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Understanding the components of the diet, food groups, and nutritional strategies that help prevent MASLD (Metabolic Dysfunction-Associated Steatotic Liver Disease) is essential for identifying dietary behaviors that can stop the progression of this condition, which currently affects over one-quarter of the global population. This review highlights the importance of including antioxidant nutrients in the diet, such as vitamins C and E, CoQ10, and polyphenolic compounds. It also emphasizes substances that support lipid metabolism, including choline, alpha-lipoic acid, and berberine. Among food groups, it is crucial to choose those that help prevent metabolic disturbances. Among carbohydrate-rich foods, vegetables, fruits, and high-fiber products are recommended. For protein sources, eggs, fish, and white meat are preferred. Among fat sources, plant oils and fatty fish are advised due to their content of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids. Various dietary strategies aimed at preventing MASLD should include elements of the Mediterranean diet or be personalized to provide anti-inflammatory compounds and substances that inhibit fat accumulation in liver cells. Other recommended dietary models include the DASH diet, the flexitarian diet, intermittent fasting, and diets that limit fructose and simple sugars. Additionally, supplementing the diet with spirulina or chlorella, berberine, probiotics, or omega-3 fatty acids, as well as drinking several cups of coffee per day, may be beneficial. Full article

With the acceleration of the pace of life, increased stress levels, and changes in lifestyle factors such as diet and exercise, the incidence of diseases such as cancer and immunodeficiency has been on the rise, which is closely associated with the impaired antioxidant capacity of the body. Polypeptides and polysaccharides derived from edible fungi demonstrate significant strong antioxidant activity and immunomodulatory effects. Auricularia auricula, the second most cultivated mushroom in China, is not only nutritionally rich but also offers considerable health benefits. In particular, its polysaccharides have been widely recognized for their immunomodulatory activities, while its abundant protein content holds great promise as a raw material for developing immunomodulatory peptides. To meet the demand for high-value utilization of Auricularia auricula resources, this study developed a key technology for the stepwise extraction of polypeptides (AAPP1) and polysaccharides (AAPS3) using a composite enzymatic hydrolysis process. Their antioxidant and immunomodulatory effects were assessed using cyclophosphamide (CTX)-induced immune-suppressed mice. The results showed that both AAPP1 and AAPS3 significantly reversed CTX-induced decreases in thymus and spleen indices (p < 0.05); upregulated serum levels of cytokines (e.g., IL-4, TNF-α) and immunoglobulins (e.g., IgA, IgG); enhanced the activities of hepatic antioxidant enzymes SOD and CAT (p < 0.05); and reduced the content of MDA, a marker of oxidative damage. Intestinal microbiota analysis revealed that these compounds restored CTX-induced reductions in microbial α-diversity, increased the abundance of beneficial bacteria (Paramuribaculum, Prevotella; p < 0.05), decreased the proportion of pro-inflammatory Duncaniella, and reshaped the balance of the Bacteroidota/Firmicutes phyla. This study represents the first instance of synergistic extraction of polypeptides and polysaccharides from Auricularia auricula using a single process. It demonstrates their immune-enhancing effects through multiple mechanisms, including “antioxidation-immune organ repair-intestinal microbiota regulation.” The findings offer a theoretical and technical foundation for the deep processing of Auricularia auricula and the development of functional foods. Full article

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder marked by amyloid-β (Aβ) plaques, neurofibrillary tangles, blood–brain barrier dysfunction, oxidative stress (OS), and neuroinflammation. Current treatments provide symptomatic relief, but do not halt the disease’s progression. OS plays a crucial role in AD pathogenesis by promoting Aβ accumulation. Nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (NRF2) is a key regulator of the antioxidant response, influencing genes involved in OS mitigation, mitochondrial function, and inflammation. Dysregulation of NRF2 is implicated in AD, making it a promising therapeutic target. Emerging evidence suggests that adherence to a Mediterranean diet (MD), which is particularly rich in polyphenols from extra virgin olive oil (EVOO), is associated with improved cognitive function and a reduced risk of mild cognitive impairment. Polyphenols can activate NRF2, enhancing endogenous antioxidant defenses. This study employs a computational approach to explore the potential of bioactive compounds in EVOO to modulate NRF2-related pathways in AD. We analyzed transcriptomic data from AD and EVOO-treated samples to identify NRF2-associated genes, and used chemical structure-based analysis to compare EVOO’s bioactive compounds with known NRF2 activators. Enrichment analysis was performed to identify common biological functions between NRF2-, EVOO-, and AD-related pathways. Our findings highlight important factors and biological functions that provide new insight into the molecular mechanisms through which EVOO consumption might influence cellular pathways associated with AD via modulation of the NRF2 pathway. The presented approach provides a different perspective in the discovery of compounds that may contribute to neuroprotective mechanisms in the context of AD. Full article

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

Background and Objectives: In recent years, there has been growing interest in the production of ingredients rich in dietary fiber and antioxidants, such as green banana flours. This study evaluated the effect of consumption of mixed green banana pulp (PF) and peel (PeF) flours on the body weight gain, adiposity, lipid profile, and intestinal morphology of Wistar rats. Methods: Male young rats were divided into four groups (n = 8) that received a standard diet (SD), or one of the following three test diets: M1 (SD + 90% PF/10% PeF), M2 (SD + 80% PF/20% PeF), or P (SD + 100% PF) for 28 days. Results: Rats from M1, M2, and P groups showed reduced body weight gain and adiposity and had lower contents of total cholesterol, LDL-c, VLDL-c, and triglycerides. Animals from M1 and M2 groups had an increase in cecum weight, fecal moisture, acetic acid concentration, and crypt depth and reduced fecal pH. Moreover, consumption of the M1, M2, and P diets increased the expression of proteins involved in intestinal functionality. Significant negative correlations were observed between consumption of resistant starch and soluble dietary fiber, from the flours, and weight gain (r = −0.538 and r = −0.538, respectively), body adiposity (r = −0.780 and r = −0.767, respectively), total cholesterol (r = −0.789 and r = −0.800, respectively), and triglycerides (r = −0.790 and r = −0.786, respectively). Conclusions: Mixed green banana pulp and peel flour proved to be a viable alternative as a food ingredient that can promote weight loss, improve lipid profile and intestinal morphology, and minimize post-harvest losses. Full article

Abdominal fat necrosis is a dystrophic–necrotic process that is relatively common in dairy cows. It is determined by productive strain (excess fat in the diet), negative energy balance after calving, a lack of physical activity, vitamin E and selenium deficiency, etc. Lipomatous masses are predominantly located in the omentum and mesentery in cattle, potentially causing intestinal obstruction. We report on an outbreak of abdominal fat necrosis that affected 135 of 220 cows and heifers (61.36%); this involved massive fat accumulation in the uterine and salpingian ligaments and severe reproductive disorders (reducing fertility to 20% in cows and 10% in heifers) caused by a hyperenergetic diet (supplementation with saturated fats). A transrectal ultrasound examination of the genital apparatus—both in heifers and in cows in the puerperium—revealed a diffuse pathological hyperechogenicity of the cervical folds, suggesting lipid infiltration, proliferation of the endocervical folds and hyperechogenic lipogranulomas located paracervically or in the uterine ligaments. An ultrasound examination of the ovaries showed the presence of parasalpingial lipogranulomas on the mesovarium, with a uniformly pixelated greasy appearance, that altered the topography of the salpinx, leading to the impossibility of oocyte retrieval. At the histopathological examination, in addition to the necrosis of adipocytes and the subacute–chronic inflammation of the abdominal and retroperitoneal adipose tissue, lipid infiltration of the uterine walls was also observed in the uterine ligaments and lymph nodes. Additionally, lipid infiltration was observed in the wall of the uterine artery. All muscular-type branches of the ovarian artery exhibited subendothelial (subintimal) amyloid deposits, severely reducing their lumen and leading to ischaemia. Amyloidosis was secondary to the systemic inflammatory process triggered by lipid deposition and necrosis. Fertility returned to normal 45–60 days after the exclusion of fat supplements from the diet and their replacement with a vitamin–mineral supplement rich in antioxidants. Full article

Ancient grains, including wild rice, millet, fonio, teff, quinoa, amaranth, and sorghum, are re-emerging as vital components of modern diets due to their dense nutritional profiles and diverse health-promoting bioactive compounds. Rich in high-quality proteins, dietary fiber, essential micronutrients, and a broad spectrum of bioactive compounds such as phenolic acids, flavonoids, carotenoids, phytosterols, and betalains, these grains exhibit antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antidiabetic, cardioprotective, and immunomodulatory properties. Their health-promoting effects are underpinned by multiple interconnected mechanisms, including the reduction in oxidative stress, modulation of inflammatory pathways, regulation of glucose and lipid metabolism, support for mitochondrial function, and enhancement of gut microbiota composition. This review provides a comprehensive synthesis of the essential nutrients, phytochemicals, and functional properties of ancient grains, with particular emphasis on the nutritional and molecular mechanisms through which they contribute to the prevention and management of chronic diseases such as cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes, obesity, and metabolic syndrome. Additionally, it highlights the growing application of ancient grains in functional foods and nutrition-sensitive dietary strategies, alongside the technological, agronomic, and consumer-related challenges limiting their broader adoption. Future research priorities include well-designed human clinical trials, standardization of compositional data, innovations in processing for nutrient retention, and sustainable cultivation to fully harness the health, environmental, and cultural benefits of ancient grains within global food systems. Full article

Psoriasis is a chronic inflammatory autoimmune disease that causes significant deterioration of the quality of life, and due to its multifactorial causes, it is often difficult to manage. Apart from genetic and environmental components, an important part of its pathophysiology comprises an oxidative stress induction that the standard antioxidative mechanisms of the human body cannot compensate for. Moreover, in many psoriatic patients, there is a documented imbalance between antioxidant and pro-oxidative factors. Usually, psoriasis is evaluated using the Psoriasis Area and Severity Index (PASI) score. It has been demonstrated that dietary choices can lead to significant modification of PASI scores. Hypocaloric diets that are rich in antioxidants are highly effective in this regard, especially when focusing on vegetables and restricting consumption of animal-derived protein. Specific dietary regimens, namely the Mediterranean diet and potentially the ketogenic diet, are very beneficial, in the former case owing in large part to the omega-three fatty acids it provides and its ability to alter gut microbiome, a factor which seems to play a notable role in the pathogenesis of the disease. Another option is the topical application of vitamin D and its analogues, combined with corticosteroids, which can ameliorate the manifestations of psoriasis at the level of the skin. Finally, oral vitamin D supplementation has a positive impact on psoriatic arthritis and can mitigate the risk of associated comorbidities. Full article

Background: The spleen is the primary reservoir of immune cells in mammals. Diverse stimuli can disrupt spleen homeostasis, resulting in spleen injury and immune dysfunction. This study employed a porcine model to assess the therapeutic potential of salvianolic acid B (SAB) against lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced splenic injury. Methods: Seventy-two male weanling piglets were randomly assigned to one of four groups: CON-SS, SAB-SS, CON-LPS, and SAB-LPS. The CON-SS and CON-LPS groups received a basal diet, while SAB-SS and SAB-LPS groups received a SAB-supplemented diet. After 14 d, the CON-SS and SAB-SS groups received an intraperitoneal injection of sterile saline, whereas the CON-LPS and SAB-LPS groups were injected with LPS. Blood and spleen tissues were harvested 6 h post-injection for biochemical analysis. Results: LPS induced systemic immune disorders in piglets, as evidenced by increased immune organ indices and decreased white blood cell, lymphocyte, and basophil counts in blood (p < 0.05). LPS also caused histoarchitectural disruption, cell apoptosis, oxidative stress, and inflammation in the spleen (p < 0.05). Conversely, SAB improved splenic histopathology and reduced splenic apoptosis and pro-inflammatory mediators in piglets (p < 0.05). SAB significantly mitigated peroxidation accumulation by facilitating the nuclear translocation of nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 and strengthening the antioxidant system, and inhibited nucleotide-binding oligomerization domain, leucine-rich repeat and pyrin domain-containing 3 (NLRP3) inflammasome activation (p < 0.05). Mechanistically, SAB attenuated LPS-induced splenic oxidative stress and NLRP3 inflammasome activation by restoring mitochondrial structure and function (p < 0.05). Conclusions: This research unveils that SAB alleviates LPS-induced spleen disorder by reinforcing antioxidant system and suppressing NLRP3 inflammasome, highlighting SAB’s potential as a prospective therapeutic agent for spleen disorders. 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

This review explores the dual role of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and free radicals in the pathogenesis of endometriosis, aiming to deepen our understanding of these processes through a systematic literature review. To assess the induction and involvement of ROS in endometriosis, we conducted a comprehensive literature review using Cochrane Libraries, EMBASE, Google Scholar, PubMed, and SCOPUS databases. Of 30 qualifying papers ultimately reviewed, 28 reported a significant contribution of ROS to the pathogenesis of endometriosis, while two found no association. The presence of ROS in endometriosis is associated with infertility, irregular menstrual cycles, painful menstruation, and chronic pelvic discomfort. Among individual ROS types studied, hydrogen peroxide was most frequently investigated, followed by lipid peroxides and superoxide radicals. Notable polymorphisms associated with ROS in endometriosis include those for AT-rich interactive domain 1A (ARID1A) and quinone oxidoreductase 1 (NQO1) isoforms. Key enzymes for ROS scavenging and detoxification include superoxide dismutase, glutathione, and glutathione peroxidase. Effective inhibitors of ROS related to endometriosis are vitamins C and E, astaxanthin, fatty acid-binding protein 4, cerium oxide nanoparticles (nanoceria), osteopontin, sphingosine 1-phosphate, N-acetyl-L-cysteine, catalase, and a high-antioxidant diet. Elevated levels of ROS and free radicals are involved in the pathogenesis of endometriosis, suggesting that targeting these molecules could offer potential therapeutic strategies. Full article

Background/objectives: The interplay between genetic factors and nutritional patterns is critical in understanding metabolic health. This analysis evaluated the potential reciprocal relationships between the TNF-α -308 G/A gene polymorphism, the Composite Dietary Antioxidant Index (CDAI), and insulin-related variables in Spanish adults with obesity. Methods: A cross-sectional analysis was conducted in 292 adults with obesity. Anthropometric, biochemical, and dietary variables were assessed. TNF-α -308 G/A genotyping was performed. Associations and potential interactions between CDAI and genotype on insulin and homeostatic model assessment for insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) were examined using multivariate regression and two-way ANOVA. Results: Higher CDAI scores were significantly associated with lower insulin levels (p < 0.001) and HOMA-IR (p < 0.001), regardless of genotype. Carriers of the A allele (GA/AA) showed a non-significant trend toward higher insulin levels (p = 0.087) and a steeper decrease in insulin levels with increasing CDAI, with a significant interaction observed between TNF-α genotype and CDAI (interaction p = 0.003). Multivariate analyses confirmed that CDAI and TNF-α genotype were independently associated with insulin and HOMA-IR levels. However, interaction terms were not consistently significant across all models. Conclusions: These findings emphasize the potential of antioxidant-rich diets to help modulate the influence of pro-inflammatory genotypes on insulin resistance, highlighting the relevance of integrating genetic and dietary factors in managing obesity-related metabolic risks. Further studies are warranted to confirm these preliminary findings and to better understand the mechanisms underlying gene–diet interactions in metabolic regulation. Full article

Background: Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is very widespread in countries with a Western-style diet, representing one of the major causes of morbidity. Genetic factors, obesity, diabetes, dyslipidemia, smoking, and ageing are risk factors for CVD outcomes. From a pathogenic point of view, the condition of low-grade inflammation of the arteries leads to endothelial damage and atherosclerosis development. Nowadays, a broad range of drugs is available to treat CVD, but many of them are associated with side effects. Therefore, alternative therapeutic remedies need to be discovered in combination with conventional drugs. A balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables, e.g., the Mediterranean diet, has been shown to lower the incidence of CVD. Plant-derived polyphenols are ingested in food, and these compounds can exert beneficial effects on human health, such as antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities. Objective: In the present review, the cellular and molecular bases of the beneficial effects of polyphenols in the prevention and treatment of CVD will be pointed out. Methods: This review has been conducted on the basis of a literature review spanning mainly the last two decades. Results: We found that an increased dietary intake of polyphenols is associated with a parallel decrease in chronic disease incidence, including CVD. Conclusion: Despite a plethora of preclinical studies, more clinical trials are needed for a more appropriate treatment of CVD with polyphenols. Full article

Postprandial dysmetabolism, which refers to the impaired regulation of glucose and lipid levels after meals, is recognized as an independent risk factor for cardiovascular diseases (CVDs). Diets rich in polyphenols have demonstrated potential in improving postprandial hyperglycemia and hyperlipidemia. This study investigates the effects of olive leaf polyphenols on postprandial metabolic outcomes following a high-fat and high-carbohydrate meal. A total of 36 healthy adults participated in a three-arm randomized crossover trial. They ingested either a biscuit made from olive leaf powder (OLB), olive leaf tea (OLT), or a placebo meal (CTRL) to assess the impact of olive leaf polyphenols on postprandial glycemia, lipid levels, platelet aggregation factor (PAF), and plasma antioxidant status (TAC). Although no statistically significant differences were observed in the primary biomarkers, including glucose and lipid profiles, a delayed insulin response was noted in the interventions involving olive leaf. These findings suggest that while acute olive leaf supplementation did not significantly alter postprandial glycemia or lipidemia, it may subtly influence insulin kinetics. Further research is needed to explore the long-term effects of olive leaf polyphenols on metabolic health, especially in populations at risk for CVDs. Full article

Endometriosis is a chronic, estrogen-dependent inflammatory condition that affects multiple organ systems and significantly impairs the quality of life in women of reproductive age. While conventional hormonal therapies may alleviate symptoms of endometriosis, they are also frequently associated with intolerable side effects. As a result, there is growing interest in complementary, non-invasive strategies to support long-term disease management. This review explores the potential of plant-based diets and personalized nutrition as adjunctive approaches in endometriosis care. Plant-based dietary patterns, which are rich in antioxidants, phytochemicals, dietary fiber, and essential micronutrients, have been shown to reduce systemic inflammation, modulate estrogen activity, and alleviate pelvic pain. Additionally, the use of medicinal plants, such as curcumin and ginger, has demonstrated anti-inflammatory and anti-proliferative effects in preclinical studies. Moreover, identifying and addressing individual food sensitivities, particularly to gluten, dairy, or fermentable oligosaccharides, disaccharides, monosaccharides, and polyols, may improve gastrointestinal and inflammatory symptoms in susceptible individuals. Future research should focus on high-quality clinical trials and integrative care models to evaluate the long-term efficacy, safety, and sustainability of these individualized nutritional interventions in the holistic management of endometriosis. Full article