Nutrients

17 pages, 1009 KB

Open AccessArticle

Effects of 30-Day High-Dose Omega-3 Fatty Acid Supplementation on Plasma Oxidative Stress Enzyme Activities in Recreational and Trained Runners: A Pilot Study

by Bojan Martinšek, Milan Skitek, Tina Kosjek, Leon Bedrač and Evgen Benedik

Nutrients 2025, 17(18), 2985; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu17182985 - 17 Sep 2025

Abstract

Background: Physical activity induces the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS), which, at moderate levels mediate beneficial physiological adaptations, including insulin sensitivity and enhanced antioxidant defense. However, excessive ROS production during intense exercise may exceed endogenous antioxidant capacity, leading to oxidative stress and [...] Read more.

Background: Physical activity induces the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS), which, at moderate levels mediate beneficial physiological adaptations, including insulin sensitivity and enhanced antioxidant defense. However, excessive ROS production during intense exercise may exceed endogenous antioxidant capacity, leading to oxidative stress and muscle damage. Objective: This study examined the effects of 30-day high-dose omega-3 fatty acid supplementation (9 g/day) on plasma fatty acid composition and the activity of antioxidant enzymes in recreational (n = 11) and trained (n = 10) runners, with emphasis on group- and time-specific responses. Methods: Plasma levels of arachidonic acid (AA), eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) were assessed at three time points: pre-, during, and post-supplementation period. Enzymatic activities of glutathione peroxidase (GPx), superoxide dismutase (SOD), and catalase (CAT) were measured at six time points, including before and after exercise sessions involving a 2800 m run followed by a 400 m sprint. Results: Omega-3 supplementation increased plasma EPA and DHA. In trained runners, it was associated with a transient reduction in GPx and a pronounced mid-phase decline in SOD, whereas enzyme activities remained stable in recreational runners. CAT activity did not change significantly in either group. Conclusions: Short-term high-dose omega-3 supplementation modulates antioxidant enzyme activity in a group- and time-dependent manner. The observed downregulation of GPx and SOD in trained runners may reflect altered redox signaling; however, its relevance for exercise performance remains uncertain. Further studies are warranted to elucidate the physiological and functional consequences of these findings. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Sports Nutrition)

26 pages, 409 KB

Open AccessReview

Microbiota Gut–Brain Axis and Autism Spectrum Disorder: Mechanisms and Therapeutic Perspectives

by Andreas Petropoulos, Elisavet Stavropoulou, Christina Tsigalou and Eugenia Bezirtzoglou

Nutrients 2025, 17(18), 2984; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu17182984 - 17 Sep 2025

Abstract

Background/Objectives: Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental condition often accompanied by gastrointestinal (GI) symptoms and gut microbiota imbalances. The microbiota–gut–brain (MGB) axis is a bidirectional communication network linking gut microbes, the GI system, and the central nervous system (CNS). This narrative [...] Read more.

Background/Objectives: Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental condition often accompanied by gastrointestinal (GI) symptoms and gut microbiota imbalances. The microbiota–gut–brain (MGB) axis is a bidirectional communication network linking gut microbes, the GI system, and the central nervous system (CNS). This narrative review explores the role of the MGB axis in ASD pathophysiology, focusing on communication pathways, neurodevelopmental implications, gut microbiota alteration, GI dysfunction, and emerging therapeutics. Methods: A narrative review methodology was employed. We searched major scientific databases including PubMed, Scopus, and Google Scholar for research on MGB axis mechanisms, gut microbiota composition in ASD, dysbiosis, leaky gut, immune activation, GI disorders, and intervention (probiotics, prebiotics, fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT), antibiotics and diet). Key findings from recent human, animal and in vitro studies were synthesized thematically, emphasizing mechanistic insights and therapeutic outcomes. Original references from the initial manuscript draft were retained and supplemented for comprehensiveness and accuracy. Results: The MGB axis involves neuroanatomical, neuroendocrine, immunological, and metabolic pathways that enable microbes to influence brain development and function. Individuals with ASD commonly exhibit gut dysbiosis characterized by reduced microbial diversity (notably lower Bifidobacterium and Firmicutes) and overpresentation of potentially pathogenic taxa (e.g., Clostridia, Desulfovibrio, Enterobacteriaceae). Dysbiosis is associated with increased intestinal permeability (“leaky gut”) and newly activated and altered microbial metabolite profiles, such as short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) and lipopolysaccharides (LPSs). Functional gastrointestinal disorders (FGIDs) are prevalent in ASD, linking gut–brain axis dysfunction to behavioral severity. Therapeutically, probiotics and prebiotics can restore eubiosis, fortify the gut barrier, and reduce neuroinflammation, showing modest improvements in GI and behavioral symptoms. FMT and Microbiota Transfer Therapy (MTT) have yielded promising results in open label trials, improving GI function and some ASD behaviors. Antibiotic interventions (e.g., vancomycin) have been found to temporarily alleviate ASD symptoms associated with Clostridiales overgrowth, while nutritional strategies (high-fiber, gluten-free, or ketogenic diets) may modulate the microbiome and influence outcomes. Conclusions: Accumulating evidence implicates the MGB axis in ASD pathogenesis. Gut microbiota dysbiosis and the related GI pathology may exacerbate neurodevelopmental and behavioral symptoms via immune, endocrine and neural routes. Interventions targeting the gut ecosystem, through diet modification, probiotics, symbiotics, or microbiota transplants, offer therapeutic promise. However, heterogeneity in findings underscores the need for rigorous, large-scale studies to clarify causal relationships and evaluate long-term efficacy and safety. Understanding MGB axis mechanisms in ASD could pave the way for novel adjunctive treatments to improve the quality of life for individuals with ASD. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Nutrition and Neuro Sciences)

30 pages, 1473 KB

Open AccessArticle

Genetic Susceptibility and Genetic Variant-Diet Interactions in Diabetic Retinopathy: A Cross-Sectional Case–Control Study

by Sunmin Park, Suna Kang and Donghyun Jee

Nutrients 2025, 17(18), 2983; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu17182983 - 17 Sep 2025

Abstract

Background/Objectives: Diabetic retinopathy is a leading cause of blindness in diabetic patients, with disease susceptibility influenced by both genetic and environmental factors. This study aimed to identify novel genetic variants associated with DR and evaluate interactions between polygenic risk scores (PRS) and [...] Read more.

Background/Objectives: Diabetic retinopathy is a leading cause of blindness in diabetic patients, with disease susceptibility influenced by both genetic and environmental factors. This study aimed to identify novel genetic variants associated with DR and evaluate interactions between polygenic risk scores (PRS) and lifestyle factors in a Korean diabetic cohort. Methods: After excluding subjects with non-diabetic retinopathy eye diseases (n = 2519), we analyzed data from 50,361 non-diabetic controls, 4,873 diabetic participants without retinopathy (DM-NR), and 165 with diabetic retinopathy (DM-DR). We conducted genome-wide association studies comparing DM-NR and DM-DR groups, performed generalized multifactor dimensionality reduction (GMDR) analysis for epistatic interactions, developed unweighted PRS models, and examined PRS–lifestyle interactions using two-way analysis of covariance. Results: DM-DR prevalence showed strong associations with metabolic syndrome and its components. Five novel genetic variants were identified: ABCA4_rs17110929, MMP2-AS1_rs2576531, FOXP1_rs557869288, MRPS33_rs1533933, and DRD2_rs4936270. A significant three-way epistatic interaction among the first three variants was discovered through GMDR analysis. High-PRS individuals (scores 5–6) showed a 49-fold higher odds ratio of DM-DR compared to low-PRS individuals (scores 0–2; p < 0.0001). MAGMA analysis revealed enrichment in pathways related to protein degradation, vascular function, and neuronal signaling, with predominant upregulation in brain tissues. Significant PRS × lifestyle interactions were identified for fruit intake, coffee consumption, alcohol intake, eating duration, and physical activity, with lifestyle factors modifying genetic risk effects (all p < 0.003). Conclusion: These findings identify novel genetic variants and epistatic interactions in DM-DR pathogenesis, supporting the use of PRS-based risk stratification for intensive monitoring and personalized lifestyle interventions. The discovery of brain tissue-enriched pathways suggests DM-DR shares mechanisms with neurodegenerative diseases, expanding therapeutic targets beyond traditional vascular approaches. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nutrigenomics for Preventing Obesity, Metabolic Syndrome, and Endocrine Disorders)

18 pages, 825 KB

Open AccessArticle

Composite Meal-Related Behaviors and Health Indicators: Insight from Large-Scale Nationwide Data on Korean Adults

by Seongryu Bae and Hyuntae Park

Nutrients 2025, 17(18), 2982; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu17182982 - 17 Sep 2025

Abstract

Objectives: Multidimensional dietary patterns provide a more comprehensive assessment of meal-related behavior than single behaviors, yet evidence on their variation across adulthood and association with health factors relevant to healthy aging is limited. This study examined meal-related behavior pattern distribution by age and [...] Read more.

Objectives: Multidimensional dietary patterns provide a more comprehensive assessment of meal-related behavior than single behaviors, yet evidence on their variation across adulthood and association with health factors relevant to healthy aging is limited. This study examined meal-related behavior pattern distribution by age and identified predictors of unhealthy patterns. Methods: Data from 47,332 adults aged ≥ 18 years in the Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (2014–2022) were analyzed. Participants were divided into three age groups: young adults (18–39 years), middle-aged adults (40–64 years), and older adults (≥65 years). Within each age group, participants were further classified into three categories based on their adherence to three key meal-related behaviors: High adherence (all three behaviors: regular breakfast, shared mealtimes, and infrequent eating out), Moderate adherence (two behaviors), or Low adherence (one or none). Group differences in sociodemographic, clinical variables, nutrient intake, biochemical markers, and lifestyle factors were tested using ANOVA and Pearson’s chi-square, and predictors were identified with multinomial logistic regression. Results: Older adults most frequently showed the High adherence group (51.1%) but had the lowest prevalence of shared mealtimes (66.3%), suggesting social vulnerabilities despite healthy individual habits. Young adults had the highest Low pattern prevalence, which was primarily driven by infrequent breakfast and frequent eating out. Across all ages, poorer patterns were consistently associated with living alone, prolonged sedentary time, and adverse metabolic profiles. Middle-aged adults exhibited moderate adherence to healthy behaviors but showed the highest prevalence of chronic disease. In older adults, poorer patterns were associated with lower intakes of energy, carbohydrate, protein, and dietary fiber intake, alongside higher rates of living alone and sedentary behavior. Conclusions: Composite meal-related behaviors differed across age groups as follows: Young adults most frequently exhibited low adherence, middle-aged adults showed moderate adherence but bore the highest burden of chronic diseases, while older adults demonstrated high breakfast adherence and low frequency of eating out, but faced nutritional insufficiency and social vulnerability. These findings suggest the need for personalized interventions for each age group. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nutrition, Physical Activity, Frailty, and Cognitive Decline in Older Adults: Addressing Age-Related Health)

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22 pages, 2318 KB

Open AccessArticle

Analysis of the Stimulative Effect of Arginine on Translation Initiation of Protein Synthesis in Skeletal Muscle

by Daisuke Suzuki, Yuki Takami, Yusuke Sato, Yuka Toyoshima and Fumiaki Yoshizawa

Nutrients 2025, 17(18), 2981; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu17182981 - 17 Sep 2025

Abstract

Background: Arginine (Arg) is thought to potentially stimulate protein synthesis. Although the detailed mechanism by which Arg regulates protein synthesis is not fully known, it is believed to occur primarily through the mechanistic target of rapamycin complex 1 (mTORC1)-dependent activation of translation initiation. [...] Read more.

Background: Arginine (Arg) is thought to potentially stimulate protein synthesis. Although the detailed mechanism by which Arg regulates protein synthesis is not fully known, it is believed to occur primarily through the mechanistic target of rapamycin complex 1 (mTORC1)-dependent activation of translation initiation. The aim of this study was to evaluate the ability of Arg to stimulate translation initiation to upregulate protein synthesis and identify the possible signaling pathways involved in the stimulatory effect of Arg on mRNA translation in skeletal muscle. Methods: Overnight-fasted mice were intraperitoneally injected with Arg, sacrificed 1 h later, and then the gastrocnemius muscles were excised. In addition, to determine the mechanism by which Arg stimulates translation initiation in skeletal muscle, we used mouse-derived C2C12 myotubes. Cells were preincubated with several inhibitors of intracellular signaling or the G protein–coupled receptor, Class C, group 6, subtype A (GPRC6A) antagonist, and then added to the culture with Arg. Phosphorylation of 4E-binding protein 1 (4E-BP1) and ribosomal protein S6 kinase (S6K1) as markers of mTORC1-dependent protein synthesis activity was measured. Results: Intraperitoneal injection of Arg increased 4E-BP1 and S6K1 phosphorylation. In C2C12 myotubes, Arg addition significantly increased the phosphorylation of 4E-BP1 and S6K1, and this upregulation was attenuated by pretreatment with the mTORC1 inhibitor rapamycin. In addition, pretreatment with the PI3K inhibitor LY294002, the AKT inhibitor MK-2206, and the GPRC6A antagonist calindol completely inhibited Arg-upregulated 4E-BP1 and S6K1 phosphorylation. Conclusions: The findings of this study suggest that Arg stimulates the initiation of mRNA translation via the GPRC6A/PI3K/AKT/mTORC1 signaling pathway, thereby stimulating protein synthesis in skeletal muscle. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Human Protein Requirements and New Findings Regarding the Factors That Influence Them)

20 pages, 379 KB

Open AccessArticle

Validating Sentinel Foods in the Diet Quality Questionnaire: Insights from Two Chilean Cohorts of Pregnant Women and Children

by Angela Martínez-Arroyo, Giannella Barisione, Marcela Vizcarra, Natalia Rebolledo and María Luisa Garmendia

Nutrients 2025, 17(18), 2980; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu17182980 - 17 Sep 2025

Abstract

Background: New tools for monitoring diets, such as the Diet Quality Questionnaire (DQQ), may help reduce the costs and burden associated with traditional methods of diet assessment. However, its proposed sentinel foods require validation in target populations. This study aimed to validate the [...] Read more.

Background: New tools for monitoring diets, such as the Diet Quality Questionnaire (DQQ), may help reduce the costs and burden associated with traditional methods of diet assessment. However, its proposed sentinel foods require validation in target populations. This study aimed to validate the Chilean sentinel foods and describe the performance of DQQ, as well as its Global Dietary Recommendation (GDR) indicators, in two Chilean cohorts. Methods: We analyzed dietary data from 1418 pregnant women and 799 children using 24 h recalls. Foods and beverages were classified and ranked into 29 DQQ food groups. Food items that accounted for more than 95% of the total consumption within each of the 29 food groups were selected and identified as sentinels. We estimated the proportion of consumers in each food group and calculated the indicators, as well as their relationship with the consumption of ultra-processed foods (UPFs). Results: The pregnant women had a mean age of 29.1 (SD 6.6), and the children had a mean age of 6.2 (SD 0.5). The sentinel foods of six groups (grain-based sweets, other sweets, salty snacks, deep-fried food, and sweet tea/coffee/cocoa) captured under 95% of the group’s total consumption. The pregnant women had a higher frequency of consumption of staple and healthy foods, and the mean GDR score was 9.3 (SD 2.20). The children had higher consumption of unhealthy food groups, and the mean GDR score was 8.1 (SD 2.05). The GDR-protect scores showed a moderate but statistically significant negative correlation with ultra-processed food consumption (p-value < 0.0001). Conclusions: The DQQ is a suitable tool for collecting dietary data to estimate diet quality using food group-based indicators. Additionally, it is possible to identify different dietary patterns at a crucial stage of life, such as childhood and pregnancy. However, it requires some adaptations of sentinel foods and further testing on other populations before it can be implemented to monitor Chilean diets. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Advances in Dietary Assessment)

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17 pages, 898 KB

Open AccessArticle

Prenatal Vitamin D, Multivitamin, and Folic Acid Supplementation and Brain Structure in Children with ADHD and ASD Traits: The Generation R Study

by Daan van Rooij, Yuchan Mou, Tonya White, Trudy Voortman, Pauline W. Jansen and Jan K. Buitelaar

Nutrients 2025, 17(18), 2979; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu17182979 - 17 Sep 2025

Abstract

Background/Objectives: Maternal vitamin supplementation (including folic acid, vitamin D, and multivitamin supplements) during pregnancy may lower the likelihood of neurodevelopmental disorders in offspring. This study examines the associations between maternal vitamin suppletion during pregnancy and morphological patterns in offsprings’ brain structure and traits [...] Read more.

Background/Objectives: Maternal vitamin supplementation (including folic acid, vitamin D, and multivitamin supplements) during pregnancy may lower the likelihood of neurodevelopmental disorders in offspring. This study examines the associations between maternal vitamin suppletion during pregnancy and morphological patterns in offsprings’ brain structure and traits of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) in a large population-based study of child development. Methods: The study cohort included a total of 3937 children (aged 9–11) participating in the Generation R cohort in Rotterdam, the Netherlands. Maternal vitamin D and folateserum levels, multivitamin supplement use, and overall dietary quality (as assessed by the Food Frequency Questionnaire, FFQ) during pregnancy were used as predictors. T1 structural MRI scans were acquired and segmented using Freesurfer to assess brain morphometry. Cortical and subcortical brain volumes of children were separated into four independent components and used as mediators. ADHD and ASD traits, as measured by parent-completed questionnaires (Child Behavior CheckList and Social Responsiveness Scale, respectively) were used as outcome variables. Results: Results show that (1) maternal vitamin D, multivitamin supplementation, and better diet quality were associated with fewer ADHD or ASD traits in the offspring; (2) vitamin D and diet quality were associated with larger-volume childhood brain components; (3) larger-volume brain components were associated with fewer ADHD and ASD traits; (4) part of the association between dietary factors in pregnancy and offspring ADHD and ASD traits was mediated through the brain volumes of the children. Conclusions: Though all observed effect sizes were small, further population-based research should be performed to further delineate the effects of gestational multivitamin and vitamin D exposure and investigate whether this may be an avenue for preventive interventions. Full article

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

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1 pages, 132 KB

Open AccessCorrection

Correction: Muniz-Santos et al. The Influence of Competition Day Loads on the Metabolic and Immune Response of Olympic Female Beach Volleyball Athletes: A Sportomics Analysis. Nutrients 2025, 17, 1924

by Renan Muniz-Santos, Flavio Bachini, Adriana Bassini, P. C. B. Alexandre, Igor Jurisica, Vinod Chandran and L. C. Cameron

Nutrients 2025, 17(18), 2978; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu17182978 - 17 Sep 2025

Abstract

Flavio Bachini was not included as an author in the original publication [...] Full article

12 pages, 392 KB

Open AccessArticle

No Significant Association Between Vitamin C Supplements and Frailty in Korean Older Adults: A Cross-Sectional Analysis of the 2018–2019 Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey

by Seung Guk Park and Hyoeun Kim

Nutrients 2025, 17(18), 2977; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu17182977 - 17 Sep 2025

Abstract

Background/Objectives: The association between vitamin C intake and frailty among older adults remains unclear, and evidence from Asian populations is limited. Using nationally representative data, we aimed to examine whether vitamin C supplementation is associated with frailty in Koreans aged ≥65 years. [...] Read more.

Background/Objectives: The association between vitamin C intake and frailty among older adults remains unclear, and evidence from Asian populations is limited. Using nationally representative data, we aimed to examine whether vitamin C supplementation is associated with frailty in Koreans aged ≥65 years. Methods: We analysed 2819 participants from the 2018–2019 Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey. Participants were categorised as non-users of dietary supplements (n = 1517), users of other supplements (n = 1227), and vitamin C-only users (n = 75). Frailty was defined using a modified Fried phenotype comprising five components (weight loss, exhaustion, weakness, slowness, and low physical activity); individuals having ≥3 components were classified as frail. Multivariable logistic regression was used to estimate odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for frailty by supplement use and total daily vitamin C intake from foods and supplements, adjusting for sociodemographic, lifestyle, and health factors. Results: Compared with non-users (adjusted OR: 0.65, 95% CI: 0.26–1.66) or users of supplements other than vitamin C supplements (adjusted OR: 0.81, 95% CI: 0.26–2.53), vitamin C supplementation was not significantly associated with frailty prevalence. Higher total intake showed a tendency toward lower frailty prevalence in crude analyses, but this was not significant after adjustment (p for trend = 0.120). Conclusions: In this nationally representative study of Korean older adults, vitamin C supplementation was not significantly associated with frailty. These findings contribute to the conflicting evidence on micronutrients and frailty and suggest that broader dietary quality, rather than single-nutrient supplementation, may be more important for healthy ageing. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Nutritional Epidemiology)

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14 pages, 782 KB

Open AccessArticle

Imaging and Microorganism Analyses of the Effects of Oral Bifidobacterium breve Intake on Facial Skin in Females: A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Study

by Yuriko Nishikawa, Chendong Xu, Shin Yoshimoto, Noriko Katsumata, Noriyuki Iwabuchi, Naotake Yanagisawa, Shigeo Koido, Miyuki Tanaka, Jin-Zhong Xiao, Daisuke Asaoka, Toshifumi Ohkusa and Nobuhiro Sato

Nutrients 2025, 17(18), 2976; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu17182976 - 17 Sep 2025

Abstract

Background: Oral probiotic intake is suggested to have positive effects on skin. We aimed to elucidate the effects of oral Bifidobacterium breve M-16V intake on skin by analyzing facial images, the skin myco/microbiota, and the gut microbiota. Methods: We conducted a randomized, double-blind, [...] Read more.

Background: Oral probiotic intake is suggested to have positive effects on skin. We aimed to elucidate the effects of oral Bifidobacterium breve M-16V intake on skin by analyzing facial images, the skin myco/microbiota, and the gut microbiota. Methods: We conducted a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study in Japan. Healthy women aged over 30 years were randomly allocated to either the B. breve (1 × 1010 colony-forming units (CFU)/sachet, two sachets daily) or the placebo group and consumed the corresponding study food for 12 weeks. Facial images were taken at weeks 0, 4, 8, and 12 using VISIA evolution. Stool and skin samples were collected at weeks 0 and 12. The primary outcome was the change in the total VISIA score from baseline. Results: A total of 120 females aged 30–79 years were assigned to the B. breve (n = 59) or placebo (n = 61) group. The total VISIA score worsened in the placebo group at week 8 (p = 0.029) but not in the B. breve group. Compared with that of the placebo group, the VISIA brown spot score of the B. breve group improved at weeks 4 (p = 0.013) and 8 (p = 0.041). The VISIA pore score improved at weeks 4 (p = 0.013), 8 (p = 0.041), and 12 (p = 0.004) within the B. breve group. Genus-level analysis of the gut microbiota revealed a significant increase in Blautia abundance in the B. breve group. The frequency of adverse events was not different between the groups. Conclusions: Oral B. breve M-16V administration may suppress skin deterioration, including the appearance of brown spots, on the faces of adult females. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Nutrition in Women)

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13 pages, 337 KB

Open AccessArticle

Higher Local Food Consumption Is Associated with Higher Adherence to the Mediterranean Diet and Better Healthy Aging: Results of the DIAPELH Study

by Alexandra Foscolou, Giannoula Nikolaou, Trisevgeni Pratti, Antigone Kouskouti, Vasiliki Kanellaki, Eirini Machaira, Izabella Bekari, Evanthia Chalari, Aristea Gazouli and Aristea Gioxari

Nutrients 2025, 17(18), 2975; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu17182975 - 17 Sep 2025

Abstract

Background/Objectives: Sustainable dietary patterns in geriatrics have gained considerable attention. In this cross-sectional study, we investigated whether higher consumption of locally produced foods is associated with higher adherence to the Mediterranean diet and with better healthy aging status among Greek older adults. [...] Read more.

Background/Objectives: Sustainable dietary patterns in geriatrics have gained considerable attention. In this cross-sectional study, we investigated whether higher consumption of locally produced foods is associated with higher adherence to the Mediterranean diet and with better healthy aging status among Greek older adults. Methods: Sociodemographic, anthropometrical, lifestyle, dietary, cognitive, and mental characteristics assessed through validated questionnaires and procedures, were assessed. Participants (N = 449) were divided into three local food consumption groups/tertiles: “high” (≥45% of total dietary intake), “moderate” (27–44%) and “low” (≤26%). MedDietScore (0–55) was used to assess the level of adherence to the Mediterranean diet and SAI (0–10) to assess healthy aging. Results: Older adults of the “high” group showed an increase of 0.817 units in the SAI index compared to older adults of the “low” group. Additionally, high local food consumption was also associated with higher SAI levels (b = 0.493, p = 0.007) compared to the “moderate” group. Among older individuals whose diet comprises over 45% local foods, an increase of approximately 2.8 and 1.95 units in the MedDietScore was detected when compared to the “low” and “moderate” groups. Conclusions: Higher consumption of local foods, and more specifically consuming local foods in more than 45% of the total dietary intake, is associated with greater adherence to the Mediterranean diet and better healthy aging. The results suggest that food locality may play an important role in shaping better dietary habits, health trajectories, and quality of life of older adults. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Benefits of Diet, Physical Activity and Lifestyle Habits in Older Adults for Longevity)

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12 pages, 745 KB

Open AccessArticle

Effects of Pomegranate Extract on IGF-1 Levels and Telomere Length in Older Adults (55–70 Years): Findings from a Randomised Double-Blinded Controlled Trial

by Grace Farhat, Jhama Malla, Liam Hanson, Jay Vadher and Emad A. S. Al-Dujaili

Nutrients 2025, 17(18), 2974; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu17182974 - 16 Sep 2025

Abstract

Background: Emerging evidence suggests that polyphenols may contribute to the attenuation of telomere attrition and the upregulation of insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1), primarily in animal and cell studies, and to a lesser extent in humans. Pomegranate extract, known for its high [...] Read more.

Background: Emerging evidence suggests that polyphenols may contribute to the attenuation of telomere attrition and the upregulation of insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1), primarily in animal and cell studies, and to a lesser extent in humans. Pomegranate extract, known for its high antioxidant capacity, has shown promise in preventing telomere shortening and enhancing IGF-1 levels, but evidence in humans is lacking. Objective: To investigate the effects of pomegranate extract on telomere length and serum IGF-1 levels in older adults aged 55–70 years. Methods: Participants took part in a two-arm double-blind parallel trial, receiving either placebo capsules (maltodextrin) or pomegranate extract (740 mg) daily for 12 weeks. At baseline, week 6 and week 12, anthropometric measurements, blood pressure readings and blood samples were collected. Telomere length and serum IGF-1 levels were assessed. Results: A total of 72 participants completed the study. Analysis showed a significant effect of treatment and time on IGF-1 ((F_2,136 = 3.43, p = 0.04), with levels significantly increasing in the pomegranate extract group at week 12. No significant effects on telomere length were noted. Weight status, physical activity, age, gender and energy intake did not impact the outcomes. Conclusions: Pomegranate extract significantly increased IGF-1 levels and could exert a positive role on vascular ageing. Further research is needed to replicate these findings and confirm its long-term benefits. Extended studies are required to elucidate its potential to counteract telomere shortening. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Role of Bioactive Compounds in Human Health and Diseases (3rd Edition))

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20 pages, 531 KB

Open AccessSystematic Review

A Systematic Review Evaluating the Impact of Fibre Supplementation on Gut Health and Other Clinical Outcomes in Adults with Haematological Malignancies During Haematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation

by Fiona McCullough, Janice Cheung and Laura J. Miller

Nutrients 2025, 17(18), 2973; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu17182973 - 16 Sep 2025

Abstract

Background: Gut health is often disrupted in adults with haematological malignancies (HMs) receiving chemotherapy and haematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HCT). Microbial diversity is reduced, and both infection risk and inflammation increased. The role of dietary fibre in enhancing gut health, immune regulation, reducing [...] Read more.

Background: Gut health is often disrupted in adults with haematological malignancies (HMs) receiving chemotherapy and haematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HCT). Microbial diversity is reduced, and both infection risk and inflammation increased. The role of dietary fibre in enhancing gut health, immune regulation, reducing complications, and improving clinical outcomes for people with HMs shows promise but the extent of their role remains unclear. Objectives: This systematic review evaluated the role of dietary fibre supplementation in adults with HMs undergoing HCT on gut health, immune function, and gastrointestinal health. This included assessment of differences between fibre types. Methods: A systematic search of PubMed and EMBASE was conducted following PRISMA guidelines, independently by two reviewers. Study quality was assessed using the Newcastle–Ottawa scale (NOS). Results: Of the 5023 studies after de-duplication, 63 remained after abstract and title screening, 59 studies were full-text screened, 56 studies were excluded due to language (n = 6), wrong intervention (n = 25), wrong population (n = 4), or reporting on unrelated outcomes (n = 21), and 3 studies met all inclusion criteria. Interventions included fructooligosaccharides (FOS), resistant starch (RS), and a glutamine, fibre, and oligosaccharide (GFO) prebiotic blend. Despite heterogeneity in measured outcomes, positive impacts on gut health, immune function, and gastrointestinal health were shown. Conclusions: Fibre supplementation represents a promising adjunctive strategy to improve clinical outcomes in adults with HMs undergoing HCT, by improving microbial diversity, increasing short-chain fatty acid (SCFA) production, and reducing incidence of acute GVHD. Further research is needed to establish specific recommendations for fibre in the nutritional management of patients with HM. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Diet, Gut Health, and Clinical Nutrition)

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38 pages, 2046 KB

Open AccessReview

Effects of Diet and Exercise on Mitochondrial Health in Metabolic Dysfunction-Associated Steatotic Liver Disease (MASLD): Role of Ceramides

by Jonas M. McCaffrey and Jamal A. Ibdah

Nutrients 2025, 17(18), 2972; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu17182972 - 16 Sep 2025

Abstract

Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) impacts nearly a quarter of the world’s population and encompasses a range of disease states, from simple steatosis to more advanced stages like metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis (MASH), fibrosis, and cirrhosis. A key driver of disease progression is [...] Read more.

Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) impacts nearly a quarter of the world’s population and encompasses a range of disease states, from simple steatosis to more advanced stages like metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis (MASH), fibrosis, and cirrhosis. A key driver of disease progression is mitochondrial dysfunction, characterized by impaired fatty acid oxidation and an overall decline in mitochondrial health. Emerging evidence has implicated ceramides—bioactive sphingolipids that serve roles in apoptotic pathways and as signals of nutrient excess—as important contributors to this dysfunction. Ceramide accumulation within mitochondria mirrors impairments seen in MASLD, specifically elevations in oxidative stress, disrupted fatty acid oxidation, and impaired mitochondrial dynamics. Ceramides may serve as an important molecular link between nutrient overload and mitochondrial dysfunction in the pathogenesis of MASLD. Given the limited availability of effective pharmacologic therapies for MASLD, lifestyle interventions like dietary modification and physical activity remain the cornerstone of disease management worldwide. In this review, we provide an overview of the current understanding of the role of ceramides in mediating the effects of diet and exercise on MASLD through their influence on mitochondrial health. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Exercise, Diet, and Mitochondria)

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22 pages, 475 KB

Open AccessArticle

A Standardised Exercise Protocol to Induce Oxidative Stress in Humans: Validation with a Dietary Polyphenol Intervention

by Oiva V. Kamati, Laura Bragagna, Dirk J. Bester, Karl-Heinz Wagner, Vera Stürmer, Markus Gassner, Lina Maqboul, Roan Louw, Sacha West, Simeon Davies and Jeanine L. Marnewick

Nutrients 2025, 17(18), 2971; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu17182971 - 16 Sep 2025

Abstract

Background: Generating oxidative stress in a predictable and controllable way without the risk of causing harm is important for enabling the safe validation of interventions such as dietary polyphenols and ensuring ethical standards in human studies, while also advancing mechanisms involved in the [...] Read more.

Background: Generating oxidative stress in a predictable and controllable way without the risk of causing harm is important for enabling the safe validation of interventions such as dietary polyphenols and ensuring ethical standards in human studies, while also advancing mechanisms involved in the induced oxidative stress. Although, many experimental animal and in vitro models have been developed to conduct oxidative stress-based research, to date, very few reliable human models are available. Objective: This study’s main objective was to establish a standardised exercise model to induce oxidative stress in a repeatable and controllable manner and was tested with dietary polyphenols. Method: We applied a single blinded, randomised, cross-over, placebo-controlled trial with adult (25.95 ± 6.25 years) males (N = 40) where the induction of oxidative stress was achieved by an incremental aerobic exercise activity followed by a maximal anaerobic activity until exhaustion. To assess the model, rooibos polyphenolics was used as one of the interventions, while markers of safety and oxidative stress were measured on various occasions during the trial period. Results: The exercise regime reliably and repeatably induced oxidative stress, evidenced by increased levels of oxidative damage markers, i.e., oxidised glutathione (p = 0.003), malondialdehyde (p = 0.004), and a Comet assay tail moment (p < 0.05), while unconjugated bilirubin (p = 0.002) and the ferric reducing antioxidant potential (p < 0.001) increased over the study period, in the male study participants, irrespective of the oral intervention. Conclusions: This model showed an exercise regime that could be adapted to induce oxidative stress in a reliable and repeatable fashion without risk of causing harm. This study also demonstrated that a dietary polyphenolic intervention with rooibos did not complicate the onset of oxidative stress. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Sports Nutrition)

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19 pages, 1036 KB

Open AccessReview

A Scoping Review of Contextual and Individual Factors for Hospital-Acquired Malnutrition Development in Adult Hospital Inpatients: Guiding a Proactive Preventative Approach

by Vivien Hui In Cheung and Ching Shan Wan

Nutrients 2025, 17(18), 2970; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu17182970 - 16 Sep 2025

Abstract

Background: Preventing nutritional decline during hospitalisation is imperative in reducing the development of complications such as malnutrition and pressure injuries. However, existing malnutrition screening and assessment tools employ a reactive rather than proactive approach, using predictors to identify inpatients who are already malnourished [...] Read more.

Background: Preventing nutritional decline during hospitalisation is imperative in reducing the development of complications such as malnutrition and pressure injuries. However, existing malnutrition screening and assessment tools employ a reactive rather than proactive approach, using predictors to identify inpatients who are already malnourished instead of those at risk of developing hospital-acquired malnutrition. Therefore, this review aimed to identify key contextual and individual factors contributing to nutritional deterioration and their interrelatedness, and to inform strategies for preventing hospital-acquired malnutrition. Methods: A scoping review of five databases (Medline, CINAHL, Embase, All EBM Reviews and PsycINFO) up to June 2024 was conducted to include English-language studies that reported statistically significant risk factors for changes in nutritional status during hospitalisation. A directed acyclic graphing method was used to visualise the interlinkage between contextual and individual risk factors identified. PRISMA Extension for Scoping Reviews was followed in reporting. Results: Of 8215 retrieved abstracts, 51 studies were included. Four contextual (ward type; food service satisfaction; medical-related mealtime interruption; nutrition care collaboration) and four individual factors (nutritional status prior admission; hospital length of stay; multimorbidity; disease acuity) were found to significantly predict nutritional decline during hospitalisation and were closely interrelated. Conclusions: More contextual risk factors are modifiable, suggesting a need for organisational strategies to optimise collaborative nutrition care and improve patient satisfaction with hospital food services to promote early nutritional intervention, particularly within the first three days of admission and for inpatients with multimorbidity, high disease acuity, or pre-existing malnourishment. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Role of Nutrition in Wound Care, Prevention and Healing: From Acute Trauma to Chronic Conditions)

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36 pages, 3212 KB

Open AccessReview

The Ketogenic Diet Through a Metabolomic Lens: Biochemical Pathways, Therapeutic Applications, and Analytical Challenges

by Katarzyna Idzikowska, Paulina Gątarek, Anna Gajda, Piotr Safiński, Lukasz Przyslo and Joanna Kałużna-Czaplińska

Nutrients 2025, 17(18), 2969; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu17182969 - 16 Sep 2025

Abstract

Background: The ketogenic diet (KD), a high-fat and low-carbohydrate dietary approach, has been used therapeutically in drug-resistant epilepsy and other neurological and metabolic disorders. Recent interest has shifted toward understanding its broader metabolic effects through metabolomics. This review aims to summarize current knowledge [...] Read more.

Background: The ketogenic diet (KD), a high-fat and low-carbohydrate dietary approach, has been used therapeutically in drug-resistant epilepsy and other neurological and metabolic disorders. Recent interest has shifted toward understanding its broader metabolic effects through metabolomics. This review aims to summarize current knowledge on the biochemical mechanisms and therapeutic implications of the KD, with a particular focus on metabolomic profiling and neurological health. Methods: This narrative review synthesizes findings from the last five years of metabolomic studies investigating the biochemical consequences of the KD and its variants, including the classical KD, modified Atkins diet (MAD), medium-chain triglyceride diet (MCT), and low glycemic index treatment (LGIT). The review integrates data on analytical techniques, such as liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry (LC-MS) and gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC-MS), and evaluates alterations in key metabolic pathways. Results: The KD significantly modulates energy metabolism, shifting adenosine triphosphate (ATP) production from glycolysis to fatty acid oxidation and ketone body utilization. It affects mitochondrial function, one-carbon metabolism, redox balance, neurotransmitter regulation, and gut–brain axis signaling. Metabolomic profiling has identified β-hydroxybutyrate (βHB) as a key regulatory metabolite influencing mitochondrial respiration. Long-term KD use may impact renal and hepatic function, necessitating clinical caution and individualized nutritional monitoring. Conclusions: Metabolomic analysis provides critical insights into the multifaceted effects of the KD, supporting its role as a targeted metabolic therapy in neurological diseases. However, potential risks linked to prolonged ketosis warrant further investigation. Future studies should focus on personalized applications and long-term safety profiles of KD variants across patient populations. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Neurological Disorders: Diets and Nutrition)

4 pages, 138 KB

Open AccessEditorial

Public Health, Nutritional Behavior, and Nutritional Status: An Editorial Synthesis and Roadmap for Precision Nutrition

by Sabina Lachowicz-Wiśniewska and Agata Kotowska

Nutrients 2025, 17(18), 2968; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu17182968 - 16 Sep 2025

Abstract

In the face of growing lifestyle-related health concerns across many populations—such as obesity and poor diet—understanding the determinants of these behaviors is crucial for designing effective public health strategies [...] Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Public Health, Nutritional Behavior and Nutritional Status—2nd Edition)

17 pages, 3157 KB

Open AccessArticle

Immunomodulatory Effects of Lactobacillus brevis NES-428 in a Hyperthyroidism Mouse Model: Potential Applications for Graves’ Disease

by Min-Gyu Lee, Dong-Hyun Lee, Suzie Kang, Jongho Koh and Cheol-Won Yun

Nutrients 2025, 17(18), 2967; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu17182967 - 16 Sep 2025

Abstract

Background: Safe, microbiome-based interventions for autoimmune hyperthyroidism are lacking. We isolated the lactic acid bacterium NES-428 from kimchi and previously demonstrated that it shares 99% 16S-rRNA identity with Lactobacillus brevis reference strains, confirming NES-428 as a novel strain. Here we evaluated its immunomodulatory [...] Read more.

Background: Safe, microbiome-based interventions for autoimmune hyperthyroidism are lacking. We isolated the lactic acid bacterium NES-428 from kimchi and previously demonstrated that it shares 99% 16S-rRNA identity with Lactobacillus brevis reference strains, confirming NES-428 as a novel strain. Here we evaluated its immunomodulatory and anti-thyroid activity in cellular and murine models. Methods: Jurkat T cells (5 × 10⁶) were incubated with heat-killed NES-428 for 24 h and subsequently stimulated with phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate/ionomycin (50 ng mL⁻¹/1 µg mL⁻¹) for 6 h; cytokine transcripts were quantified by qRT-PCR. Hyperthyroidism was induced in female BALB/c mice by three intramuscular injections of adenovirus-encoding human TSH receptor (Ad-TSHR). Mice received a daily oral dose of NES-428 (1 × 10⁹ CFU) for 15 weeks. Serum thyroxine (T₄) levels, splenocyte cytokine secretion, and thyroid histopathology were assessed. Statistical analyses employed one-way ANOVA with Tukey post hoc or log-rank tests (α = 0.05). Results: NES-428 pre-conditioning of Jurkat cells significantly down-regulated IL-2 and IFN-γ transcripts (−48% and –43%, respectively; p < 0.01) compared with stimulated controls while modestly increasing IL-4 (+26%). In Ad-TSHR mice, daily NES-428 reduced mean serum T₄ from 11.2 ± 2.1 to 5.8 ± 1.4 µg dL⁻¹ (p < 0.001), restored body weight gain, and normalized follicular architecture relative to untreated hyperthyroid animals. NES-428 supplementation also lowered splenocyte IFN-γ secretion by 58% and raised IL-4 by 41% (p < 0.05). Conclusions: The kimchi-derived strain NES-428 attenuates Th1-skewed cytokine responses and ameliorates experimental hyperthyroidism in vivo. These findings support further investigation of NES-428 as a probiotic candidate for immune modulation in Graves’ disease. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Prebiotics and Probiotics)

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