Search Results (2,096)

Coffee is one of the most widely consumed beverages globally, with over 60% of Americans drinking it daily. This review examines coffee’s multifaceted impact on health and well-being, drawing on decades of research. Overall, the consensus is that moderate coffee intake is more beneficial than harmful across a wide range of health outcomes. Numerous large-scale, prospective cohort studies from around the world have consistently shown that moderate coffee consumption—typically three to five cups per day—is associated with reduced overall mortality and lower risk of major diseases such as cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, stroke, respiratory conditions, cognitive decline, and potentially several types of cancer, including liver and uterine cancers. Both caffeinated and decaffeinated coffee have shown benefits. The addition of sugar and cream to coffee may attenuate coffee’s positive health effects. Despite historical concerns, coffee consumption is not linked to increased risks of cancer, hypertension, or arrhythmia. However, some concerns remain. For pregnant women, coffee consumption should be limited to lower amounts, such that the daily intake of caffeine does not exceed 200 mg/day. Also, excessive caffeinated coffee intake may cause anxiety or sleep disturbances. Coffee’s health-promoting mechanisms include improved glucose balancing, increased physical activity, increased fat oxidation, improved lung function, and reduced inflammation. Beyond mortality and chronic diseases, coffee consumption affects many aspects of well-being: it supports hydration, boosts mental acuity, enhances physical performance, and may aid bowel recovery after surgery. While the field is well-studied via long-term observational cohorts, future research should focus on randomized controlled trials, Mendelian randomization studies, and granular analyses of coffee types and additives. Full article

Background/Objectives: Chronic cervical myofascial pain syndrome (CMPS) is often diagnosed in the current population by doctors of various specialties. One method of treating spinal pathology is mesotherapy. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the efficacy and safety of collagen mesotherapy, as well as to assess the frequency of pain medication after mesotherapy in chronic CMPS. Methods: Patients were diagnosed and treated by an orthopedist in three different offices between 1 January 2018 and 31 December 2024. The patients were diagnosed with chronic CMPS. Patients were qualified for cervical spine mesotherapy, which was performed weekly, in five repetitions. Retrospectively, based on medical records and in accordance with inclusion and exclusion criteria, two groups were created: group I (n = 65) with injectable type I collagen and group II (n = 65) with 1% lignocaine. Patients were evaluated using the VAS and Laitinen scale before the start of therapy, 1 week after the end of therapy, and at 3-month follow-up. In addition, the frequency of taking analgesic medications after mesotherapy was assessed. Results: After mesotherapy of the cervical spine with both injectable collagen type I and lignocaine 1%, statistically significant improvements were observed in terms of a decrease in pain on the scales used (p < 0.001), as well as a decrease in analgesic medication intake (p < 0.001). Collagen treatment yielded better results after 3 months of follow-up. No mesotherapy-related side effects were observed during the treatment or follow-up periods. Conclusions: Cervical spine mesotherapy using injectable type I collagen and lignocaine 1% is an effective and safe method for chronic CMPS. At a 3-month follow-up, injectable type I collagen appears to be more effective. After mesotherapy and at the 3-month follow-up, both groups reported less pain medication intake compared to before the intervention. Full article

This study investigated pesticide residues in 580 vegetable samples collected from markets in Serbia, encompassing potatoes, carrots, celery, radishes, horseradish, ginger, onions, and leeks. In total, 33 distinct pesticides were detected using validated HPLC-MS/MS and GC-MS/MS analytical methods. Multiple residues were identified in 19 samples, while 29 samples exceeded established maximum residue levels (MRLs). Acute and chronic dietary risks were assessed for both adults and children. Although individual hazard quotients (HQs) for adults and children remained below the threshold of concern (HQ < 1), the cumulative acute risk reached up to 63.1% of the Acute Reference Dose (ARfD) for children and 51.1% ARfD for adults, with ginger and celery posing the highest risks. Similarly, cumulative chronic risks remained below the safety threshold, with the Acceptable Daily Intake (ADI) percentages reaching a maximum of 5.9% ADI for adults and increased vulnerability of 11.0% ADI among children. Monte Carlo simulations were applied to account for variability and uncertainty in chronic exposure estimates. The hazard index (HI) results showed that adverse health effects for both population groups remained within acceptable safety limits (HI < 1), although higher susceptibility was observed in children. Sensitivity analysis identified body weight and vegetable consumption rates as the most influential factors affecting chronic risk variability. 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

Aims/Background: Polypharmacy, or the concurrent intake of five or more medications, is a significant issue in clinical practice, particularly in multimorbid elderly individuals. Despite its importance for patient safety, medical education often lacks systematic training in recognising and managing polypharmacy within the framework of patient-centred care. We investigated the impact of a structured learning intervention introducing polypharmacy as a chronic condition, assessing whether it enhances medical students’ diagnostic competence, confidence, and interprofessional collaboration. Methods: A prospective cohort study was conducted with 50 final-year medical students who received a three-phase educational intervention. Phase 1 was interactive workshops on the principles of polypharmacy, its dangers, and diagnostic tools. Phase 2 involved simulated patient consultations and medication review exercises with pharmacists. Phase 3 involved reflection through debriefing sessions, reflective diaries, and standardised patient feedback. Student knowledge, confidence, and attitudes towards polypharmacy management were assessed using pre- and post-intervention questionnaires. Quantitative data were analysed through paired t-tests, and qualitative data were analysed thematically from reflective diaries. Results: Students demonstrated considerable improvement after the intervention in identifying symptoms of polypharmacy, suggesting deprescribing strategies, and working in multidisciplinary teams. Confidence in prioritising polypharmacy as a primary diagnostic problem increased from 32% to 86% (p < 0.01), and knowledge of diagnostic tools increased from 3.1 ± 0.6 to 4.7 ± 0.3 (p < 0.01). Standardised patients felt communication and patient-centredness had improved, with satisfaction scores increasing from 3.5 ± 0.8 to 4.8 ± 0.4 (p < 0.01). Reflective diaries indicated a shift towards more holistic thinking regarding medication burden. The small sample size limits the generalisability of the results. Conclusions: Teaching polypharmacy as a chronic condition in medical school enhances diagnostic competence, interprofessional teamwork, and patient safety. Education is a structured way of integrating the management of polypharmacy into routine clinical practice. This model provides valuable insights for designing medical curricula. Future research must assess the impact of such training on patient outcomes and clinical decision-making in the long term. Full article

(1) Background: Metabolic-dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) is now the most prevalent chronic liver disease worldwide, posing a growing public health concern. While dietary improvements are key to prevention, the impact of different vegetable types remains unclear. This study focuses on the association between vegetable consumption and the risk of MASLD in a cohort of Southern Italy. (2) Methods: This research involved 1297 participants from the NUTRIHEP study, examining overall vegetable intake and classifying them into color subgroups to determine optimal quantity and variety for risk reduction. (3) Results: Daily consumption of approximately 325 g (two servings) of total vegetables significantly reduces the risk of MASLD (OR: 0.521; 95% CI: 0.317; 0.858). Among the subgroups, green vegetables were most protective at 35 g/day, while red and orange vegetables offered protection at 130 g/day. A higher intake of the other vegetable category, specifically onions, was associated with a reduced probability of MASLD (OR = 0.995; 95%CI: 0.989; 0.999). (4) Conclusions: These findings suggest a threshold effect, where moderate but regular consumption of specific vegetables offers maximal protection. Consuming excessive amounts may not enhance this benefit within this cohort. Cultural and regional dietary patterns should be considered when designing targeted nutritional interventions. Full article

Dietary protein is an essential macronutrient derived from both plant and animal sources required for muscle building, immune function, and wound healing. However, in the United States, protein consumption worsens as individuals age, with 30% of men and 50% of women over 71 consuming inadequate dietary protein due to a variety of factors, including changes in gut function, loss of appetite, tooth loss, financial concerns, and social isolation. The aim of this review is to underscore the need for increased protein requirements in aging populations, highlight potential barriers, synthesize these protein requirements, and also recommend strategies to meet these increased protein needs. Achieving adequate protein status, especially when facing chronic or acute health concerns, is essential to promote muscle and bone strength (because aging is associated with significant decreases in postprandial muscle protein synthesis), to support immune health (due to immunosenescence), and to maintain a good quality of life. For older adults, the literature suggests that a dietary protein intake of at least 1.0–1.2 g/kg/day is required in healthy, aging populations, and intakes of 1.2–1.5 g/kg/day are necessary for those with chronic or acute conditions. These protein intake recommendations can increase to 2.0 g/kg/day in more severe cases of illness, malnutrition, and chronic conditions. The reviewed literature also suggests that evenly balanced protein distributions of 25–30 g of dietary protein (0.4 g/kg) per meal from animal and plant protein sources alike are sufficient to maximize muscle protein synthesis (MPS) rates in older populations. Additionally, pre-sleep protein feeds of 40 g/night may be another strategy to improve daily MPS and amino acid utilization. Full article

Kidney transplant recipients face a substantial burden of premature mortality and morbidity, primarily due to persistent inflammation, cardiovascular risk, and nutritional deficiencies. Traditional nutritional interventions in this population have either focused on supplementing individual nutrients—often with limited efficacy—or required comprehensive dietary overhauls that compromise patient adherence. In this narrative review, we explore the rationale for dietary nut enrichment as a feasible, multi-nutrient strategy tailored to the needs of kidney transplant recipients. Nuts, including peanuts and tree nuts with no added salt, sugar, or oil, are rich in beneficial fats, proteins, vitamins, minerals, and bioactive compounds. We summarize the multiple post-transplant challenges—including obesity, sarcopenia, dyslipidemia, hypertension, immunological dysfunction, and chronic inflammation—and discuss how nut consumption may mitigate these issues through mechanisms involving improved micro-nutrient intake (e.g., magnesium, potassium, selenium), lipid profile modulation, endothelial function, immune support, and gut microbiota health. Additionally, we highlight the scarcity of randomized controlled trials in high-risk populations such as kidney transplant recipients and make the case for studying this group as a model for investigating the clinical efficacy of nuts as a nutritional intervention. We also consider practical aspects for future clinical trials, including the choice of study population, intervention design, duration, nut type, dosage, and primary outcome measures such as systemic inflammation. Finally, potential risks such as nut allergies and oxalate or mycotoxin exposure are addressed. Altogether, this review proposes dietary nut enrichment as a promising, simple, and sustainable multi-nutrient approach to support cardiometabolic and immune health in kidney transplant recipients, warranting formal investigation in clinical trials. Full article

This narrative review examines the effects of caffeine on brain health in older adults, with particular attention to its potential for dependence—an often-overlooked issue in geriatric care. Caffeine acts on central adenosine, dopamine, and glutamate systems, producing both stimulating and rewarding effects that can foster tolerance and habitual use. Age-related pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic changes prolong caffeine’s half-life and increase physiological sensitivity in the elderly. While moderate consumption may enhance alertness, attention, and possibly offer neuroprotective effects—especially in Parkinson’s disease and Lewy body dementia—excessive or prolonged use may lead to anxiety, sleep disturbances, and cognitive or motor impairment. Chronic exposure induces neuroadaptive changes, such as adenosine receptor down-regulation, resulting in tolerance and withdrawal symptoms, including headache, irritability, and fatigue. These symptoms, often mistaken for typical aging complaints, may reflect a substance use disorder yet remain under-recognized due to caffeine’s cultural acceptance. The review explores caffeine’s mixed role in neurological disorders, being beneficial in some and potentially harmful in others, such as restless legs syndrome and frontotemporal dementia. Given the variability in individual responses and the underestimated risk of dependence, personalized caffeine intake guidelines are warranted. Future research should focus on the long-term cognitive effects and the clinical significance of caffeine use disorder in older populations. Full article

Traditionally studied in isolation, the oral and gut microbiota are now being recognized as interconnected through anatomical and physiological pathways forming a dynamic “oral–gut microbiota axis”. Both oral and gut microbiota undergo changes with aging, characterized by a decline in microbial diversity and a shift toward potentially harmful species. The aim of this review is, therefore, to provide an overview of oral–gut communications in mediating frailty and sarcopenia. PubMed, EMBASE and Scopus databases were searched for relevant articles. We limited our search to manuscripts published in the English language. Interactions between oral and gut microbiota occur mainly through three pathways namely the enteral, the bloodstream and the fecal-oral routes. Alterations in the oral–gut microbiota axis contribute to chronic low-grade inflammation (i.e., “inflamm-ageing”) and mitochondrial dysfunction, key mechanisms underlying frailty and sarcopenia. Microbial metabolites, such as short-chain fatty acids and modified bile acids, appear to play an emerging role in influencing microbial homeostasis and muscle metabolism. Furthermore, poor oral health associated with microbial dysbiosis may contribute to altered eating patterns that negatively impact gut microbiota eubiosis, further exacerbating muscle decline and the degree of frailty. Strategies aimed at modulating the microbiota, such as healthy dietary patterns with reduced consumption of ultra-processed foods, refined carbohydrates and alcohol, ensuring an adequate protein intake combined with physical exercise, as well as supplementation with prebiotics, probiotics, and omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids, are increasingly recognized as promising interventions to improve both oral and gut microbiota health, with beneficial effects on frailty and sarcopenia. A better understanding of the oral–gut microbiota axis offers promising insights into nutritional interventions and therapeutic strategies for the age-related muscle decline, frailty and systemic health maintenance. Full article

Objectives: This study aimed to investigate both the linear and non-linear associations between serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D [25(OH)D] levels and serum uric acid concentrations in Korean adults, with a particular focus on the vitamin D-insufficient range (<30 ng/mL), and to explore the potential metabolic implications of this relationship. Methods: Using data from the Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (KNHANES), we analyzed 10,864 adults aged 19 years and older. Serum vitamin D levels were categorized into quartiles (Q1–Q4), and their relationships with uric acid concentrations were examined using Pearson correlation, analysis of variance (ANOVA), and restricted cubic spline regression. Multivariate models were adjusted for potential confounders including age, sex, body mass index (BMI), kidney function, chronic disease status, and macronutrient intake. Results: In unadjusted analysis, a statistically significant but weak negative correlation was observed between serum 25(OH)D and uric acid levels (Pearson’s r = −0.092, p < 0.001). However, in multivariate regression adjusting for confounders, a weak positive association emerged. Restricted cubic spline analysis revealed significant positive associations in the lower quartiles (Q1–Q3), with the strongest association in Q3 (β = 0.769, 95% CI: 0.34–1.19, p < 0.001). No significant association was observed in the highest quartile (Q4). Conclusions: Serum vitamin D and uric acid concentrations show a non-linear relationship, with a significant positive association within the vitamin D-insufficient range (<30 ng/mL). These findings provide new insights into the potential metabolic role of vitamin D and highlight the need for longitudinal and interventional studies to clarify causality and clinical significance. Full article

The S100B protein, known for its role in the central and enteric nervous systems, has recently been identified in dietary sources such as milk, dairy products, fruits, and vegetables. Given its potential interaction with the gut microbiota, this study explores the relationship between dietary intake of S100B and microbiota biodiversity across different diets. A comprehensive study was conducted, estimating S100B concentrations in 13 dietary patterns recommended in different countries. This is the first study to provide a comparative estimation of S100B exposure from the diet and to explore its potential ecological and epidemiological relevance. The association between S100B levels and microbiota biodiversity was statistically analyzed, showing a direct correlation. Microbial diversity was assessed using the Shannon index, based on data extracted from studies reporting microbiota composition across dietary patterns. Additionally, the relative risk of Crohn’s disease was assessed in different populations to examine potential links between dietary patterns, S100B, and chronic disease prevention. A moderate positive correlation (R² = 0.537) was found between S100B concentration and Shannon index, suggesting that diets higher in S100B (e.g., Mediterranean diet) were associated with higher microbial alpha-diversity. Furthermore, Western-style diets, with the lowest S100B levels, exhibited a higher relative risk for Crohn’s disease (R² = 0.780). These findings highlight the potential role of dietary S100B content in modulating gut microbiota diversity and reducing chronic disease risk. Full article

Type 2 diabetes (T2D) represents a public health problem globally, with the highest prevalence reported among older adults. While an interplay of various determinants including genetic, epigenetic, environmental factors and unhealthy lifestyle, particularly diet, has been established to contribute to T2D development, emerging evidence supports the role of interactions between nutrients or dietary patterns and genes in the pathogenesis of this metabolic disorder. The amount, and especially the type of carbohydrates, in particular, have been correlated with the risk of non-communicable chronic disease and mortality. This narrative review aims to discuss the updated data on the complex and not fully elucidated relationship between carbohydrate–gene interactions and incidence of T2D, identifying the most susceptible genes able to modulate the dual association between carbohydrate intake and risk of developing T2D. The identification of genetic polymorphisms in response to this macronutrient represents a potentially powerful target to estimate individual risk and prevent the development of T2D in the context of personalized medicine. The postulation around novel foods potentially tailored to minimize the risks of developing T2D will pave the way for a new era into food research in relation to the safeguarding of well-being status in patients affected by, or at risk for, T2D. Full article

Background/Objectives: Weight loss and its subsequent regain pose significant challenges for those dealing with overweight and obesity. This study explores weight loss strategies among adults in Saudi Arabia and evaluates factors linked to weight regain. Methods: This cross-sectional study focused on adults residing in Jazan, located in southwest Saudi Arabia. Data collection was conducted using a self-administered questionnaire that assessed participants’ demographics, medical history, perceptions of body weight, weight loss methods, and the incidence of weight regain. Logistic regression was used to determine whether there were statistically significant differences related to the occurrence of weight regain. Results: A total of 368 participants reported efforts to lose weight over the past 3 years. The average age of these participants was 32.7 years (standard deviation: 11.3), and the gender distribution was almost equal. The majority of the sample (65%) voiced dissatisfaction with their body weight. Some participants employed a combination of weight loss methods, with exercise, reduced food intake, and intermittent fasting being the most frequently mentioned. The findings also indicate that a minority sought professional help, whether from a physician or a nutritionist. Over 90% claimed to have successfully lost weight at least once during their attempts, but more than half (139 individuals) experienced weight regain following their weight loss efforts. Within the univariate logistic regression, higher odds ratios of weight regain were detected among men, older participants, those living in rural areas, individuals with higher levels of education, employed persons or business owners, those with higher monthly incomes, smokers, khat chewers, and those diagnosed with a chronic condition (p values < 0.05). However, the multivariate logistic regression revealed that only residence, monthly income, smoking status, and being diagnosed with a chronic disease remained statistically significant as predictors of weight regain after adjusting for other variables (p values < 0.05). Conclusions: These findings highlight the significance of incorporating weight regain prevention into body weight management for individuals dealing with overweight and obesity. Further research is needed to evaluate specific dietary, physical activity, and psychological factors that may increase the risk of weight regain in certain participants. Full article

The beneficial effect of consuming fruits and vegetables in the prevention of chronic non-communicable diseases and healthy aging is well known. This is attributed to food and vegetable antioxidant and fiber content. The aim of this publication is to communicate the results of recent research on pectin in humans, to propose an increased consumption of fruits and vegetables, or their possible use as a food supplement. A comprehensive narrative review was conducted considering recent publications on pectin. The description of starch, pectin, the physicochemical changes caused by pectin, and the effect of pectin on the activity of amylase are reported. Dietary fiber and gut microbiota in human health are also described, with the production of saturated fatty acids with fewer than six carbon atoms. Finally, health effects such as anti-hyperglycemic and anti-hyperlipidemic activities, preventing and controlling obesity and heart disease, are analyzed, as well as other health effects in tumors, the gastrointestinal tract, and immunity. Considering the beneficial effects of pectin in health and the low consumption throughout the world, it is recommended to promote the consumption of fruits and vegetables to increase pectin intake in the human diet. Full article