Nutrients

Research

Jump to: Review

13 pages, 645 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Dietary Patterns and Cardiovascular Risk Factors in Spanish Adolescents: A Cross-Sectional Analysis of the SI! Program for Health Promotion in Secondary Schools

by Patricia Bodega, Juan Miguel Fernández-Alvira, Gloria Santos-Beneit, Amaya de Cos-Gandoy, Rodrigo Fernández-Jiménez, Luis Alberto Moreno, Mercedes de Miguel, Vanesa Carral, Xavier Orrit, Isabel Carvajal, Carolina E. Storniolo, Anna Tresserra-Rimbau, Mónica Doménech, Ramón Estruch, Rosa María Lamuela-Raventós and Valentín Fuster

Nutrients 2019, 11(10), 2297; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu11102297 - 26 Sep 2019

Cited by 16 | Viewed by 5029

Abstract

Previous studies on the association between dietary habits and cardiovascular risk factors (CVRF) in adolescents have generated conflicting results. The aim of this study was to describe dietary patterns (DP) in a large sample of Spanish adolescents and to assess their cross-sectional relationship [...] Read more.

Previous studies on the association between dietary habits and cardiovascular risk factors (CVRF) in adolescents have generated conflicting results. The aim of this study was to describe dietary patterns (DP) in a large sample of Spanish adolescents and to assess their cross-sectional relationship with CVRF. In total, 1324 adolescents aged 12.5 ± 0.4 years (51.6% boys) from 24 secondary schools completed a self-reported food frequency questionnaire. DPs were derived by cluster analysis and principal component analysis (PCA). Anthropometric measurements, blood pressure, lipid profile, and glucose levels were assessed. Linear mixed models were applied to estimate the association between DPs and CVRF. Three DP-related clusters were obtained: Processed (29.2%); Traditional (39.1%); and Healthy (31.7%). Analogous patterns were obtained in the PCA. No overall differences in CVRF were observed between clusters except for z-BMI and z-FMI values, total cholesterol, and non-HDL cholesterol, with the Processed cluster showing the lowest mean values. However, differences were small. In conclusion, the overall association between DPs, as assessed by two different methods, and most analyzed CVRF was weak and not clinically relevant in a large sample of adolescents. Prospective analysis may help to disentangle the direction of these associations. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Health Benefits of Vegetables and Fruits)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

11 pages, 1454 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Bioactive Compounds of Cooked Tomato Sauce Modulate Oxidative Stress and Arachidonic Acid Cascade Induced by Oxidized LDL in Macrophage Cultures

by Carolina E. Storniolo, Ignasi Sacanella, María T. Mitjavila, Rosa M. Lamuela-Raventos and Juan J. Moreno

Nutrients 2019, 11(8), 1880; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu11081880 - 13 Aug 2019

Cited by 21 | Viewed by 5071

Abstract

Sofrito is a mix of tomato, onion, garlic, and olive oil, which contains phenolic compounds and carotenoids. Consumption of tomato-based sofrito has been related to a lower risk of cardiovascular events, but the mechanisms behind such beneficial effects remain unclear. This study aimed [...] Read more.

Sofrito is a mix of tomato, onion, garlic, and olive oil, which contains phenolic compounds and carotenoids. Consumption of tomato-based sofrito has been related to a lower risk of cardiovascular events, but the mechanisms behind such beneficial effects remain unclear. This study aimed to analyze the effects of representative sofrito compounds such as naringenin, hydroxytyrosol, lycopene, and β-carotene on mechanisms involved in the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis. We demonstrated that both phenolic compounds and both carotenoids studied were able to inhibit low density lipoproteins (LDL) oxidation, as well as oxidative stress and eicosanoid production induced by oxidized LDL (oxLDL) in macrophage cultures. These effects were not the consequences of disturbing oxLDL uptake by macrophages. Finally, we observed an additive effect of these sofrito compounds, as well as the activity of a main naringenin metabolite, naringenin 7-O-β-d-glucuronide on LDL oxidation and oxidative stress. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Health Benefits of Vegetables and Fruits)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

14 pages, 2205 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Garlic Consumption and All-Cause Mortality among Chinese Oldest-Old Individuals: A Population-Based Cohort Study

by Xiaoming Shi, Yuebin Lv, Chen Mao, Jinqiu Yuan, Zhaoxue Yin, Xiang Gao and Zuofeng Zhang

Nutrients 2019, 11(7), 1504; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu11071504 - 30 Jun 2019

Cited by 9 | Viewed by 15059

Abstract

In vitro and in vivo experimental studies have shown garlic has protective effects on the aging process; however, there is no evidence that garlic consumption is associated with all-cause mortality among oldest-old individuals (≥80 years). From 1998 to 2011, 27,437 oldest-old participants (mean [...] Read more.

In vitro and in vivo experimental studies have shown garlic has protective effects on the aging process; however, there is no evidence that garlic consumption is associated with all-cause mortality among oldest-old individuals (≥80 years). From 1998 to 2011, 27,437 oldest-old participants (mean age: 92.9 years) were recruited from 23 provinces in China. The frequencies of garlic consumption at baseline and at age 60 were collected. Cox proportional hazards models adjusted for potential covariates were constructed to estimate hazard ratios (HRs) relating garlic consumption to all-cause mortality. Among 92,505 person-years of follow-up from baseline to September 1, 2014, 22,321 participants died. Participants who often (≥5 times/week) or occasionally (1–4 times/week) consumed garlic survived longer than those who rarely (less than once/week) consumed it (p < 0.001). Participants who consumed garlic occasionally or often had a lower risk for mortality than those who rarely consumed garlic at baseline; the adjusted HRs for mortality were 0.92(0.89–0.94) and 0.89(0.85–0.92), respectively. The inverse associations between garlic consumption and all-cause mortality were robust in sensitivity analyses and subgroup analyses. In this study, habitual consumption of garlic was associated with a lower all-cause mortality risk; this advocates further investigation into garlic consumption for promoting longevity. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Health Benefits of Vegetables and Fruits)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

16 pages, 1702 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Hesperidin Effects on Gut Microbiota and Gut-Associated Lymphoid Tissue in Healthy Rats

by Sheila Estruel-Amades, Malén Massot-Cladera, Francisco J. Pérez-Cano, Àngels Franch, Margarida Castell and Mariona Camps-Bossacoma

Nutrients 2019, 11(2), 324; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu11020324 - 2 Feb 2019

Cited by 104 | Viewed by 6909

Abstract

Hesperidin, found in citrus fruits, has shown a wide range of biological properties. Nonetheless, a more in-depth investigation is required on the effects on the immune system, and in particular, on the gut-associated lymphoid tissue, together with its relationship with the gut microbiota. [...] Read more.

Hesperidin, found in citrus fruits, has shown a wide range of biological properties. Nonetheless, a more in-depth investigation is required on the effects on the immune system, and in particular, on the gut-associated lymphoid tissue, together with its relationship with the gut microbiota. Therefore, we aimed to establish the influence of oral hesperidin administration on the intestinal lymphoid tissue and on the gut microbiota composition in healthy animals. Lewis rats were orally administrated 100 or 200 mg/kg hesperidin three times per week for four weeks. Microbiota composition and IgA-coated bacteria were determined in caecal content. Mesenteric lymph node lymphocyte (MLNL) composition and functionality were assessed. IgA, cytokines, and gene expression in the small intestine were quantified. Hesperidin administration resulted in a higher number of bacteria and IgA-coated bacteria, with changes in microbiota composition such as higher Lactobacillus proportion. Hesperidin was also able to increase the small intestine IgA content. These changes in the small intestine were accompanied by a decrease in interferon-γ and monocyte chemotactic protein-1 concentration. In addition, hesperidin increased the relative proportion of TCRαβ+ lymphocytes in MLNL. These results show the immunomodulatory actions of hesperidin on the gut-associated lymphoid tissue and reinforce its role as a prebiotic. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Health Benefits of Vegetables and Fruits)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

17 pages, 5076 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Apple Pomace Consumption Favorably Alters Hepatic Lipid Metabolism in Young Female Sprague-Dawley Rats Fed a Western Diet

by Roy Chris Skinner, Derek C. Warren, Soofia N. Lateef, Vagner A. Benedito and Janet C. Tou

Nutrients 2018, 10(12), 1882; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu10121882 - 3 Dec 2018

Cited by 19 | Viewed by 4629

Abstract

Apple pomace, which is a waste byproduct of processing, is rich in several nutrients, particularly dietary fiber, indicating potential benefits for diseases that are attributed to poor diets, such as non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). NAFLD affects over 25% of United States population [...] Read more.

Apple pomace, which is a waste byproduct of processing, is rich in several nutrients, particularly dietary fiber, indicating potential benefits for diseases that are attributed to poor diets, such as non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). NAFLD affects over 25% of United States population and is increasing in children. Increasing fruit consumption can influence NAFLD. The study objective was to replace calories in standard or Western diets with apple pomace to determine the effects on genes regulating hepatic lipid metabolism and on risk of NAFLD. Female Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly assigned (n = 8 rats/group) to isocaloric diets of AIN-93G and AIN-93G/10% w/w apple pomace (AIN/AP) or isocaloric diets of Western (45% fat, 33% sucrose) and Western/10% w/w apple pomace (Western/AP) diets for eight weeks. There were no significant effects on hepatic lipid metabolism in rats fed AIN/AP. Western/AP diet containing fiber-rich apple pomace attenuated fat vacuole infiltration, elevated monounsaturated fatty acid content, and triglyceride storage in the liver due to higher circulating bile and upregulated hepatic DGAT2 gene expression induced by feeding a Western diet. The study results showed the replacement of calories in Western diet with apple pomace attenuated NAFLD risk. Therefore, apple pomace has the potential to be developed into a sustainable functional food for human consumption. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Health Benefits of Vegetables and Fruits)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

Review

Jump to: Research

17 pages, 309 KiB

Open AccessReview

Is Eating Raisins Healthy?

by Alexandra Olmo-Cunillera, Danilo Escobar-Avello, Andy J. Pérez, María Marhuenda-Muñoz, Rosa Mª Lamuela-Raventós and Anna Vallverdú-Queralt

Nutrients 2020, 12(1), 54; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu12010054 - 24 Dec 2019

Cited by 33 | Viewed by 17035

Abstract

Raisins are dried grapes consumed worldwide that contain beneficial components for human health. They are rich in fiber and phytochemicals such as phenolic compounds. Despite a 60% sugar content, several studies have reported health-promoting properties for raisins and this review compiles the intervention [...] Read more.

Raisins are dried grapes consumed worldwide that contain beneficial components for human health. They are rich in fiber and phytochemicals such as phenolic compounds. Despite a 60% sugar content, several studies have reported health-promoting properties for raisins and this review compiles the intervention studies, as well as the cell line and animal model studies carried out to date. It has been demonstrated that raisins possess a low-to-moderate glycemic index, which makes them a healthy snack. They seem to contribute to a better diet quality and may reduce appetite. Their antioxidant capacity has been correlated to the phenolic content and this may be involved in the improvement of cardiovascular health. In addition, raisins maintain a good oral health due to their antibacterial activity, low adherence to teeth and an optimum oral pH. Raisin consumption also seems to be favorable for colon function, although more studies should be done to conclude this benefit. Moreover, gut microbiota could be affected by the prebiotic content of raisins. Cell line and animal model studies show other potential benefits in specific diseases, such as cancer and Alzheimer’s disease. However, deeper research is required and future intervention studies with humans are needed. Overall, incorporating an 80–90 g portion of raisins (half a cup) into the daily diet may be favorable for human health. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Health Benefits of Vegetables and Fruits)

15 pages, 733 KiB

Open AccessReview

Microbial Phenolic Metabolites: Which Molecules Actually Have an Effect on Human Health?

by María Marhuenda-Muñoz, Emily P. Laveriano-Santos, Anna Tresserra-Rimbau, Rosa M. Lamuela-Raventós, Miriam Martínez-Huélamo and Anna Vallverdú-Queralt

Nutrients 2019, 11(11), 2725; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu11112725 - 10 Nov 2019

Cited by 72 | Viewed by 8148

Abstract

The role of gut microbiota in human health has been investigated extensively in recent years. The association of dysbiosis, detrimental changes in the colonic population, with several health conditions has led to the development of pro-, pre- and symbiotic foods. If not absorbed [...] Read more.

The role of gut microbiota in human health has been investigated extensively in recent years. The association of dysbiosis, detrimental changes in the colonic population, with several health conditions has led to the development of pro-, pre- and symbiotic foods. If not absorbed in the small intestine or secreted in bile, polyphenols and other food components can reach the large intestine where they are susceptible to modification by the microbial population, resulting in molecules with potentially beneficial health effects. This review provides an overview of studies that have detected and/or quantified microbial phenolic metabolites using high-performance liquid chromatography as the separation technique, followed by detection through mass spectrometry. Both in vitro experimental studies and human clinical trials are covered. Although many of the microbial phenolic metabolites (MPM) reported in in vitro studies were identified in human samples, further research is needed to associate them with clinical health outcomes. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Health Benefits of Vegetables and Fruits)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

40 pages, 10217 KiB

Open AccessReview

Relation of Fruits and Vegetables with Major Cardiometabolic Risk Factors, Markers of Oxidation, and Inflammation

by Maria Lapuente, Ramon Estruch, Mana Shahbaz and Rosa Casas

Nutrients 2019, 11(10), 2381; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu11102381 - 6 Oct 2019

Cited by 75 | Viewed by 12335

Abstract

Noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) are considered to be the leading cause of death worldwide. Inadequate fruit and vegetable intake have been recognized as a risk factor for almost all NCDs (type 2 diabetes mellitus, cancer, and cardiovascular and neurodegenerative diseases). The main aim of [...] Read more.

Noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) are considered to be the leading cause of death worldwide. Inadequate fruit and vegetable intake have been recognized as a risk factor for almost all NCDs (type 2 diabetes mellitus, cancer, and cardiovascular and neurodegenerative diseases). The main aim of this review is to examine the possible protective effect that fruit and vegetable consumption or their bioactive compounds may have on the development of NCDs such as atherosclerosis. The accumulated evidence on the protective effects of adequate consumption of fruits and vegetables in some cases, or the lack of evidence in others, are summarized in the present review. The main conclusion of this review is that well-designed, large-scale, long-term studies are needed to truly understand the role fruit and vegetable consumption or their bioactive compounds have in atherosclerosis. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Health Benefits of Vegetables and Fruits)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

22 pages, 769 KiB

Open AccessReview

Health Benefits of Green Banana Consumption: A Systematic Review

by Ana Luisa Falcomer, Roberta Figueiredo Resende Riquette, Bernardo Romão de Lima, Verônica C. Ginani and Renata Puppin Zandonadi

Nutrients 2019, 11(6), 1222; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu11061222 - 29 May 2019

Cited by 88 | Viewed by 27805

Abstract

Despite the growing demand for green banana (GB) products, there is no review study regarding their potential health benefits. We aimed to compare the health benefits among different GB products by a systematic review. We researched six electronic databases (PubMed, EMBASE, Scopus, Science [...] Read more.

Despite the growing demand for green banana (GB) products, there is no review study regarding their potential health benefits. We aimed to compare the health benefits among different GB products by a systematic review. We researched six electronic databases (PubMed, EMBASE, Scopus, Science Direct, Web of Science, and Google Scholar) from inception to March 2019. We found 1009 articles in these databases. After duplicate removal, we screened 732 articles’ titles and abstracts, and selected 18 potentially relevant studies for full-text reading. We added five records from the reference list of the fully-read articles and seven suggested by the expert. Twelve articles were excluded. In the end, 18 studies were considered for this systematic review. Ten studies were conducted with green banana flour and eight with the green banana pulp/biomass. Most of the GB health benefits studied were related to the gastrointestinal symptoms/diseases, followed by the glycemic/insulin metabolism, weight control, and renal and liver complications associated to diabetes. Only one study did not confirm the health benefit proposed. It is necessary to standardize the GB dose/effect to different age groups and different health effects considering the GB variety and ripeness level. Further studies are necessary to present better detailing of GB product and their health effects considering all the raw-material characteristics. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Health Benefits of Vegetables and Fruits)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

Journal Menu

Journal Browser

Health Benefits of Vegetables and Fruits

Share This Special Issue

Special Issue Editor

Special Issue Information

Keywords

Benefits of Publishing in a Special Issue

Published Papers (9 papers)

Research

Review

Further Information

Guidelines

MDPI Initiatives

Follow MDPI