Search Results (258)

Goji berries (Lycium barbarum L.) are considered a functional food due to their high content of bioactive compounds with demonstrated health benefits. This study evaluated four cultivars (G3, G4, G5, and G7) grown under Mediterranean climate conditions, focusing on their physicochemical properties (total soluble solids, titratable acidity, and pH), bioactive compound (sugars and organic acids, total and individual phenolic and carotenoid compounds, and antioxidant activities (DPPH and CUPRAC assay)), and aromatic profiles (by GC-MS) to assess their suitability for fresh consumption or incorporation into food products. G4 exhibited the most favorable physicochemical characteristics, with the highest total soluble solids (20.2 °Brix) and sugar content (92.8 g 100 g⁻¹ dw). G5 stood out for its lower titratable acidity (0.34%) and highest ripening index (54.8), indicating desirable flavor attributes. Concerning bioactive compounds, G3 and G4 showed the highest total phenolic content (17.9 and 19.1 mg GAE g⁻¹ dw, respectively), with neochlorogenic acid being predominant. G4 was notable for its high carotenoid content, particularly zeaxanthin (1722.6 μg g⁻¹ dw). These compounds significantly contributed to antioxidant activity. Volatile organic compound (VOC) profiles revealed alcohols and aldehydes as the dominant chemical families, with hexanal being the most abundant. G5 and G7 exhibited the highest total VOC concentrations. Principal component analysis grouped G3 and G4 based on their high sugar and phenolic content, while G5 and G7 were characterized by their complex aromatic profiles. Therefore, G3 and G4 are promising candidates for fresh consumption and potential functional applications, while G5 and G7 are particularly suitable for new product development due to their nutraceutical and aromatic value. Full article

Background/Objectives: Understanding the impact of dietary habits in terms of obesity, health outcomes, and functional decline is critical in Europe’s growing elderly population. This study analyzed trends in Mediterranean diet (MD) adherence, obesity prevalence, and grip strength among middle-aged and elderly Europeans using data from the Survey of Health, Ageing and Retirement in Europe (SHARE). Methods: Data from four SHARE waves (2015–2022) across 28 countries were analyzed. Dietary patterns were assessed through food frequency questionnaires classifying participants as MD-adherent or non-adherent where adherent implies daily consumption of fruits and vegetables and occasional (3–6 times/week) intake of eggs, beans, legumes, meat, fish, or poultry (an unvalidated definition of the MD pattern). Handgrip strength, a biomarker of functional capacity, was categorized into low, medium, and high groups. Body mass index (BMI), self-perceived health (SPHUS), chronic disease prevalence, and CASP-12 scores (control, autonomy, self-realization, and pleasure evaluated on the 12-item version) were also evaluated. Statistical analyses included descriptive methods, logistic regressions, and multiple imputations to address missing data. Results: A significant majority (74–77%) consumed fruits and vegetables daily, which is consistent with MD principles; however, the high daily intake of dairy products (>50%) indicates limited adherence to the MD, which advocates for moderate consumption of dairy products. Logistic regression indicated that individuals with two or more chronic diseases were more likely to follow the MD (odds ratio [OR] = 1.21, confidence interval [CI] = 1.11–1.32), as were those individuals who rated their SPHUS as very good/excellent ([OR] = 1.42, [CI] = 1.20–1.69). Medium and high maximal handgrip were also strongly and consistently associated with higher odds of MD adherence (Medium: [OR] = 1.44, [CI] = 1.18–1.74; High: [OR] = 1.27, [CI] = 1.10–1.48). Conclusions: The findings suggest that middle-aged and older adults are more likely to adhere to the MD dietary pattern if they have more than two chronic diseases, are physically active, and have a medium or high handgrip. Although an unvalidated definition of the MD dietary pattern was used, the results highlight the importance of implementing targeted dietary strategies for middle-aged and elderly adults. Full article

Background: Accelerated demographic aging in Hungary and across Europe presents significant public health and socioeconomic challenges, particularly in preserving cognitive function and preventing neurodegenerative diseases. Modifiable lifestyle factors—especially dietary habits—play a critical role in brain aging and cognitive decline. Objective: This narrative review explores the mechanisms by which Western dietary patterns contribute to cognitive impairment and neurovascular aging, with specific attention to their relevance in the Hungarian context. It also outlines the rationale and design of the Semmelweis Study and its workplace-based health promotion program targeting lifestyle-related risk factors. Methods: A review of peer-reviewed literature was conducted focusing on Western diet, cognitive decline, cerebrovascular health, and dietary interventions. Emphasis was placed on mechanistic pathways involving systemic inflammation, oxidative stress, endothelial dysfunction, and decreased neurotrophic support. Key findings: Western dietary patterns—characterized by high intakes of saturated fats, refined sugars, ultra-processed foods, and linoleic acid—are associated with elevated levels of 4-hydroxynonenal (4-HNE), a lipid peroxidation product linked to neuronal injury and accelerated cognitive aging. In contrast, adherence to Mediterranean dietary patterns—particularly those rich in polyphenols from extra virgin olive oil and moderate red wine consumption—supports neurovascular integrity and promotes brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and nerve growth factor (NGF) activity. The concept of “cognitive frailty” is introduced as a modifiable, intermediate state between healthy aging and dementia. Application: The Semmelweis Study is a prospective cohort study involving employees of Semmelweis University aged ≥25 years, collecting longitudinal data on dietary, psychosocial, and metabolic determinants of aging. The Semmelweis–EUniWell Workplace Health Promotion Model translates these findings into practical interventions targeting diet, physical activity, and cardiovascular risk factors in the workplace setting. Conclusions: Improving our understanding of the diet–brain health relationship through population-specific longitudinal research is crucial for developing culturally tailored preventive strategies. The Semmelweis Study offers a scalable, evidence-based model for reducing cognitive decline and supporting healthy aging across diverse populations. Full article

Cancer is a major cause of morbidity and mortality across the globe, with a substantial increase in cases anticipated over the next few decades. Given the constraints and adverse effects associated with standard cancer therapies, the contribution of diet and nutraceuticals to cancer prevention and treatment is receiving increased scrutiny. A diet rich in plant-based foods, extra virgin olive oil (EVOO), and bioactive compounds, including the Mediterranean Diet, has been associated with reduced cancer risk and improved treatment outcomes. This review aims to explore the complex mechanisms of the MedDiet and nutraceuticals (polyphenols, flavonoids, terpenoids) in cancer prevention, to determine their potential as cancer treatment adjuvants. Promising results show that key compounds such as bergamot polyphenolic fraction (BPF), cynaropicrin, oleuropein, quercetin, resveratrol, and serotonin can modulate oxidative stress, inflammation, the tumor microenvironment, the cell cycle, and drug resistance. A significant observation is that many of these substances demonstrate dual dose-dependent activity; they function as antioxidants in healthy cells but induce pro-oxidant and pro-apoptotic effects in cancerous cells. Their ability to boost chemotherapy’s effectiveness and safety while lessening side effects and offering combined advantages is also explored. To summarize, this review suggests that the Mediterranean Diet and nutraceutical supplements may help prevent and manage cancer, but more research is needed to confirm their benefits. Full article

The historical co-production of olive oil and wine has influenced the Mediterranean landscape and economy. Olive oil and wine production generates substantial organic waste, including olive pomace, grape pomace, and wastewater, which poses environmental challenges if untreated. These byproducts contain bioactive compounds, including polyphenols, such as hydroxytyrosol, resveratrol, and flavonoids, which possess antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, making them valuable for the development of functional foods and nutraceuticals. A combined waste valorization strategy can enhance bioactive compound recovery and align it with circular economic principles. The incorporation of olive oil and wine byproducts into food matrices, such as bread, pasta, dairy products, baked goods, chocolates, beverages, and processed items, has been explored to enhance antioxidant content, dietary fiber, and nutritional value. However, successful integration depends on maintaining acceptable sensory qualities and addressing the technical challenges in extraction, processing, and regulatory compliance. Realizing the potential benefits of dual valorization requires a systemic shift integrating scientific innovation, regulatory adaptability, and consumer engagement, guided by evidence, transparent communication, and inclusive governance to ensure that sustainability goals translate into environmental, economic, and public health outcomes. Full article

Plants have historically served as key sources of nutrition and popular medicine, which persists in current applications. The increasing demand for natural bioactive compounds has intensified the incorporation of plant-derived ingredients in both the food and pharmaceutical industries. This narrative review focuses on the fruits of Crataegus monogyna Jacq., Sorbus aria (L.) Crantz, and Prunus spinosa L. (Rosaceae), traditionally utilized in Europe and characterized by a high content of phenolic compounds, flavonoids, and anthocyanins. These metabolites are associated with antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and cardioprotective properties. The available literature on their phytochemical profiles, biological activities, and integration into the Mediterranean Diet is critically assessed. Evidence supports their potential as functional food components. Despite encouraging in vitro results, the scarcity of in vivo and clinical studies limits the translational potential of these findings. Further research is warranted to validate their efficacy and safety in human health. This review underscores the value of integrating traditional ethnobotanical and ethnopharmacological knowledge with contemporary scientific research to explore novel applications of these underutilized wild fruits. Full article

The increasing global demand for resilient, sustainable agricultural systems has intensified the need for advanced monitoring strategies, particularly for climate-adaptive crops such as Moringa oleifera Lam. This study presents an integrated approach using Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) equipped with multispectral and thermal cameras to monitor the vegetative performance and determine the optimal harvest period of four M. oleifera genotypes in a Mediterranean environment. High-resolution data were collected and processed to generate the NDVI, canopy temperature, and height maps, enabling the assessment of plant vigor, stress conditions, and spatial canopy structure. NDVI analysis revealed robust vegetative growth (0.7–0.9), with optimal harvest timing identified on 30 October 2024, when the mean NDVI exceeded 0.85. Thermal imaging effectively discriminated plant crowns from surrounding weeds by capturing cooler canopy zones due to active transpiration. A clear inverse correlation between NDVI and Land Surface Temperature (LST) was observed, reinforcing its relevance for stress diagnostics and environmental monitoring. The results underscore the value of UAV-based multi-sensor systems for precision agriculture, offering scalable tools for phenotyping, harvest optimization, and sustainable management of medicinal and aromatic crops in semiarid regions. Moreover, in this study, to produce M. oleifera leaf powder intended for use as a food ingredient, the leaves of four M. oleifera genotypes were dried, milled, and evaluated for their hygiene and safety characteristics. Plate count analyses confirmed the absence of pathogenic bacterial colonies in the M. oleifera leaf powders, highlighting their potential application as natural and functional additives in food production. Full article

The globe artichoke (Cynara cardunculus L. var. scolymus) is a Mediterranean crop valued for its edible capitula and bioactive compounds. Post-harvest residual leaves are among the main by-products of artichoke cultivation and remain largely underutilized. This study reports a comprehensive characterization of the residual leaves of Carciofo di Malegno, an Alpine artichoke landrace. Comparative analysis was conducted against leaves from two commercial cultivars and a commercial herbal tea product. HPLC analysis revealed that Carciofo di Malegno exhibited the lowest levels of secondary metabolites. Cynaropicrin content was 0.52 ± 0.03 mg/g, lower than in the commercial samples, while the phenolic compounds were below the quantification limit. Proximate analysis indicated a distinctive nutritional profile, with significantly higher ash (8.01 ± 0.04%) and crude fiber (35.75 ± 0.29%) contents compared to all reference samples. These findings highlight the potential of Carciofo di Malegno residual leaves as a sustainable source of nutrients for functional food and nutraceutical applications. Their low content of bitter sesquiterpene lactones may enhance palatability, supporting their valorisation within circular economy frameworks. Moreover, their use may contribute to the in situ conservation of this landrace, reinforcing the link between agrobiodiversity preservation and the sustainable exploitation of agricultural by-products. Full article

This work provides a contribution to the understanding of the structure of the photophores in the mesopelagic fish Chauliodus sloani (family Stomiidae), which occasionally are stranded along the coasts of the Strait of Messina (Central Mediterranean Sea). The analysis was carried out through the study of the structure and ultrastructure of the ventral photophores, and it also includes an immunohistochemical investigation that offers valuable insights into the function of these organs. Studies on photophores help clarify many aspects of the ecology of this species, which represents an important functional link in the marine food web. Full article

Background: Nutritional management has become an integral part of Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) care, with growing evidence supporting specific dietary interventions alongside pharmacologic therapy. However, clinical guidance remains fragmented due to heterogeneous study designs and variable endpoints. Objectives: This review critically examines the current evidence on dietary strategies and oral nutritional supplementation (ONS) in both Crohn’s Disease (CD) and Ulcerative Colitis (UC), highlighting their clinical applications, mechanisms of action, and limitations. Methods: A comprehensive literature search was conducted using PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science databases, analyzing studies on various dietary approaches and ONS in IBD. Results: Exclusive Enteral Nutrition (EEN) is a first-line therapy in pediatric CD, while partial enteral nutrition (PEN) and the Crohn’s Disease Exclusion Diet (CDED) show promising efficacy and better adherence in both children and adults. Whole-food-based interventions, including the Mediterranean Diet, Specific Carbohydrate Diet, plant-based diets, and emerging strategies such as CD-TREAT and the Tasty & Healthy diet, have demonstrated varying levels of benefit in disease maintenance and symptom control. Targeted exclusion diets—such as low-FODMAP, low-emulsifier, and low-sulfur diets—may relieve functional symptoms and influence inflammatory activity, although evidence remains preliminary. ONS plays a pivotal role in addressing malnutrition and improving outcomes in perioperative and hospitalized patients. Conclusions: Dietary interventions and ONS represent valuable therapeutic tools in IBD management. Future research should prioritize standardized, well-powered clinical trials and personalized nutritional approaches to better define their role within integrated care pathways. Full article

Introduction: Olive oil’s health benefits are widely known and extensively documented; its advantages are widespread, covering numerous areas of human health. Clinical and experimental data indicate that a Mediterranean Diet (MedDiet) with Extra Virgin Olive Oil (EVOO) lowers the risk of illnesses associated with oxidative stress, chronic inflammation, and weakened immunity, including cancer and cardiovascular disease (CVD). The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) confirms that olive oil’s polyphenols help protect blood lipids against oxidative damage; thus, EVOO, crucial in the MedDiet, could be a functional food component. Olive oils must contain at least 5 mg of Hydroxytyrosol (HYTY) and its derivatives (oleuropein and Tyrosol (TY)) per 20 g to qualify for the EFSA-approved health claim. To provide a summary of clinical study results, this systematic review assessed the impact of Virgin olive oil (VOO) consumption on cardiovascular risk and disease prevention. Methods: The systematic review’s studies were collected from PubMed, Cochrane, Web of Science, and Scopus following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) statement and the Population Intervention Comparison Outcome Population (PICO) framework. Results: Seventeen clinical studies were identified, which highlighted the association between VOO consumption (including EVOO) and a reduced risk of cardiovascular disease. Particularly, improvements in biomarkers involved in cardiometabolic pathways and subsequent cardiovascular events were recorded. The beneficial effect was attributed to the polyphenols contained in EVOO. Indeed, EVOO supplementation as part of the Mediterranean diet could improve patients’ quality of life in secondary prevention by demonstrating a positive correlation with the cardioprotective role of polyphenols. Discussion: A balanced diet with VOO represents a simple yet potent method to counteract metabolic dysfunctions associated with CVD. Despite these results, further multicenter clinical studies with a wider range of patients are required to confirm and better understand EVOO’s effects on the prevention of cardiovascular risk. Full article

As life expectancy continues to increase, it becomes increasingly important to extend healthspan by targeting mechanisms associated with aging. Cellular senescence is recognized as a significant contributor to aging and neurodegenerative disorders. This review examines the emerging role of nutraceuticals and functional foods as potential modulators of cellular senescence, which may, in turn, influence the development of neurodegenerative diseases. An analysis of experimental studies indicates that bioactive compounds, including polyphenols, vitamins, and spices, possess substantial antioxidants, anti-inflammatory and epigenetic properties. These nutritional senotherapeutic agents effectively scavenge reactive oxygen species, modulate gene expression, and decrease the secretion of senescence-associated secretory phenotype factors, minimizing cellular damage. Nutraceuticals can enhance mitochondrial function, reduce oxidative stress, and regulate inflammation, key factors in aging and diseases like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s. Furthermore, studies reveal that specific bioactive compounds can reduce senescence markers in cellular models, while others exhibit senostatic and senolytic properties, both directly and indirectly. Diets enriched with these nutraceuticals, such as the Mediterranean diet, have been correlated with improved brain health and the deceleration of aging. Despite these promising outcomes, direct evidence linking these compounds to reducing senescent cell numbers remains limited, highlighting the necessity for further inquiry. This review presents compelling arguments for the potential of nutraceuticals and functional foods to promote longevity and counteract neurodegeneration by exploring their molecular mechanisms. The emerging relationship between dietary bioactive compounds and cellular senescence sets the stage for future research to develop effective preventive and therapeutic strategies for age-related diseases. Full article

Background: Individual nutrients are associated with cognitive performance, but there is less evidence on the relationship between overall dietary patterns and cognitive performance in midlife. Objective: To examine the relation between dietary patterns and cognitive performance in midlife adults within the Bogalusa Heart Study (BHS). Methods: Cross-sectional data from the 2013–2016 cycle of the Bogalusa Heart Study, a life-course prospective cohort study, were used to generate diet quality scores, including the Alternate Healthy Eating Index 2010 (AHEI), the Healthy Eating Index 2015 (HEI), and the Alternate Mediterranean Dietary Pattern (aMed), based on food frequency questionnaires. Cognitive scores assessing attention and processing, episodic memory, and executive function were generated through validated cognitive tests. Generalized linear and logistic regression models were fit with adjustment for potential confounders. Results: Of 1053 participants included in the analysis, the mean age was 48.18 (SD = 5.22) years; 38.94% were male; and 31.14% identified as Black. Higher diet quality scores were associated with a higher global cognitive score (P-trend = 0.01 for AHEI, 0.02 for HEI, and 0.04 for aMed) after adjusting for age, sex, race, employment, education, smoking status, total energy intake, physical activity, BMI, diabetes, and hypertension. In dichotomous outcome analyses, higher AHEI and aMed scores remained inversely associated with low cognition when adjusting for similar covariates (P-trend = 0.03 for AHEI, 0.03 for aMed), but the association was attenuated to non-significance for HEI. In joint effect analysis between employment and dietary patterns (P-interaction = 0.28 for AHEI, 0.01 for HEI, and 0.11 for aMed), unemployment with a lower quality diet was associated with lower cognitive performance (P-trend = 0.02 for AHEI, 0.02 for HEI, and 0.01 for aMed). Conclusions: A high-quality diet is associated with optimal cognitive performance among midlife adults, and unemployment status may influence this association. These findings suggest that dietary interventions during midlife may represent a public health strategy to preserve cognitive function and reduce future neurodegenerative disease burden, especially in disadvantaged populations. Full article

Metabolic syndrome (MetS) is characterized by central obesity, insulin resistance, hypertension, dyslipidemia, and chronic inflammation, significantly increasing the risk of cardiovascular disease and type 2 diabetes. Effective management of MetS is critical, with exercise being a key intervention. This review analyzed the effects of different exercise intensities—low, moderate, and high-intensity interval training (HIIT)—on metabolic health, oxidative stress (OS), inflammation, and cardiovascular function. A search of Medline, PEDro, and EBSCO identified 2251 articles, with 159 studies published between 1999 and 2025 included after screening. Low-intensity exercise improved insulin sensitivity, reduced OS markers (e.g., MDA, 8-OHdG), and enhanced antioxidant enzyme activity. Moderate-intensity exercise showed similar benefits with notable reductions in inflammatory markers (e.g., IL-1β, TNF-α). HIIT promoted fat loss and improved metabolic markers but temporarily increased OS and inflammation. Dietary strategies also play a critical role. The Mediterranean diet and Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension (DASH) diets are well established, emphasizing nutrient-dense foods like unsaturated fats and fiber to reduce inflammation and manage weight. The ketogenic diet (KD), a high-fat, low-carbohydrate approach, has recently gained attention for its metabolic benefits. KD induces ketosis, improving insulin sensitivity, reducing triglycerides, and enhancing fat oxidation. Studies show KD effectively reduces body weight and glucose levels, though long-term adherence and nutrient deficiencies remain challenges. Intermittent fasting also showed potential benefits, though effects on glucose metabolism were inconsistent. This review underscores the need for tailored approaches combining exercise, diet, and fasting to optimize MetS outcomes, offering integrative strategies for prevention and management. Full article

Young vegetative quinoa (YVQ) has gained attention as a high-protein leafy crop for human consumption with potential for cultivation in Mediterranean and semiarid regions. We investigated the effects of inter-row spacing and genotype on YVQ fresh and dry matter (DM) yield, protein content (PC), and protein yield during summer cultivation in northern Israel in two separate, independent, randomized field experiments over two consecutive years (2020–2021). We hypothesized that row spacing and genotypic differences would significantly impact yield and PC. Inter-row spacing significantly affected plant density, ranging from 55 to 366 plants m⁻². Fresh and DM yields ranged from 4957 to 28,469 kg ha⁻¹ and 661 to 3737 kg DM ha⁻¹, respectively. PC ranged from 20.5 to 26.6% and was not significantly influenced by row spacing. Total protein yield ranged from 147 to 884 kg ha⁻¹. Among the five tested genotypes, no significant differences were observed in fresh (7477–17,776 kg ha⁻¹) or dry (1122–2199 kg DM ha⁻¹) biomass, PC (21.2–26.5%), or protein yield (260–579 kg ha⁻¹), suggesting limited genetic differentiation under the specific environmental and agronomic conditions tested. Amino acid analysis confirmed the presence of all nine essential amino acids, fulfilling over 30% of the recommended daily intake per 100 g DM. These findings highlight YVQ as a promising, sustainable, and protein-rich leafy crop for Mediterranean agriculture. Further research should explore multi-harvest potential, mechanical weeding, and optimized agronomic practices for commercial-scale production. Full article