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Search Results (452)

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Keywords = degree of obesity

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11 pages, 301 KiB  
Article
Impact of Maternal Overweight and Obesity on Pregnancy Outcomes Following Cesarean Delivery: A Retrospective Cohort Study
by Zlatina Nikolova, Milena Sandeva, Ekaterina Uchikova, Angelina Kirkova-Bogdanova, Daniela Taneva, Marieta Vladimirova and Lyubomira Georgieva
Healthcare 2025, 13(15), 1893; https://doi.org/10.3390/healthcare13151893 - 2 Aug 2025
Viewed by 207
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Maternal overweight and obesity are critical factors increasing the risk of various pregnancy complications. Maternal obesity can lead to fetal macrosomia and a heightened risk of intrauterine death, with long-term implications for the child’s health. This study aimed to analyze the [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Maternal overweight and obesity are critical factors increasing the risk of various pregnancy complications. Maternal obesity can lead to fetal macrosomia and a heightened risk of intrauterine death, with long-term implications for the child’s health. This study aimed to analyze the incidence of obesity and its impact on pregnancy outcomes in women who delivered by cesarean section at the University Hospital “St. George”, Plovdiv. Methods: A single-center retrospective cohort study was conducted. The documentary method was used for gathering data. Records were randomly selected. The statistical methods used included mean values, confidence intervals (of mean), frequency, and the Kolmogorov–Smirnov test for normality of distribution. Data comparisons were performed using the Mann–Whitney test. Mean values of numerical variables were compared using the independent samples t-test. Results: In total, 46.36% of women in this study were affected by obesity to varying degrees, and the proportion of women who were overweight at the end of their pregnancy was 37.85%. In the studied cohort, 15.99% of women were affected by hypertensive complications. This significant prevalence of obesity highlights concerns regarding body weight among women of reproductive age. This study emphasized a strong correlation between maternal obesity, particularly severe obesity, and the occurrence of preeclampsia. Conclusions: In this study among women who delivered by cesarean section, a significant proportion of them were affected by overweight and obesity. Data for our country are insufficient, and a more in-depth study of this problem is needed. Future research should explore the long-term impacts of maternal obesity on the health of the mother and the newborn. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Focus on Maternal, Pregnancy and Child Health)
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17 pages, 1111 KiB  
Article
Evaluation of the Influence of Intervention Tools Used in Nutrition Education Programs: A Mixed Approach
by Luca Muzzioli, Costanza Gimbo, Maria Pintavalle, Silvia Migliaccio and Lorenzo M. Donini
Nutrients 2025, 17(15), 2460; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu17152460 - 28 Jul 2025
Viewed by 203
Abstract
Background: In a global panorama marked by a progressive rise in obesity, metabolic syndrome, and chronic non-communicable disease prevalence, nutrition education (NE) might play a pivotal role in restoring adoption and strengthening adherence to dietary patterns that protect human health. Therefore, the [...] Read more.
Background: In a global panorama marked by a progressive rise in obesity, metabolic syndrome, and chronic non-communicable disease prevalence, nutrition education (NE) might play a pivotal role in restoring adoption and strengthening adherence to dietary patterns that protect human health. Therefore, the primary purpose of this work is to review the existing scientific literature studying NE programs aimed at schoolchildren in the decade 2014–2024 and evaluate the effectiveness of intervention tools. Methods: During the first phase of this research, a qualitative analysis was conducted to track similarity in intervention tools and strategies used in nutrition education programs. In the second phase, a quantitative analysis was carried out, extracting common parameters among studies and assessing their potential influence in improving adherence to the Mediterranean diet (MD). Results: A high degree of heterogeneity was observed in educational program designs and intervention tools, which were usually not properly described and justified. All studies that measured adherence to the MD registered an improvement after the intervention, in some cases even higher than 10%. However, this study found no relationship between common parameters (i.e., number of formal tools, number of non-formal tools, lesson duration, and program length) used in NE and the improvement in students’ adherence to MD. Conclusions: This research has contributed to outlining a general framework of NE and to promoting a systematic approach in this research field. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nutrition 3.0: Between Tradition and Innovation)
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18 pages, 571 KiB  
Article
Incidence of Gallstones in Patients with Obesity After Bariatric Surgery in Northern Saudi Arabia: A Cross-Sectional Study
by Abdulrahman Omar A. Alali, Abdualaziz Fayez Alhumidi Alanazi, Mohammed Abdulaziz M. Albarghash, Rakan Nasser Abdullah Alruweli, Mohammed Bader H. Alanazi, Ibrahim Farhan B. Alanazi, Turkey Saleh H. Alrowaily, Rakan Khalid Marzouq Alanazi, Baraah AbuAlsel, Fadih Nada M. Alenezi, Rashad Qasem Ali Othman and Manal S. Fawzy
Clin. Pract. 2025, 15(7), 115; https://doi.org/10.3390/clinpract15070115 - 23 Jun 2025
Viewed by 654
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Gallstone formation (cholelithiasis) is a common and important consequence following bariatric surgery, though regional data from the Northern Border Region are limited. This study aimed to investigate the incidence and risk factors of gallstones in this population, with the goal of optimizing [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Gallstone formation (cholelithiasis) is a common and important consequence following bariatric surgery, though regional data from the Northern Border Region are limited. This study aimed to investigate the incidence and risk factors of gallstones in this population, with the goal of optimizing postoperative treatment and reducing morbidity. Methods: We conducted a cross-sectional study using a non-probability convenience sampling technique to recruit 509 participants with varying degrees of obesity. Four hundred and ten study participants underwent bariatric surgery, of whom 73 were excluded for preoperative cholelithiasis and/or cholecystectomy. Data were collected through a self-administered, pre-validated questionnaire distributed via various social media platforms. These data included demographics, type/timing of surgery, pre/postoperative BMI, medical history, use of gallstone prophylaxis, and gallstone outcomes. Logistic regression analysis was used to identify independent predictors of gallstone formation. Results: Postoperative cholelithiasis developed in 60.8% of patients, most commonly within the first postoperative year, with risk peaking between 7 and 12 months after surgery. Rapid and substantial postoperative weight loss, as reflected in a lower current BMI and a transition to normal or overweight status within one year, was significantly associated with an increased incidence of gallstones. Female sex (OR: 2.62, 95% CI: 1.38–4.98, p = 0.003) and non-use of gallstone prevention medication (OR: 4.12, 95% CI: 1.34–12.64, p = 0.013) were independent predictors of gallstone formation. A longer time since surgery (OR: 0.76, 95% CI: 0.63–0.91, p = 0.004) and a lower current BMI (OR: 0.48, 95% CI: 0.28–0.83, p = 0.008) were associated with a reduced risk. Smoking status and comorbidities were not significantly related to the risk of gallstones. Conclusions: Gallstone formation after bariatric surgery in this population is influenced by female sex, rapid postoperative weight loss, and lack of prophylactic medication, while the type of surgical procedure does not significantly affect risk. Focused monitoring and preventive strategies, particularly in high-risk groups, are recommended to reduce gallstone-related complications following bariatric surgery. Full article
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20 pages, 1585 KiB  
Article
Phenotype-Driven Variability in Longitudinal Body Composition Changes After a Very Low-Calorie Ketogenic Intervention: A Machine Learning Cluster Approach
by Victor de la O, Begoña de Cuevillas, Miksa Henkrich, Barbara Vizmanos, Maitane Nuñez-Garcia, Ignacio Sajoux, Daniel de Luis and J. Alfredo Martínez
J. Pers. Med. 2025, 15(6), 251; https://doi.org/10.3390/jpm15060251 - 14 Jun 2025
Viewed by 1569
Abstract
Background: Obesity is a major global public health issue with no fully satisfactory solutions. Most nutritional interventions rely on caloric restriction, with varying degrees of success. Very low-calorie ketogenic diets (VLCKD) have demonstrated rapid and sustained weight loss by inducing ketone bodies [...] Read more.
Background: Obesity is a major global public health issue with no fully satisfactory solutions. Most nutritional interventions rely on caloric restriction, with varying degrees of success. Very low-calorie ketogenic diets (VLCKD) have demonstrated rapid and sustained weight loss by inducing ketone bodies through lipolysis, reducing appetite, and preserving lean mass while maintaining metabolic health. Methods: A prospective clinical study analyzed sociodemographic, anthropometric, and adherence data from 7775 patients undergoing a multidisciplinary nutritional single-arm intervention based on a commercial weight-loss program. This method, using protein preparations with a specific balanced nutritional profile, aimed to identify key predictors of weight-loss success and classify population phenotypes with shared baseline characteristics and weight-loss patterns to optimize treatment personalization. Results: Statistical and machine learning analyses revealed that male gender (−9.2 kg vs. −5.9 kg) and higher initial body weight (−8.9 kg vs. −4.0 kg) strongly predict greater weight loss on a VLCKD, while age has a lesser impact. Two distinct population clusters emerged, differing in age, sex, follow-up duration, and medical visits, demonstrating unique weight-loss success patterns. These clusters help define individualized strategies for optimizing outcomes. Conclusions: These findings translationally support associations with the efficacy of a multidisciplinary VLCK weight-loss program and highlight predictors of success. Recognizing variables such as sex, age, and initial weight enhances the potential for a precision-based approach in obesity management, enabling more tailored and effective treatments for diverse patient profiles and prescribe weight loss personalized recommendations. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Personalized Medicine of Obesity and Metabolic Disorders)
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15 pages, 1054 KiB  
Article
Alterations in the Morphology of the Testis and Epididymis Caused by the Consumption of Hyperlipidic Diets in Wistar Rats
by Rosario Tarragó Castellanos, Maria Mendoza Delgado, Lorena Ruiz Valderrama, Isabel Arrieta Cruz, Edith Cortés Barberena, Adriana Morales Otal, Ernesto Rodríguez Tobón, Ahiezer Rodríguez Tobón, Javier Olvera Ramírez and Edith Arenas Ríos
Life 2025, 15(6), 959; https://doi.org/10.3390/life15060959 - 14 Jun 2025
Viewed by 611
Abstract
Obesity is considered a metabolic disease, in which leptin is used as an indicator of energy in the body. This hormone, in turn, is related to the neuroendocrine regulation of the reproductive axis. However, leptin excess secretion due to obesity can have a [...] Read more.
Obesity is considered a metabolic disease, in which leptin is used as an indicator of energy in the body. This hormone, in turn, is related to the neuroendocrine regulation of the reproductive axis. However, leptin excess secretion due to obesity can have a negative effect on reproduction. Overweight and obesity were induced through high-calorie diets. Lee and gonadosomatic indices were determined to characterize the model and degree of reproductive development in the testis and epididymis. Sperm quality was analyzed using spermatobioscopy. Morphometry was analyzed through histological analysis. The changes described affect testicular function in hormone and sperm production. Exposure of 3-month-old male rats to diets with different fat contents (10% and 60%) induced both overweight and obesity. The animals showed morphological alterations, both testicular and epididymal, the latter being more sensitive to dietary changes by modifying the epididymal index, morphometric parameters (in both organs), and a decrease in cilia length. These changes induced a reduction in sperm viability, as well as an increase in malformed spermatozoa. In conclusion, both overweight and obesity have effects on male reproduction by modifying the morphology and physiology of reproductive organs. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Reproductive and Developmental Biology)
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16 pages, 2164 KiB  
Article
The Hepatoprotective Properties of Gentiopicroside, Sweroside, and Swertiamarin Against Metabolic Dysfunction-Associated Steatotic Liver Disease (MASLD)
by Anthony O. Boateng, Vinood B. Patel and S. W. Annie Bligh
Biomolecules 2025, 15(5), 726; https://doi.org/10.3390/biom15050726 - 16 May 2025
Viewed by 910
Abstract
Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) is a metabolic disease characterised by the accumulation of fat in the liver. It is estimated that 30–38% of the world’s adult population have MASLD, making it the most prevalent global chronic liver disease. Due to a [...] Read more.
Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) is a metabolic disease characterised by the accumulation of fat in the liver. It is estimated that 30–38% of the world’s adult population have MASLD, making it the most prevalent global chronic liver disease. Due to a lack of a therapy for MASLD, treatment has been mainly focussed on managing the conditions associated with the disease such as obesity, diabetes mellitus, and hyperlipidaemia. This study aimed to investigate the role played by Gentiana phytochemicals including the following: gentiopicroside, sweroside, and swertiamarin, in promoting hepatocyte protection against the cytotoxic effects of fatty acids. Gentiana species such as lutea, macrophylla, rigescens, and scabra are known to protect and enhance hepatocyte viability via their antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and bitter components including the following: amarogentin gentianine, iso-orientin, swertiamarin, gentiopicroside, and sweroside. In this study, HepG2 cells pre-treated with phytochemicals gentiopicroside, sweroside, swertiamarin, and silymarin followed by an exposure to arachidonic acid (10, 30, 50 and 80 µM) were assessed for cell viability via MTT, mitochondrial function via seahorse assay, ROS levels via DCF assay, and annexin V-FITC for apoptosis. THLE-2 cells were also assayed for validation. The phytochemicals tested improved ATP production notably gentiopicroside, which improved ATP production by over 60% compared to untreated hepatocytes. Significant hepatocyte protection against lipotoxicity leading to apoptosis was also observed in gentiopicroside in the presence of 30 µM arachidonic acid with apoptosis reduced by over 50%. ROS production was reduced up to 60% by the pre-treatment of HepG2 cells with 20 µM, gentiopicroside, sweroside, swertiamarin, and silymarin, with the highest reduction observed in swertiamarin. It was concluded that phytochemicals gentiopicroside, sweroside, and swertiamarin play key roles in the hepatocyte protection against the cytotoxic effects of fatty acids. This protection is conferred by enhancing mitochondrial function in terms of increasing the maximal respiratory capacity in response to a high influx of fatty acids, promoting ATP production as well as scavenging ROS produced as a result of high fatty acid influx and increased mitochondrial respiration. Highlights: Gentiopicroside may minimise lipotoxicity leading to apoptosis and necrosis in hepatocytes in the presence of arachidonic acid. A pre-treatment of hepatocytes with phytochemicals, namely gentiopicroside, sweroside, and silymarin provides a degree of protection which may be attributed to the enhancement of mitochondrial function. Sweroside, silymarin, and swertiamarin may protect HepG2 and THLE-2 cells by scavenging ROS produced by arachidonic acid and the mitochondrial electron transport chain. Full article
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13 pages, 681 KiB  
Article
Rising Rates of Obesity Amongst Children on the Autism Spectrum During the COVID-19 Pandemic
by Wing Yan Yuen, Tammy S. H. Lim, S. V. Karthik, Yijuan Yvonne Lim, Elizabeth M. Teo, Yiong Huak Chan, Liang Shen and Kalyani V. Mulay
Nutrients 2025, 17(10), 1683; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu17101683 - 15 May 2025
Viewed by 520
Abstract
Background: The COVID-19 pandemic has been associated with rising obesity rates. Autistic children have a higher risk of obesity than neurotypical children. Our study aims to describe the changes in overweight/obesity rates in autistic children during the pandemic, and to identify contributing factors. [...] Read more.
Background: The COVID-19 pandemic has been associated with rising obesity rates. Autistic children have a higher risk of obesity than neurotypical children. Our study aims to describe the changes in overweight/obesity rates in autistic children during the pandemic, and to identify contributing factors. Methods: This is a retrospective case record review of patients with a clinical diagnosis of autism, who were seen at a developmental-behavioral pediatrics clinic in a tertiary academic hospital, between 1 January 2019 and 24 October 2021. We compared the average monthly rates of overweight/obese status pre- and during the pandemic. We collected data on the patients’ and parents’ demographics, duration of screen time per day, degree of difficulties related to autism symptoms and cognition. We analyzed factors associated with being overweight/obese during the pandemic. Results: 1330 patient visits were included. The mean age was 45.4 months; 78% were male; 52% were Chinese. The average monthly rate of overweight/obese status increased by 1.8% during the pandemic (17.9% pre-pandemic; 19.7% during pandemic). Factors associated with being overweight/obese during the pandemic included: Malay ethnicity (OR 2.321, p < 0.01), developmental delay (OR 2.80, p < 0.01), and lower parental education level (father OR 1.73, p = 0.01; mother OR 1.63, p = 0.03). On multivariate analysis, only Malay ethnicity (OR 2.95, p = 0.01) was significant. Conclusions: Our study demonstrates a rising overweight/obesity rate amongst children with autism spectrum disorder during the pandemic. It also identified higher-risk patient profiles (Malay race, developmental delay, lower parental education). We hope this will facilitate the implementation of preventative health measures specifically supporting the high-risk children. Full article
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52 pages, 845 KiB  
Systematic Review
The Relationship Between Obesity, Bariatric Surgery, and Infertility: A Systematic Review
by Charalampos Voros, Antonia Varthaliti, Kyriakos Bananis, Despoina Mavrogianni, Diamantis Athanasiou, Antonia Athanasiou, Aikaterini Athanasiou, Anthi-Maria Papahliou, Constantinos G. Zografos, Panagiota Kondili, Menelaos Darlas, Ioannis Papapanagiotou, Maria Anastasia Daskalaki, Marianna Theodora, Panagiotis Antsaklis, Georgios Daskalakis and Dimitrios Loutradis
Life 2025, 15(5), 758; https://doi.org/10.3390/life15050758 - 9 May 2025
Viewed by 1637
Abstract
Background: Obesity is a complicated, chronic condition that has a major impact on reproductive health, leading to infertility, anovulation, and poor pregnancy outcomes. It alters the hypothalamic–pituitary–ovarian (HPO) axis, promotes insulin resistance, and causes persistent low-grade inflammation, all of which result in hormonal [...] Read more.
Background: Obesity is a complicated, chronic condition that has a major impact on reproductive health, leading to infertility, anovulation, and poor pregnancy outcomes. It alters the hypothalamic–pituitary–ovarian (HPO) axis, promotes insulin resistance, and causes persistent low-grade inflammation, all of which result in hormonal abnormalities that compromise normal ovarian function. Because standard weight loss procedures frequently fail to provide significant and long-term reproductive benefits, bariatric surgery is becoming increasingly popular as a therapeutic option for obese women trying to conceive. However, continuous research is being conducted to determine the degree of its advantages and potential hazards to fertility and pregnancy outcomes. Methods: This systematic review was conducted in accordance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) standards and entered into the PROSPERO database. Comprehensive searches in the PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science databases turned up relevant studies. Studies that examined the effects of bariatric surgery on female fertility, ovulatory function, pregnancy rates, and neonatal outcomes were considered. Methodological quality and risk of bias were evaluated using the Newcastle–Ottawa Scale (NOS) for observational studies and the Cochrane Risk of Bias Tool for randomized controlled trials. Results: This review comprised 34 studies. More than 75% of the studies analyzed showed improvements in ovulatory function, monthly regularity, or spontaneous pregnancy after bariatric surgery. Post-surgical pregnancies are related to a lower incidence of gestational diabetes, hypertension, and macrosomia. However, several studies raised concerns about nutritional inadequacies and the possibility of small-for-gestational-age newborns, particularly following Roux-en-Y gastric bypass. Studies suggest delaying conception for 12 to 18 months after surgery to reduce nutritional hazards and improve pregnancy outcomes. Variability in study design, follow-up duration, and surgical methods reduces the generalizability of findings, emphasizing the importance of uniform research protocols. Conclusions: Bariatric surgery is a highly effective treatment for increasing fertility and pregnancy outcomes in obese women, particularly those with PCOS. However, rigorous preconception planning, postoperative nutritional monitoring, and multidisciplinary follow-up are required to reduce the related hazards. Future research should concentrate on long-term reproductive outcomes, standardizing fertility assessment criteria, and improving clinical guidelines for managing post-bariatric pregnancies. These findings support the incorporation of bariatric surgery into fertility treatment regimens for obese women, and they may shape future revisions to clinical guidelines on reproductive care following weight loss surgery. Full article
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15 pages, 1230 KiB  
Article
Suitability of a Low-Fidelity and Low-Cost Simulator for Teaching Basic Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation—“Hands-Only CPR”—To Nursing Students
by Zoila Esperanza Leiton-Espinoza, Ángel López-González, Maritza Evangelina Villanueva-Benites, Yrene E. Urbina-Rojas, Joseba Rabanales-Sotos, Yda Hoyos-Álvarez and María D. Pilar Gómez-Lujan
Nurs. Rep. 2025, 15(5), 162; https://doi.org/10.3390/nursrep15050162 - 7 May 2025
Viewed by 961
Abstract
Objectives: The objectives of this study were to determine the suitability of the low-fidelity/low-cost simulator “Salvando a Rosita®” in the acquisition of “hands-only CPR” skills by adult nursing degree students. Methods: A quasi-experimental quantitative study was carried out with a [...] Read more.
Objectives: The objectives of this study were to determine the suitability of the low-fidelity/low-cost simulator “Salvando a Rosita®” in the acquisition of “hands-only CPR” skills by adult nursing degree students. Methods: A quasi-experimental quantitative study was carried out with a single experimental group that included 89 nursing degree students; it was conducted in November and December 2024 at the National University of Trujillo, Peru. Results: The STAI-TA score was 17.30, and the STAI-SA score was 37.00 points. Women showed a greater level of SA (p = 0.002). The required effort was described by women as being high and by men as light (p < 0.001). The compression rate was 125.7, and the percentage of compressions with an adequate depth was 89.6%. Overweight/obese individuals achieved more correct compressions (p < 0.01). The attitudes toward alerting emergency services, remaining calm while a person is in cardiac arrest, applying the CPR sequence automatically, and performing CCs were better after receiving training. The majority considered the “Salvando a Rosita®” simulator to be useful for teaching “hands-only CPR” to students in the first cycles of a nursing degree. Conclusions: The “Salvando a Rosita®” simulator was found to be an appropriate tool for teaching “hands-only CPR” to students in either the first cycles of health sciences or in other related professions. Full article
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22 pages, 2019 KiB  
Article
Metabolic Characteristics of Obese Adolescents with Different Degrees of Weight Loss After Identical Exercise Training Intervention
by Xianyan Xie, Gaoyuan Yang, Yulin Qin, Yu Wang, Zhijun Liu, Zhuofan Zhang, Ziyan Li, Huiguo Wang and Lin Zhu
Metabolites 2025, 15(5), 313; https://doi.org/10.3390/metabo15050313 - 7 May 2025
Viewed by 769
Abstract
Objectives: This study aims to elucidate the metabolic differences between obese adolescents categorized into low-weight-loss (LWL) and high-weight-loss (HWL) groups. Methods: The objective of this study is to investigate the metabolic characteristics of obese adolescents, with a focus on the statistically significant individual [...] Read more.
Objectives: This study aims to elucidate the metabolic differences between obese adolescents categorized into low-weight-loss (LWL) and high-weight-loss (HWL) groups. Methods: The objective of this study is to investigate the metabolic characteristics of obese adolescents, with a focus on the statistically significant individual differences observed in weight loss outcomes after the same dietary and exercise training intervention. A four-week exercise and dietary intervention was administered to the participants. Obese adolescents were categorized into LWL (with a weight loss percentage of 5–10%) and HWL (with a weight loss percentage of >10%) groups on the basis of their weight loss outcomes. Post-intervention changes in body morphology and body composition between the two groups were compared using Analysis of Covariance (ANCOVA), with gender as a covariate. Additionally, metabolic changes were analyzed in depth; differential metabolites between the groups were identified through ANCOVA adjusted for gender, followed by pathway analysis. Results: After the four-week exercise intervention, the body morphology and composition of the obese adolescents showed significant improvements compared with those before the intervention (p < 0.001). For example, weight decreased from 80.65 kg to 72.35 kg, BMI decreased from 30.57 kg/m2 to 27.26 kg/m2, waist circumference decreased from 103.64 cm to 94.72 cm, and body fat percentage decreased from 32.68% to 28.54%. Prior to the exercise intervention, no significant differences in body morphology and composition were observed between the HWL and LWL groups (p > 0.05). After the intervention, the HWL group demonstrated significant improvements in weight, body mass index, waist circumference, body fat percentage, fat mass, fat-free mass, body water amount, and skeletal muscle mass compared with the LWL group (p < 0.001). After controlling for the levels of pre-intervention metabolites, 27 differential metabolites were identified between the HWL and LWL groups. These metabolites were categorized into fatty acids, amino acids, organic acids, carnitines, indoles, benzoic acids, and carbohydrates. Notably, they were significantly enriched in the eight metabolic pathways involved in amino acid metabolism, fatty acid biosynthesis, and coenzyme A biosynthesis. Conclusions: A four-week exercise intervention enhanced the body morphology and physical fitness of obese adolescents, although the degree of weight loss varied among individuals. Considerable weight reduction was significantly correlated with metabolites involved in lipid, amino acid, organic acid, carbohydrate, and gut microbiota metabolism and with the enrichment of pathways involved in amino acid metabolism, fatty acid biosynthesis, and coenzyme A biosynthesis. These findings indicate that intrinsic metabolic characteristics considerably influence individual responsiveness to exercise-based weight-loss interventions. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Endocrinology and Clinical Metabolic Research)
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19 pages, 2571 KiB  
Article
Nutritional and Functional Values of Grape Seed Flour and Extract for Production of Antioxidative Dietary Supplements and Functional Foods
by Yavor Ivanov, Milka Atanasova and Tzonka Godjevargova
Molecules 2025, 30(9), 2029; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules30092029 - 2 May 2025
Viewed by 593
Abstract
The potential of the seed flours and extracts of the red grapes Pinot Noir and Marselan for application as food additives and antioxidative dietary supplements was determined. The differences between the quality characteristics of the seeds, flour, and extracts of the two grape [...] Read more.
The potential of the seed flours and extracts of the red grapes Pinot Noir and Marselan for application as food additives and antioxidative dietary supplements was determined. The differences between the quality characteristics of the seeds, flour, and extracts of the two grape varieties were examined. The polyphenol composition and antioxidant potential of the two extracts were compared. The extracts were rich in polyphenols, especially flavonoids (52.01 mg QE/g DW) and procyanidins (152.18 mg CE/g DW). The nutritional composition of the flours and extracts was determined. It was found that the content of ash, crude protein, crude fat, and total dietary fibers in the flour from the studied grape seeds was about 1.5 times higher than that in the extracts. Only the carbohydrate content was 2–2.5 times higher in both extracts compared to that in the flours. The content of macro and microelements in the seed extracts and in the flours was high. The inhibitory potential of the two seed extracts on three key enzymes affecting diabetes and obesity—α-amylase, α-glucosidase, and pancreatic lipase—was studied. The highest degree of extract inhibition against α-glucosidase was determined (IC50—2.53 ± 0.24 µg/mL). A real inhibitory assessment of the extracts was made by implementing an in vitro digestion simulation method. It was found that the percentage of inhibition of the enzymes with the digested extract was higher compared to those with the undigested extract in buffer and salt solution. Our study proves that the high content of flavonoids and procyanidins in the two extracts determines their high inhibitory capacity against the three enzymes and their potential for managing diabetes and obesity. Full article
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26 pages, 13622 KiB  
Systematic Review
Exercise, Nutrition, and Neuromuscular Electrical Stimulation for Sarcopenic Obesity: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Management in Middle-Aged and Older Adults
by Shan Xu, Siying Tu, Xiaoyu Hao, Xiangjun Chen, Da Pan, Wang Liao, Ruipeng Wu, Ligang Yang, Hui Xia, Shaokang Wang and Guiju Sun
Nutrients 2025, 17(9), 1504; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu17091504 - 29 Apr 2025
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1598
Abstract
Background/Objective: Sarcopenic obesity (SO), a pathological syndrome characterized by the co-existence of diminished muscle mass and excessive adipose accumulation, significantly compromises the quality of life in older adults. The purpose of this study was to systematically evaluate the efficacy of exercise, nutritional interventions, [...] Read more.
Background/Objective: Sarcopenic obesity (SO), a pathological syndrome characterized by the co-existence of diminished muscle mass and excessive adipose accumulation, significantly compromises the quality of life in older adults. The purpose of this study was to systematically evaluate the efficacy of exercise, nutritional interventions, and neuromuscular electrical stimulation (NMES) in preventing and managing SO in middle-aged and older adults. Methods: A comprehensive search was conducted across PubMed, Web of Science, Embase, Cochrane Library, and CNKI for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) until January 2025. Meta-analyses were performed using the random-effects model and fixed-effects model based on the degree of heterogeneity and calculating the mean differences (MD) with 95% confidence intervals (CI). Subgroup analyses compared the intervention types. Results: Twenty-nine RCTs (1622 participants) were included. Exercise interventions significantly reduced the body fat percentage (MD = −2.79%, 95% CI: −3.94, −1.64, p < 0.001, I2 = 74%), fat mass (MD = −6.77 kg, 95% CI: −11.48, −2.06, p = 0.005, I2 = 98%), waist circumference (MD = −2.05 cm, 95% CI: −3.64, −0.46, p = 0.01, I2 = 0%) and LDL-C (MD: −7.45 mg/dL, 95% CI: −13.82, −1.07, p = 0.02, I2 = 0%), while improving handgrip strength (MD = 2.35 kg, 95% CI: 1.99, 2.70, p < 0.001, I2 = 52%) and gait speed (MD = 0.19 m/s, 95% CI: 0.13, 0.24, p < 0.001, I2 = 89%). Mixed training outperformed resistance-only regimens in reducing the body fat percentage and enhancing functional outcomes. NMES reduced the body fat percentage (MD = −2.01%, 95% CI: −3.54, −0.48, p = 0.01, I2 = 93%) and waist circumference (MD = −1.72 cm, 95% CI: −2.35, −1.09, p < 0.001, I2 = 0%) while increasing the Skeletal Muscle Index (MD = 0.26 kg/m2, 95% CI: 0.22, 0.29, p < 0.001, I2 = 38%). Synergy with nutritional supplementation amplified these effects. Nutritional interventions modestly improved total fat-free mass (MD = 0.77 kg, 95% CI: 0.04, 1.50, p = 0.04, I2 = 0%) and handgrip strength (MD = 1.35 kg, 95% CI: 0.71, 2.00, p < 0.001, I2 = 0%) but showed no significant impact on the metabolic markers (TG, TC, glucose, hemoglobin, and HOMA-IR). Conclusions: Exercise, particularly multimodal regimens combining aerobic and resistance training, is the cornerstone for improving body composition and physical function in SO. NMES serves as an effective adjunct for accelerating fat loss, while nutritional strategies require integration with exercise or prolonged implementation to yield clinically meaningful outcomes. Future research should prioritize standardized diagnostic criteria and long-term efficacy assessments of multimodal interventions. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Geriatric Nutrition)
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16 pages, 5885 KiB  
Article
Route of Application and Dose Evaluation of Dental Pulp Stem Cells for the Treatment of Sialadenitis Caused by Sjögren’s Syndrome: A Preclinical Study
by Zhihao Du, Lifang Feng, Yu Zhang, Xin Peng, Shan Zhang, Rui Zhao, Jia Lei, Xiaotong Li, Guangyan Yu and Chong Ding
Biomedicines 2025, 13(5), 1068; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomedicines13051068 - 28 Apr 2025
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Abstract
Background: Sjögren’s syndrome (SS) is an autoimmune disorder characterized by sicca syndrome and/or systemic manifestations. In this study, non-obese diabetic (NOD) mice were used as an animal model for studying SS, to evaluate the optimal administration route and dose range of [...] Read more.
Background: Sjögren’s syndrome (SS) is an autoimmune disorder characterized by sicca syndrome and/or systemic manifestations. In this study, non-obese diabetic (NOD) mice were used as an animal model for studying SS, to evaluate the optimal administration route and dose range of dental pulp stem cells (DPSCs) in the treatment of sialadenitis caused by SS. Methods: Different doses of DPSCs were transplanted into the submandibular glands (SMGs) of 14-week-old NOD mice through two different methods: injection or retrograde perfusion through the catheter orifice into the SMG. At 21 weeks of age, the saliva flow rate (SFR), ectopic lymphocytes, and CD4+ T-cell infiltration were measured. Tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) and interferon-gamma (IFN-γ) in the glandular tissues were also quantitatively detected. Results: Compared with untreated and PBS-injected controls, different-dose groups of the two administration methods showed an increased saliva flow rate of NOD mice to varying degrees, reduced infiltration of lymphocytes and CD4+ T cells in the SMG, and decreased IFN-γ/TNF-α levels. Finally, we compared these two administration routes and found that the perfusion of 2 × 105 DPSCs presents good therapeutic effects. Conclusions: DPSC perfusion through the catheter orifice is a simple and effective treatment method, which is worthy of further investigation through clinical trials. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Pathogenesis, Diagnostics, and Therapeutics for Rheumatic Diseases)
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14 pages, 4372 KiB  
Article
Association of Visceral Adiposity and Sarcopenia with Geospatial Analysis and Outcomes in Acute Pancreatitis
by Ankit Chhoda, Manisha Bohara, Anabel Liyen Cartelle, Matthew Antony Manoj, Marco A. Noriega, Miriam Olivares, Jill Kelly, Olga Brook, Steven D. Freedman, Abraham F. Bezuidenhout and Sunil G. Sheth
J. Clin. Med. 2025, 14(9), 3005; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm14093005 - 26 Apr 2025
Viewed by 556
Abstract
Background: Radiological imaging has improved our insight into how obesity and sarcopenia impacts acute pancreatitis via several measured variables. However, we lack understanding of the association between social determinants of health and these variables within the acute pancreatitis population. Methods: This study included [...] Read more.
Background: Radiological imaging has improved our insight into how obesity and sarcopenia impacts acute pancreatitis via several measured variables. However, we lack understanding of the association between social determinants of health and these variables within the acute pancreatitis population. Methods: This study included patients at a single tertiary care center between 1 January 2008 and 31 December 2021. Measurements of visceral adiposity (VA), subcutaneous adiposity (SA), the ratio of visceral to total adiposity (VA/TA), and degree of sarcopenia via psoas muscle Hounsfield unit average calculation (HUAC) were obtained on CT scans performed at presentation. Using geocoded patient data, we calculated the social vulnerability index (SVI) from CDC metrics. Descriptive and regression analyses were performed utilizing clinical and radiological data. Results: In 484 patients with 592 acute pancreatitis-related hospitalization, median (IQR) VA was 176 (100–251), SA was 209.5 (138.5–307), VA/TA ratio was 43.5 (32.3–55.3), and HUAC was 51.3 (44.4–58.9). For our primary outcome, geospatial analyses showed a reverse association between VA and SVI with a coefficient of −9.0 (p = 0.04) after adjustment for age, health care behaviors (i.e., active smoking and drinking), and CCI, suggesting residence in areas with higher SVI is linked to lower VA. However, VA/TA, SA, and HUAC showed no significant association with SVI. The SVI subdomain of socioeconomic status had significant association with VA (−39.78 (95% CI: −75.88–−3.70), p = 0.03) after adjustments. For our secondary outcome, acute pancreatitis severity had significant association with higher VA (p ≤ 0.001), VA/TA (p ≤ 0.001), and lower HUAC (p ≤ 0.001). When comparing single vs. recurrent hospitalization patients, there was significantly higher median VA with recurrences (VA-single acute pancreatitis: 149 (77.4–233) vs. VA-recurrent acute pancreatitis: 177 (108–256); p = 0.04). Conclusions: In this study we found that patients residing in more socially vulnerable areas had lower visceral adiposity. This paradoxical result potentially conferred a protective effect against severe and recurrent acute pancreatitis; however, this was not found to be statistically significant. Full article
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10 pages, 512 KiB  
Article
A New Score for Metabolic Age in Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus: Physical Rating Score
by Hasan Esat Yücel, Tufan Ulcay, Özkan Görgülü, Ruken Öncü, Emre Uğuz and Erkan Dulkadiroğlu
J. Clin. Med. 2025, 14(9), 2868; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm14092868 - 22 Apr 2025
Viewed by 569
Abstract
Background: Metabolic age (met-age), a risk marker, may vary within the same chronological age group. Its association with chronological age, waist/height ratio, obesity degree, body mass index (BMI), and physical rating score (PRS)—risk factors for type 2 diabetes—remains unexplored. Methods: A [...] Read more.
Background: Metabolic age (met-age), a risk marker, may vary within the same chronological age group. Its association with chronological age, waist/height ratio, obesity degree, body mass index (BMI), and physical rating score (PRS)—risk factors for type 2 diabetes—remains unexplored. Methods: A total of 122 type 2 diabetes patients (50 males, 72 females) were analyzed. Bioimpedance measurements were taken using the Tanita MC-780MA, alongside anthropometric data. Variables were compared, and correlations with met-age were assessed. Results: The met-age–chronological age difference was higher in females with type 2 diabetes (p < 0.001). Females also had higher BMI, obesity degree, fat mass, and waist/height ratio (p < 0.05), but lower waist/hip ratio (p < 0.001). Males showed higher PRS, muscle mass, and fat-free mass (p < 0.001). Met-age positively correlated with chronological age and negatively with PRS in both sexes (p < 0.05). According to the linear regression model, in females, the met-age was influenced positively by chronological age and waist/height ratio and negatively by PRS (R2 = 0.983). In males, it was positively influenced by chronological age, obesity grade, and BMI, but negatively by PRS (R2 = 0.974). Conclusions: Met-age correlates with chronological age and PRS in type 2 diabetes patients. It increases with advancing age and lower PRS, with waist/height ratio impacting females and BMI/obesity degree affecting males. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Clinical Advances in Diabetes, Obesity, and Hypertension)
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