Search Results (276)

Honey is a natural product of honeybees that has been consumed for centuries due to its nutritional value and potential health benefits. Recent scientific research has focused on its antioxidant capacity, which is linked to a variety of bioactive compounds such as phenolic acids, enzymes (e.g., glucose oxidase, catalase), flavonoids, ascorbic acid, carotenoids, amino acids, and proteins. Together, these components work synergistically to neutralize free radicals, regulate antioxidant enzyme activity, and reduce oxidative stress. This review decisively outlines the antioxidant effects of honey and presents compelling clinical and experimental evidence supporting its critical role in preventing diseases associated with oxidative stress. Honey stands out for its extensive health benefits, which include robust protection against cardiovascular issues, notable anticancer and anti-inflammatory effects, enhanced glycemic control in diabetes, immune modulation, neuroprotection, and effective wound healing. As a recognized functional food and dietary supplement, honey is essential for the prevention and adjunct treatment of chronic diseases. However, it faces challenges due to variations in composition linked to climatic conditions, geographical and floral sources, as well as hive management practices. The limited number of large-scale clinical trials further underscores the need for more research. Future studies must focus on elucidating honey’s antioxidant mechanisms, standardizing its bioactive compounds, and examining its synergistic effects with other natural antioxidants to fully harness its potential. Full article

Background and Aim: Type 2 diabetes (T2D) continues to pose a significant public health challenge worldwide. Among therapeutic options, glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1 RAs) have proven effective in optimizing glycemic control and improving cardiometabolic profiles. Semaglutide, now available in an oral formulation, represents a modern strategy to improve patient adherence while supporting glucose and weight regulation. This study primarily investigated the effects of oral semaglutide on key metabolic indicators and secondary endpoints included cardiovascular risk markers (blood pressure and lipid profile) and patient-reported quality of life (QoL). Study Design and Methods: A longitudinal, prospective observational study was conducted involving patients with T2D across two Italian healthcare facilities. Participants were assessed at baseline (T0) and at three subsequent intervals—6 months (T1), 12 months (T2), and 18 months (T3)—following the initiation of oral semaglutide use. Key Findings: Out of 116 participants enrolled, 97 had complete and analyzable data. Across the 18-month follow-up, significant improvements were observed in glycemic parameters, with a notable reduction in HbA1c levels (T0 vs. T3, p = 0.0028; p ≤ 0.05, statistically significant). Self-reported outcomes showed enhanced quality of life, especially in treatment satisfaction and perceived flexibility (T0 vs. T3, p < 0.001). Conclusions: Daily administration of 14 mg oral semaglutide in individuals with T2D resulted in substantial benefits in glycemic regulation, weight reduction, cardiovascular risk management, and overall patient satisfaction. These findings reinforce its potential role as a sustainable and effective option in long-term diabetes care from both a clinical and public health perspective. Full article

Plant-sourced Dietary Fibers (PDFs) have garnered significant attention due to their multifaceted health benefits, particularly in glycemic control, lipid metabolism regulation, and gut microbiota modulation. This review systematically investigates advanced modification strategies, including physical, chemical, bioengineering, and hybrid approaches, to improve the physicochemical properties and bioactivity of PDFs from legumes, cereals, and other sources. Key modifications such as steam explosion, enzymatic hydrolysis, and carboxymethylation significantly improve solubility, porosity, and functional group exposure, thereby optimizing the health-promoting effects of legume-sourced dietary fiber. The review further elucidates critical structure–function relationships, highlighting PDF’s prebiotic potential, synergistic interactions with polyphenols and proteins, and responsive designs for targeted nutrient delivery. In functional food applications, cereal-sourced dietary fibers serve as a versatile functional ingredient in engineered foods including 3D-printed gels and low-glycemic energy bars, addressing specific metabolic disorders and personalized dietary requirements. By integrating state-of-the-art modification techniques with innovative applications, this review provides comprehensive insights into PDF’s transformative role in advancing functional foods and personalized nutrition solutions. Full article

Glucose-responsive insulin delivery systems that effectively regulate insulin retention and release in response to real-time fluctuation of glucose levels are highly desirable for diabetes care with minimized risk of hypoglycemia. Herein, we report a class of glucose-sensitive copolymer microgels, prepared from a simple one-pot precipitation copolymerization of 4-vinylphenylboronic acid (VPBA), 2-(dimethylamino) ethyl acrylate (DMAEA), and oligo(ethylene glycol) methyl ether methacrylate (M_w = 300, MEO₅MA), for gated glucose-responsive insulin release within the physiologically desirable glucose level range. The composition of the p(VPBA-DMAEA-MEO₅MA) copolymer microgels were analyzed using NMR and FTIR spectra. The cis-diols of glucose can reversibly bind with the −B(OH)₂ groups of the VPBA component in the microgels, resulting in the formation of negatively charged boronate esters that induce the volume phase transition of the microgels. The DMAEA component is incorporated to reduce the pK_a of VPBA, thus improving the glucose sensitivity of the microgels at physiological pH. The neutral hydrophilic MEO₅MA component is used to tune the onset of the glucose responsiveness of the microgels to the physiologically desirable levels. The more the MEO₅MA component copolymerized in the microgels, the greater the glucose concentration required to initiate the swelling of the microgels to trigger the release of insulin. When the onset of the glucose response was tuned to 4−5 mM, the copolymer microgels retained insulin effectively in the hypo-/normo-glycemic range but also released insulin efficiently in response to the elevation of glucose levels in the hyperglycemic range, which is essential for diabetes management. The copolymer microgels display no cytotoxicity in vitro. Full article

Insulin, traditionally recognized for its pivotal role in glycemic regulation, exerts extensive effects beyond glucose homeostasis, influencing multiple physiological systems. This narrative review explores the multifaceted actions of insulin, emphasizing its impact on skeletal muscle remodeling, protein and lipid metabolism, growth, reproductive health, and the central nervous system. Methods: An in-depth review of articles with evidence-based research discussing insulin actions beyond glycemic control was conducted in this review paper. Results: Insulin directly influences lipid and protein metabolism as well as growth hormone levels. This hormone provides a protective effect on the skeletal and central nervous systems, helping to maintain homeostasis and potentially reducing the risk of certain disorders such as Alzheimer’s disease. The significance of insulin balance in the reproductive system is also crucial, with recent research indicating that insulin plays a role in worsening symptoms and complications associated with polycystic ovary syndrome. This review underscores the importance of maintaining proper insulin levels to lower the risk of insulin resistance. Ongoing research aims to deepen our understanding of insulin’s functions, which are essential for preventing specific diseases and developing new treatment strategies. Conclusions: Insulin’s action extends far beyond glucose metabolism, affecting many systems and preventing pathological changes in some. Full article

Obesity-driven inflammation disrupts gut barrier integrity and promotes inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Emerging evidence highlights gut hormones—including glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1), glucagon-like peptide-2 (GLP-2), glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP), peptide YY (PYY), cholecystokinin (CCK), and apolipoprotein A4 (APOA4)—as key regulators of metabolism and mucosal immunity. This review outlines known mechanisms and explores therapeutic prospects in IBD. GLP-1 improves glycemic control, induces weight loss, and preserves intestinal barrier function, while GLP-2 enhances epithelial repair and reduces pro-inflammatory cytokine expression in animal models of colitis. GIP facilitates lipid clearance, enhances insulin sensitivity, and limits systemic inflammation. PYY and CCK slow gastric emptying, suppress appetite, and attenuate colonic inflammation via neural pathways. APOA4 regulates lipid transport, increases energy expenditure, and exerts antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects that alleviate experimental colitis. Synergistic interactions—such as GLP-1/PYY co-administration, PYY-stimulated APOA4 production, and APOA4-enhanced CCK activity—suggest that multi-hormone combinations may offer amplified therapeutic benefits. While preclinical data are promising, clinical evidence supporting gut hormone therapies in IBD remains limited. Dual GIP/GLP-1 receptor agonists improve metabolic and inflammatory parameters, but in clinical use, they are associated with gastrointestinal side effects that warrant further investigation. Future research should evaluate combination therapies in preclinical IBD models, elucidate shared neural and receptor-mediated pathways, and define optimal strategies for applying gut hormone synergy in human IBD. These efforts may uncover safer, metabolically tailored treatments for IBD, particularly in patients with coexisting obesity or metabolic dysfunction. Full article

This study investigated the functional potential of Campomanesia xanthocarpa leaf and fruit infusions through phytochemical profiling, simulated gastrointestinal digestion, enzyme inhibition assays, and in vivo evaluation of glycemic markers. Leaf infusions exhibited a more diverse phenolic profile, higher total phenolic content, and greater antioxidant capacity compared to fruit infusions. Simulated digestion confirmed the bioaccessibility of key phenolic compounds, particularly glycosylated flavonoids such as quercetin-3-glucoside and kaempferol derivatives, with leaf extracts showing superior gastrointestinal stability. In vitro assays revealed a strong inhibitory activity of leaf infusions against α-amylase and β-glucosidase. In a 32-day trial with healthy dogs, the consumption of biscuits enriched with leaf infusion did not alter fasting glucose or amylase levels but resulted in a significant treatment × time interaction for serum fructosamine, indicating a delayed modulation of glycemic control, potentially associated with antioxidant or anti-glycation activity. These findings highlight the potential of C. xanthocarpa leaves as a functional ingredient in foods aimed at supporting glycemic regulation and metabolic health. Full article

In this study, the effects of enzymolysis on physicochemical properties, digestive characteristics, and flora regulation of the meal replacement powder (MRP) were investigated on the basis of the previously obtained compound MRP. The results showed that the color, water absorption index, and water solubility index of the MRP were obviously improved after enzymatic hydrolysis. The swelling power (1.43 ± 0.11 g/g, 25 °C) and water-holding capacity (4.66 ± 0.09 g/g) of the MRP (CE_1) were decreased, while the oil holding capacity (2.14 ± 0.13 g/g) was increased. In the microcosmic aspect, the samples treated by enzymolysis had different degree of degradation, the particle size decreased (D50 = 57.71 μm), and the specific surface area (679.2 cm²/g) increased. The MRP samples treated by enzymolysis had better antioxidant capacity and cholate adsorption capacity. All MRP samples belong to low glycemic index (GI) foods, and can improve gut microbiota (Megamonas, Bacteroides, Rocheella, Parasatre, Koalabacterium, and Prasus) and promote the production of short chain fatty acids such as acetic acid, propionic acid and butyric acid. Therefore, this study not only further expands the comprehensive utilization of Aronia melanocarpa, but also provides a reference for the diversification of low GI related products. Full article

Epidemiological studies have shown that individuals with type 2 diabetes have an increased risk of developing neurodegenerative diseases. These diseases and type 2 diabetes share several risk factors. Meanwhile, the antidiabetic drug metformin offers promising neuroprotective effects by reducing oxidative stress and neuroinflammation, two significant factors in neurodegenerative diseases. This review examines the mechanisms by which metformin mitigates neuronal damage. Metformin reduces neuroinflammation by inhibiting microglial activation and suppressing proinflammatory cytokines. It also triggers the nuclear factor erythroid-2-related factor-2 (Nrf2) pathway to combat oxidative stress, an essential regulator of antioxidant defenses. These outcomes support the possible neuroprotective roles of metformin in type 2 diabetes-related cognitive decline and conditions like Alzheimer’s disease. Metformin’s therapeutic potential is further supported by its capacity to strengthen the blood–brain barrier’s (BBB’s) integrity and increase autophagic flux. Metformin also offers several neuroprotective effects by targeting multiple pathological pathways. Moreover, metformin is being studied for its potential benefits beyond glycemic control, particularly in the areas of cognition, Alzheimer’s disease, aging, and stroke management. Evidence from both clinical and preclinical studies indicates a complex and multifaceted impact, with benefits varying among populations and depending on underlying disease conditions, making it an appealing candidate for managing several neurodegenerative diseases. Full article

Mao Jian Green Tea flavonoids (MJGT_F) contain luteolin, luteolin-7-O-glucoside, eriodictyol, and eriodictyol-7-O-glucoside, among which the first three components have hypoglycemic effects; however, the overall hypoglycemic potential of MJGT_F remains unclear. This study demonstrated that MJGT_F inhibited α-glucosidase in vitro and improved metabolic parameters in a dose-dependent manner in T2DM (type 2 diabetes mellitus) rats (reducing blood glucose, triglyceride, total cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein, insulin, and the homeostatic model assessment of insulin resistance; increasing high-density lipoprotein, insulin sensitivity index, and glucagon-like peptide-1). High-dose MJGT_F (MJGT_F_H) showed optimal efficacy. Mechanistically, MJGT_F_H activated the AMPK pathway, evidenced by a significant increase in the p-AMPK/AMPK ratio and downregulation of hepatic gluconeogenic enzymes G6Pase and PEPCK. These coordinated effects collectively suggest enhanced hepatic glucose utilization and suppression of glucose overproduction. MJGT_F_H also modulated gut microbiota by enriching beneficial taxa (e.g., Akkermansia muciniphila, 11.17-fold vs. metformin) and reducing pathogens like Enterobacteriaceae. These findings highlight MJGT_F’s dual regulatory roles in glucose metabolism and microbiota, supporting its potential for diabetes management. Full article

Root and tuber vegetables—such as beetroot (Beta vulgaris), carrot (Daucus carota), cassava (Manihot esculenta), potato (Solanum tuberosum), taro (Colocasia esculenta), and Jerusalem artichoke (Helianthus tuberosus)—are increasingly recognized not only for their nutritional value but also for their richness in bioactive compounds, including polyphenols, dietary fiber, resistant starch, and prebiotic carbohydrates that exhibit varying levels of antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and glycemic-regulating properties. Incorporating these vegetables into baked goods offers both functional and technological benefits, such as improved moisture retention, reduced acrylamide formation, and suitability for gluten-free formulations. The processing conditions can significantly influence the stability and bioavailability of these bioactive components, while the presence of antinutritional factors—such as phytates, cyanogenic glycosides, and FODMAPs (fermentable oligo-, di-, monosaccharides, and polyols)—needs careful optimization. The structured narrative literature review approach allowed collecting studies that examine both the beneficial and potential drawbacks of tuber-based ingredients. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the chemical composition, health-promoting effects, and technological roles of edible tubers in bakery applications, also addressing current challenges related to processing, formulation, and consumer acceptance. Special emphasis is placed on the valorization of tuber by-products, enhancement of functional properties, and the promotion of sustainable food systems using zero-waste strategies. Full article

Glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) has emerged as a pivotal regulator in the management of glucose homeostasis, glycogen metabolism, and energy balance, positioning it as a critical therapeutic target for addressing obesity, metabolic syndrome, and type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). GLP-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1RAs) have shown promise for improving glycemic control and reducing weight through appetite regulation, delayed gastric emptying, and energy expenditure modulation. This narrative review explores the mechanisms of GLP-1-mediated glycogen metabolism and energy expenditure, particularly in key tissues—pancreas, liver, skeletal muscle, and adipose tissue. In the pancreas, GLP-1 enhances insulin secretion and beta-cell function. In the liver, it promotes glycogen synthesis via insulin-dependent and potential insulin-independent pathways, involving protein kinase B (AKT) and AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) signaling. Skeletal muscle benefits from GLP-1 through increased glucose uptake, AMPK activation, and mitochondrial function, facilitating glycogen storage. In adipose tissue, GLP-1 stimulates brown adipose tissue (BAT) thermogenesis and energy expenditure, contributing to weight loss. This increase in energy expenditure, along with enhanced glycogen metabolism, is a plausible mechanism for the weight loss observed with GLP-1RAs. Despite these advances, significant knowledge gaps remain, particularly regarding the direct hepatic effects of GLP-1, the extent to which it modulates glycogen metabolism in vivo, and its impact on thermogenesis in humans. Future research focusing on both the tissue-specific actions of GLP-1 and its systemic role in energy homeostasis and metabolic regulation will be essential for optimizing its therapeutic potential. Full article

Obesity and metabolic disorders remain major global health concerns, traditionally attributed to excessive caloric intake and poor diet quality. Recent studies emphasize that the timing of meals plays a crucial role in determining metabolic health. This review explores chrononutrition, a growing field that examines how food intake patterns interact with endogenous circadian rhythms to influence energy balance, glucose and lipid metabolism, and cardiometabolic risk. The circadian system, which includes a central clock in the suprachiasmatic nucleus and peripheral clocks in metabolic tissues, regulates physiological functions on a 24 h cycle. While light entrains the central clock, feeding schedules act as key synchronizers for peripheral clocks. Disrupting this alignment—common in modern lifestyles involving shift work or late-night eating—can impair hormonal rhythms, reduce insulin sensitivity, and promote adiposity. Evidence from clinical and preclinical studies suggests that early time-restricted eating, where food intake is confined to the morning or early afternoon, offers significant benefits for weight control, glycemic regulation, lipid profiles, and mitochondrial efficiency, even in the absence of caloric restriction. These effects are particularly relevant for populations vulnerable to circadian disruption, such as adolescents, older adults, and night-shift workers. In conclusion, aligning food intake with circadian biology represents a promising, low-cost, and modifiable strategy to improve metabolic outcomes. Integrating chrononutrition into clinical and public health strategies may enhance dietary adherence and treatment efficacy. Future large-scale studies are needed to define optimal eating windows, assess long-term sustainability, and establish population-specific chrononutritional guidelines. Full article

Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a chronic metabolic disorder characterized by impaired glycemic regulation and persistent hyperglycemia, which drives the onset of microvascular complications such as diabetic neuropathy and nephropathy. Chronic hyperglycemia activates oxidative stress pathways and alters gut microbiota composition, both of which contribute to disease progression. In this context, probiotics have emerged as promising therapeutic agents due to their ability to modulate oxidative stress, improve glycemic control, and influence gut microbial balance. This review summarizes preclinical and clinical evidence supporting the antioxidant potential of probiotics in DM management, with a focus on underlying mechanisms. Strains from the Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium genera are the most extensively studied and have demonstrated hypoglycemic and antioxidant effects, including the enhancement of key antioxidant enzymes and reductions in lipid peroxidation and nitrosative stress markers. Probiotics have also shown beneficial effects in DM-associated complications, particularly diabetic neuropathy and nephropathy. While clinical data are still limited, recent findings underscore oxidative stress as a critical therapeutic target influenced by probiotic interventions. Overall, current evidence supports probiotics as a complementary strategy for managing DM and its complications, highlighting the need for further well-designed clinical trials exploring diverse strains, formulations, and dosing regimens. Full article

Recent studies have demonstrated the efficacy of glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists and dipeptidyl peptidase-4 inhibitors in enhancing glycemic control, regulating body weight, and modulating lipid metabolism. However, their effects on lipoprotein subfractions have not been clarified. The objective of this 52-week, single-center, randomized trial was to compare the effects of subcutaneous semaglutide administered once weekly and oral sitagliptin administered once daily on anthropometric measurements and lipoprotein subfractions measured by Lipoprint gelelectrophoresis in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). A total of 34 obese individuals with T2DM were enrolled in the study and randomly assigned to receive semaglutide (n = 18) or sitagliptin (n = 16). Thirty-one age- and body weight-matched non-diabetic obese individuals served as controls. Semaglutide treatment resulted in significant reductions in body mass index (BMI), waist circumference, and Hb_A1c, along with improvements in lipid parameters, including reductions in LDL cholesterol and non-HDL cholesterol levels, and redistribution of LDL and HDL subfractions toward a less atherogenic profile. Conversely, sitagliptin elicited modest glycemic improvements without substantial alterations in lipid composition. Multivariate regression analysis demonstrated that fluctuations in lipoprotein subfractions were not influenced by changes in BMI or HbA1c. These results support the pleiotropic metabolic benefits of semaglutide and its potential role in managing the cardiometabolic risk of T2DM. Full article