Search Results (1,700)

Species-specific husbandry guidelines remain limited for blue-tongued skinks (Tiliqua scincoides), especially in relation to ultraviolet B (UVB) lighting and vitamin D requirements. This study aimed to determine whether UVB exposure is necessary for these skinks and how long 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25-OHD) concentrations persist after UVB withdrawal. Eleven adult skinks who had been fed with wet cat food were exposed to 12 or 2 h of UVB per day for four weeks. Plasma 25-OHD concentrations were very low at the baseline, and significantly increased post-UVB in both groups (p < 0.01), with the 12-hour group increasing from baseline concentrations of 18.5 [12.8–20.5] nmol/L to 820 [730–1251.3] nmol/L and the 2-hour group increasing from baseline concentrations of 22 [15.5–22] nmol/L to 635 [401–892.5] nmol/L. Following the discontinuation of UVB exposure, 25-OHD gradually declined and was not significantly different from baseline concentrations at 7 and 4 months for the 12-hour and 2-hour groups, respectively. Dietary vitamin D₃ (2.5 IU/g as dry matter basis), provided through wet cat food alone, appeared insufficient to support sustained plasma 25-OHD concentrations. These findings strongly suggest that blue-tongued skinks rely on UVB exposure to increase their 25-OHD concentrations. Moreover, the shorter 2-hour exposure provided a significant rise in 25-OHD concentrations and remained above baseline for 4 months, suggesting the shorter exposure can benefit these animals, while potentially reducing secondary risks associated with UVB exposure. Full article

Background and Clinical Significance: Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) significantly alters glucose metabolism, yet managing glucose variability in patients undergoing bariatric surgery remains challenging. Continuous Glucose Monitoring (CGM) offers real-time insights into glucose fluctuations and may support long-term metabolic management in this population. This case highlights the utility of CGM in identifying postprandial glycemic variability and guiding dietary adjustments. Case Presentation: A 45-year-old female, 14 years post-RYGB, presented with symptoms including postprandial fatigue, nocturnal cravings, and unexplained weight gain, despite adherence to nutritional guidelines. Her BMI had decreased from 52 kg/m² (pre-surgery) to 29 kg/m². She was provided with a CGM device (FreeStyle Libre 3) by the clinical team and instructed to monitor glucose without modifying her routine initially. Data revealed significant glycemic variability, with peaks up to 220 mg/dL and hypoglycemic dips to 45 mg/dL. Based on this, she adjusted her diet by reducing non-complex carbohydrates and increasing vegetables, proteins, and complex carbohydrates. Within two weeks, her symptoms improved, including better sleep and energy levels, accompanied by a 3 kg weight loss following dietary adjustments informed by CGM feedback. Conclusions: This case suggests how CGM can empower patients having undergone bariatric surgery to manage glucose fluctuations through informed self-management. The patient’s ability to identify and address glucose variability without formal intervention highlights CGM’s potential as a supportive tool in long-term care. While further studies are needed, this case suggests CGM may benefit similar patients experiencing postprandial symptoms or weight regain after bariatric surgery. Full article

The investigation into the complementary roles of essential oils (EOs) and organic acids in enhancing rumen physiology is increasingly gaining recognition within the field of animal nutrition. Essential oils are known for their antimicrobial effects, which can specifically target certain microbial populations in the rumen, thereby impacting fermentation processes, methane output, and nutrient digestion. In addition, the integration of organic acids plays a crucial role in stabilizing rumen pH and steering the metabolic activities of bacterial populations toward propionate production, a process essential for energy metabolism in ruminants. The concurrent use of essential oils and organic acids may yield synergistic benefits that could further optimize ruminal fermentation efficiency, enhance feed conversion rates, and lower methane emissions. This systematic review used the PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) guidelines. The literature search was meticulously designed to encompass parameters related to ruminant species, feed additives, essential oils, organic acids, synergistic effects, and rumen physiology. The efficacy of both organic acids and essential oils is highly dependent on their concentration and the specific combinations utilized. When certain essential oils are used in conjunction with selected organic acids, they may mitigate any potential negative effects on fermentation, thereby fostering a more favorable environment for the proliferation of beneficial microbial communities. Understanding the relationship between essential oils and organic acids is essential for the formulation of diets that enhance rumen health while concurrently reducing environmental pressures through diminished methane emissions. Future research should prioritize long-term in vivo investigations to gain more comprehensive insights into the interactions among these dietary components and identify the optimal combinations for ruminant feeding strategies. Full article

Background/Objectives: Stage 5 chronic kidney disease (CKD), or end-stage renal disease (ESRD), requires renal replacement therapy, commonly hemodialysis (HD). This treatment necessitates dietary changes due to impaired excretory function and protein-energy wasting (PEW). A structured diet with adequate energy, protein, electrolytes, and fluids is essential. The aim was to characterize habitual dietary intake in adults on HD relative to KDOQI and ESPEN recommendations. Methods: In this cross-sectional study, 50 adults on maintenance HD at the Medical University of Warsaw completed a validated Food Frequency Questionnaire (55 items, nine frequency categories). The study was questionnaire-based and did not collect, link, or analyze dialysis efficacy indices, residual diuresis, or anthropometric measurements; all dietary estimates are independent of these clinical parameters. Estimated intakes of energy, macronutrients, fiber, electrolytes (Na, K, Ca, P), and fluids were compared with KDOQI 2020 and ESPEN 2021 recommendations. Sensitivity analyses included deterministic scenarios and Monte Carlo simulations. Results: Mean intakes were 2696.9 ± 1392.7 kcal and 87.7 ± 35.3 g protein; 64% and 82% met reference values. Sensitivity analyses revealed per-kg shortfalls in heavier patients (>75 kg): Monte Carlo medians were 37.8 kcal/kg/day and 1.28 g/kg/day. Diets were fat-dominant (~46%E), with low carbohydrates (~40%E) and low fiber, about 8 g per 1000 kcal. Sodium and phosphorus were elevated, about 1119 mg and 498 mg per 1000 kcal, while calcium was low (~346 mg/1000 kcal). Conclusions: Despite adequate mean intake, sensitivity analyses revealed per-kg energy/protein deficits and elevated sodium and phosphorus. Individualized counseling with electrolyte and fluid management, greater dietary diversity, and psychosocial support is warranted in HD. Full article

Background: Investigating human exposure to toxic contaminants through dietary consumption is critical to identify disease risk factors and health guidelines. Methods: In this study, we developed a cross-sectional online survey to collect information about dietary patterns and related food consumption habits among adults (age ≥ 18) and adolescents (ages 13–17) in Southern California, focusing on popular staple foods and/or those targeted most commonly under California’s Proposition 65 law for lead and acrylamide exposure. Results: Results identified root vegetables, rice, leafy greens, pasta/noodles, tea, juice, and seafood to be among the most heavily consumed foods by mass, while the daily intake of many foods such as stuffed grape leaves, tamarind/chili candy and herbs/spices varied by age and race/ethnicity, suggesting that many of Proposition 65’s pollution allowances may be exacerbating issues of health inequity and environmental injustice. Moreover, findings from this study indicate that the methods of exposure assessment often applied under Prop 65, especially relating to herbs/spices, are likely to underestimate single-day exposures, thus allowing unsafe products on the market without warning labels. Conclusions: Study outcomes are broadly relevant to environmental health and nutrition science, with particular relevance to public health practitioners and California’s Prop 65 regulators and other stakeholders. Full article

Background: Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) is one of the most prevalent reproductive, endocrine, and metabolic disorders inflicting women of childbearing age. Dietary interventions have gained interest as non-pharmacological approach to control obesity and metabolic disturbances. However, the effects of intermittent fasting (IF) on metabolic and hormonal profiles of PCOS patients is debatable. Objectives: We performed this systematic review and meta-analysis to explore IF’s effect on PCOS women’s metabolic and hormonal profile (PROSPERO: CRD42024511520). Eligible studies included IF interventions in women with PCOS, with metabolic and hormonal profiles being reported. Methods: A systematic literature search using three databases, including PubMed, SCOPUS, and Web of Science, was conducted. The systematic review was performed following PRISMA guidelines. Results: A total of four studies were included (N = 4). IF is not associated with significant change in BMI (MD = −0.200, 95% CI [−0.807, 0.407], p = 0.518). The analysis revealed that IF had no statistically significant impact on FBG (MD = −0.569, 95% CI [−9.955, 8.818], p = 0.906), HOMA-IR (MD = −0.862, 95% CI [−1.737, 0.014], p = 0.054), and FINS (MD = −2.749, 95% CI [−6.441, 0.943], p = 0.145). No significant change in TG (MD = −3.120, 95% CI [−9.624, 3.385], p = 0.347), total cholesterol (MD = −0.918, 95% CI [−2.960, 1.124], p = 0.378), and LDL levels (MD = −0.433, 95% CI [−1.224, 0.359], p = 0.284) between IF and pre-fasting or non-intervention diet groups. However, the explanation is limited by the small number of studies, duration of fasting regimes, and/or variations in fasting strategies. Sex hormone data were collected but were insufficient for a pooled analysis. Conclusions: Overall, our study suggests that IF is not an effective intervention to enhance BMI, glycaemic control, and lipid metabolism in PCOS patients. Nevertheless, the current conclusion is inconclusive and preliminary, as additional well-designed studies are required to support this conclusion. Full article

Background/Objectives: Astaxanthin, a naturally occurring carotenoid renowned for its potent antioxidant properties, has been proposed as a dietary supplement for weight management due to its potential effects on adipose tissue and skeletal muscle metabolism, as well as its anti-inflammatory properties. This meta-analysis systematically evaluated the impact of astaxanthin supplementation on body mass index (BMI) and body weight in adult populations. Methods: Comprehensive searches of reputable databases were conducted, adhering to the PRISMA guidelines, with statistical analyses performed using Jamovi. Results: The study incorporated data from nine clinical trials. Pooled results indicated no significant reduction in the context of BMI (−0.2162; 95% CI: −0.4697 to 0.0374) and a non-significant decrease in body weight (0.0230; 95% CI: −0.4534 to 0.4994) relative to control groups. The heterogeneity observed across studies was 30.1251% (p = 0.1593) for BMI and 73.3885% (p = 0.0002) for body weight management. The dose–response analysis showed no statistically significant association between astaxanthin dosage and outcomes related to BMI and body weight management. Additionally, statistical assessment of funnel plot asymmetry indicated no evidence of publication bias. Conclusions: The findings indicate that astaxanthin does not provide benefits in BMI regulation nor in weight control management, highlighting the need for additional large-scale and long-term clinical trials. This study contributes to the growing body of evidence on the role of nutraceuticals in metabolic health, providing a foundation for future clinical recommendations. Full article

The traditional Mediterranean Diet (MedDiet) has consistently demonstrated robust benefits in reducing cardiovascular, metabolic, and oncologic risks. Its high content of anti-inflammatory and antioxidant compounds, particularly (poly)phenols, underscores why this dietary pattern has been extensively researched and widely adopted for managing various metabolic conditions. This article aims to conduct a narrative review of the association between the MedDiet (and its debated alcohol consumption pattern) and a reduced risk of liver disease, with a specific focus on the potential preventive role of the MedDiet on Metabolic Dysfunction-Associated Steatotic Liver Disease (MASLD), which is now the most prevalent chronic liver disease globally. To carry out this review, relevant articles were searched on PubMed and other databases. The evidence found contributed to identifying the gaps in knowledge and allowed for the main findings to be summarized. Available randomized controlled trials and prospective cohort studies consistently support the hypothesis that high adherence to the MedDiet effectively reduces hepatic fat content, improves liver enzyme levels, and mitigates fibrosis progression. Crucially, this dietary pattern simultaneously addresses the significantly high cardiovascular risk inherent in MASLD. Historically, low-to-moderate alcohol intake, particularly moderate red wine with meals, was assumed to be a beneficial component of the MedDiet. While some observational studies suggest potential cardiovascular benefits, implying a loss of some MedDiet benefits if alcohol is excluded, a growing body of evidence highlights a deleterious synergistic interaction between alcohol, visceral adiposity, hepatic steatosis, and metabolic dysfunction. Based on the available evidence, clinical guidelines recommend the MedDiet with exercise for the prevention and management of MASLD. However, the alcohol consumption in the Mediterranean is currently under strong controversy. Furthermore, recent guidelines now advise total abstinence in patients with advanced liver disease and caution even at earlier MASLD stages. Yet, these assertions are largely based on observational data, underscoring the need for large clinical trials to address this issue with first-level evidence. Full article

Background: Disease-related malnutrition (DRM) remains an underdiagnosed condition in Latin American hospitals, with substantial clinical and economic consequences. The global nutritionDay initiative, promoted by ESPEN, provides a standardized audit to evaluate and improve hospital nutritional care. This study aimed to develop expert consensus recommendations to optimize the nutritional care process in Guatemalan hospitals, based on the findings from nutritionDay 2022. Methods: A modified Delphi study was conducted, including three meetings held before and after each round to discuss the results. Sixteen clinical nutrition professionals from eleven hospitals participated. A total of 89 items were assessed, with a predefined consensus threshold of 70%. Data were analyzed using R software (version 4.5.0) and Kendall’s W coefficient was applied to evaluate inter-round agreement. Results: Consensus was achieved for 51 key recommendations covering nutritional screening, clinical assessment, anthropometry, body composition, functional assessment, biochemical monitoring, dietary intervention, and post-discharge follow-up. The proposed actions are aligned with international guidelines (ESPEN, ASPEN, GLIM) and adapted to the Guatemalan healthcare context. Conclusions: This consensus provides a comprehensive and context-specific framework for standardizing and improving hospital nutritional care in Guatemala and similar settings. Its implementation could help reduce DRM prevalence and foster the development of quality indicators and digital tools for clinical nutrition management. Full article

Background: Iron is an essential nutrient for the proper development of infants. Iron deficiency, a common cause of anemia—affects nearly half children under four years of age in developing countries. The aim of the study was to assess the impact of an intensive nutritional education program on the iron status of infants. Material and methods: The parents of 115 infants were randomly assigned to two groups: the study group, which received intensive nutritional education up to 12 months of age, and the control group, which received basic infant nutrition guidelines. Serum concentrations of iron metabolism parameters—among others hemoglobin, iron, ferritin, ferroportin, and total iron-binding capacity (TIBC)—were assessed at both the beginning and end of the study. Additionally, at the final time point, dietary intake of iron and components influencing its absorption (e.g., vitamin C, fiber, etc.) was evaluated based on food diaries completed by the parents. Results: At the end of the study, the study group showed a significantly higher level of hemoglobin (p = 0.0499), ferritin (p = 0.0067) and lower levels of TIBC (p = 0.0478) and ferroportin (p = 0.0410) compared to the control group. Moreover, infants in the study group demonstrated significantly higher intake of both iron (p = 0.0252) and vitamin C (p = 0.0458). Conclusions: Parental nutritional education contributes to improvements in iron metabolism indicators in infants. Full article

The AESAN (Spanish Agency for Food Safety and Nutrition) Healthy Eating Plate is the current graphic tool from food dietary guidelines for nutritional education followed by experts, based on the Harvard Plate. The aim of this research was to determine whether the AESAN/Harvard Plate graphic tool meets the reference intakes appropriate for the study population. Sixty participants served themselves dishes of six sizes following the AESAN/Harvard graphic tool to create various food combinations. They were analysed for variability, plate size bias, and nutritional adequacy for the adult study population. Next, 63 dishes were made up based on the served foods from the university canteen, using those that fitted into the groups proposed by the AESAN plate graphic tool from dietary guidelines. Their nutritional values were calculated based on technical specifications and/or formulation, as well as for 67,392 possible ingredient combinations. Great variability was found in the quantity of ingredients served to compose the dishes and the dish sizes. Moreover, energy, carbohydrates, fiber, calcium, magnesium, potassium, iron (for women of childbearing age), zinc, and vitamins A, B1, B2, B9, and E did not meet nutritional requirements for lunch in over 50% of the dishes based on the AESAN/Harvard graphic tool. Therefore, a great deal of caution is recommended regarding its use either as a nutritional education tool or in clinical settings. Full article

Background/Objectives: The occurrence of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) globally is rising rapidly, largely due to modifiable risk factors such as unhealthy diets. Studies have shown that poor dietary habits are prevalent among university students and may persist in later life, increasing the risk of chronic health conditions. The objective of this study was to evaluate the diet of two different groups of university students, in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and United Kingdom (UK), with the aim of identifying areas for intervention to improve overall health and wellbeing. Methods: Detailed 7-day diet diaries were collected from undergraduate university participants in the UAE and UK. Diet diaries were quantitatively assessed using Nutritics software generating reports on mean intakes for energy, macro- and micronutrients. Independent sample t-tests were utilized to compare nutrient intake between cohorts in the two different regions. Results: A total of 158 students participated in this study. Results showed significant differences in intake levels in most macronutrients and micronutrients (p ≤ 0.05). Upon comparison, UK participants consumed diets higher in sugar (+9.4 g/day), saturated fat (+4.2 g/day), cholesterol (+90 mg/day), and sodium (+307 mg/day) compared to their UAE counterparts, placing them at risk of cardiovascular diseases (CVDs). Cholesterol intake was oversufficient in both UAE and UK males by 40% and 57%, respectively. In UAE females, there were notable deficiencies in protein intake, omega 3, vitamin D, iron, iodine, and folic acid (p ≤ 0.05), placing them at risk of CVDs, anemia, diabetes, and cancer. Interestingly, both UAE males and females were 100% deficient in dietary vitamin D intake. Conclusions: Nutritional imbalances should be addressed through campus-based nutrition education programs. This study also highlights the importance of dietary guidelines targeted at specific populations accounting for cultural differences. Full article

Background: Adherence to Medical Nutrition Therapy (MNT) is a key determinant of therapy success, particularly in chronic diseases like chronic kidney disease (CKD). MNT in CKD requires significant changes in patient’s dietary habits, which can affect long-term adherence. This study aims to evaluate the adherence to MNT in stage 5 CKD patients undergoing conservative kidney management (CKM), identifying potential challenges and strengths of nutritional intervention. Methods: We enrolled in 94 stage 5 CKD patients undergoing CKM at the University Hospital of Modena, Italy. We collect clinical data from medical and nutrition records. The inclusion criteria comprised patients of all genders, ages, and ethnicity with stage 5 chronic kidney disease (CKD), in pre-dialysis, enrolled in the nephrology and dietetics program, who had access to 24-h urine tests, anthropometric measurements, and dietary history records. Exclusion criteria included patients with CKD stages lower than 5, those who had not undergone at least one nutritional assessment, or lacked accessible 24-h urine data. The study utilized medical and dietary records from September 2017 to March 2025. The primary outcome was the assessment of adherence to medical nutrition therapy (MNT), comparing prescribed protein intake with actual intake, estimated from dietary history (DH). Protein intake was compared with normalized protein nitrogen appearance (nPNA) as stated by recent guidelines. Additional factors influencing adherence, such as age, gender, comorbidities, physical activity, and prior dietary interventions, were also evaluated. Anthropometric measurements and biochemical tests were collected, and dietary intake was assessed using a seven-day DH. Results: Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, linear correlation models, univariate logistic regression, t-tests, paired t-tests, and chi-square tests, with significance set at p < 0.05. Most of the patients follow suggested energy and protein intakes limits; however, substantial individual variability emerged Bland–Altman analysis indicated a moderate bias and wide limits of agreement for energy intake (+116 kcal; limits of agreement –518.8 to +751.3 kcal), revealing frequent overestimation in self-reports. Protein intake showed less systematic error, but discrepancies between dietary recall and biochemical markers persisted. Protein intake decreased significantly over time (p < 0.001), while correlation with nPNA did not reach statistical significance (ρ = 0.224, p = 0.051). No significant associations were identified between adherence and most clinical or lifestyle factors, although diabetes was significantly associated with lower adherence to protein intake (p = 0.042) and a predominantly sedentary lifestyle showed a borderline association with energy intake adherence (p = 0.076), warranting further investigation. Longitudinal analysis found stable BMI and body weight, alongside notable reductions in sodium (p = 0.018), potassium (p = 0.045), and phosphorus intake (p < 0.001) over time. Conclusions: Assessing dietary adherence in CKD remains complex due to inconsistencies between self-reported and biochemical estimates. These findings highlight the need for more objective dietary assessment tools and ongoing, tailored nutritional support. Multifaceted interventions—combining education, personalized planning, regular monitoring, and promotion of physical activity—are recommended to enhance adherence and improve clinical outcomes in this vulnerable population. Full article

Background: Alterations of the gut microbiota have been increasingly implicated in the pathogenesis of dementia through mechanisms involving systemic inflammation, immune dysregulation, and gut–brain axis disruption. Clinical evidence, however, remains fragmented. Objectives: This systematic review aimed to characterize gut microbiota profiles in individuals with mild cognitive impairment (MCI) or Alzheimer’s dementia (AD), explore mechanistic associations with neurodegeneration, and evaluate the impact of microbiota-targeted interventions on cognitive outcomes. Methods: Following PRISMA 2020 guidelines and a registered protocol (PROSPERO CRD420251074832), PubMed/Medline was searched through May 2025. Eligible studies included randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and cohort and case–control studies assessing microbiota composition or interventions in participants with MCI or AD. Results: Twenty-one studies were included (1 RCT, 20 observational; sample size 22–302). Most used 16S rRNA sequencing; one used shotgun metagenomics. Across cohorts, MCI and AD patients consistently showed reduced short-chain fatty acid-producing bacteria (Faecalibacterium, Ruminococcaceae, Lachnospiraceae) and increased pro-inflammatory taxa (Escherichia/Shigella, Enterobacteriaceae, Bacteroides). Several studies reported reduced microbial diversity. Specific taxa, including Akkermansia muciniphila and Faecalibacterium, were associated with amyloid burden, hippocampal atrophy, and cognitive decline. Environmental and dietary factors influenced microbial composition and cognition. The RCT reported that probiotic supplementation improved inflammatory markers and BDNF levels, although changes in microbiota composition were inconsistent. Conclusions: Gut dysbiosis is strongly associated with cognitive impairment and markers of neurodegeneration. Modulation of the microbiota through diet and probiotics emerges as a promising avenue for dementia prevention and management, though robust longitudinal and interventional studies are needed to confirm causality and therapeutic efficacy. Full article

The incidence of chronic kidney disease (CKD) has increased worldwide in recent years. Many factors can contribute to the progression of CKD, some of which are dietary patterns. Adequate control of protein, phosphorus, potassium, and sodium intake can significantly slow the progression of CKD. Most studies and nutritional guidelines addressing the care of people with CKD have focused primarily on dietary recommendations regarding macronutrient intake and the restriction of individual micronutrients. Traditionally, the consumption of fiber-rich fruits and vegetables has been restricted in patients with CKD to combat hyperkalemia. Among the reasons often given for this restriction are concerns about their high potassium and phosphorus contents. Limiting the intake of whole grains in CKD patients has also been recommended. However, findings indicate that phosphorus in plant foods is not fully absorbed in humans. Potassium contribution from vegetables can be reduced by culinary treatments, and when highly insoluble fiber is present in vegetables, it promotes potassium excretion through the intestine, which could help control the risk of hyperkalemia in CKD patients. Other recent findings have shown beneficial effects of vegetable bioactive compounds and resistant starch on CKD patients. The aim of the present review was to compile and discuss traditional recommendations for the use of plant-based foods for patients with CKD, as well as the mechanisms through which such foods may contribute to improving CKD progression. Full article