Nutrients

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17 pages, 1111 KB

Open AccessArticle

Evaluation of the Influence of Intervention Tools Used in Nutrition Education Programs: A Mixed Approach

by Luca Muzzioli, Costanza Gimbo, Maria Pintavalle, Silvia Migliaccio and Lorenzo M. Donini

Nutrients 2025, 17(15), 2460; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu17152460 - 28 Jul 2025

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Abstract

Background: In a global panorama marked by a progressive rise in obesity, metabolic syndrome, and chronic non-communicable disease prevalence, nutrition education (NE) might play a pivotal role in restoring adoption and strengthening adherence to dietary patterns that protect human health. Therefore, the [...] Read more.

Background: In a global panorama marked by a progressive rise in obesity, metabolic syndrome, and chronic non-communicable disease prevalence, nutrition education (NE) might play a pivotal role in restoring adoption and strengthening adherence to dietary patterns that protect human health. Therefore, the primary purpose of this work is to review the existing scientific literature studying NE programs aimed at schoolchildren in the decade 2014–2024 and evaluate the effectiveness of intervention tools. Methods: During the first phase of this research, a qualitative analysis was conducted to track similarity in intervention tools and strategies used in nutrition education programs. In the second phase, a quantitative analysis was carried out, extracting common parameters among studies and assessing their potential influence in improving adherence to the Mediterranean diet (MD). Results: A high degree of heterogeneity was observed in educational program designs and intervention tools, which were usually not properly described and justified. All studies that measured adherence to the MD registered an improvement after the intervention, in some cases even higher than 10%. However, this study found no relationship between common parameters (i.e., number of formal tools, number of non-formal tools, lesson duration, and program length) used in NE and the improvement in students’ adherence to MD. Conclusions: This research has contributed to outlining a general framework of NE and to promoting a systematic approach in this research field. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nutrition 3.0: Between Tradition and Innovation)

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12 pages, 943 KB

Open AccessArticle

Effects of Dietary Habits on Markers of Oxidative Stress in Subjects with Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis: Comparison Between the Mediterranean Diet and a Gluten-Free Diet

by Martina Laganà, Tommaso Piticchio, Angela Alibrandi, Rosario Le Moli, Francesco Pallotti, Alfredo Campennì, Salvatore Cannavò, Francesco Frasca and Rosaria Maddalena Ruggeri

Nutrients 2025, 17(2), 363; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu17020363 - 20 Jan 2025

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 5162

Abstract

Background: The Mediterranean diet (MedD) exerts anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant effects that are beneficial in autoimmune thyroid diseases (ATD). Recently, a gluten-free diet (GFD) has been proposed for non-celiac patients with Hashimoto’s thyroiditis (HT), but its usefulness is under debate. The present pilot study [...] Read more.

Background: The Mediterranean diet (MedD) exerts anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant effects that are beneficial in autoimmune thyroid diseases (ATD). Recently, a gluten-free diet (GFD) has been proposed for non-celiac patients with Hashimoto’s thyroiditis (HT), but its usefulness is under debate. The present pilot study evaluates the effects of these two dietary regimes, with a focus on redox homeostasis, in HT. Patients and Methods: 45 euthyroid HT patients (30 F; median age 42 years) were randomly assigned to different dietary regimes: MedD (n = 15), GFD (n = 15) and free diet (FD, n = 15). Thyroid function tests, autoantibodies, and oxidative stress markers (Advanced glycation end products, AGEs; glutathione peroxidase (GPx), thioredoxin reductase (TRxR), and total plasma antioxidant activity (TEAA) were measured at baseline and after 12 weeks. Results: In the MedD group, significantly lower values of AGEs and higher values of GPX, TRX and TEAA with anti-oxidant action were detected (p < 0.05) at 12 weeks compared to baseline, and compared to the GFD and FD groups, in which the oxidative stress parameters did not change significantly (p > 0.05). No significant differences in serum levels of TSH, FT4, Ab-Tg, Ab-TPO compared to baseline were found in any group. Conclusions: This pilot study confirms the protective effect of the MedD against oxidative stress, while a GFD does not significantly influence markers of oxidative stress and/or thyroid autoimmunity/function parameters. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nutrition 3.0: Between Tradition and Innovation)

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Review

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40 pages, 2685 KB

Open AccessReview

The Microbiota–Diet–Immunity Axis in Cancer Care: From Prevention to Treatment Modulation and Survivorship

by Sabrina Tini, Jessica Baima, Stella Pigni, Valentina Antoniotti, Marina Caputo, Elena De Palma, Luigi Cerbone, Federica Grosso, Marta La Vecchia, Elisa Bona and Flavia Prodam

Nutrients 2025, 17(17), 2898; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu17172898 - 8 Sep 2025

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Abstract

Growing evidence highlights the pivotal role of the gut microbiota in cancer development, progression, response to therapy, and survivorship. Diet plays a central role in shaping gut microbiota composition, influencing the immune system and overall host health. Plant-based diets and the Mediterranean diet [...] Read more.

Growing evidence highlights the pivotal role of the gut microbiota in cancer development, progression, response to therapy, and survivorship. Diet plays a central role in shaping gut microbiota composition, influencing the immune system and overall host health. Plant-based diets and the Mediterranean diet promote health-associated microbial communities that increase the production of several metabolic-end products, including short-chain fatty acids that support mucosal barrier integrity, anti-inflammatory effects, and modulation of the immunity of the host. Conversely, Western dietary patterns promote cancer progression and negatively impact the response to standard treatments. Furthermore, gut microbiota influences the effectiveness of cancer therapies, including chemotherapy, radiotherapy and, mainly, immunotherapy. Modulating microbial species, their metabolites, or their activities in the cancer microenvironment through dietary interventions, common or engineered probiotics, prebiotics, postbiotics, antibiotics or fecal microbial transplant are emerging as promising strategies for cancer prevention and tailored management in survivorship. In this review, we explore the intricate interplay between diet, gut microbiota, and cancer, focusing on how specific microbial communities’ impact therapeutic outcomes, and the challenges in the modulation of the microbiota environment through several interventions, including diet. This emerging paradigm paves the way for integrating nutrition and microbiota-targeted strategies as innovative tools in the context of precision medicine. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nutrition 3.0: Between Tradition and Innovation)

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19 pages, 910 KB

Open AccessReview

An Integrated Nutritional and Physical Activity Approach for Osteosarcopenia

by Edoardo Mocini, Ludovica Cardinali, Olivia Di Vincenzo, Antimo Moretti, Carlo Baldari, Giovanni Iolascon and Silvia Migliaccio

Nutrients 2025, 17(17), 2842; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu17172842 - 31 Aug 2025

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Abstract

Osteoporosis is a skeletal disorder characterized by decreased bone strength, which leads to an increased risk of developing fractures. Interestingly, this metabolic disorder is often related to sarcopenia, defined as decreased muscle mass, strength, and function. These two conditions appear to be closely [...] Read more.

Osteoporosis is a skeletal disorder characterized by decreased bone strength, which leads to an increased risk of developing fractures. Interestingly, this metabolic disorder is often related to sarcopenia, defined as decreased muscle mass, strength, and function. These two conditions appear to be closely connected, leading to a clinical condition named osteosarcopenia (OS). Aging may explain the link between muscle and bone loss through genetic, mechanical, endocrine, and nutritional factors. Further, aging increases the amount of adipose tissue, often due to sedentary behavior and unbalanced nutritional pattern, leading to a clinical condition defined as osteosarcopenic obesity, characterized by concurrent obesity, sarcopenia, and osteoporosis, where each condition exacerbates the others. Moreover, sarcopenia leads to decreased physical (PA) activity, worsening skeletal homeostasis, and creating a vicious cycle, which increases falls, fracture risk, and disability. This review underscores the importance of a systemic approach, focusing on nutritional therapy integrated with PA and, eventually, pharmacological interventions to efficiently manage (OS). Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nutrition 3.0: Between Tradition and Innovation)

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50 pages, 2093 KB

Open AccessReview

Enhancing Human Health Through Nutrient and Bioactive Compound Recovery from Agri-Food By-Products: A Decade of Progress

by Cinzia Ingallina, Mattia Spano, Sabrina Antonia Prencipe, Giuliana Vinci, Antonella Di Sotto, Donatella Ambroselli, Valeria Vergine, Maria Elisa Crestoni, Chiara Di Meo, Nicole Zoratto, Luana Izzo, Abel Navarré, Giuseppina Adiletta, Paola Russo, Giacomo Di Matteo, Luisa Mannina and Anna Maria Giusti

Nutrients 2025, 17(15), 2528; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu17152528 - 31 Jul 2025

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Abstract

In light of pressing global nutritional needs, the valorization of agri-food waste constitutes a vital strategy for enhancing human health and nutrition, while simultaneously supporting planetary health. This integrated approach is increasingly indispensable within sustainable and equitable food systems. Recently, a sustainability-driven focus [...] Read more.

In light of pressing global nutritional needs, the valorization of agri-food waste constitutes a vital strategy for enhancing human health and nutrition, while simultaneously supporting planetary health. This integrated approach is increasingly indispensable within sustainable and equitable food systems. Recently, a sustainability-driven focus has shifted attention toward the valorization of the agri-food by-products as rich sources of bioactive compounds useful in preventing or treating chronic diseases. Agri-food by-products, often regarded as waste, actually hold great potential as they are rich in bioactive components, dietary fiber, and other beneficial nutrients from which innovative food ingredients, functional foods, and even therapeutic products are developed. This review aims to provide a comprehensive analysis of the current advances in recovering and applying such compounds from agri-food waste, with a particular focus on their roles in human health, sustainable packaging, and circular economy strategies. Methods: This review critically synthesizes recent scientific literature on the extraction, characterization, and utilization of bioactive molecules from agri-food by-products. After careful analysis of the PubMed and Scopus databases, only English-language articles from the last 10 years were included in the final narrative review. The analysis also encompasses applications in the nutraceutical, pharmaceutical, and food packaging sectors. Results: Emerging technologies have enabled the efficient and eco-friendly recovery of compounds such as polyphenols, carotenoids, and dietary fibers that demonstrate antioxidant, antimicrobial, and anti-inflammatory properties. These bioactive compounds support the development of functional foods and biodegradable packaging materials. Furthermore, these valorization strategies align with global health trends by promoting dietary supplements that counteract the effects of the Western diet and chronic diseases. Conclusions: Valorization of agri-food by-products offers a promising path toward sustainable development by reducing waste, enhancing public health, and driving innovation. This strategy not only minimizes waste and supports sustainability, but also promotes a more nutritious and resilient food system. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nutrition 3.0: Between Tradition and Innovation)

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25 pages, 2438 KB

Open AccessReview

Toward Multidimensional Front-of-Pack Labels: Integrating Nutritional, Environmental, and Processing Information

by Luca Muzzioli, Lucia Maddaloni, Maria Pintavalle, Eleonora Poggiogalle, Olivia Di Vincenzo, Silvia Migliaccio, Giuliana Vinci and Lorenzo Maria Donini

Nutrients 2025, 17(14), 2258; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu17142258 - 8 Jul 2025

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Abstract

Front-of-pack labels (FOPLs) have been identified as a potential key tool to enable consumers to make healthier and more sustainable food choices. The simplification of complex nutritional, environmental, and processing data into clear and immediate formats is an essential function of FOPLs, which [...] Read more.

Front-of-pack labels (FOPLs) have been identified as a potential key tool to enable consumers to make healthier and more sustainable food choices. The simplification of complex nutritional, environmental, and processing data into clear and immediate formats is an essential function of FOPLs, which facilitates a more efficient connection between detailed product information and real-world purchasing decisions. This review critically evaluates the three main categories of FOPL—nutritional (e.g., Nutri-Score), environmental (e.g., Eco-Score) and processing-based (e.g., NOVA)—and examines emerging efforts to weave these dimensions into unified labelling frameworks. A bibliometric analysis of 1803 publications from Scopus, Web of Science, and Google Scholar was conducted, using VOS viewer to identify co-occurrence networks and thematic clusters. A narrative synthesis of label design methods, regulatory steps and consumer impact research followed this. Despite the considerable maturation of individual FOPLs, their combined application remains ad hoc. Establishing harmonized, multidimensional criteria is therefore essential to ensure consistent labelling that informs consumers and promotes public health and sustainability goals. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nutrition 3.0: Between Tradition and Innovation)

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13 pages, 810 KB

Open AccessReview

Vitamin D Supplementation: Practical Advice in Different Clinical Settings

by Giulia Bendotti, Emilia Biamonte, Paola Leporati, Umberto Goglia, Rosaria Maddalena Ruggeri and Marco Gallo

Nutrients 2025, 17(5), 783; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu17050783 - 24 Feb 2025

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 4665

Abstract

A global deficiency in vitamin D is now widely prevalent. Extensive scientific research has provided compelling evidence of the detrimental effects of vitamin D deficiency on the skeletal system. Furthermore, vitamin D supplementation not only helps prevent bone fractures but may also slow [...] Read more.

A global deficiency in vitamin D is now widely prevalent. Extensive scientific research has provided compelling evidence of the detrimental effects of vitamin D deficiency on the skeletal system. Furthermore, vitamin D supplementation not only helps prevent bone fractures but may also slow the progression of various conditions, such as diabetes, autoimmune disorders, and cardiovascular disease. Achieving optimal circulating vitamin D levels can be challenging, particularly in certain clinical scenarios. Moreover, the effect of vitamin D supplementation varies depending on factors such as body weight, pregnancy status, absorption capacity, metabolic rate, and renal function. This review aims to explore which vitamin D formulations are most effective in specific clinical contexts where reaching adequate vitamin D levels may not be straightforward. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nutrition 3.0: Between Tradition and Innovation)

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Other

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36 pages, 899 KB

Open AccessSystematic Review

Unraveling the Role of Foods on Chronic Anti- and Pro-Inflammatory Cytokines: A Systematic Review of Chronic Dietary Intervention Trials in Humans

by Veronica D’Antonio, Marina Ramal-Sanchez, Chiara Bravo-Trippetta, Elena Corvaglia, Mauro Serafini and Donato Angelino

Nutrients 2025, 17(17), 2834; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu17172834 - 30 Aug 2025

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Abstract

Background/Objectives: Unbalanced diets contribute to a rise in low-grade systemic inflammation, a risk factor for metabolic diseases. The aim of this study is to systematically review evidence from chronic intervention studies to understand the role of foods in modulating inflammatory responses in humans. [...] Read more.

Background/Objectives: Unbalanced diets contribute to a rise in low-grade systemic inflammation, a risk factor for metabolic diseases. The aim of this study is to systematically review evidence from chronic intervention studies to understand the role of foods in modulating inflammatory responses in humans. Methods: A literature search was conducted on PubMed using specific keywords. Risk of bias was assessed using Cochrane guidelines. Inclusion criteria required chronic dietary intervention studies measuring cytokine levels in humans. Results: In the 75 studies selected, results revealed extremely high variability both in outcomes, study design, and participant selection criteria. Studies with fruits and vegetables showed a reduction in circulating cytokine levels and/or an increase in anti-inflammatory cytokines in 80% of studies (8/10), followed by fish (78%; 7/9), dairy (67%; 4/6), cereals (64%; 7/11), and oils (57%; 4/7). Beverages and hot beverages showed a decrease in circulating cytokines in 50% of cases (10/20 and 4/8, respectively). An increase in pro-inflammatory cytokines was observed in dietary interventions with beverages. As further findings, we also observed greater effectiveness from fruits and vegetables (87.5%; 7/8), fish (75%; 6/8), and cereals (62.5%; 5/8) when studies were conducted in subjects with pathologies or risk factors. Conclusions: Fruits and vegetables, fish, and cereals reduce systemic inflammation mainly in subjects with pathologies or risk factors. However, the limited number of studies do not allow us to draw solid conclusions on individual foods. Standardized dietary intervention trials are urgently needed to understand the role of foods in modulating inflammatory responses and to deliver findings to the general public. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nutrition 3.0: Between Tradition and Innovation)

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