Search Results (1,856)

We recently reported that phospholipase A2 (PLA2)-mediated production of prostaglandins within the ventromedial hypothalamus (VMH) plays a critical role in systemic glucose homeostasis. However, the role of PLA2 in the VMH in regulating food intake is still unclear. Here, we attempted to investigate the role of PLA2 in regulating food intake and body weight in male mice. We injected an adeno-associated virus encoding short hairpin RNA (AAV-shRNA) targeting cytosolic phospholipase A2 (shPla2g4a) into the VMH. We assessed food intake, body weight, oxygen consumption, glucose tolerance, and insulin sensitivity. Three weeks after the AAV injection, the shPla2g4a group exhibited increased food intake and body weight gain compared to controls (shSCRM). Energy expenditure, oxygen consumption, and respiratory quotient (RQ) were comparable between groups. Our findings suggest that the cPLA2-mediated pathway in the VMH is critical for feeding behavior and maintaining energy homeostasis. Further investigation is needed to elucidate the underlying mechanisms. Full article

The tolerance of the fall armyworm (Spodoptera frugiperda) to plant-derived secondary compounds gradually increases with instars. Therefore, even if plant-based additives are applied at early stages, such as the second or third instar, they may have a differential impact on the ecofriendly control of S. frugiperda. In this study, S. frugiperda larvae were exposed to vanillic acid or sinapic acid at the second and third instar, and physiological and growth parameters were measured. The results showed that the effects of vanillic acid treatment on S. frugiperda were similar at the different instars. They can significantly affect the larval carboxylesterase, glutathione S-transferase, and mixed-function oxidase activities. By reducing larval food intake, food conversion, and utilization efficiency while increasing the food consumption rate, it inhibits weight accumulation. This leads to a significant extension of the development of both the larval and pupal stages, and the adult longevity was reduced. Treatment with sinapic acid at the second instar extended the negative effects on the pupal duration of S. frugiperda when compared to treatment at the third instar, but did not affect adult longevity. Therefore, vanillic acid treatment at the second or third instar stage, can play an important role in the ecofriendly control process of S. frugiperda. The results of this study are of great significance for integrated pest management. 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

Background/Objectives: Excessive sugar intake through sugar-sweetened beverages (SSBs) has raised global concerns due to its association with various health risks. This study evaluates the effectiveness of nudges—in the form of order placement, variety expansion, and a combination of both—in promoting non-SSB purchases at self-service kiosks, a key environment for SSB consumption. Methods: This study was conducted using a real-world kiosk at food and beverage outlets in South Korea from 28 May to 12 July, 2024. A total of 183 consumers aged 19 to 29 participated in this study. A single kiosk device was used with four screen layouts, each reflecting a different nudge strategy. Participants were unaware of these manipulations when making their purchases. After their purchases, participants completed a survey. All data were analyzed using IBM SPSS Statistics for Windows, Version 29.0. Results: Females reported significantly higher positive attitudes, preferences, and perceived necessity regarding nudges compared to males. In particular, both the single (variety) and combination (order and variety) nudges received positive responses from females (p < 0.001). The combination nudge significantly increased non-SSB purchases compared to the control (p < 0.05) and single (order) nudge groups (p < 0.01), which suggests that combination nudge is effective in promoting healthier beverage choices. Females were also more likely to purchase non-SSBs than males (p < 0.05). Conclusions: The findings suggest that the combination nudge strategy effectively promotes healthier beverage choices in real kiosk settings. Notably, females demonstrate significantly higher positive attitudes, preferences, and perceived necessity regarding nudges compared to males, and are also more likely to purchase non-SSBs. These findings offer valuable insights for real-world applications aimed at encouraging healthier consumption behaviors. Full article

Background: Taste changes are common during pregnancy and can have a significant impact on dietary habits. Objective: This study aimed to investigate the influence of the perception of sweet and fat taste on diet in pregnant diabetic women. Methods: This cross-sectional observational study included 66 pregnant women, 33 with gestational diabetes and 33 with pre-gestational type 2 diabetes. Taste perception tests were conducted to evaluate thresholds for detecting sweet and fatty tastes. Dietary surveys were used to assess daily nutrient intake, and various biochemical parameters, such as glycemia, HbA1c, and cholesterol, were analyzed. Results: The low-fat taster group (threshold > 0.75 mmol/L) included more patients with diabetes compared to those with gestational diabetes. All diabetic patients had low sucrose perception. Although pregnant women with gestational diabetes detected sweetness at high concentrations, pregnant women with diabetes detected it at lower concentrations (0.012 ± 0.023 mmol/L vs. 0.006 ± 0.005 mmol/L; p = 0.3). High-fat tasters exhibited elevated glycemia compared to low-fat tasters (6.04 ± 1.88 mmol/L vs. 7.47 ± 3.4 mmol/L; p = 0.03). They also had higher cholesterol (p = 0.04) and lower HDL-C levels (4.96 ± 1.04 mmol/L vs. 1.36 ± 0.29 mmol/L; p = 0.03). High-fat tasters showed more frequent daily consumption of oil, butter, cheese, and chocolate. The highly sweet tasters had higher cholesterol levels and lower LDL levels. Individuals who reported being highly sensitive to sweet taste consumed more daily oil, sweetened yogurt, or cream desserts, as well as white sugar. Conclusions: These findings indicate that altered sensitivity to fat and sweet tastes is associated with different dietary habits and metabolic profiles in pregnant women with diabetes. Specifically, reduced sensitivity to the taste of fat is associated with higher consumption of high-fat foods and poorer lipid profiles. In contrast, sensitivity to sweet taste correlates with an increased intake of sugary and fatty foods. Understanding these taste-related behaviors can help develop personalized nutritional strategies to improve metabolic control and maternal–fetal outcomes in this high-risk group. Full article

Time-restricted eating (TRE), a dietary strategy that aligns food intake with circadian rhythms, has emerged as a promising non-pharmacological approach for improving glycemic control in patients with type 2 diabetes. This systematic review and meta-analysis evaluated the effects of TRE on glycemic outcomes by analyzing eight randomized controlled trials involving 312 participants with type 2 diabetes or impaired fasting glucose. Meta-analyses of six eligible studies demonstrated that TRE significantly reduced fasting glucose (mean difference [MD]: −0.74 mmol/L; 95% CI: −1.13 to −0.36) and glycated hemoglobin (ΔHbA1c) (MD: −0.11%; 95% CI: −0.15 to −0.07) and increased time in range (TIR) for blood glucose (MD: +10.51%; 95% CI: 6.81 to 14.21). Improvements in fasting glucose and HbA1c were modest but consistent, while the increase in TIR showed no between-study heterogeneity, suggesting a robust and reproducible benefit of TRE on glycemic stability. These findings support the clinical feasibility and effectiveness of TRE as a dietary intervention in diabetes management. However, further high-quality trials with standardized protocols and longer follow-up are needed to confirm long-term efficacy and inform guidelines. Full article

Background: Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a common endocrine and metabolic disorder characterized by reproductive and metabolic abnormality disorders. Dietary factors influence the body composition and hydration status, which may exacerbate PCOS symptoms. The aim of this study was to assess the associations between the habitual nutrient intake and bioelectrical impedance analysis parameters in Polish women with PCOS and healthy controls, in order to identify potential nutritional targets for a non-pharmacological intervention. Methods: This study involved 50 women aged 18–45 years (25 with PCOS and 25 healthy). Participants kept 7-day food diaries and their body composition was assessed using the SECA mBCA 515 analyzer. The nutrient intake was compared with EFSA recommendations. Results: Women with PCOS had a higher body weight, waist circumference and body mass index, visceral adipose tissue, and fat mass index, despite no difference in their total energy intake. They consumed more omega-3 fatty acids (EPA + DHA) than the control group. Vitamin D deficiency and irregular supplementation were common in both groups. Body composition parameters such as the phase angle and ECW/TBW ratio correlated with the diet quality—especially with protein; fiber; and vitamin B2, B12, and folate levels. Conclusions: The obtained results showed significant differences in body compositions and the presence of a relationship between the nutrient intake and bioimpedance parameters in women with PCOS. These results emphasize the importance of a comprehensive nutritional and body composition assessment in planning dietary interventions in this group of patients. Full article

The human exposome, including dietary exposures such as pesticides, additives, and environmental contaminants, plays a critical role in shaping the gut microbiota (GM) and long-term health outcomes. While the Mediterranean Diet is known for its health-promoting effects, the role of food quality, specifically organic vs. conventional products, in modulating GM within this dietary pattern remains underexplored. The aim of this study was to evaluate (1) whether an Italian Mediterranean Organic Diet (IMOD) confers additional benefits compared to an Italian Mediterranean non-Organic Diet (IMnOD), and (2) the impact of IMOD and IMnOD versus a free diet (No Diet) on GM and anthropometric parameters. A randomized, controlled trial was conducted on 39 healthy subjects. Eligible subjects were divided into the following groups: (1) 4 weeks No Diet, (2) 4 weeks IMOD, and (3) 4 weeks IMnOD. Microbiota profiling (16S rRNA sequencing), body composition (BIA), and dietary adherence (MEDAS, FFQ) were evaluated. Distinct microbial shifts following both IMOD and IMnOD compared to No Diet were revealed. Several taxa previously associated with short-chain fatty acid (SCFA) biosynthesis (i.e., Anaerobutyricum hallii, Anaerostipes hadrus, and Dorea longicatena) were increased after both Mediterranean Diet interventions, while Parabacteroides distasonis showed a specific increase in the IMOD group. No significant changes in body weight or composition were observed. These findings suggest that adherence to a Mediterranean Diet, regardless of food source, reshapes the gut microbiota, while organic food intake may influence specific microbial trajectories. Our results support the relevance of food quality in dietary interventions. 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

Background/Objectives: Psychological distress is common among university students and often co-occurs with unhealthy lifestyle patterns. However, most studies examine physical activity (PA) and dietary intake (DI) in isolation, overlooking how these behaviors interact under stress. This study aimed to identify and compare integrated PA and DI behavior patterns among students with low vs. high psychological distress. Methods: A cross-sectional case–control design was used with 209 students (aged 19–21). Questionnaires included the International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ), Questionnaire of Eating Behavior (QEB), and Depression Anxiety Stress Scales-21 items (DASS-21). Behavioral patterns were assessed using a cophylogenetic approach (tanglegrams, cophenetic statistics), and predictive behaviors were analyzed using stepwise logistic regression. Results: Permutational Multivariate Analysis of Variance (PERMANOVA) revealed significant group differences in PA–DI structure (F = 3.91, R² = 0.0185, p = 0.001). Tanglegram and PACo analyses showed tighter PA–DI alignment in high-distress individuals, suggesting more rigid, compensatory behavior profiles. Logistic regression identified vigorous PA (OR = 1.80, 95% CI: 1.33–2.50, p < 0.001) and fast food intake (OR = 1.43, 95% CI: 1.05–1.98, p = 0.026) as significant distress indicators. Sweets intake showed a non-significant trend (OR = 1.33, p = 0.064). Conclusions: Students with higher psychological distress exhibit complex lifestyle co-patterns combining risk (e.g., fast food) and compensatory behaviors (e.g., vigorous PA). Health promotion should address PA and DI jointly, and screening for distress should be integrated into student wellness programs. Full article

Background/Objective: Metabolic dysfunction-associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD) is defined by the presence of hepatic steatosis, and is associated with obesity, diabetes, and other metabolic alterations. Feeding rats with a high-fat high-fructose (HFHF) diet is a reproducible experimental model of obesity/metabolic syndrome and the related MAFLD. Aronia melanocarpa, Rosa canina, and Alchemilla vulgaris are polyphenol-rich plants with proven health benefits. The aim of this study was to reveal the effects of four Aronia melanocarpa-based fruit juices (AMBFJs) in HFHF-fed rats. Methods: The AMBFJs were AM20 and AM60 (produced from aronia berries at 20 °C and 60 °C, respectively), AMRC (aronia juice with Rosa canina), and AMAV (aronia juice with Alchemilla vulgaris). Male Wistar rats were allocated to 6 groups. Except for the Control, the rest of the groups were fed an HFHF diet for 60 days. Throughout the experiment, each of the AMBFJs was administered to one HFHF-fed group. Results: HFHF-fed rats had an increased calorie intake on the background of increased liquid and decreased food consumption. At the end of the experiment, they had similar body weights, slightly increased fat indices, increased levels of blood lipids and liver enzymes, as well as typical histopathological changes in liver and adipose tissue. AMBFJs-treated animals showed improvement in most of these parameters, especially in triglyceride levels, liver enzymes, and the histopathological changes in the liver and fat. AMAV, the juice with the highest polyphenolic content, had the highest effect on adiposity. Conclusion: In HFHF-fed rats, AMBFJs exerted beneficial effects on MAFLD probably due to their polyphenolic ingredients. Full article

Background/Objectives: Creatine monohydrate supplementation has gained popularity in the fitness industry due to its ability to enhance athletic performance and has sparked curiosity about other possible effects of the supplement. The purpose of this study was to examine the effect of creatine supplementation on spatial working memory, body weight, and food intake in male and female rats. Methods: Experimental rats, six male and six female, were administered creatine while six male and six female rats served as controls. The Morris water maze (MWM) was employed to assess spatial working memory. Body weight and food intake were measured daily. Results: Neither male control nor experimental animals demonstrated positive working memory upon initial exposure (week 1) to the MWM, whereas the initial exposure of female control and experimental animals resulted in positive working memory. By week 2 of the experimental period, all animals in both the control and experimental groups showed significant working memory with no significant differences among the groups. These effects were unrelated to creatine supplementation. Gender-specific differences were found for body weight, with higher weight gain observed in male rats compared to female rats. Weight gain was not directly influenced by creatine supplementation; however, food intake was lower in the experimental male rats receiving the supplement as compared to the control rats. No difference was observed in female rats. Conclusions: Because of the popularity of creatine, further research about the effects of this supplement on different mechanisms in the body influencing cognitive processing and appetitive behavior is warranted. Full article

Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) and its progressive form, metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis (MASH), are growing global health concerns. However, pharmacological therapies for MASLD/MASH have not yet been established. Dietary interventions and their bioactive components have been explored as strategies to mitigate MASLD and MASH progression. Although specific nutrients and bioactive compounds have exhibited potential therapeutic benefits, they also exacerbate adverse outcomes. In this comprehensive review, we synthesize the protective and exacerbating or sometimes dual effects of key macronutrients, including fatty acids (saturated, unsaturated, and trans fats) and carbohydrates (fructose, glucose, and sucrose), and bioactive compounds and micronutrients, in the context of MASLD management. The evidence suggests that coffee-derived compounds, such as caffeine and chlorogenic acid, may attenuate liver injury. However, the effects on MASLD severity are inconsistent. Diets high in saturated fatty acids exacerbate MASLD pathogenesis, whereas moderate intake (7–10% of total energy) may confer metabolic benefits. Other bioactive compounds and micronutrients have been explored for their diverse roles in hepatic lipid metabolism and insulin sensitivity. Although current evidence supports the therapeutic potential of specific dietary nutrients and bioactive compounds in the management of MASLD, inconsistencies in results highlight the need for more robust, well-controlled studies, including clinical trials, to clarify the preventive and therapeutic standards for balanced food interventions in MASLD management. In particular, well-designed clinical trials are necessary before clinical application. Although this is a narrative review and the literature retrieval may be biased, we covered a wide variety of substances. Full article

Short-chain fatty acids (SCFA), particularly propionate and butyrate, reduce food intake, body weight, and modulate gut microbiota composition. However, it is unclear whether encapsulation of propionate and butyrate enhances their delivery to distal gut to improve energy balance and gut microbiota composition in obesity. Objectives: We determined the effects of microencapsulated propionate and butyrate on energy balance, gut microbiota and metabolite composition in obese rats. Methods: In experiment-1, obese male Sprague-Dawley rats were fed microencapsulated propionate and butyrate (5–10% wt/wt) or control high-fat diet. In experiment-2, obese rats were fed 10% microencapsulated propionate and butyrate, non-encapsulated butyrate (10% wt/wt), and pair-fed to non-capsulated butyrate. Food intake, energy expenditure (EE), sympathetic-mediated EE changes by propranolol, body composition, gut microbiota and fecal and plasma metabolites were analyzed. Results: Microencapsulated propionate decreased caloric intake, weight and fat mass, while microencapsulated butyrate had modest effects. Non-encapsulated butyrate reduced intake and prevented weight gain beyond pair-fed controls. Microencapsulated propionate and non-encapsulated butyrate reduced respiratory quotient suggestive of a shift towards lipid utilization, and enhanced β-adrenergic-mediated EE. Microencapsulated propionate and butyrate altered alpha and beta diversity metrics, microencapsulated propionate increased Verrucomicrobiae, microencapsulated butyrate increased Lactobacillaceae, and microencapsulated propionate and butyrate reduced Erysipelotrichia. Microencapsulated propionate and butyrate increased fecal amino acids and altered select plasma metabolites; microencapsulated propionate increased fecal and plasma propionate, supporting distal gut delivery. Conclusions: Dietary supplementation with microencapsulated propionate and butyrate improved energy balance, enhanced lipid utilization, beneficially modulated gut microbiota composition, and altered metabolite profiles in obese rats. Full article

The EAT-Lancet diet is an outstanding model of a healthy, environmentally sustainable diet. However, its effects on the gut microbiota remain poorly explored. This study assessed the asso-ciation between adherence to the EAT-Lancet diet in habitual intake and the relative abundance of selected gut bacteria in a Mexican subpopulation. Fifty-four young adults (18–35 years) completed a validated Food Frequency Questionnaire (FFQ) and were nutritionally assessed. Participants were grouped into low, moderate, and high adherence levels to the EAT-Lancet diet. Blood samples were analysed for glucose and lipid profiles, and gDNA from faecal samples was analysed using Real-time qPCR to quantify gut bacteria. While no significant differences in bacterial abundance were observed across adherence levels, correlations emerged with increased adherence. Notably, Bifidobacterium negatively correlated with beef and lamb intake (rho −0.5, p < 0.05), and Akkermansia muciniphila negatively correlated with fish intake (rho −0.8, p < 0.05). Bilophila wadsworthia positively correlated with triglycerides, while Prevotella copri and Faecalibacterium prausnitzii negatively correlated with body fat and blood pressure, respectively. In addition, a non-significant trend toward a higher abundance of Firmicutes, Akkermansia muciniphila, and Prevotella copri was observed in the high-adherence group, whereas Lactobacillus tended to be more abundant in participants with low and moderate adherence. These findings suggest that adherence to the EAT-Lancet diet modulates gut microbiota composition. However, further controlled interventional studies are needed to confirm these effects and their implications for human health. Full article