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Search Results (185)

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Keywords = choline intake

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17 pages, 1315 KiB  
Review
The Shuttling of Methyl Groups Between Folate and Choline Pathways
by Jonathan Bortz and Rima Obeid
Nutrients 2025, 17(15), 2495; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu17152495 - 30 Jul 2025
Viewed by 282
Abstract
Methyl groups can be obtained either from the diet (labile methyl groups) or produced endogenously (methylneogenesis) via one-carbon (C1-) metabolism as S-adenosylmethionine (SAM). The essential nutrients folate and choline (through betaine) are metabolically entwined to feed their methyl groups into C1-metabolism. A choline-deficient [...] Read more.
Methyl groups can be obtained either from the diet (labile methyl groups) or produced endogenously (methylneogenesis) via one-carbon (C1-) metabolism as S-adenosylmethionine (SAM). The essential nutrients folate and choline (through betaine) are metabolically entwined to feed their methyl groups into C1-metabolism. A choline-deficient diet in rats produces a 31–40% reduction in liver folate content, 50% lower hepatic SAM levels, and a doubling of plasma homocysteine. Similarly, folate deficiency results in decreased total hepatic choline. Thus, sufficient intakes of both folate and choline (or betaine) contribute to safeguarding the methyl balance in the body. A significant amount of choline (as phosphatidylcholine) is produced in the liver via the SAM-dependent phosphatidylethanolamine methyltransferase. Experimental studies using diets deficient in several methyl donors have shown that supplemental betaine was able to rescue not only plasma betaine but also plasma folate. Fasting plasma homocysteine concentrations are mainly determined by folate intake or status, while the effect of choline or betaine on fasting plasma homocysteine is minor. This appears to contradict the finding that approximately 50% of cellular SAM is provided via the betaine-homocysteine methyltransferase (BHMT) pathway, which uses dietary choline (after oxidation to betaine) or betaine to convert homocysteine to methionine and then to SAM. However, it has been shown that the relative contribution of choline and betaine to cellular methylation is better reflected by measuring plasma homocysteine after a methionine load test. Choline or betaine supplementation significantly lowers post-methionine load homocysteine, whereas folate supplementation has a minor effect on post-methionine load homocysteine concentrations. This review highlights the interactions between folate and choline and the essentiality of choline as a key player in C1-metabolism. We further address some areas of interest for future work. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Nutrigenetics and Nutrigenomics)
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17 pages, 916 KiB  
Review
Choline—An Essential Nutrient with Health Benefits and a Signaling Molecule
by Brianne C. Burns, Jitendra D. Belani, Hailey N. Wittorf, Eugen Brailoiu and Gabriela C. Brailoiu
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2025, 26(15), 7159; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms26157159 - 24 Jul 2025
Viewed by 659
Abstract
Choline has been recognized as an essential nutrient involved in various physiological functions critical to human health. Adequate daily intake of choline has been established by the US National Academy of Medicine in 1998, considering choline requirements for different ages, sex differences and [...] Read more.
Choline has been recognized as an essential nutrient involved in various physiological functions critical to human health. Adequate daily intake of choline has been established by the US National Academy of Medicine in 1998, considering choline requirements for different ages, sex differences and physiological states (e.g., pregnancy). By serving as a precursor for acetylcholine and phospholipids, choline is important for cholinergic transmission and the structural integrity of cell membranes. In addition, choline is involved in lipid and cholesterol transport and serves as a methyl donor after oxidation to betaine. Extracellular choline is transported across the cell membrane via various transport systems (high-affinity and low-affinity choline transporters) with distinct features and roles. An adequate dietary intake of choline during pregnancy supports proper fetal development, and throughout life supports brain, liver, and muscle functions, while choline deficiency is linked to disease states like fatty liver. Choline has important roles in neurodevelopment, cognition, liver function, lipid metabolism, and cardiovascular health. While its signaling role has been considered mostly indirect via acetylcholine and phosphatidylcholine which are synthesized from choline, emerging evidence supports a role for choline as an intracellular messenger acting on Sigma-1R, a non-opioid intracellular receptor. These new findings expand the cell signaling repertoire and increase the current understanding of the role of choline while warranting more research to uncover the molecular mechanisms and significance in the context of GPCR signaling, the relevance for physiology and disease states. Full article
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14 pages, 569 KiB  
Article
Assessing Choline, Carnitine, and Betaine Intake and Their Effects on Trimethylamine N-Oxide Levels: Validation of a Dietary Questionnaire in a Central European Population
by Witold Streb, Anna Olma, Mateusz Pajor, Alex Suchodolski, Wiktoria Staśkiewicz-Bartecka, Anita Stanjek-Cichoracka, Katarzyna Mitręga, Jacek Kowalczyk and Zbigniew Kalarus
Nutrients 2025, 17(14), 2263; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu17142263 - 9 Jul 2025
Viewed by 421
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Trimethylamine N-oxide (TMAO) is implicated in the development of atherosclerosis and cardiovascular diseases. Preventive strategies must recognize the excessive consumption of products rich in choline, carnitine, and betaine, which are substrates essential for TMAO synthesis. The aim of this study was to [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Trimethylamine N-oxide (TMAO) is implicated in the development of atherosclerosis and cardiovascular diseases. Preventive strategies must recognize the excessive consumption of products rich in choline, carnitine, and betaine, which are substrates essential for TMAO synthesis. The aim of this study was to develop and validate a dietary questionnaire to assess the consumption of these compounds and investigate the correlation with serum TMAO levels in a Central European population. Methods: A dietary questionnaire was designed based on a literature review identifying foods high in TMAO precursors. The tool was validated in a prospective study with 94 participants. The theoretical relevance and reliability of the tool were assessed using factor analysis and statistical indices. Reproducibility was evaluated in a subgroup of 10 participants who completed the questionnaire a second time 24 h later. The results of the questionnaire helped us to determine factors contributing to serum TMAO levels. Results: The final questionnaire consisted of 15 questions, providing acceptable data quality (KMO = 0.654). Three main dietary factors were detected: (1) the consumption of fish products and legumes (SS loadings = 1.72; 10.78% variance), (2) the consumption of cereal products and root vegetables (SS loadings = 1.61; 10.05% variance), and (3) the consumption of meat (SS loadings = 1.47; 9.22% variance). Conclusions: The validated questionnaire is a useful tool for assessing the intake of TMAO-promoting foods in post-myocardial infarction patients from Central Europe. It may support dietary risk assessment and nutritional counseling in clinical practice, particularly for secondary cardiovascular prevention. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Nutrition Methodology & Assessment)
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10 pages, 847 KiB  
Article
Impact of a 12-Week Hypocaloric Weight Loss Diet with Mixed Tree Nuts vs. Pretzels on Trimethylamine-N-Oxide (TMAO) Levels in Overweight Adults
by Onkei Lei, Jieping Yang, Hannah H. Kang and Zhaoping Li
Nutrients 2025, 17(13), 2137; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu17132137 - 27 Jun 2025
Viewed by 532
Abstract
Trimethylamine N-oxide (TMAO), a gut microbiome metabolite linked to cardiovascular health, can be influenced by dietary factors like choline intake and diet quality. This study compared the effects of mixed tree nuts (MTNs) and pretzels, as part of a 12-week hypocaloric weight loss [...] Read more.
Trimethylamine N-oxide (TMAO), a gut microbiome metabolite linked to cardiovascular health, can be influenced by dietary factors like choline intake and diet quality. This study compared the effects of mixed tree nuts (MTNs) and pretzels, as part of a 12-week hypocaloric weight loss diet, on TMAO levels and identified dietary predictors. Methods: Plasma samples from 95 overweight individuals consuming either 1.5 oz. of mixed tree nuts (MTNs, n = 56) or isocaloric pretzels (n = 39) daily for 12 weeks were analyzed. Nutritional data were collected at baseline and week 12 through dietary recall using the Automated Self-Administered 24 h Dietary Assessment Tool (ASA24), and the overall diet quality was assessed via the Healthy Eating Index (HEI) score. TMAO levels were determined and analyzed using linear mixed-effect models, adjusting for covariates. Wilcoxon signed-rank tests compared baseline and week 12 TMAO and weight. Multiple linear regression identified baseline predictors of TMAO. Results: Baseline demographics, anthropometric measures, HEI scores, and dietary choline intake were similar between the MTN and pretzel groups. A significant positive association was observed between baseline dietary choline and plasma TMAO levels (p = 0.012). The 12-week hypocaloric diet led to significant weight reduction in both groups (p < 0.01), but the magnitude of weight loss did not differ significantly between the MTN (−3.47 lbs) and pretzel (−4.25 lbs) groups (p = 0.18). Plasma TMAO levels decreased significantly in both groups (p < 0.01), but the between-group difference in reduction was not significant. (MTNs: −0.34 vs. pretzels: −0.37; p = 0.43). HEI scores and dietary choline intake remained unchanged, with no significant time–intervention interaction. Participants with low baseline HEI scores (≤53.72) had a more pronounced reduction in TMAO levels in the MTN group compared to the pretzel group (MTN: −0.54 vs. pretzel: −0.23; p = 0.045) over 12 weeks, despite similar weight loss. This difference was not observed in participants with higher HEI scores. Conclusions: The 12-week hypocaloric diet reduced body weight and plasma TMAO levels similarly in both MTN and pretzel groups. Participants with lower dietary quality saw a greater reduction in TMAO levels in the MTN group, suggesting MTNs may better modulate TMAO levels, especially for those with poorer baseline diets. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Impact of Optimized Nutritional Strategies on Weight Control)
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35 pages, 1366 KiB  
Review
The Impact of Egg Consumption on Gastrointestinal Health: A Systematic Literature Review and Meta-Analysis
by Nessmah Sultan, Caroline J. Tuck, Edellyne Cheng, Nicole J. Kellow and Jessica R. Biesiekierski
Nutrients 2025, 17(13), 2059; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu17132059 - 20 Jun 2025
Viewed by 1864
Abstract
Objective: Eggs are a valuable source of nutrients and bioactive compounds that may influence the gastrointestinal tract by modulating the microbiome, promoting the production of gastrointestinal-related metabolites, and mediating inflammation. Limited human studies have explored the effects of whole egg intake on indices [...] Read more.
Objective: Eggs are a valuable source of nutrients and bioactive compounds that may influence the gastrointestinal tract by modulating the microbiome, promoting the production of gastrointestinal-related metabolites, and mediating inflammation. Limited human studies have explored the effects of whole egg intake on indices of gastrointestinal health. This systematic literature review aimed to synthesise research investigating the impact of whole egg consumption on markers of gastrointestinal health. Methods: Five databases were searched from inception until July 2024. Studies were included if they examined the link between whole egg consumption and gastrointestinal markers, including symptoms, gut microbiome composition, inflammation, colonic fermentation, and egg-derived metabolites such as trimethylamine N-oxide (TMAO) in healthy adults. Two reviewers independently conducted title and abstract and full-text screening, with conflicts resolved by a third reviewer. Similarly, two authors conducted data extraction, which was verified by a third. A risk of bias assessment was conducted using validated tools. Random effects meta-analyses were performed to summarise the effect of egg consumption on TMAO, choline, and C-reactive protein (CRP). Results: Twenty-two studies were included in a narrative synthesis and ten in the meta-analyses. Nine were randomised controlled trials (RCTs), three were non-randomised intervention trials, eight were cross-sectional, and two were prospective cohort studies. Meta-analyses indicated that egg consumption did not impact plasma TMAO (n = 6, p = 0.22) or CRP (n = 3, p = 0.45) concentrations but did increase plasma choline (n = 5, p < 0.001) in the short term (≤4 weeks). Four studies found correlations between habitual egg consumption and specific gut bacteria, although results varied as egg consumption was both positively and negatively associated with butyrate-producing genera. Conclusions: This review found conflicting results regarding egg consumption and most gastrointestinal outcomes, highlighting that future studies are needed to explore links between habitual egg intake and plasma TMAO, microbial diversity, and inflammation (PROSPERO registration: 408532). Full article
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19 pages, 1626 KiB  
Article
Association Between Dietary Intake and Blood Concentrations of One-Carbon-Metabolism-Related Nutrients in European Prospective Investigation into Cancer and Nutrition
by Jin Young Park, Heleen Van Puyvelde, Lea Regazzetti, Joanna L. Clasen, Alicia K. Heath, Simone Eussen, Per Magne Ueland, Mattias Johansson, Carine Biessy, Raul Zamora-Ros, José María Huerta, Maria-Jose Sánchez, Marga Ocke, Matthias B. Schulze, Catarina Schiborn, Tonje Bjørndal Braaten, Guri Skeie, Carlotta Sacerdote, Jesús Castilla, Therese Karlsson, Ingegerd Johansson, Cecilie Kyrø, Anne Tjønneland, Tammy Y. N. Tong, Verena Katzke, Rashmita Bajracharya, Cristina Lasheras, Øivind Midttun, Stein Emil Vollset, Paolo Vineis, Giovanna Masala, Pilar Amiano, Rosario Tumino, Ivan Baldassari, Elisabete Weiderpass, Elio Riboli, Marc J. Gunter, Heinz Freisling, Sabina Rinaldi, David C. Muller, Inge Huybrechts and Pietro Ferrariadd Show full author list remove Hide full author list
Nutrients 2025, 17(12), 1970; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu17121970 - 10 Jun 2025
Viewed by 844
Abstract
Background/Objectives: We examined the association between dietary intake and blood concentrations of one-carbon metabolism (OCM)-related nutrients in the European Prospective Investigation into Cancer and Nutrition (EPIC). Methods: Blood concentrations and dietary intake of the vitamins riboflavin (B2), Pyridoxal 5′-phosphate (PLP and B6), folate [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: We examined the association between dietary intake and blood concentrations of one-carbon metabolism (OCM)-related nutrients in the European Prospective Investigation into Cancer and Nutrition (EPIC). Methods: Blood concentrations and dietary intake of the vitamins riboflavin (B2), Pyridoxal 5′-phosphate (PLP and B6), folate (B9), B12, and methionine, concentrations of homocysteine, and dietary intake of betaine, choline, and cysteine were pooled from 16,267 participants in nine EPIC nested case–control studies. Correlation analyses between dietary intakes and blood concentrations were carried out. Principal component (PC) analysis identified latent factors in the two sets of measurements. Results: Pearson correlations between dietary intakes and blood concentrations ranged from 0.08 for methionine to 0.12 for vitamin B2, 0.15 for vitamin B12, 0.17 for vitamin B6, and 0.19 for folate. Individual dietary intakes showed higher correlations (ranging from −0.14 to 0.82) compared to individual blood concentrations (from −0.31 to 0.29). Correlations did not vary by smoking status, case–control status, or vitamin supplement use. The first PC of dietary intakes was mostly associated with methionine, vitamin B12, cysteine, and choline, while the first PC of blood concentrations was associated with folate and vitamin B6. Conclusions: Within this large European study, we found weak to moderate associations between dietary intakes and concentrations of OCM-related nutrients. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Clinical Nutrition)
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29 pages, 1584 KiB  
Article
Identification of Priority Nutrients in the US: Targeting Malnutrition to Address Diet-Related Disease Across the Lifespan
by Carlene S. Starck, Tim Cassettari, Emma Beckett, Emily Duve and Flavia Fayet-Moore
Nutrients 2025, 17(12), 1957; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu17121957 - 9 Jun 2025
Viewed by 1651
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Poor diet is a leading modifiable cause of chronic disease in the US. In addition to targeting nutrients of concern (saturated fat, added sugars, and sodium), nutrients with both inadequate intakes and associations with major health outcomes require identification. We aimed to [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Poor diet is a leading modifiable cause of chronic disease in the US. In addition to targeting nutrients of concern (saturated fat, added sugars, and sodium), nutrients with both inadequate intakes and associations with major health outcomes require identification. We aimed to identify priority nutrients to address both malnutrition and diet-related disease in the US population. Methods: An established method for identifying priority nutrients across multiple demographic groups was adapted for the US population. This method evaluates and scores nutrients consumed at insufficient or excessive levels, with proposed revised requirements, and shows associations with established health priorities, based on the degree of deviation from recommendations and the number of linked health priorities. Priority nutrients were defined as those scoring in the top 25%. For each priority nutrient, a comparison of intake levels against the Dietary Reference Intake (DRI) was conducted. Results: There were 21 of 24 nutrients with consumption below recommended levels in at least one demographic group. Certain nutrients, such as dietary fiber, vitamin D, and choline, exhibited particularly high inadequacy rates, exceeding 90% throughout different life stages. The highest priority nutrients included vitamin D, vitamin E, calcium, magnesium, and dietary fiber, with vitamin D, omega-3 fatty acids, zinc, folate, and potassium showing priority for specific demographic groups. Comparing current intake levels with those known to benefit health priorities indicated that higher intakes of vitamin D, vitamin E, and calcium could be beneficial. Conclusions: Ten essential nutrients play a role in the prevention of diet-related disease, yet are consumed inadequately across the US population, suggesting that the prioritization of these nutrients can help to address the burden of chronic disease. Priority nutrients should be considered in diet and nutrition policies and guidelines. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Micronutrients and Human Health)
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12 pages, 251 KiB  
Article
Rumen-Protected Fat and Rumen-Protected Choline Co-Supplementation: Impacts on Performance and Meat Quality of Growing Lambs
by Haitao Liu, Fadi Li, Fei Li, Zhiyuan Ma, Tao Wang, Qinwu Li, Xinji Wang and Kaidong Li
Vet. Sci. 2025, 12(6), 525; https://doi.org/10.3390/vetsci12060525 - 28 May 2025
Viewed by 477
Abstract
This study aimed to assess the effect of co-supplementing rumen-protected fat and rumen-protected choline on growth performance, carcass traits, and meat quality in lambs. Using a randomized experimental design, 45 weaned female Tian×Hu crossbred lambs (3 months old; average body weight: 27.34 ± [...] Read more.
This study aimed to assess the effect of co-supplementing rumen-protected fat and rumen-protected choline on growth performance, carcass traits, and meat quality in lambs. Using a randomized experimental design, 45 weaned female Tian×Hu crossbred lambs (3 months old; average body weight: 27.34 ± 0.57 kg, mean ± SD) were randomly allocated to one of three dietary treatment groups. The three dietary treatments were as follows: a basal diet group (CON), a group receiving 2% rumen-protected fat in place of 2% barley (RPF), and a group supplemented with 2% rumen-protected fat and 0.4% rumen-protected choline, replacing 2% barley and 0.4% corn germ in the basal diet (RPFC). Compared to the CON group, neither the RPF nor RPFC treatments resulted in significant differences in growth performance (p > 0.05). However, the RPFC group showed a 5.3% increase in dry matter intake (DMI) compared to the RPF group (p < 0.05). Compared with the CON, the RPF treatment increased 69.23% the relative abundance of C18:2n-6t (p < 0.05), but the content of C17:0, C17:1, C18:1n-9c, and iso-C18:0 in Longissimus lumborum was decreased by 16.49%, 15.78%, 6.45% and 27.78%, respectively (p < 0.05). The RPFC treatment increased the relative abundance of C16:1 in Longissimus lumborum (p < 0.05). The RPF and RPFC treatments significantly increased serum levels of high-density lipoprotein (HDL) and total cholesterol compared to the CON group (p < 0.05). The RPF treatment raised HDL by 50.00% and total cholesterol by 38.03%, while the RPFC treatment increased HDL by 39.47% and total cholesterol by 26.03%. Furthermore, compared to the RPF group, the RPFC treatment led to a 13.47% increase in the 45 min b* color value of the Longissimus lumborum (p < 0.01) and a significant 45.45% reduction in the relative abundance of C18:2n-6t fatty acid in the same muscle (p < 0.05). In summary, rumen-protected choline reduces the negative effects of rumen-protected fat on feed intake in lambs and changes fatty acid profile in meat. Full article
16 pages, 760 KiB  
Article
A Cross-Sectional Study on Protein Substitutes for Paediatric Phenylketonuria Diet: Time to Pay Attention
by Albina Tummolo, Rosa Carella, Donatella De Giovanni, Vito Di Tullio, Letizia Lorusso and Nicola Bartolomeo
Nutrients 2025, 17(11), 1767; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu17111767 - 23 May 2025
Viewed by 456
Abstract
Introduction: Protein substitutes (PSs) free of phenylalanine (Phe) represent the primary source of proteins and micronutrients in dietary management of classical Phenylketonuria (PKU). Over the last few years, the composition of PSs has undergone rapid and significant improvements, including the development of [...] Read more.
Introduction: Protein substitutes (PSs) free of phenylalanine (Phe) represent the primary source of proteins and micronutrients in dietary management of classical Phenylketonuria (PKU). Over the last few years, the composition of PSs has undergone rapid and significant improvements, including the development of slow-release amino acid technologies, the introduction of glycomacropeptide-based products, as well as enhancements in taste and the variety of available formulations. However, their micronutrient content has received limited attention. This work aims to analyse the micronutrient composition of all PS formulations available in Italy for paediatric PKU patients and compare their micronutrient contribution to the recommended dietary allowance (RDA) and assess variability among products and age groups. Materials and Methods: The content of 28 micronutrients was analysed in 63 PSs, grouped according to the age ranges defined by the RDA guidelines: 0–6 months, 6–12 months, 1–3 years, 3–8 years, 8–14 years. The micronutrient content was standardised for 10 g of protein equivalent (PE). Results: Compared to the RDA, many micronutrients were found to be over-supplemented across all age groups, particularly in the 0–6 month group, where peak levels were observed for vitamin K, chromium, and manganese. The 1–3 age group showed the lowest levels of supplementation, with most micronutrients falling within the sub-supplementation range. The variability in supplementation among PSs was broad and showed the highest values in the latter age ranges, reaching maximum levels for biotin and copper. Among different ages, the variability was higher in the first two age ranges, particularly for vitamin A. Choline is not supplemented in many PSs across different age ranges. Conclusions: Many micronutrients supplemented in the PSs exceed the RDA for all age groups, with high variability among different PSs and age groups. When prescribing a PS, the daily amount of synthetic proteins of the diet should be considered in order to evaluate the real daily intake of micronutrients in a PKU diet. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Pediatric Nutrition)
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28 pages, 1315 KiB  
Article
Early Gestational Hepatic Lipidomic Profiles Are Modulated by One-Carbon Metabolite Supplementation and Nutrient Restriction in Beef Heifers and Fetuses
by Kazi Sarjana Safain, Matthew S. Crouse, Jessica G. Syring, Yssi L. Entzie, Layla E. King, Alison K. Ward, Lawrence P. Reynolds, Pawel P. Borowicz, Carl R. Dahlen, Kendall C. Swanson and Joel S. Caton
Metabolites 2025, 15(5), 302; https://doi.org/10.3390/metabo15050302 - 1 May 2025
Viewed by 584
Abstract
Background: Maternal nutrition during early gestation induces metabolic adaptations that support maternal health and fetal development. This study evaluated the effects of maternal one-carbon metabolite (OCM: methionine, choline, folate, and vitamin B12) supplementation and restricted rates of maternal gain on the [...] Read more.
Background: Maternal nutrition during early gestation induces metabolic adaptations that support maternal health and fetal development. This study evaluated the effects of maternal one-carbon metabolite (OCM: methionine, choline, folate, and vitamin B12) supplementation and restricted rates of maternal gain on the hepatic lipid profiles of dams and fetuses at day 63 of gestation. Methods: Thirty-one crossbred Angus heifers were inseminated and assigned to a 2 × 2 factorial design with two factors: maternal dietary intake (control [CON]; 0.60 kg/day average daily gain [ADG] vs. restricted [RES]; −0.23 kg/day ADG) and OCM supplementation (supplemented [+OCM] vs. not supplemented [−OCM]). The four resulting groups (CON − OCM, CON + OCM, RES − OCM, RES + OCM) were maintained for 63 days post-breeding. Maternal and fetal liver samples were collected, and lipidomic profiling was performed using ultra-performance liquid chromatography–tandem mass-spectrometry. Results: In maternal liver, 485 lipid metabolites were detected, with 243 differing significantly in maternal gain. RES heifers showed increased levels (p ≤ 0.05) of acylcarnitines, plasmalogens, lysoplasmalogens, glycosphingolipids, and sphingomyelins. Additionally, RES combined with OCM supplementation led to the accumulation of secondary bile acids and a depletion of monoacylglycerols (p ≤ 0.05) in maternal liver. In fetal liver, 487 lipid metabolites were detected, but treatment effects were minimal. Conclusions: Maternal rate of gain significantly influenced hepatic lipid metabolism in the maternal liver, while fetal liver lipid profiles remained relatively unaffected. These findings underscore the significant role of dietary intake/rate of gain compared with OCM supplementation in modulating hepatic lipid metabolism and highlight the maternal liver’s metabolic adaptations during early pregnancy. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue One-Carbon Metabolism in Pregnant Women, Fetuses, and Infants)
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14 pages, 2044 KiB  
Review
Choline in Pregnancy and Lactation: Essential Knowledge for Clinical Practice
by E. J. Derbyshire
Nutrients 2025, 17(9), 1558; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu17091558 - 30 Apr 2025
Viewed by 2249
Abstract
Background/Objectives: In 1998 choline was identified as an essential nutrient by the United States Institute of Medicine. Choline is known primarily for its roles in neurotransmitter production, cell membrane formation, and methyl and lipid metabolism. Since this discovery the relevance of choline to [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: In 1998 choline was identified as an essential nutrient by the United States Institute of Medicine. Choline is known primarily for its roles in neurotransmitter production, cell membrane formation, and methyl and lipid metabolism. Since this discovery the relevance of choline to maternal, fetal, and infant health has been studied intensively. This narrative review provides a coherent update of the latest evidence for field clinicians and healthcare professionals. Methods: A PubMed/ScienceDirect search for human clinical evidence restricted to meta-analysis and systematic/review publications from the last 10 years was undertaken. Results: Meta-analysis and review publications highlight the importance of choline in supporting maternal health and fetal development during pregnancy by showing promising roles for choline in relation to neurological development, brain and liver function, reduced neural tube defect risk, and adverse pregnancy outcome risk. However, there are clear present-day gaps between habitual choline intakes and intake recommendations with the majority of pregnant and lactating women not meeting adequate intake recommendations for choline. This gap is anticipated to widen given transitions towards plant-based diets which tend to be lower in choline. Conclusions: Alongside folic acid recommendations, choline supplementation should be considered in dietary recommendations by clinicians during crucial life stages such as pregnancy and lactation when physiological demands for this critical nutrient substantially increase. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nutrition Strategy for Maternal and Infant Wellbeing)
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16 pages, 319 KiB  
Article
Impact of Fortified Whole Grain Infant Cereal on the Nutrient Density of the Diet in Brazil, the UAE, and the USA: A Dietary Modeling Study
by Lynda O’Neill, Maria F. Vasiloglou, Fanny Salesse, Regan Bailey, Carlos Alberto Nogueira-de-Almeida, Ayesha Al Dhaheri, Leila Cheikh Ismail, Nahla Hwalla and Tsz Ning Mak
Children 2025, 12(3), 384; https://doi.org/10.3390/children12030384 - 19 Mar 2025
Viewed by 917
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Complementary feeding (CF) influences future health outcomes. The aim of this study was to evaluate the impact of fortified whole grain infant cereal (WGIC), a complementary food, among 6- to 12-month-old infants on the nutrient density of the diet in three diverse [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Complementary feeding (CF) influences future health outcomes. The aim of this study was to evaluate the impact of fortified whole grain infant cereal (WGIC), a complementary food, among 6- to 12-month-old infants on the nutrient density of the diet in three diverse settings: Brazil, the United Arab Emirates (UAE), and the US. Methods: Data from the Feeding Infants and Toddler Study (FITS), a collection of dietary intake studies based on 24-h-dietary recalls, from said countries was utilized. Nutrient intakes were calculated for infant cereal (IC) consumers and non-consumers. Diet modeling was applied to IC consumers to substitute their regular fortified IC with WGIC with improved fortifications. The study estimated the average nutrient density, mean adequacy ratio (MAR), and percentage inadequacy of the diet in both IC consumers and non-consumers. Results: The analyses indicated that infants who consumed IC had higher intakes of calcium, zinc, magnesium, iron, and vitamin D in the three countries. Reduced micronutrient inadequacies were observed among IC consumers, particularly in Brazil and the U.S. Diet modeling with WGIC revealed a significantly higher density of choline, magnesium, zinc, iron, fiber, and protein, as well as reduced inadequacies. The MAR was significantly improved in the three countries. Conclusions: This study underscores the potential of fortified WGIC in increasing the nutrient density of the complementary diet. The intrinsic nutrients in whole grain infant cereals (WGICs) significantly enhance the nutrient density of the complementary diet. Given that whole grains play a role in preventing childhood obesity, their inclusion during CF may be crucial. Full article
18 pages, 543 KiB  
Systematic Review
Choline During Pregnancy and Child Neurodevelopment: A Systematic Review of Randomized Controlled Trials and Observational Studies
by Jacqueline F. Gould, Sonia Hines, Karen P. Best, Luke E. Grzeskowiak, Olivia Jansen and Tim J. Green
Nutrients 2025, 17(5), 886; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu17050886 - 28 Feb 2025
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2281
Abstract
Background: Most pregnant women have choline intakes below recommendations. Animal studies suggest that choline supplementation during pregnancy improves cognitive outcomes in the offspring. This review aims to determine whether higher choline levels during pregnancy are associated with improved child brain development. Methods: We [...] Read more.
Background: Most pregnant women have choline intakes below recommendations. Animal studies suggest that choline supplementation during pregnancy improves cognitive outcomes in the offspring. This review aims to determine whether higher choline levels during pregnancy are associated with improved child brain development. Methods: We systematically reviewed the evidence for the role of choline in pregnancy for human neurodevelopment in clinical trials and observational studies. Results: We identified four randomized trials of choline supplementation in pregnancy and five observational studies of prenatal choline. Neurodevelopmental assessments of these studies were reported across 20 eligible publications. Within both the trials and observational studies, most neurodevelopmental outcomes assessed did not support the hypothesis that higher prenatal choline benefits neurodevelopment. Among identified clinical trials, there were some instances where children whose mothers received choline supplementation had a better score on a neurodevelopmental measure. Still, each trial included multiple outcomes, and most were null. Observational studies were mixed as to whether an association between prenatal choline and an aspect of child neurodevelopment was identified. Critical limitations were present across clinical trials and observational studies, preventing confidence in the results and evidence base. Conclusions: Current evidence is insufficient to support or refute the hypothesis that increasing choline intake in pregnancy improves the neurodevelopmental outcomes of the child. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Micronutrients and Human Health)
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22 pages, 5013 KiB  
Article
Polar Metabolite Profiles Distinguish Between Early and Severe Sub-Maintenance Nutritional States of Wild Bighorn Sheep
by Galen O’Shea-Stone, Brian Tripet, Jennifer Thomson, Robert Garrott and Valérie Copié
Metabolites 2025, 15(3), 154; https://doi.org/10.3390/metabo15030154 - 24 Feb 2025
Viewed by 1016
Abstract
Background: Understanding the metabolic adaptations of wild bighorn sheep (Ovis c. canadensis) to nutritional stress is crucial for their conservation. Methods: This study employed 1H nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) metabolomics to investigate the biochemical responses of these animals to varying [...] Read more.
Background: Understanding the metabolic adaptations of wild bighorn sheep (Ovis c. canadensis) to nutritional stress is crucial for their conservation. Methods: This study employed 1H nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) metabolomics to investigate the biochemical responses of these animals to varying sub-maintenance nutritional states. Serum samples from 388 wild bighorn sheep collected between 2014 and 2017 from December (early sub-maintenance) through March (severe sub-maintenance) across Wyoming and Montana were analyzed. Multivariate statistics and machine learning analyses were employed to identify characteristic metabolic patterns and metabolic interactions between early and severe sub-maintenance nutritional states. Results: Significant differences were observed in the levels of 15 of the 49 quantified metabolites, including formate, thymine, glucose, choline, and others, pointing to disruptions in one-carbon, amino acid, and central carbon metabolic pathways. These metabolites may serve as indicators of critical physiological processes such as nutritional intake, immune function, energy metabolism, and protein catabolism, which are essential for understanding how wild bighorn sheep adapt to nutritional stress. Conclusions: This study has generated valuable insights into molecular networks underlying the metabolic resilience of wild bighorn sheep, highlighting the potential for using specific biochemical markers to evaluate nutritional and energetic states in free-ranging ungulates. These insights may help wildlife managers and ecologists compare populations across different times in seasonal cycles, providing information to assess the adequacy of seasonal ranges and support conservation efforts. This research strengthens our understanding of metabolic adaptations to environmental stressors in wild ruminants, offering a foundation for improving management practices to maintain healthy bighorn sheep populations. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Animal Metabolism)
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17 pages, 913 KiB  
Article
Key Nutrient Intakes at Risk Among US Children in the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) 2015–2016 Stratified by Age and Gender
by John Lasekan, Qi Yao, Yong Choe, Grace M. Niemiro and Penni Hicks
Children 2025, 12(2), 238; https://doi.org/10.3390/children12020238 - 17 Feb 2025
Viewed by 1076
Abstract
Background/Objective: Inadequate nutrient intake in childhood can have lasting detrimental developmental and health outcomes. The objective of this study was to identify key nutrient intake gaps among US children. Method: Using the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey 2015–2016 data, we compared nutrient [...] Read more.
Background/Objective: Inadequate nutrient intake in childhood can have lasting detrimental developmental and health outcomes. The objective of this study was to identify key nutrient intake gaps among US children. Method: Using the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey 2015–2016 data, we compared nutrient intakes against dietary reference intakes (DRIs). Participants were grouped by age (in years): 0–0.5, 0.6–1, 1–4, 5–8, 9–14, and 15–19. Gender differences were assessed in the two older groups. Results: Linoleic acid, linolenic acid, vitamin D, and choline were the most consumed at lesser than DRIs in all age groups. Additionally, dietary fiber, vitamin A, vitamin E, vitamin K, folate, iron, and calcium were consumed at lesser than DRIs in 1–19 year olds. They also had an inadequate intake of docosahexaenoic acid (DHA). Children with nutrient intake gaps increased from infancy and toddlerhood to school-age period, with the inflection point at 5–8 years of age when parents have limited control on children’s nutrient intake. Above 9 years of age, females had greater nutrient intake gaps than males. Females in the 15–19-year-old segment especially had higher nutrient intake gaps (p < 0.05) for vitamin D, thiamin, riboflavin, vitamin B12, folate, iron, calcium, magnesium, phosphorus, and potassium compared to males. Selected laboratory biomarkers were used to verify the nutrient intake data. Conclusions: Key nutrient intake gaps were identified among different age groups of children in the US, which may have implications for future dietary interventions and target food formulations to help narrow these gaps. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Infant and Early Childhood Nutrition)
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