Search Results (142)

This study evaluated the effects of partially replacing inorganic copper, zinc, and manganese with hydroxychloride or methionine-bound organic sources on growth performance, antioxidant status, serum mineral concentrations, and mineral utilization in finishing Baluchi lambs. Twenty male ram lambs were randomly assigned to four dietary treatments for 60 days: a control group without supplemental minerals (CTR), a sulfate group receiving 100% of supplemental minerals as sulfates (SULF), a hydroxy group receiving 70% sulfates and 30% hydroxychloride sources (HYDRO), and an organic group receiving 70% sulfates and 30% methionine-complexed minerals (ORG). All supplemented diets were formulated to provide similar total concentrations of Cu, Zn, and Mn in accordance with NRC requirements. Growth performance and feed intake did not differ significantly among treatments (p > 0.05). Serum mineral concentrations were affected by dietary treatments (p < 0.0001), with lower Zn and Cu concentrations observed in the ORG. Urinary Mn excretion was higher in ORG (p = 0.007), whereas Zn and Cu excretion were not significantly affected. Apparent mineral absorption was not significantly different among treatments, although numerical variation was observed. Antioxidant parameters were influenced by mineral source, with higher glutathione peroxidase activity and total antioxidant capacity in ORG and HYDRO groups (p < 0.0001). These findings suggest that partial replacement of inorganic trace minerals with hydroxychloride or organic sources can modulate antioxidant status and mineral metabolism without affecting growth performance, highlighting the potential of mixed-source supplementation strategies in practical feeding systems. Full article

Objective: The aim of this study was to examine the association between dietary copper intake and incident metabolic syndrome (MetS) in Chinese adults. Methods: Data were obtained from the China Health and Nutrition Survey (CHNS) in 2009, 2015, and 2018. A total of 2418 adults aged 18–64 years who were free of MetS at baseline in 2009 were included. Person-period data were constructed, and discrete-time hazard models with a complementary log-log link were used to evaluate the associations of dietary copper intake with incident MetS and its components. Restricted cubic spline analysis (RCS) was used to assess the dose–response relationship. Results: After multivariable adjustment, compared with the lowest quartile (Q1) of dietary copper intake, the Q4 groups had a higher risks of incident MetS, with HR (95% CI) of 1.32 (1.06–1.65) (p = 0.014). When analyzed as a continuous variable, each 1 mg/1000 kcal increase in energy-adjusted dietary copper intake was associated with an approximately 27% higher risk of incident MetS (HR = 1.27, 95% CI: 1.03–1.53) (p = 0.023). RCS indicated a significant overall association without evidence of nonlinearity. Component analyses suggested that higher dietary copper intake might be associated with increased risks of reduced high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) and abdominal obesity. Sensitivity analyses were generally consistent with the main findings. Conclusions: Higher dietary copper intake was associated with an increased risk of incident MetS in Chinese adults. Component analyses suggested a more consistent association for reduced HDL-C, while an additional possible association was observed for abdominal obesity. Full article

Background/Objectives: Assessing trace-element status is fundamental for maintaining health across species. However, serum primarily reflects acute physiological variability rather than chronic exposure. Thus, we investigate the cornea as a possible stable, practical alternative for assessing chronic copper and iron accumulation in rabbit’s cornea. Methods: A group of laboratory rabbits was housed under standardized husbandry conditions with comparable environmental and dietary backgrounds for trace-element intake. After completion of the experimental phase, corneal tissues were collected and subjected to quantitative elemental analysis using validated spectrometric procedures. In parallel, the structural integrity of the cornea was evaluated with standard histological techniques to determine whether elevated trace-element levels were associated with detectable morphological alterations. Results: Copper and iron concentrations showed approximately normal distributions, with mean values of 0.93 ± 0.46 μg/g and 0.78 ± 0.32 μg/g. All elemental concentrations were calculated relative to the original (native) wet tissue weight. Several samples exhibited elevated levels of both elements. Importantly, even in the samples with the highest copper and iron concentrations, no histological abnormalities were observed. Epithelial layers were intact, stromal collagen was well organized, and no inflammation or edema was observed. Conclusions: Overall, the cornea contained measurable copper and iron levels, and higher concentrations were not associated with morphological disruption under the trace-element conditions studied. Because ocular tissues are not used in food processing and can be collected in a standardized way during slaughter, the cornea offers a practical matrix for post-mortem monitoring of trace-element load in commercial animal production. Full article

Background/Objectives: Although copper nanoparticles (Cu-NPs) are increasingly explored as food and feed additives, there is still limited evidence on how the commonly consumed dietary fibre matrix modulates their effects on the gut microbiota. This study evaluated whether different dietary fibres (cellulose, pectin, inulin, psyllium) modulate Cu-NP–driven changes in caecal microbiota activity, composition, and bile acid metabolism in rats in a multifactorial design accounting for fibre type, copper dose, and copper form. Methods: Wistar male rats (n = 10 per group, 10 groups) were fed semi-purified diets for 6 weeks. Cu-NPs were provided at 6.5 or 13 mg Cu/kg diet and combined with cellulose (control fibre) or with pectin, inulin, or psyllium. Caecal digesta parameters, microbial enzyme activities, short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs), bile acids, and 16S rRNA sequencing were used to assess microbial diversity. Results: Final body weight did not differ among groups, whereas feed intake decreased most consistently with inulin and psyllium. Inulin and psyllium increased caecal digesta and tissue mass, while pectin increased caecal ammonia. Higher Cu-NPs dose reduced several microbial enzyme activities and lowered major SCFAs across most treatments; pectin most strongly preserved/enhanced glycosidase activities and was associated with increased SCFA levels vs. control, with a 32% rise in acetate, a 47% rise in propionate, and a 61% rise in butyrate. Fibre type dominated bile acid outcomes: psyllium reduced total bile acids by 11.8% vs. control, while inulin increased muricholic acids by 216% vs. control. Microbiota alpha and beta diversity separated primarily by fibre type, with distinct clustering particularly in pectin-fed groups. Across comparisons, Mucispirillum was consistently reduced in fibre-supplemented groups vs. cellulose, alongside recurrent changes in selected genera; functional profiling highlighted shared shifts in carbohydrate, fermentation, transport, and stress-response features under Cu-NPs exposure. Conclusions: The gastrointestinal and microbiota responses to Cu-NPs are strongly fibre-dependent; thus, Cu-NP safety and functionality should be evaluated together with the accompanying dietary fibre matrix, not as a standalone exposure. Implications for humans remain indirect and require confirmation in human-relevant models and clinical settings. Full article

Precision nutrition has emerged as a promising strategy for the prevention of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) by targeting molecular pathways underlying insulin resistance and impaired glucose metabolism. Accumulating evidence indicates that dietary patterns, caloric intake, and specific nutrients can modulate gene expression and epigenetic mechanisms involved in insulin signaling, inflammation, and energy homeostasis. This narrative review synthesizes recent human and experimental studies (2025–2026) examining how dietary components influence transcriptional and epigenetic regulation of insulin signaling and glucose metabolism in the context of T2DM prevention. A total of 29 peer-reviewed studies were included, encompassing dietary patterns, macronutrient manipulation, micronutrient and bioactive supplementation, and gene–diet interactions. Very-low-calorie diets consistently induced coordinated modulation of key metabolic genes, including downregulation of glucose transporter type 4 (GLUT4) and upregulation of PDK4, CPT1, and AMPK, reflecting a metabolic shift toward enhanced fatty acid oxidation and improved insulin sensitivity. In contrast, high-fat and fructose-rich diets promoted proinflammatory gene expression and immune activation, contributing to insulin resistance. Plant-based and vegan dietary patterns were associated with reduced epigenetic aging and improved insulin sensitivity through DNA methylation changes. Targeted interventions, including vitamin D combined with probiotics, dietary fiber, nucleotides, and trace elements such as copper, further demonstrated favorable transcriptional and epigenetic effects linked to improved glycemic control. Collectively, these findings highlight diet-driven modulation of insulin signaling and glucose metabolism at the molecular level and support nutrigenomics-guided precision nutrition as a viable preventive approach for T2DM. Integrating genetic and epigenetic insights into dietary strategies may enable more personalized and effective interventions to curb the growing global burden of type 2 diabetes. Full article

Background and Clinical Significance: Scurvy, caused by chronic vitamin C deficiency, is re-emerging in Western countries, particularly among pediatric patients with highly selective diets. While its musculoskeletal and mucocutaneous manifestations are well-known, its association with pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) is rare and poorly understood. Ascorbic acid and iron are essential cofactors for prolyl hydroxylases (PHD), which regulate Hypoxia-Inducible Factors. Their combined deficiency may trigger a “pseudohypoxic” state, leading to pulmonary vascular remodeling and vasoconstriction. Case Presentation: A 30-month-old female presented with a one-month history of limping, lower limb pain, and gingival hypertrophy. Dietary history revealed an almost exclusive cow’s milk-based intake. Physical examination showed diffuse petechiae, pallor, and right knee edema. Laboratory findings confirmed scurvy (undetectable vitamin C), severe iron-deficiency anemia (Hb: 72 g/L; ferritin: 22 mcg/L; RDW: 30%), folate deficiency, and hyperhomocysteinemia. Notably, elevated copper and vitamin B12 levels suggested a state of metabolic dysregulation. Echocardiography revealed moderate PAH phenotype (estimated sPAP: 47–50 mmHg) and a hyperdynamic contractility. A “perfect storm” mechanism was hypothesized, involving iron–ascorbate-dependent PHD impairment, high-output state, and oxidative-stress-induced hepcidin dysregulation (suggested by elevated copper). Following intravenous vitamin C and multivitamin supplementation, pulmonary pressures normalized within one week. Conclusions: PAH phenotype in scurvy represents a reversible metabolic disruption of pulmonary vascular tone rather than a structural disease. This case underscores the synergistic role of vitamin C, iron, and folate in vascular homeostasis. Clinicians should maintain high suspicion for scurvy in children with selective diets and unexplained PAH, as nutritional restoration is curative. Full article

Background/Objectives: Following the cessation of breastfeeding, cereal-based complementary foods are commonly introduced into the diet of infants. Among these products, dairy-free infant porridges constitute an important component of early complementary feeding. This study aimed to evaluate dietary exposure to selected essential (Zn, Fe, Mn, and Cu) and potentially toxic (Pb, Cd, and Hg) trace elements resulting from the consumption of dairy-free infant porridges by children aged six months and older. Products with different cereal compositions available on the Polish market were analyzed. Methods: Trace element concentrations were determined after microwave-assisted digestion using inductively coupled plasma atomic emission spectrometry (ICP-AES) and atomic absorption spectrometry for mercury (Hg-AAS). Results: A single recommended serving of dairy-free infant porridge contributed to the intake of essential trace elements, providing approximately 50% of the RDA for copper, 21% for zinc, 15% of the AI for manganese, and 5.7% of the RDA for iron. The concentrations of potentially harmful elements were low (Pb: 0.002–0.004 mg/kg; Cd: <0.001–0.003 mg/kg; Hg: <0.001–0.001 mg/kg). The estimated daily intake of these elements did not exceed 0.01 µg/kg body weight per day. Conclusions: Dairy-free infant porridges may contribute to the intake of essential trace elements in infants, while exposure to lead, cadmium, and mercury appears to remain low when products are consumed according to recommended serving sizes. Full article

Background: Ultra-processed foods (UPFs) have emerged as a critical component of diet quality, yet data on the associations between UPF and nutrient intakes remain limited. This study aimed to evaluate nutrient consumption in relation to UPF intake and adherence to international dietary guidelines for non-communicable disease (NCD) prevention. Methods: Data from 469 individuals aged 2–18 years enrolled in the Hellenic National Nutrition and Health Survey (HNNHS) were analyzed. Intakes were assessed using two 24 h recalls, and foods were classified according to the NOVA system. Participants were categorized by UPF energy intake tertiles. Nutrient adequacy was assessed using Nordic Nutrition Recommendations, European Society of Cardiology guidelines for macronutrients, and the Institute of Medicine’s Estimated Average Requirements and Adequate Intake values for micronutrients. Results: Children in the highest UPF tertile had significantly higher intakes of energy, carbohydrates, added sugars, saturated fats, polyunsaturated fats, and cholesterol, but lower intakes of protein compared to those in the lowest tertile. Fiber intake remained inadequate across all tertiles, with no significant differences. Regarding adherence to NCD prevention guidelines, children in the 3rd UPF tertile had a 2.3 times higher prevalence ratio for exceeding added sugar recommendations, while their protein intake prevalence ratio was 0.8 times lower. For micronutrients, the highest UPF tertile showed significantly elevated intakes of vitamins E, B₁, folate, calcium, iron, copper, and sodium, but lower potassium intake compared to the lowest tertile. Conclusions: Our results underscore the need for effective public health strategies to improve diet quality in children and adolescents and prevent diet-related NCDs. Full article

To fill the gap in systematic data on mineral contents and their dietary contributions in four mainstream dairy products (sterilized, pasteurized, fermented, modified milk) from Henan Province, China, this study aimed to characterize the mineral profiles [magnesium (Mg), iron (Fe), zinc (Zn), selenium (Se), copper (Cu)] and clarify the mineral nutritional disparities between domestic and imported sterilized milk. A total of 150 samples were analysed via inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS). Results revealed significant mineral content differences across dairy types: fermented milk had significantly lower Mg and Zn than sterilized and pasteurized milk (p < 0.05). Imported sterilized milk exhibited higher Mg (160.10 ± 31.88 mg/kg) than domestic counterparts (147.41 ± 32.47 mg/kg, p < 0.05). In terms of mineral intake contribution rates (defined as the percentage of mineral intake from dairy products relative to the Recommended Nutrient Intake (RNI), unit: %), the rates are ranked in descending order as follows: Se (11.68–25.32%) > Mg (11.11–20.76%) > Zn (5.88–16.33%) > Cu (0.62–1.81%) > Fe (0.25–1.00%). This study elucidates the mineral profiles of Henan’s dairy products, supporting residents’ dairy choices and optimisation of dairy processing technologies. Full article

Background: Studies that examine magnesium (Mg), zinc (Zn), and copper (Cu) in relation to sleep in the Middle East and North Africa are limited. We aim to assess the associations between serum and dietary Mg, Zn, and Cu levels and sleep quality in Saudi adults. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 1041 adults. Sleep quality was assessed using the Arabic Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI). Serum mineral levels were quantified biochemically, and dietary intake information was obtained. We utilized logistic regression to estimate the odds ratios for poor sleep (PSQI-P) in relation to serum and dietary indices in a crude model and after adjustment for confounders. Results: Serum Mg deficiency (<1.8 mg/dL) increased the odds of PSQI-P by 30% in the crude and age-adjusted models, with attenuation after further adjustment, suggesting partial mediation by lifestyle and metabolic factors. Mg deficiency was associated with PSQI-P (1.8-fold higher odds) after full adjustment. Dietary Mg levels below the DRI were independently associated with poor sleep across models. Higher serum Zn tertiles were associated with 40% lower odds of PSQI-P, and Zn deficiency (<80 µg/dL) demonstrated a three-fold independent increase in risk. Neither serum nor dietary intake levels of Cu demonstrated an association with sleep quality. Conclusion: In Saudi adults, serum and dietary Mg levels were associated with poor sleep, particularly in males, while the serum Zn concentration exhibited a modest inverse association at higher levels. Further longitudinal studies are warranted. Full article

Background/Objectives: Cognitive decline in older people is greatly affected by various risk factors, especially imbalances in trace elements. This study aimed to examine the relationships between serum levels of selenium, zinc, and copper and cognitive impairment. This study included 854 participants aged 63 to 85 years. Methods: We conducted clinical assessments of metabolic disorders and measured serum levels of selenium, zinc, and copper. Cognitive impairment was evaluated using the Mini-Cog test. Results: The primary analysis identified significant differences (all p < 0.05) in age, body mass index, waist circumference, various metabolic parameters (such as fasting plasma glucose, glycated hemoglobin, and plasma triglyceride levels) and some cardiometabolic indices between the groups with and without cognitive impairment. Further assessments using multiple logistic regression and receiver operating characteristic analysis showed an association between increased serum selenium and zinc levels and a protective effect against cognitive impairment. In contrast, elevated serum copper levels were identified as a risk factor for cognitive impairment. This analysis also demonstrated high sensitivity and specificity, along with established cut-off levels for all of the trace elements studied. Conclusions: The Mini-Cog test is an effective cognitive screening test for the older population. Our findings establish a significant association between the balanced status of key antioxidant trace elements and cognitive health. Specifically, adequate serum selenium and zinc levels are associated with enhanced cognitive performance, while elevated copper may indicate a pro-oxidant state detrimental to cognitive function. Consequently, these three elements offer promise as practical, accessible biomarkers for the early identification and risk stratification of individuals susceptible to cognitive impairment. Future research should prioritize clinical trials focused on targeted nutritional strategies—specifically optimizing dietary intake and/or supplementation of selenium and zinc while carefully managing copper balance—as a viable primary prevention approach to reduce the global burden of cognitive decline. Full article

Objectives: The rapid aging of the U.S. population has raised concerns about age-related cognitive decline and Alzheimer’s disease. Therefore, we aimed to characterize diet quality, nutrient intake, and to examine the associations between specific dietary components and cognitive performance in older adults. Design: Cross-sectional observational study. Setting: Community-based recruitment. Participants: Data from 72 community-dwelling adults aged 65 years and older was analyzed. Measurements: Cognitive performance was assessed using subtests from the Consortium to Establish a Registry for Alzheimer’s Disease (CERAD) battery, evaluating episodic memory (Word List Memory/Recall/Recognition), visuospatial skills (Constructional Praxis), and executive function (Verbal Fluency). A composite cognitive score was calculated from memory and visuospatial subtests. Habitual dietary intake was evaluated using structured 24-h recalls to calculate nutrient intake and the Healthy Eating Index score, supplemented by the Short HEI questionnaire. Demographics, health history, depressive symptoms (Patient Health Questionnaire-9), and sleep quality (Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index) were also collected. Results: Participants demonstrated suboptimal diet quality (mean HEI score 62.9 ± 10.69; recommended >80), with only 9.7% meeting fiber recommendations, 11% meeting calcium or vitamin A recommendations, and 1.4% meeting vitamin D requirements. In bivariate comparisons, higher cognitive performance was observed in younger participants (75.5 vs. 79.5 years; p < 0.01) and females (78% vs. 50%; p = 0.024). Regression models identified significant positive associations between cognitive scores and intakes of dietary fiber (p = 0.007), unsaturated fats (mono- and polyunsaturated; p = 0.012–0.033), protein (p = 0.018), carotenoids (α-carotene, p = 0.001; β-carotene, p = 0.026; lutein + zeaxanthin, p = 0.016), vitamins A (p = 0.044) and E (p = 0.034), and minerals including magnesium (p = 0.006), potassium (p = 0.004), copper (p = 0.008), zinc (p = 0.024), and calcium (p = 0.035). Refined grain intake was inversely associated with cognition (p = 0.011). Conclusions: In this population, dietary components like fiber and micronutrients were positively associated with better cognitive function, and the overall nutrient intake shortfalls observed highlight the need for targeted dietary interventions to support healthy brain aging. Therefore, this work advances our understanding by highlighting potential modifiable nutritional targets for clinical trials focused on delaying or preventing cognitive decline. Full article

Objectives: This study aims to examine the relationship between dietary trace elements and Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), as well as to assess the influence of body mass index (BMI) on this relationship. Methods: A total of 38,384 participants participated in this study. Dietary intakes of iron, copper, zinc, heme iron, and non-heme iron were assessed using validated food frequency questionnaires. The odds ratio (OR) and 95% confidence interval (CI) were calculated using the logistic regression model to evaluate the association of dietary intake of iron, copper, zinc, heme iron, and non-heme iron with T2DM. Restrictive cubic splines (RCS) were used to explore the dose–response relationship. In addition, causal mediation analysis was used to explore the role of BMI. Results: After adjusting for the relevant covariates, the highest quartile (Q4) compared with the lowest quartile (Q1) the odds ratios and 95% confidence intervals of iron, heme iron, non-heme iron, copper, and zinc between T2DM were 0.81 (0.70–0.92), 0.81 (0.70–0.92), 0.79 (0.70–0.90), 0.64 (0.77–0.72), and 0.65 (0.55–0.78), respectively. The RCS results showed that the hazards of copper and heme iron in T2DM decreased with the increase in dose (p_-non < 0.05). The results of the mediation analysis showed that BMI mediated the association between dietary trace elements and T2DM. Furthermore, subgroup analysis showed the same results. Conclusions: This study indicates that moderate intake of dietary trace elements may help reduce the incidence of T2DM in rural areas. BMI can mediate the association between the two. Full article

Background/Objectives: Fetal exposure to essential metals, such as iron (Fe), zinc (Zn), copper (Cu), and manganese (Mn), is influenced by maternal nutrition and lifestyle during pregnancy, potentially impacting newborn health. This study aimed to quantify concentrations of these metals in meconium and evaluate their associations, together with newborn length and weight, in relation to maternal dietary and lifestyle factors. Methods: This cross-sectional study included 152 mother–infant pairs recruited from various regions of Split-Dalmatia County, Croatia. Meconium samples were collected within 24 h after birth and analyzed for Fe, Zn, Cu, and Mn concentrations. Maternal characteristics, dietary intake, supplement use, and lifestyle factors were collected via structured questionnaires and supplemented by hospital records. Associations among maternal factors, meconium metal concentrations, and newborn birth weight and length were assessed using non-parametric statistical methods. Results: Meconium concentrations of Fe, Zn, Cu, and Mn showed substantial interindividual variability, with a strong positive correlation between Fe and Cu. Higher maternal pre-pregnancy BMI was linked to lower meconium Fe, while BMI at delivery was associated with Zn. Dietary patterns influenced metal levels: higher fruit intake was linked to increased Cu, greater vegetable intake with lower Fe, and moderate tea consumption with higher Zn. No significant associations were found with maternal smoking, residence, or supplement use. Maternal meat consumption and higher pre-pregnancy BMI were both associated with higher newborn birth weight and length. Conclusions: Maternal BMI and specific dietary patterns during pregnancy significantly influence essential metal concentrations in newborn meconium and are associated with newborn size, highlighting the importance of balanced maternal nutrition and healthy metabolic status during pregnancy. Full article

Anemia due to acquired copper deficiency is most commonly the result of malabsorption or dietary deficiency. However, it can occasionally be due to excess zinc intake, which impairs the absorption of copper. Copper deficiency may result in vacuolated erythroid and myeloid precursors in the bone marrow, and sometimes features resembling myelodysplasia that, although not specific, may be an important clue to the diagnosis. Background and Clinical Significance: We report bone marrow findings in a child with anemia due to zinc-induced copper deficiency. Case Presentation: An 18-year-old female with cerebral palsy admitted for respiratory failure was found to have anemia and leukopenia with absolute neutropenia. A bone marrow smear showed occasional ring sideroblasts. Additional testing revealed reduced serum copper and elevated serum zinc. Further inquiry uncovered a several-year history of high-dose zinc supplementation. Conclusions: It is important to consider copper deficiency as a potential etiology in patients with anemia and neutropenia, as it may otherwise be mistaken for vitamin B12 deficiency or myelodysplasia. The presence of small vacuoles in hematopoietic precursors is an important clue to the diagnosis and may help avoid ineffective interventions. Full article