolescents use to make food choices, is highlighted. Further, key barriers to adolescents adopting a plant-based diet are differentiated and considered with respect to practice and policy. The analysis offers a framework to remodel and re-present plant-based foods. In this way, it is proposed that a closer connection is possible, with consequent shifts in adolescents’ dietary behaviour towards a more plant-based diet and associated health benefits. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Food Choice and Nutrition: A Social Psychological Perspective)

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23 pages, 462 KiB

Open AccessArticle

I Eat Healthier Than You: Differences in Healthy and Unhealthy Food Choices for Oneself and for Others

by Gudrun Sproesser^1,*

, Verena Kohlbrenner¹, Harald Schupp² and Britta Renner¹

¹ Psychological Assessment and Health Psychology, University of Konstanz, P.O. Box 47, Konstanz 78457, Germany

² General Psychology, University of Konstanz, P.O. Box 36, Konstanz 78457, Germany

Nutrients 2015, 7(6), 4638-4660; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu7064638 - 9 Jun 2015

Cited by 25 | Viewed by 13825

Abstract

The present study investigated self-other biases in actual eating behavior based on the observation of three different eating situations. To capture the complexity of real life food choices within a well-controlled setting, an ecologically valid fake food buffet with 72 different foods was [...] Read more.

The present study investigated self-other biases in actual eating behavior based on the observation of three different eating situations. To capture the complexity of real life food choices within a well-controlled setting, an ecologically valid fake food buffet with 72 different foods was employed. Sixty participants chose a healthy, a typical, and an unhealthy meal for themselves and for an average peer. We found that the typical meal for the self was more similar to the healthy than to the unhealthy meal in terms of energy content: The mean difference between the typical and healthy meals was M_Δ = 1368 kJ (327 kcal) as compared to a mean difference between the typical and unhealthy meals of M_Δ = 3075 kJ (735 kcal). Moreover, there was evidence that people apply asymmetrical standards for themselves and others: Participants chose more energy for a peer than for themselves (M = 4983 kJ or 1191 kcal on average for the peers’ meals vs. M = 3929 kJ or 939 kcal on average for the own meals) and more high-caloric food items for a typical meal, indicating a self-other bias. This comparatively positive self-view is in stark contrast to epidemiological data indicating overall unhealthy eating habits and demands further examination of its consequences for behavior change. Full article

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28 pages, 605 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Difference in Nutrient Intakes between Chinese and Mediterranean, Japanese and American Diets

by Ronghua Zhang^1,†, Zhaopin Wang^2,3,†, Ying Fei^2,3, Biao Zhou¹, Shuangshuang Zheng^2,3, Lijuan Wang^2,3, Lichun Huang¹, Shuying Jiang^2,3, Zeyu Liu^2,3, Jingxin Jiang^2,3 and Yunxian Yu^2,3,*

¹ Zhejiang Provincial Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Hangzhou 310051, China

² Department of Epidemiology & Health Statistics, School of Public Health, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China

³ Chronic Disease Research Institute, School of Public Health, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China

^† These authors contributed equally to this work.

Nutrients 2015, 7(6), 4661-4688; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu7064661 - 9 Jun 2015

Cited by 96 | Viewed by 13044

Abstract

Across countries, the predominant diets are clearly different and highly related with human health. Therefore, it is necessary to evaluate dietary nutrients between them. This study aimed to evaluate dietary nutrients in China and compare those between Chinese and Mediterranean (Italian), Japanese and [...] Read more.

Across countries, the predominant diets are clearly different and highly related with human health. Therefore, it is necessary to evaluate dietary nutrients between them. This study aimed to evaluate dietary nutrients in China and compare those between Chinese and Mediterranean (Italian), Japanese and American diets. Dietary intakes of 2659 subjects in south-east China, Zhejiang province, from 2010 to 2012, were estimated by three consecutive 24-h dietary recalls. The contribution of carbohydrate to total energy in Chinese subjects was lower than that in Japanese and American subjects, but higher than that in Italian subjects. However, the energy contribution from fat in Chinese subjects was higher than that in Japanese and American subjects, and similar to that in Italian subjects. Moreover, the Chinese diet had lower daily intakes of fiber, calcium, phosphorus, potassium, selenium, vitamin A, vitamin B₁, vitamin B₂ and vitamin C, compared with the Japanese, American and Italian diets. Nevertheless, intakes of sodium, iron, copper and vitamin E were higher among Chinese people relative to the people of other three countries. The present study demonstrated that the structure of the Chinese diet has been shifting away from the traditional diet toward high-fat, low-carbohydrate and low-fiber diets, and nutrients intakes in Chinese people have been changing even worse than those in American people. Full article

16 pages, 1914 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Sesamin Ameliorates Advanced Glycation End Products-Induced Pancreatic β-Cell Dysfunction and Apoptosis

by Xiang Kong^1,2,†, Guo-Dong Wang^3,†, Ming-Zhe Ma^4,†, Ru-Yuan Deng¹, Li-Qun Guo², Jun-Xiu Zhang², Jie-Ren Yang^2,* and Qing Su^1,*

¹ Department of Endocrinology, Xinhua Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200092, China

² Department of Pharmacology, Wannan Medical College, Wuhu 241002, China

³ Department of Pharmacy, Wannan Medical College, Wuhu 241002, China

⁴ Department of General Surgery, Xinhua Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200092, China

^† These authors contributed equally to this work.

Nutrients 2015, 7(6), 4689-4704; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu7064689 - 9 Jun 2015

Cited by 48 | Viewed by 9141

Abstract

Advanced glycation end products (AGEs), the direct modulators of β-cells, have been shown to cause insulin-producing β-cell dysfunction and apoptosis through increase of intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) production. Sesamin has been demonstrated to possess antioxidative activity. This study was designed to investigate [...] Read more.

Advanced glycation end products (AGEs), the direct modulators of β-cells, have been shown to cause insulin-producing β-cell dysfunction and apoptosis through increase of intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) production. Sesamin has been demonstrated to possess antioxidative activity. This study was designed to investigate whether sesamin protects against AGEs-evoked β-cell damage via its antioxidant property. The effects of sesamin were examined in C57BL/6J mice and MIN6 cell line. In in vivo studies, mice were intraperitoneally injected with AGEs (120 mg/kg) and orally treated with sesamin (160 mg/kg) for four weeks. Intraperitoneal glucose tolerance and insulin releasing tests were performed. Insulin content, ROS generation and β-cell apoptosis in pancreatic islets were also measured. In in vitro studies, MIN6 cells were pretreated with sesamin (50 or 100 μM) and then exposed to AGEs (200 mg/L) for 24 h. Insulin secretion, β-cell death, ROS production as well as expression and activity of NADPH oxidase were determined. Sesamin treatment obviously ameliorated AGE-induced β-cell dysfunction and apoptosis both in vivo and in vitro. These effects were associated with decreased ROS production, down-regulated expression of p67^phox and p22^phox, and reduced NADPH oxidase activity. These results suggest that sesamin protects β-cells from damage caused by AGEs through suppressing NADPH oxidase-mediated oxidative stress. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Natural Products for Human Health)

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19 pages, 3587 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Bardoxolone Methyl Prevents Fat Deposition and Inflammation in Brown Adipose Tissue and Enhances Sympathetic Activity in Mice Fed a High-Fat Diet

by Chi H. L. Dinh¹, Alexander Szabo^1,2, Yinghua Yu¹, Danielle Camer¹, Qingsheng Zhang¹, Hongqin Wang¹ and Xu-Feng Huang^1,*

¹ Centre for Translational Neuroscience, School of Medicine, University of Wollongong and Illawarra Health and Medical Research Institute, Wollongong, NSW 2522, Australia

² ANSTO LifeSciences, Australian Nuclear Science and Technology Organisation, Lucas Heights, NSW 2234, Australia

Nutrients 2015, 7(6), 4705-4723; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu7064705 - 9 Jun 2015

Cited by 15 | Viewed by 11052

Abstract

Obesity results in changes in brown adipose tissue (BAT) morphology, leading to fat deposition, inflammation, and alterations in sympathetic nerve activity. Bardoxolone methyl (BARD) has been extensively studied for the treatment of chronic diseases. We present for the first time the effects of [...] Read more.

Obesity results in changes in brown adipose tissue (BAT) morphology, leading to fat deposition, inflammation, and alterations in sympathetic nerve activity. Bardoxolone methyl (BARD) has been extensively studied for the treatment of chronic diseases. We present for the first time the effects of oral BARD treatment on BAT morphology and associated changes in the brainstem. Three groups (n = 7) of C57BL/6J mice were fed either a high-fat diet (HFD), a high-fat diet supplemented with BARD (HFD/BARD), or a low-fat diet (LFD) for 21 weeks. BARD was administered daily in drinking water. Interscapular BAT, and ventrolateral medulla (VLM) and dorsal vagal complex (DVC) in the brainstem, were collected for analysis by histology, immunohistochemistry and Western blot. BARD prevented fat deposition in BAT, demonstrated by the decreased accumulation of lipid droplets. When administered BARD, HFD mice had lower numbers of F4/80 and CD11c macrophages in the BAT with an increased proportion of CD206 macrophages, suggesting an anti-inflammatory effect. BARD increased phosphorylation of tyrosine hydroxylase in BAT and VLM. In the VLM, BARD increased energy expenditure proteins, including beta 3-adrenergic receptor (β₃-AR) and peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma coactivator 1-alpha (PGC-1α). Overall, oral BARD prevented fat deposition and inflammation in BAT, and stimulated sympathetic nerve activity. Full article

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15 pages, 314 KiB

Open AccessArticle

A Moderate Low-Carbohydrate Low-Calorie Diet Improves Lipid Profile, Insulin Sensitivity and Adiponectin Expression in Rats

by Jie-Hua Chen^1,†, Caiqun Ouyang^1,†, Qiang Ding², Jia Song¹, Wenhong Cao³ and Limei Mao^1,*

¹ Department of Nutrition and Food Hygiene, School of Public Health and Tropical Medicine, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, Guangdong, China

² Department of Nutrition and Food Hygiene, School of Public Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, Hubei, China

³ Department of Nutrition, The Gillings School of Global Public Health, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA

^† These authors contributed equally to this work.

Nutrients 2015, 7(6), 4724-4738; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu7064724 - 11 Jun 2015

Cited by 33 | Viewed by 9201

Abstract

Calorie restriction (CR) via manipulating dietary carbohydrates has attracted increasing interest in the prevention and treatment of metabolic syndrome. There is little consensus about the extent of carbohydrate restriction to elicit optimal results in controlling metabolic parameters. Our study will identify a better [...] Read more.

Calorie restriction (CR) via manipulating dietary carbohydrates has attracted increasing interest in the prevention and treatment of metabolic syndrome. There is little consensus about the extent of carbohydrate restriction to elicit optimal results in controlling metabolic parameters. Our study will identify a better carbohydrate-restricted diet using rat models. Rats were fed with one of the following diets for 12 weeks: Control diet, 80% energy (34% carbohydrate-reduced) and 60% energy (68% carbohydrate-reduced) of the control diet. Changes in metabolic parameters and expressions of adiponectin and peroxisome proliferator activator receptor γ (PPARγ) were identified. Compared to the control diet, 68% carbohydrate-reduced diet led to a decrease in serum triglyceride and increases inlow density lipoprotein-cholesterol (LDL-C), high density lipoprotein-cholesterol (HDL-C) and total cholesterol; a 34% carbohydrate-reduced diet resulted in a decrease in triglycerides and an increase in HDL-cholesterol, no changes however, were shown in LDL-cholesterol and total cholesterol; reductions in HOMA-IR were observed in both CR groups. Gene expressions of adiponectin and PPARγ in adipose tissues were found proportionally elevated with an increased degree of energy restriction. Our study for the first time ever identified that a moderate-carbohydrate restricted diet is not only effective in raising gene expressions of adiponectin and PPARγ which potentially lead to better metabolic conditions but is better at improving lipid profiles than a low-carbohydrate diet in rats. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Diet and Metabolic Dysfunction)

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24 pages, 721 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Energy Intake, Profile, and Dietary Sources in the Spanish Population: Findings of the ANIBES Study

by Emma Ruiz¹

, José Manuel Ávila¹, Teresa Valero¹

, Susana Del Pozo¹, Paula Rodriguez¹, Javier Aranceta-Bartrina², Ángel Gil³

, Marcela González-Gross⁴

, Rosa M. Ortega⁵

, Lluis Serra-Majem⁶

and Gregorio Varela-Moreiras^1,7,*

¹ Spanish Nutrition Foundation (FEN), C/General Álvarez de Castro 20, 1ªpta, 28010 Madrid, Spain

² Department of Preventive Medicine and Public Health, University of Navarra, C/Irunlarrea 1, 31008 Pamplona, Spain

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

⁴ ImFINE Research Group, Department of Health and Human Performance, Technical University of Madrid, C/Martín Fierro 7, 28040 Madrid, Spain

⁵ Department of Nutrition, Faculty of Pharmacy, Complutense University of Madrid, Plaza Ramón y Cajal s/n, 28040 Madrid, Spain

⁶ Research Institute of Biomedical and Health Sciences, Universidad de Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud, C/Doctor Pasteur s/n Trasera del Hospital, 35016 Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, Spain

⁷ Department of Pharmaceutical and Health Sciences, Faculty of Pharmacy, CEU San Pablo University, Urb. Montepríncipe, Crta. Boadilla Km. 5.3, 28668 Boadilla del Monte, Madrid, Spain

Nutrients 2015, 7(6), 4739-4762; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu7064739 - 12 Jun 2015

Cited by 111 | Viewed by 20456

Abstract

Energy intake, and the foods and beverages contributing to that, are considered key to understanding the high obesity prevalence worldwide. The relative contributions of energy intake and expenditure to the obesity epidemic, however, remain poorly defined in Spain. The purpose of this study [...] Read more.

Energy intake, and the foods and beverages contributing to that, are considered key to understanding the high obesity prevalence worldwide. The relative contributions of energy intake and expenditure to the obesity epidemic, however, remain poorly defined in Spain. The purpose of this study was to contribute to updating data of dietary energy intake and its main sources from food and beverages, according to gender and age. These data were derived from the ANIBES (“Anthropometry, Intake, and Energy Balance in Spain”) study, a cross-sectional study of a nationally representative sample of the Spanish population (from 9–75 years old). A three-day dietary record, collected by means of a tablet device, was used to obtain information about food and beverage consumption and leftovers. The final sample comprised 2009 individuals (1,013 men, 996 women). The observed mean dietary energy intake was 7.6 ± 2.11 MJ/day (8.2 ± 2.22 MJ/day for men and 6.9 ± 1.79 MJ/day for women). The highest intakes were observed among adolescents aged 13–17 years (8.4 MJ/day), followed by children 9–12 years (8.2 ± 1.80 MJ/day), adults aged 18–64 (7.6 ± 2.14 MJ/day) and older adults aged 65–75 years (6.8 ± 1.88 MJ/day). Cereals or grains (27.4%), meats and derivatives (15.2%), oils and fats (12.3%), and milk and dairy products (11.8%) contributed most to daily energy intake. Energy contributions from non-alcoholic beverages (3.9%), fish and shellfish (3.6%), sugars and sweets (3.3%) and alcoholic beverages (2.6%) were moderate to minor. Contributions to caloric profile were 16.8%E from proteins; 41.1%E from carbohydrates, including 1.4%E from fiber; 38.5%E from fats; and 1.9%E from alcohol intake. We can conclude that energy intake is decreasing in the Spanish population. A variety of food and beverage groups contribute to energy intake; however, it is necessary to reinforce efforts for better adherence to the traditional Mediterranean diet. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Energy Balance)

15 pages, 423 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Association of Canonical Wnt/β-Catenin Pathway and Type 2 Diabetes: Genetic Epidemiological Study in Han Chinese

by Jinjin Wang^1,2,†, Jingzhi Zhao^3,†, Jianfeng Zhang⁴, Xinping Luo², Kaiping Gao², Ming Zhang², Linlin Li⁵, Chongjian Wang⁵ and Dongsheng Hu^2,*

¹ Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine Prevention, Preventive Medicine Research Evaluation Center, Henan University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Zhengzhou 450008, China

² Department of Epidemiology, Shenzhen University School of Medicine, Shenzhen 518060, China

³ Military Hospital of Henan Province, Zhengzhou 450000, China

⁴ Henan Armed Police Corps Hospital, Zhengzhou 450000, China

⁵ Department of Epidemiology, College of Public Health, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450001, China

^† These authors contributed equally to this work.

Nutrients 2015, 7(6), 4763-4777; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu7064763 - 15 Jun 2015

Cited by 17 | Viewed by 6603

Abstract

We aimed to investigate the associations of polymorphisms in Canonical Wnt/β-catenin pathway (WNT) signaling genes (including low-density lipoprotein-related protein 5 [LRP5] and transcription factor 7-like 2 [TCF7L2] gene) and the downstream gene glucagon (GCG) and risk of [...] Read more.

We aimed to investigate the associations of polymorphisms in Canonical Wnt/β-catenin pathway (WNT) signaling genes (including low-density lipoprotein-related protein 5 [LRP5] and transcription factor 7-like 2 [TCF7L2] gene) and the downstream gene glucagon (GCG) and risk of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) in a Han Chinese population. We genotyped the single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) for LRP5, TCF7L2 and GCG gene were genotyped in 1842 patients with T2DM and 7777 normal glucose-tolerant healthy subjects. We used multifactor dimensionality reduction (MDR) and multiplicative logistic regression adjusting for sex, age, anthropometric measurements and lipid levels to investigate the gene-gene interactions for the risk of T2DM. Among the five SNPs in LRP5, the recessive model of rs7102273 and the haplotype GCTCC were associated with T2DM risk; the haplotype GCTTC was associated with decreased risk. For TCF7L2, the rs11196218 genotype GA and the haplotype CCG, TTG, TTA were associated with T2DM risk; whereas, the haplotype CTG and TCG were associated with decreased risk. Both MDR and multiplicative logistic regression revealed potential gene–gene interactions among LRP5, TCF7L2, and GCG associated with T2DM. The WNT signaling pathway may play a significant role in risk of T2DM in Han Chinese people. Full article

14 pages, 434 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Dietary Patterns Modulate the Risk of Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease in Chinese Adults

by Chao-Qun Yang^1,†, Long Shu^2,†, Shuai Wang¹, Jia-Jia Wang¹, Yu Zhou¹, Yu-Jie Xuan¹ and Su-Fang Wang^1,*

¹ Department of Nutrition and Food Hygiene, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230032, An Hui, China

² Department of Nutrition, Zhejiang Hospital, Hangzhou 310000, Zhe Jiang, China

^† These authors contributed equally to this work.

Nutrients 2015, 7(6), 4778-4791; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu7064778 - 15 Jun 2015

Cited by 80 | Viewed by 9653

Abstract

Although previous studies reported the associations between the intakes of individual foods or nutrients and the risk of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), the relationship between dietary patterns and NAFLD in the Chinese population has been rarely studied to date. This study aimed [...] Read more.

Although previous studies reported the associations between the intakes of individual foods or nutrients and the risk of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), the relationship between dietary patterns and NAFLD in the Chinese population has been rarely studied to date. This study aimed to investigate the associations between dietary patterns and the risk of NAFLD in a middle-aged Chinese population. The Study subjects were 999 Chinese adults aged 45–60 years in the Anhui province who participated in the Hefei Nutrition and Health Study. Dietary intake was collected by a semi-quantitative food frequency questionnaire. NAFLD was defined as the presence of moderate-severe hepatic steatosis (by B-ultrasonic examination); the absence of excessive alcohol use (>20 g day⁻¹ in men and 10 g day⁻¹ in women); no use of steatogenic medications within the past six months; no exposure to hepatotoxins; and no history of bariatric surgery. Log-binomial regression analysis was used to examine the association between dietary patterns and NAFLD with adjustment of potential confounding variables. Out of 999 participants, 345 (34.5%) were classified as having NAFLD. Four major dietary patterns were identified: “Traditional Chinese”, “Animal food”, “Grains-vegetables” and “High-salt” dietary patterns. After adjusting for potential confounders, subjects in the highest quartile of the “Animal food” pattern scores had greater prevalence ratio for NAFLD (prevalence ratio (PR) = 1.354; 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.063–1.724; p < 0.05) than did those in the lowest quartile. After adjustment for body mass index (BMI), compared with the lowest quartile of the “Grains-vegetables” pattern, the highest quartile had a lower prevalence ratio for NAFLD (PR = 0.777; 95% CI: 0.618–0.977, p < 0.05). However, the “traditional Chinese” and “high-salt” dietary patterns showed no association with the risk of NAFLD. Our findings indicated that the “Animal food” dietary pattern was associated with an increased risk of NAFLD. Full article

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

12 pages, 316 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Egg Yolk Protein Delays Recovery while Ovalbumin Is Useful in Recovery from Iron Deficiency Anemia

by Yukiko Kobayashi^*, Etsuko Wakasugi, Risa Yasui, Masashi Kuwahata and Yasuhiro Kido

Laboratory of Nutrition Science, Graduate School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Kyoto Prefectural University, Shimogamo, Sakyo, Kyoto 606-8522, Japan

Nutrients 2015, 7(6), 4792-4803; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu7064792 - 15 Jun 2015

Cited by 15 | Viewed by 11728

Abstract

Protein is a main nutrient involved in overall iron metabolism in vivo. In order to assess the prevention of iron deficiency anemia (IDA) by diet, it is necessary to confirm the influence of dietary protein, which coexists with iron, on iron bioavailability. [...] Read more.

Protein is a main nutrient involved in overall iron metabolism in vivo. In order to assess the prevention of iron deficiency anemia (IDA) by diet, it is necessary to confirm the influence of dietary protein, which coexists with iron, on iron bioavailability. We investigated the usefulness of the egg structural protein in recovery from IDA. Thirty-one female Sprague-Dawley rats were divided into a control group (n = 6) fed a casein diet (4.0 mg Fe/100 g) for 42 days and an IDA model group (n = 25) created by feeding a low-iron casein diet (LI, 0.4 mg Fe/100 g) for 21 days and these IDA rats were fed normal iron diet with different proteins from eggs for another 21 days. The IDA rats were further divided into four subgroups depending on the proteins fed during the last 21 days, which were those with an egg white diet (LI-W, 4.0 mg Fe/100 g, n = 6), those with an ovalbumin diet (LI-A, 4.0 mg Fe/100 g, n = 7), those with an egg yolk-supplemented diet (LI-Y, 4.0 mg Fe/100 g, n = 6), and the rest with a casein diet (LI-C, 4.0 mg Fe/100 g, n = 6). In the LI-Y group, recovery of the hematocrit, hemoglobin, transferrin saturation level and the hepatic iron content were delayed compared to the other groups (p < 0.01, 0.01, 0.01, and 0.05, respectively), resulting in no recovery from IDA at the end of the experimental period. There were no significant differences in blood parameters in the LI-W and LI-A groups compared to the control group. The hepatic iron content of the LI-W and LI-A groups was higher than that of the LI-C group (p < 0.05). We found that egg white protein was useful for recovery from IDA and one of the efficacious components was ovalbumin, while egg yolk protein delayed recovery of IDA. This study demonstrates, therefore, that bioavailability of dietary iron varies depending on the source of dietary protein. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Egg Consumption and Human Health)

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13 pages, 394 KiB

Open AccessDiscussion

Does Motivation for Exercise Influence Post-Exercise Snacking Behavior?

by James A. Dimmock^*, Kym J. Guelfi, Jessica S. West, Tasmiah Masih and Ben Jackson

The University of Western Australia, 35 Stirling Highway, Crawley, Perth, Western Australia 6009, Australia

Nutrients 2015, 7(6), 4804-4816; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu7064804 - 15 Jun 2015

Cited by 19 | Viewed by 10309

Abstract

It is well established that regular exercise plays an important role in achieving a number of health and wellbeing outcomes. However, certain post-exercise behaviors, including the consumption of unhealthy high-calorie foods, can counteract some of the benefits of physical activity. There are at [...] Read more.

It is well established that regular exercise plays an important role in achieving a number of health and wellbeing outcomes. However, certain post-exercise behaviors, including the consumption of unhealthy high-calorie foods, can counteract some of the benefits of physical activity. There are at least three overlapping pathways through which exercise may increase the likelihood of consuming pleasurable but unhealthy foods: through impulsive cognitive processes, reflective cognitive processes, and/or physiological responses. It is argued in this paper that motivation toward exercise can influence each of these pathways. Drawing from literature from various domains, we postulate that controlled exercise motivation, as opposed to autonomous exercise motivation, is more likely to influence each of these pathways in a manner that leaves individuals susceptible to the post-exercise consumption of pleasurable but unhealthy foods. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Food Choice and Nutrition: A Social Psychological Perspective)

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11 pages, 396 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Associations between Vitamin D Status, Supplementation, Outdoor Work and Risk of Parkinson’s Disease: A Meta-Analysis Assessment

by Liang Shen and Hong-Fang Ji^*

Shandong Provincial Research Center for Bioinformatic Engineering and Technique, School of Life Sciences, Shandong University of Technology, Zibo 255049, China

Nutrients 2015, 7(6), 4817-4827; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu7064817 - 15 Jun 2015

Cited by 30 | Viewed by 8793

Abstract

The present study aimed to quantitatively assess the associations between vitamin D and Parkinson’s Disease (PD) risks, which include: (i) risk of PD in subjects with deficient and insufficient vitamin D levels; (ii) association between vitamin D supplementation and risk of PD; and [...] Read more.

The present study aimed to quantitatively assess the associations between vitamin D and Parkinson’s Disease (PD) risks, which include: (i) risk of PD in subjects with deficient and insufficient vitamin D levels; (ii) association between vitamin D supplementation and risk of PD; and (iii) association between outdoor work and PD risk, through meta-analyzing available data. An electronic literature search supplemented by hand searching up to March 2015 identified seven eligible studies comprising 5690 PD patients and 21251 matched controls. Odds ratio (OR) and 95% confidence interval (CI) of PD risk were assessed through pooling the collected data from eligible studies using Stata software. Pooled data showed that subjects with deficient and insufficient vitamin D levels had increased PD risks compared with matched-controls according to the corresponding OR: 2.08, 95% CI: 1.63 to 2.65, and 1.29, 95% CI: 1.10 to 1.51. Vitamin D supplementation was associated with significantly reduced risk of PD (OR: 0.62, 95% CI: 0.35 to 0.90). Outdoor work was also related to reduced risk of PD (OR: 0.72, 95% CI: 0.63 to 0.81). The findings may stimulate larger, well-designed studies to further verify the associations between vitamin D and PD risk. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nutrition in Cognitive Function)

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1 pages, 229 KiB

Open AccessAddendum

Addendum: Fayet-Moore F., Pearson, S. Interpreting the Australian Dietary Guideline to “Limit” into Practical and Personalised Advice. Nutrients 2015, 7, 2026–2043

by Flavia Fayet-Moore^*

and Suzanne Pearson

Nutrition Research Australia, Level 13 167 Macquarie St, Sydney 2000, Australia

Nutrients 2015, 7(6), 4828; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu7064828 - 15 Jun 2015

Viewed by 4587

Abstract

The published article’s Acknowledgement Section was incomplete [1].[...] Full article

22 pages, 2090 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Protective Effect of the Total Saponins from Rosa laevigata Michx Fruit against Carbon Tetrachloride-Induced Liver Fibrosis in Rats

by Deshi Dong^1,2, Lianhong Yin¹, Yan Qi¹, Lina Xu¹ and Jinyong Peng^1,*

¹ College of Pharmacy, Dalian Medical University, No. 9 Western Lvshun South Road, Dalian 116044, China

² The First Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian 116011, China

Nutrients 2015, 7(6), 4829-4850; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu7064829 - 15 Jun 2015

Cited by 35 | Viewed by 8362

Abstract

In this study, the protective effect of the total saponins from Rosa laevigata Michx (RLTS) against liver fibrosis induced by carbon tetrachloride (CCl₄) in rats was evaluated. The results showed that RLTS significantly rehabilitated the levels of alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase, [...] Read more.

In this study, the protective effect of the total saponins from Rosa laevigata Michx (RLTS) against liver fibrosis induced by carbon tetrachloride (CCl₄) in rats was evaluated. The results showed that RLTS significantly rehabilitated the levels of alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase, malondialdehyde, glutathione, glutathione peroxidase, catalase, superoxide dismutase, hydroxyproline, α-smooth muscle actin, collagen I, collagen III and fibronectin, which were confirmed using H&E, Sirius Red and Masson histopathological assays. Further research indicated that RLTS markedly reduced cytochrome P450 2E1 activity, attenuated oxidative stress, and suppressed inflammation. In addition, RLTS facilitated matrix degradation through down-regulation of matrix metalloproteinase2, matrix metalloproteinase 9 and metalloproteinases1, and exerted the anti-fibrotic effects through affecting transforming growth factor β/Smad, focal adhesion kinase/phosphatidylinositol-3-kinase/amino kinase terminal/70-kDa ribosomal S6 Kinase (FAK-PI3K-Akt-p70^S6K) and mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) signaling pathways. Taken together, our data indicate that RLTS can be applied as one effective candidate for the treatment of liver fibrosis in the future. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Natural Products for Human Health)

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11 pages, 1014 KiB

Open AccessArticle

γ-Oryzanol Enhances Adipocyte Differentiation and Glucose Uptake

by Chang Hwa Jung^1,2,†, Da-Hye Lee^1,†, Jiyun Ahn^1,2, Hyunjung Lee², Won Hee Choi¹, Young Jin Jang² and Tae-Youl Ha^1,2,*

¹ Department of Food Biotechnology, Korea University of Science and Technology, 1201 Anyangpangyo-ro, Bundang-ku, Seongnam 463-746, Korea

² Metabolic Mechanism Research Group, Korea Food Research Institute, 1201 Anyangpangyo-ro, Bundang-ku, Seongnam 463-746, Korea

^† These authors contributed equally to this work.

Nutrients 2015, 7(6), 4851-4861; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu7064851 - 15 Jun 2015

Cited by 34 | Viewed by 8442

Abstract

Recent studies show that brown rice improves glucose intolerance and potentially the risk of diabetes, although the underlying molecular mechanisms remain unclear. One of the phytochemicals found in high concentration in brown rice is γ-oryzanol (Orz), a group of ferulic acid esters of [...] Read more.

Recent studies show that brown rice improves glucose intolerance and potentially the risk of diabetes, although the underlying molecular mechanisms remain unclear. One of the phytochemicals found in high concentration in brown rice is γ-oryzanol (Orz), a group of ferulic acid esters of phytosterols and triterpene alcohols. Here, we found that Orz stimulated differentiation of 3T3-L1 preadipocytes and increased the protein expression of adipogenic marker genes such as peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma (PPAR-γ) and CCAAT/enhanced binding protein alpha (C/EBPα). Moreover, Orz significantly increased the glucose uptake in insulin-resistant cells and translocation of glucose transporter type 4 (GLUT4) from the cytosol to the cell surface. To investigate the mechanism by which Orz stimulated cell differentiation, we examined its effects on cellular signaling of the mammalian target of rapamycin complex 1 (mTORC1), a central mediator of cellular growth and proliferation. The Orz treatment increased mTORC1 kinase activity based on phosphorylation of 70-kDa ribosomal S6 kinase 1 (S6K1). The effect of Orz on adipocyte differentiation was dependent on mTORC1 activity because rapamycin blocks cell differentiation in Orz-treated cells. Collectively, our results indicate that Orz stimulates adipocyte differentiation, enhances glucose uptake, and may be associated with cellular signaling mediated by PPAR-γ and mTORC1. Full article

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13 pages, 281 KiB

Open AccessCommunication

Anti-Inflammatory Effect of Angelica gigas via Heme Oxygenase (HO)-1 Expression

by Joon Hyeong Cho^1,†, Jung Eun Kwon^2,†, Youngmi Cho², Inhye Kim^2,* and Se Chan Kang^2,*

¹ Department of Biological and Environmental Science, Dongguk University, Goyang 410-820, Korea

² Department of Biological Science, Gachon University, Seongnam 461-701, Korea

^† These authors contributed equally to this work.

Nutrients 2015, 7(6), 4862-4874; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu7064862 - 15 Jun 2015

Cited by 49 | Viewed by 9064

Abstract

Angelica gigas (AG) is effective against various medical conditions such as bacterial infection, inflammation, and cancer. It contains a number of coumarin compounds and the group of interest is the pyranocoumarin, which comprises decursin and decursinol angelate. This group has an effect on [...] Read more.

Angelica gigas (AG) is effective against various medical conditions such as bacterial infection, inflammation, and cancer. It contains a number of coumarin compounds and the group of interest is the pyranocoumarin, which comprises decursin and decursinol angelate. This group has an effect on controlling inflammation, which is caused by excessive nitric oxide (NO) production. Heme oxygenases (HOs), particularly HO-1, play a role in regulating the production of NO. Thus, this study aimed to investigate the anti-inflammatory effects of AG by measuring HO-1 expression. Treatments with CH₂Cl₂ layer and Angelica gigas extract (AGE) showed the highest NO inhibition effects. Decursin, decursinol angelate, and nodakenin were isolated from the CH₂Cl₂ layer of AGE. Decursin also demonstrated the highest anti-oxidative effect among the coumarins. Although decursin had the best NO inhibition and anti-oxidative effects, the effects of AGE treatment far surpassed that of decursin. This is owing to the combination effect of the coumarins present within AGE, which is a solvent extract of AG. The expression of HO-1 is an effective indicator of the anti-inflammatory effects of AG. Based on the results of the coumarin compounds, HO-1 expression was found to be dose dependent and specific to decursin. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Natural Products for Human Health)

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22 pages, 233 KiB

Open AccessReview

Metabolomics to Explore Impact of Dairy Intake

by Hong Zheng¹, Morten R. Clausen¹, Trine K. Dalsgaard² and Hanne C. Bertram^1,*

¹ Department of Food Science, Aarhus University, Kirstinebjergvej 10, Aarslev DK-5792, Denmark

² Department of Food Science, Aarhus University, Blichers Allé 20, Tjele DK-8830, Denmark

Nutrients 2015, 7(6), 4875-4896; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu7064875 - 17 Jun 2015

Cited by 33 | Viewed by 9761

Abstract

Dairy products are an important component in the Western diet and represent a valuable source of nutrients for humans. However, a reliable dairy intake assessment in nutrition research is crucial to correctly elucidate the link between dairy intake and human health. Metabolomics is [...] Read more.

Dairy products are an important component in the Western diet and represent a valuable source of nutrients for humans. However, a reliable dairy intake assessment in nutrition research is crucial to correctly elucidate the link between dairy intake and human health. Metabolomics is considered a potential tool for assessment of dietary intake instead of traditional methods, such as food frequency questionnaires, food records, and 24-h recalls. Metabolomics has been successfully applied to discriminate between consumption of different dairy products under different experimental conditions. Moreover, potential metabolites related to dairy intake were identified, although these metabolites need to be further validated in other intervention studies before they can be used as valid biomarkers of dairy consumption. Therefore, this review provides an overview of metabolomics for assessment of dairy intake in order to better clarify the role of dairy products in human nutrition and health. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Assessment of Nutrient Intakes)

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14 pages, 194 KiB

Open AccessCommunication

Evaluation of a Mobile Phone Image-Based Dietary Assessment Method in Adults with Type 2 Diabetes

by Megan E. Rollo^1,*

, Susan Ash², Philippa Lyons-Wall³ and Anthony W. Russell^4,5

¹ Priority Research Centre in Physical Activity and Nutrition and School of Health Sciences, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, New South Wales 2308, Australia

² School of Exercise and Nutrition Sciences, Faculty of Health, and Institute of Health and Biomedical Innovation, Queensland University of Technology, Kelvin Grove, Queensland 4059, Australia

³ School of Exercise and Health Sciences, Edith Cowan University, Joondalup, Western Australia 6027, Australia

⁴ Department of Diabetes and Endocrinology, Princess Alexandra Hospital, Woolloongabba, Queensland 4102, Australia

⁵ School of Medicine, University of Queensland, Woolloongabba, Queensland 4102, Australia

Nutrients 2015, 7(6), 4897-4910; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu7064897 - 17 Jun 2015

Cited by 84 | Viewed by 11821

Abstract

Image-based dietary records have limited evidence evaluating their performance and use among adults with a chronic disease. This study evaluated the performance of a 3-day mobile phone image-based dietary record, the Nutricam Dietary Assessment Method (NuDAM), in adults with type 2 diabetes mellitus [...] Read more.

Image-based dietary records have limited evidence evaluating their performance and use among adults with a chronic disease. This study evaluated the performance of a 3-day mobile phone image-based dietary record, the Nutricam Dietary Assessment Method (NuDAM), in adults with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). Criterion validity was determined by comparing energy intake (EI) with total energy expenditure (TEE) measured by the doubly-labelled water technique. Relative validity was established by comparison to a weighed food record (WFR). Inter-rater reliability was assessed by comparing estimates of intake from three dietitians. Ten adults (6 males, age: 61.2 ± 6.9 years old, BMI: 31.0 ± 4.5 kg/m²) participated. Compared to TEE, mean EI (MJ/day) was significantly under-reported using both methods, with a mean ratio of EI:TEE 0.76 ± 0.20 for the NuDAM and 0.76 ± 0.17 for the WFR. Correlations between the NuDAM and WFR were mostly moderate for energy (r = 0.57), carbohydrate (g/day) (r = 0.63, p < 0.05), protein (g/day) (r = 0.78, p < 0.01) and alcohol (g/day) (r_s = 0.85, p < 0.01), with a weaker relationship for fat (g/day) (r = 0.24). Agreement between dietitians for nutrient intake for the 3-day NuDAM (Intra-class Correlation Coefficient (ICC) = 0.77–0.99) was lower when compared with the 3-day WFR (ICC = 0.82–0.99). These findings demonstrate the performance and feasibility of the NuDAM to assess energy and macronutrient intake in a small sample. Some modifications to the NuDAM could improve efficiency and an evaluation in a larger group of adults with T2DM is required. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Assessment of Nutrient Intakes)

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27 pages, 511 KiB

Open AccessReview

NO-Rich Diet for Lifestyle-Related Diseases

by Jun Kobayashi^*, Kazuo Ohtake and Hiroyuki Uchida

Division of Pathophysiology, Department of Clinical Dietetics and Human Nutrition, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Science, Josai University, Saitama 350-0295, Japan

Nutrients 2015, 7(6), 4911-4937; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu7064911 - 17 Jun 2015

Cited by 70 | Viewed by 18671

Abstract

Decreased nitric oxide (NO) availability due to obesity and endothelial dysfunction might be causally related to the development of lifestyle-related diseases such as insulin resistance, ischemic heart disease, and hypertension. In such situations, instead of impaired NO synthase (NOS)-dependent NO generation, the entero-salivary [...] Read more.

Decreased nitric oxide (NO) availability due to obesity and endothelial dysfunction might be causally related to the development of lifestyle-related diseases such as insulin resistance, ischemic heart disease, and hypertension. In such situations, instead of impaired NO synthase (NOS)-dependent NO generation, the entero-salivary nitrate-nitrite-NO pathway might serve as a backup system for NO generation by transmitting NO activities in the various molecular forms including NO and protein S-nitrosothiols. Recently accumulated evidence has demonstrated that dietary intake of fruits and vegetables rich in nitrate/nitrite is an inexpensive and easily-practicable way to prevent insulin resistance and vascular endothelial dysfunction by increasing the NO availability; a NO-rich diet may also prevent other lifestyle-related diseases, including osteoporosis, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and cancer. This review provides an overview of our current knowledge of NO generation through the entero-salivary pathway and discusses its safety and preventive effects on lifestyle-related diseases. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Diet and Metabolic Dysfunction)

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17 pages, 417 KiB

Open AccessArticle

In Vivo Protective Effects of Diosgenin against Doxorubicin-Induced Cardiotoxicity

by Chih-Tai Chen^1,†, Zhi-Hong Wang^2,†, Cheng-Chin Hsu¹, Hui-Hsuan Lin^3,4,* and Jing-Hsien Chen^1,4,*

¹ School of Nutrition, Chung Shan Medical University, Taichung City 40201, Taiwan

² Environment-Omics-Diseases Research Center, China Medical University Hospital, Taichung City 40402, Taiwan

³ School of Medical Laboratory and Biotechnology, Chung Shan Medical University, Taichung City 40201, Taiwan

⁴ Clinical Laboratory, Chung Shan Medical University, Taichung City 40201, Taiwan

^† These authors contributed equally to this work.

Nutrients 2015, 7(6), 4938-4954; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu7064938 - 17 Jun 2015

Cited by 80 | Viewed by 9288

Abstract

Doxorubicin (DOX) induces oxidative stress leading to cardiotoxicity. Diosgenin, a steroidal saponin of Dioscorea opposita, has been reported to have antioxidant activity. Our study was aimed to find out the protective effect of diosgenin against DOX-induced cardiotoxicity in mice. DOX treatment [...] Read more.

Doxorubicin (DOX) induces oxidative stress leading to cardiotoxicity. Diosgenin, a steroidal saponin of Dioscorea opposita, has been reported to have antioxidant activity. Our study was aimed to find out the protective effect of diosgenin against DOX-induced cardiotoxicity in mice. DOX treatment led to a significant decrease in the ratio of heart weight to body weight, and increases in the blood pressure and the serum levels of lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), creatine phosphokinase (CPK) and creatine kinase myocardial bound (CK-MB), markers of cardiotoxicity. In the heart tissue of the DOX-treated mice, DOX reduced activities of antioxidant enzymes, including superoxide dismutase (SOD) and glutathione peroxidase (GPx), were recovered by diosgenin. Diosgenin also decreased the serum levels of cardiotoxicity markers, cardiac levels of thiobarbituric acid relative substances (TBARS) and reactive oxygen species (ROS), caspase-3 activation, and mitochondrial dysfunction, as well as the expression of nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB), an inflammatory factor. Moreover, diosgenin had the effects of increasing the cardiac levels of cGMP via modulation of phosphodiesterase-5 (PDE5) activity, and in improving myocardial fibrosis in the DOX-treated mice. Molecular data showed that the protective effects of diosgenin might be mediated via regulation of protein kinase A (PKA) and p38. Our data imply that diosgenin possesses antioxidant and anti-apoptotic activities, and cGMP modulation effect, which in turn protect the heart from the DOX-induced cardiotoxicity. Full article

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11 pages, 453 KiB

Open AccessArticle

DQ2, DQ7 and DQ8 Distribution and Clinical Manifestations in Celiac Cases and Their First-Degree Relatives

by Magdalena Araya^1,*, Amaya Oyarzun¹, Yalda Lucero², Nelly Espinosa³ and Francisco Pérez-Bravo⁴

¹ Human Nutrition, Institute of Nutrition and Food Technology (INTA), University of Chile, Santiago, Chile

² Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, University of Chile, Santiago, Chile

³ Hospital Militar, Santiago, Chile

⁴ Nutrition Department, Faculty of Medicine, University of Chile, Santiago, Chile

Nutrients 2015, 7(6), 4955-4965; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu7064955 - 18 Jun 2015

Cited by 22 | Viewed by 8369

Abstract

HLA-linked genes are relevant to celiac disease (CD); the potential genetic differences present worldwide are not fully understood. Previous results suggest that the distribution of HLA-DQ2/DQ7/DQ8 in Chile may differ from that in Europe and North America. In celiac patients and their first-degree [...] Read more.

HLA-linked genes are relevant to celiac disease (CD); the potential genetic differences present worldwide are not fully understood. Previous results suggest that the distribution of HLA-DQ2/DQ7/DQ8 in Chile may differ from that in Europe and North America. In celiac patients and their first-degree relatives (FDRS), we assessed their clinical, serological and histological characteristics, determined HLA-DQ2, HLA-DQ7 and HLA-DQ8 alleles and genotypes, and evaluated the relations between them. A total of 222 individuals were assessed (56 cases, 166 FDRs). 16.9% of FDRs were tTG positive; 53.6% of them showed overweight/obesity and 3% undernourishment; they spontaneously declared being asymptomatic, but detailed questioning revealed that 60.7% experienced symptoms, which had not been investigated. DQ2 was present in 53.9% and 43.9.0% of cases and FDRs (p < 0.05). The most frequent genotype distribution was DQ2/DQ7 (fr 0.392 (cases) and 0.248 (FDRs), respectively, p < 0.02). The next most common genotypes were HLA-DQ2/DQ8 (fr 0.236 in FDRs and 0.176 in cases, p < 0.05). 3.92% cases were not HLA-DQ2/DQ8 carriers. Among tTG positive FDRs, 57.4%, 22.3% and 20.2% carried DQ2, DQ7 and DQ8, respectively. In cases, 72.7% of the biopsies classified Marsh ≥3 carried at least one DQ2; 91.7% of DQ2/DQ2 and 88.3% of DQ2/DQ7 were Marsh ≥3. Thus, DQ2 frequency is lower than reported; the higher frequency found for DQ8 and DQ7 concur with recent publications from Argentine and Brazil. These results suggest that although CD may manifest clinically in ways similar to those described in other populations, some genetic peculiarities in this region deserve further study. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Gluten Related Disorders: People Shall not Live on Bread Alone)

12 pages, 472 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Diagnosis of Non-Celiac Gluten Sensitivity (NCGS): The Salerno Experts’ Criteria

by Carlo Catassi^1,*, Luca Elli², Bruno Bonaz³, Gerd Bouma⁴, Antonio Carroccio⁵, Gemma Castillejo⁶, Christophe Cellier⁷, Fernanda Cristofori⁸, Laura De Magistris⁹, Jernej Dolinsek¹⁰, Walburga Dieterich¹¹

, Ruggiero Francavilla⁸, Marios Hadjivassiliou¹², Wolfgang Holtmeier¹³, Ute Körner¹⁴, Dan A. Leffler¹⁵, Knut E. A. Lundin¹⁶, Giuseppe Mazzarella¹⁷, Chris J. Mulder⁴, Nicoletta Pellegrini¹⁸

, Kamran Rostami¹⁹, David Sanders²⁰, Gry Irene Skodje²¹, Detlef Schuppan²², Reiner Ullrich²³, Umberto Volta²⁴, Marianne Williams²⁵, Victor F. Zevallos²², Yurdagül Zopf¹¹ and Alessio Fasano²⁶ Show full author list Hide full author list

¹ Department of Pediatrics, Università Politecnica delle Marche, 60123 Ancona, Italy

² Centre for the Prevention and Diagnosis of Celiac Disease/Gastroenterology and Endoscopy Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Cà Granda-Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan 20122, Italy

³ Clinique Universitaire d'Hépato-Gastroenterologie, CHU de Grenoble, 38043 Grenoble Cedex 09, France

⁴ Department of Gastroenterology, VU University Medical Center, Amsterdam, the Netherlands

⁵ Department of Internal Medicine, "Giovanni Paolo II" Hospital, Sciacca (AG) and University of Palermo, Sciacca 92019, Italy

⁶ Paediatric Gastroenterology Unit, Hospital Sant Joan de Reus, 43201 Reus, Spain

⁷ Service d'Hépato-gastro-entérologie et Endoscopie Digestive, Hôpital Européen Georges Pompidou, 75015 Paris, France

⁸ Interdisciplinary Department of Medicine, University of Bari, Bari 70124, Italy

⁹ Department of Internal and Experimental Medicine Magrassi-Lanzara, Second University of Naples, 80131 Naples, Italy

¹⁰ Gastroenterology Unit, Department of Pediatrics, University Medical Centre Maribor, Maribor 2000, Slovenia

¹¹ Medical Clinic 1, University of Erlangen, 91054 Erlangen, Germany

¹² Academic Department of Neurosciences and University of Sheffield, Royal Hallamshire Hospital, Sheffield S10 2JF, UK

¹³ Division of Gastroenterology and Internal Medicine, Hospital Porz am Rhein, Köln 51149, Germany

¹⁴ Practice of Nutrition Therapy Allergology and Gastroenterology, Köln 50935, Germany

¹⁵ Division of Gastroenterology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, MA 02215, USA

¹⁶ Seksjon for Gastromedisin, Avdeling for Transplantasjonsmedisin, OUS Rikshospitalet Senter for Immunregulering, Oslo University, 0424 Oslo, Norway

¹⁷ Institute of Food Sciences-CNR, Lab. Immuno-Morphology, 83100 Avellino, Italy

¹⁸ Department of Food Science, University of Parma, IT-43124 Parma, Italy

¹⁹ Department of Gastroenterology, Alexandra Hospital, Redditch B98 7UB, UK

²⁰ Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Royal Hallamshire Hospital and University of Sheffield Medical School, Sheffield S10 2JF, UK

²¹ Division of Clinical Nutrition, Oslo University Hospital, 0424 Oslo, Norway,

²² University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg University, 55131 Mainz, Germany

²³ Charité—Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Medizinische Klinik für Gastroenterologie, Infektiologie und Rheumatologie, 12203 Berlin, Germany

²⁴ Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences University of Bologna, St. Orsola-Malpighi Hospital via Massarenti 9, 40138 Bologna, Italy

²⁵ Somerset Partnership NHS Foundation Trust, Bridgwater TA6 4RN, UK

²⁶ Pediatric Gastroenterology and Nutrition, Mass General Hospital for Children, Boston, MA 02114, USA

Show full affiliation list Hide full affiliation list

Nutrients 2015, 7(6), 4966-4977; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu7064966 - 18 Jun 2015

Cited by 469 | Viewed by 53203

Abstract

Non-Celiac Gluten Sensitivity (NCGS) is a syndrome characterized by intestinal and extra-intestinal symptoms related to the ingestion of gluten-containing food, in subjects that are not affected by either celiac disease or wheat allergy. Given the lack of a NCGS biomarker, there is the [...] Read more.

Non-Celiac Gluten Sensitivity (NCGS) is a syndrome characterized by intestinal and extra-intestinal symptoms related to the ingestion of gluten-containing food, in subjects that are not affected by either celiac disease or wheat allergy. Given the lack of a NCGS biomarker, there is the need for standardizing the procedure leading to the diagnosis confirmation. In this paper we report experts’ recommendations on how the diagnostic protocol should be performed for the confirmation of NCGS. A full diagnostic procedure should assess the clinical response to the gluten-free diet (GFD) and measure the effect of a gluten challenge after a period of treatment with the GFD. The clinical evaluation is performed using a self-administered instrument incorporating a modified version of the Gastrointestinal Symptom Rating Scale. The patient identifies one to three main symptoms that are quantitatively assessed using a Numerical Rating Scale with a score ranging from 1 to 10. The double-blind placebo-controlled gluten challenge (8 g/day) includes a one-week challenge followed by a one-week washout of strict GFD and by the crossover to the second one-week challenge. The vehicle should contain cooked, homogeneously distributed gluten. At least a variation of 30% of one to three main symptoms between the gluten and the placebo challenge should be detected to discriminate a positive from a negative result. The guidelines provided in this paper will help the clinician to reach a firm and positive diagnosis of NCGS and facilitate the comparisons of different studies, if adopted internationally. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Gluten Related Disorders: People Shall not Live on Bread Alone)

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17 pages, 1245 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Pharmacokinetics and Toxicity of Sodium Selenite in the Treatment of Patients with Carcinoma in a Phase I Clinical Trial: The SECAR Study

by Ola Brodin^1,*, Staffan Eksborg², Marita Wallenberg³, Charlotte Asker-Hagelberg^4,5, Erik H. Larsen⁶, Dag Mohlkert⁷, Clara Lenneby-Helleday¹, Hans Jacobsson⁸, Stig Linder^9,10, Sougat Misra³ and Mikael Björnstedt³

¹ Department of Oncology, Karolinska Institutet, Karolinska University Hospital Södersjukhuset, SE-118 83 Stockholm, Sweden

² Department of Women's and Children's Health, Karolinska Institutet, Karolinska University Hospital Solna, SE-171 76 Stockholm, Sweden

³ Department of Laboratory Medicine, Division of Pathology F46, Karolinska Institutet, Karolinska University Hospital Huddinge, SE-141 86 Stockholm, Sweden

⁴ Medical Products Agency, P.O. Box 26, SE-751 03 Uppsala, Sweden

⁵ Clinical Pharmacology Unit, Department of Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Solna, SE-171 76 Stockholm, Sweden

⁶ National Food Institute, Technical University of Denmark, DK-2860 Søborg, Denmark

⁷ Department of Radiology, Karolinska University Hospital Södersjukhuset, SE-171 76 Stockholm, Sweden

⁸ Department of Radiology, Karolinska University Hospital, Solna, SE-171 76 Stockholm, Sweden

⁹ Department of Oncology-Pathology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm SE-171 76, Sweden

¹⁰ Department of Medicine and Health, Linköping University, Linköping SE-581 83, Linköping, Sweden

Nutrients 2015, 7(6), 4978-4994; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu7064978 - 19 Jun 2015

Cited by 99 | Viewed by 11545

Abstract

Background: Sodium selenite at high dose exerts antitumor effects and increases efficacy of cytostatic drugs in multiple preclinical malignancy models. We assessed the safety and efficacy of intravenous administered sodium selenite in cancer patients’ refractory to cytostatic drugs in a phase I trial. [...] Read more.

Background: Sodium selenite at high dose exerts antitumor effects and increases efficacy of cytostatic drugs in multiple preclinical malignancy models. We assessed the safety and efficacy of intravenous administered sodium selenite in cancer patients’ refractory to cytostatic drugs in a phase I trial. Patients received first line of chemotherapy following selenite treatment to investigate altered sensitivity to these drugs and preliminary assessment of any clinical benefits. Materials and Methods: Thirty-four patients with different therapy resistant tumors received iv sodium selenite daily for consecutive five days either for two weeks or four weeks. Each cohort consisted of at least three patients who received the same daily dose of selenite throughout the whole treatment. If 0/3 patients had dose-limiting toxicities (DLTs), the study proceeded to the next dose-level. If 2/3 had DLT, the dose was considered too high and if 1/3 had DLT, three more patients were included. Dose-escalation continued until the maximum tolerated dose (MTD) was reached. MTD was defined as the highest dose-level on which 0/3 or 1/6 patients experienced DLT. The primary endpoint was safety, dose-limiting toxic effects and the MTD of sodium selenite. The secondary endpoint was primary response evaluation. Results and Conclusion: MTD was defined as 10.2 mg/m², with a calculated median plasma half-life of 18.25 h. The maximum plasma concentration of selenium from a single dose of selenite increased in a nonlinear pattern. The most common adverse events were fatigue, nausea, and cramps in fingers and legs. DLTs were acute, of short duration and reversible. Biomarkers for organ functions indicated no major systemic toxicity. In conclusion, sodium selenite is safe and tolerable when administered up to 10.2 mg/m² under current protocol. Further development of the study is underway to determine if prolonged infusions might be a more effective treatment strategy. Full article

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

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25 pages, 1313 KiB

Open AccessReview

Hepatic Steatosis as a Marker of Metabolic Dysfunction

by Elisa Fabbrini and Faidon Magkos^*

Center for Human Nutrition and Atkins Center of Excellence in Obesity Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA

Nutrients 2015, 7(6), 4995-5019; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu7064995 - 19 Jun 2015

Cited by 163 | Viewed by 16588

Abstract

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is the liver manifestation of the complex metabolic derangements associated with obesity. NAFLD is characterized by excessive deposition of fat in the liver (steatosis) and develops when hepatic fatty acid availability from plasma and de novo synthesis exceeds [...] Read more.

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is the liver manifestation of the complex metabolic derangements associated with obesity. NAFLD is characterized by excessive deposition of fat in the liver (steatosis) and develops when hepatic fatty acid availability from plasma and de novo synthesis exceeds hepatic fatty acid disposal by oxidation and triglyceride export. Hepatic steatosis is therefore the biochemical result of an imbalance between complex pathways of lipid metabolism, and is associated with an array of adverse changes in glucose, fatty acid, and lipoprotein metabolism across all tissues of the body. Intrahepatic triglyceride (IHTG) content is therefore a very good marker (and in some cases may be the cause) of the presence and the degree of multiple-organ metabolic dysfunction. These metabolic abnormalities are likely responsible for many cardiometabolic risk factors associated with NAFLD, such as insulin resistance, type 2 diabetes mellitus, and dyslipidemia. Understanding the factors involved in the pathogenesis and pathophysiology of NAFLD will lead to a better understanding of the mechanisms responsible for the metabolic complications of obesity, and hopefully to the discovery of novel effective treatments for their reversal. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Lipoprotein Metabolism and Atherosclerosis)

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31 pages, 287 KiB

Open AccessReview

Mechanistic Effects of Calcitriol in Cancer Biology

by Lorenza Díaz¹

, Mauricio Díaz-Muñoz², Ana Cristina García-Gaytán² and Isabel Méndez^2,*

¹ Departamento de Biología de la Reproducción, Instituto Nacional de Ciencias Médicas y Nutrición Salvador Zubirán, Vasco de Quiroga No. 15, Tlalpan, Mexico City 14000, Mexico

² Departamento de Neurobiología Celular y Molecular, Instituto de Neurobiología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México (UNAM), Campus UNAM-Juriquilla, Blvd. Juriquilla 3001, Querétaro 76230, Mexico

Nutrients 2015, 7(6), 5020-5050; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu7065020 - 19 Jun 2015

Cited by 101 | Viewed by 17586

Abstract

Besides its classical biological effects on calcium and phosphorus homeostasis, calcitriol, the active vitamin D metabolite, has a broad variety of actions including anticancer effects that are mediated either transcriptionally and/or via non-genomic pathways. In the context of cancer, calcitriol regulates the cell [...] Read more.

Besides its classical biological effects on calcium and phosphorus homeostasis, calcitriol, the active vitamin D metabolite, has a broad variety of actions including anticancer effects that are mediated either transcriptionally and/or via non-genomic pathways. In the context of cancer, calcitriol regulates the cell cycle, induces apoptosis, promotes cell differentiation and acts as anti-inflammatory factor within the tumor microenvironment. In this review, we address the different mechanisms of action involved in the antineoplastic effects of calcitriol. Full article

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Nutrients, Volume 7, Issue 6 (June 2015) – 64 articles , Pages 3949-5064

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