Search Results (4,791)

Background/Objectives: The rhizome of Gastrodia elata Blume (Tianma) is a functional food with medicinal value in China, used to improve the health of the central nervous system and reported to exhibit anti-cellular senescent activity. P-hydroxybenzaldehyde (P-HBA) is a key aromatic compound isolated from Tianma; however, its potential to mitigate cellular senescence remains unclear. Methods: We employed ultra-performance liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry to identify the chemical characterization of Tianma extract. Cell viability assay, senescence-associated-β-galactosidase (SA-β-Gal) assay, and immunofluorescence staining and autophagy analysis were used to evaluate the anti-senescent activity of P-HBA and other Tianma components. Results: Our findings demonstrate that Tianma methanol extract (TME) and P-HBA significantly reduce cellular senescent inducer hydroxyurea (HU)-induced DNA damage, SA-β-Gal activity increase, and autophagic dysfunction in human SH-SY5Y cells. Notably, an autophagy inhibitor, chloroquine, can reduce anti-cellular senescent activity of P-HBA. Conclusions: These results suggest that P-HBA exhibits the effect of reducing cellular senescent phenotypes, and its effect is achieved by enhancing autophagy. Full article

Metabolic associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD), redefined from non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), is a global health concern driving the search for dietary interventions based on natural compounds. Phloroglucinaldehyde (PGA), a primary phenolic metabolite of the widely consumed anthocyanin cyanidin-3-glucoside (C3G) found in berries and other fruits, has emerged as a promising candidate due to its potential higher bioavailability than its parent compound. This study investigates the protective effects of PGA against high-fat diet (HFD)-induced MAFLD. Using both in vitro (LO2 cells) and in vivo (C57BL/6J mice) models, we found that PGA administration significantly attenuated body weight gain and hepatic steatosis, while reducing serum levels of TG, TC, liver transaminases (AST & ALT), and insulin resistance (p < 0.05). Further liver lipidomic profiling revealed that PGA supplementation specifically down-regulated 46 lipid species (p < 0.05), predominantly triglycerides characterized by long-chain and very-long-chain saturated fatty acids. Mechanistically, PGA enhanced the hepatic antioxidant capacity by increasing superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity (p < 0.05) and decreasing malondialdehyde (MDA) (p < 0.05) and exerted anti-inflammatory effects by reducing pro-inflammatory cytokines (IL-6, TNF, MCP-1) (p < 0.05) and endotoxin levels (p < 0.05). Correlation analyses further linked the down-regulated lipids to improvements in oxidative stress and inflammation. Our findings underscore that PGA, a key bioactive metabolite derived from dietary anthocyanins, alleviates MAFLD through its potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, highlighting its potential as a functional food ingredient or nutraceutical for metabolic health. Full article

Although probiotics are widely used in the food industry due to their health-promoting effects, their application is often limited by low stability and poor viability under processing, storage, and gastrointestinal conditions. Encapsulation has emerged as a promising strategy to address these issues, offering enhanced protection and controlled release of probiotic strains. This review summarizes recent advances in encapsulation techniques relevant to food applications, including spray drying, freeze drying, coacervation, and liposome formation, as well as novel approaches such as multilayer nanocoatings and dual-core systems. The use of natural biopolymers such as alginate, chitosan, and pectin, along with food-grade synthetic materials, has greatly improved the stability of probiotics in complex food matrices. Furthermore, emerging technologies such as cell-mediated coatings offer improved resistance to gastric acid and oxygen, enhancing probiotic survival through the gastrointestinal tract. These advances contribute to the development of functional foods with better health benefits. However, challenges remain regarding scalability, strain-specific encapsulation efficiency, and regulatory approval. Future research should focus on optimizing food-grade materials, exploring synergistic effects with bioactive compounds, and ensuring consistent performance across food systems. Full article

The transformation of Andean grains and tubers through fermentation and bioencapsulation has emerged as a key strategy to enhance their nutritional, functional, and biotechnological value, driven by advances in proteomic and metabolomic techniques. This study aimed to systematize recent evidence on the biochemical and functional modifications induced by these processes and their potential application in the development of functional foods. The methodology integrated 67 studies analyzed using tools such as R 4.5.1 with the JupyterLab interface 4.5.2, SCImago Graphica Beta 1.0.53, and VOSviewer 1.6.20, incorporating data generated through LC-MS/MS, UHPLC-QTOF, Orbitrap platforms, transcriptomics, and combined omics approaches, considering original studies published between 2020 and 2025. The main findings indicate substantial increases in free amino acids (up to 64.8%), phenolic compounds (2.9–5.2%), and antioxidant activity (up to 45%), along with the identification of 430 polyphenols, 90 flavonoids, 14 novel oxindole acetates, and bioactive peptides with IC50 values ranging from 0.51 to 0.78 mg/mL. Bioencapsulation showed controlled release of bioactive compounds, highlighting nanocapsules of 133–165 nm with a maximum release of 9.86 mg GAE/g. In conclusion, the combination of fermentation and encapsulation enhances the stability, bioavailability, and functionality of Andean crops, supporting their industrial adoption for the development of sustainable nutraceutical foods that improve health and promote the valorization of traditional resources. Full article

This study investigated the combined influence of hydrothermal treatment and particle size on the techno-functional properties of defatted coconut residue (DCR) to optimize its use as a hydrocolloid fat replacer. A 3 × 2 factorial design evaluated boiling and autoclaving treatments in combination with coarse and fine milling. Fine particle fractions (boiling-fine [BF] and autoclaved-fine [AF]) were identified as optimal, exhibiting peak water-holding capacity (WHC) (10.95 g/g) and oil-holding capacity (4.57 g/g) due to maximized surface area and thermal unblocking of capillary networks. When incorporated into cookies, all DCR formulations qualified as “reduced-fat” (30% reduction) and “high-fiber” (6 g/100 g) products. Crucially, the extreme WHC of fine fractions induced severe water competition within the dough, leading to a direct inverse correlation with quality, characterized by a restricted spread ratio (6.9) and increased hardness (27 N). Furthermore, thermal leaching of Maillard precursors suppressed excessive browning, improving cookie color. While the BF fraction provided the best functional balance, future research should optimize dough moisture to mitigate the impact of high fiber hydration on texture. These findings demonstrate DCR’s potential for agro-food valorization and improved human health. Full article

Background: Caffeine, dairy products and other food items may influence retinal microcirculation. Retinal microvascular indices provide quantitative biomarkers of systemic microvascular health and are increasingly used in clinical and research settings. The aim of this study was to elucidate the possible effects of these food products on structural and functional indices of the retinal microcirculation. Methods: Based on a registered protocol, we identified eligible interventional/observational studies examining the association of these factors with retinal biomarkers, including central retinal artery equivalent (CRAE), central retinal vein equivalent (CRVE), arteriolar-to-venular diameter ratio (AVR), retinal vascular tortuosity, vessel diameter index (VDI) and retinal vessel flicker light-induced dilation (FID). Results: Fourteen studies were included addressing caffeine (4), dairy products (2) and other food (9) consumption. Acutely, caffeine intake was dose-dependently associated with narrowed CRAE, CRVE, decreased VDI and increased AVR and FID. Long-term, caffeine consumption was associated with larger CRVE and lower AVR, while decaffeinated coffee with larger CRAE and AVR and narrower CRVE. Low-fat dairy products, fish and fiber were associated with larger CRAE, smaller CRVE, and increased AVR, while red meat consumption was associated with narrower CRAE and lower AVR. Increased salt intake was associated with increased venular tortuosity, while almond consumption was associated with larger CRVE. Owing to substantial study heterogeneity, a meta-analysis was not feasible. Conclusions: Potentially clinically meaningful associations between food groups and retinal indices were identified. These associations should be considered when evaluating retinal microcirculation and assessing CVD risk since modification of these factors may be beneficial for the cardiovascular system. Full article

Biological aging disrupts liver–gut intercommunication, resulting in the development of insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes, coupled with the imbalance of gut microbiome composition known as gut dysbiosis. Fermented red ginseng (FRG) is a renowned functional food substance showing its notable anti-inflammatory and anti-diabetic effects owing to its unique bioactive compounds known as ginsenosides. However, whether FRG could impact biological aging and age-related metabolic dysfunction is still unclear. The current study aimed to determine the health benefits of FRG in improving age-associated impaired insulin homeostasis and gut dysbiosis in 19-month-old male mice. Mice were fed with a normal chow diet (NCD) or NCD with FRG (300 mg/kg) for 14 weeks. FRG supplementation significantly improved insulin homeostasis by activating the hepatic protein kinase B (AKT) and proline-rich AKT substrate of 40 kDa (PRAS40). We also observed suppressed mRNA expression of proinflammatory cytokines and diminished inflammatory infiltrates in the liver of FRG-fed mice compared with NCD-only controls. Furthermore, alongside a decreased ratio of Firmicutes to Bacteroidetes, FRG administration enriched beneficial genera, including Muribaculaceae, Borkfalkiaceae, Parasutterella, and Clostridia vadin BB60 group, whereas FRG reduced the abundance of Erysipelotrichaceae and Dubosiella at the genus level. In summary, we suggest that FRG can be a potential anti-aging dietary supplement to manage age-driven dysregulation of insulin homeostasis and gut microbiota composition. Full article

Background/Objectives: This study examines the application of the novel double emulsion gel system for the delivery and release of encapsulated cannabidiol (CBD) and the probiotic strain Lactiplantibacillus plantarum DSM 24624. Methods: During a six-week experimental period comprising stabilization, treatment, and wash-out phases, the dynamic Simulator of the Human Intestinal Microbial Ecosystem (SHIME^®) model was employed to assess a system. The evaluation focused on the delivery of CBD and probiotics, as well as the system’s effects on microbial composition, diversity, and metabolic activity throughout the digestion process using 16S rRNA gene sequencing and digital PCR methods. Results: Microbial community analysis revealed significant shifts in both mucosal and luminal microbiota following supplementation. The treatment increased beneficial bacterial families such as Lachnospiraceae and Clostridiaceae, demonstrated effective delivery, release, and persistence of the probiotic L. plantarum, as well as enhanced butyrate and lactate production. Diversity analyses highlighted a transient rise in alpha diversity within the mucin layer and a decrease in the lumen, with significant changes in beta diversity across experimental phases. Conclusions: Findings suggest that double emulsion gel can be employed for the delivery of probiotics and CBD to the gastrointestinal tract. In addition, an innovative CBD-probiotic formulation can modulate gut microbiota composition and metabolic activity, suggesting its potential as a functional food innovation for intestinal health. However, the results are based on an in vitro model, which lacks the complexity of the human host environment, and further clinical studies are necessary to confirm the biological relevance and therapeutic potential of such delivery systems for gastrointestinal health. Full article

Background/Objectives:Pyrus ussuriensis Maxim. has been cultivated in many regions worldwide. This plant is also regarded as a profitable fruit crop for the development of many food and functional products. There is limited research on the application of the LC-MS associated reaction method for screening active compounds. In this study, we developed an analytical technique employing an ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography-electrospray ionization-tandem mass spectrometry (UHPLC-ESI-MS/MS) system. Methods: The metabolite annotation procedure was used to interpret and validate data analysis via spectral matching against public databases. Results: As a result, metabolites from P. ussuriensis water and EtOH extracts were identified, and their quantities were further evaluated. The established method was employed to determine antioxidant capacity using a pre-incubation UHPLC-2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) assay, thereby identifying antioxidant ingredients. The antioxidative interference of active constituents was predicted by calculating the decrease in the peak areas of the chemical composition detected in chromatograms between treated and non-treated samples. Furthermore, drug-likeness was also assessed via pharmacokinetics (absorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion: ADME) evaluation. Conclusions: The online UHPLC-MS-DPPH method would be a powerful tool for the rapid characterization of antioxidant ingredients in plant extracts. The current study highlights the value of P. ussuriensis for improved health benefits. Full article

Background: Food insecurity may adversely affect cognitive function through pathways involving nutritional deficiencies, chronic stress, and comorbid health conditions, with potentially different effects across cognitive domains. Longitudinal evidence remains limited by time-varying confounding, and it is unclear whether Supplemental Food Assistance Program (SNAP) participation modifies these associations. Objectives: To examine the longitudinal association between food insecurity and cognitive function using marginal structural models (MSMs), and whether SNAP participation buffers these associations for overall cognition, episodic memory, and attention/mental processing. Methods: 30,641 adults aged ≥50 in the 1998–2020 Health and Retirement Study (HRS) contributed 156,066 person-year observations. MSMs with stabilized inverse probability of treatment weights were used to account for time-varying socioeconomic, health, and cognitive confounding affected by prior exposure. Weighted pooled linear regression models estimated marginal associations and interaction effects. Results: Moderate and high food insecurity were associated with lower overall cognition (b = −0.36 and −0.71, respectively; p < 0.001). Similar graded associations were observed for episodic memory (b = −0.22; −0.43) and attention/mental processing (b = −0.15; −0.28; all p < 0.001). SNAP participation significantly attenuated these associations across cognitive domains, with stronger buffering effects among non-Hispanic Black and Hispanic respondents. Effect sizes corresponded to differences equivalent to several years of cognitive aging. Conclusions: Food insecurity is associated with poorer cognitive function across multiple domains, while SNAP participation mitigates these associations. Despite limitations of observational data, these findings highlight the methodological value of MSMs and the potential role of food assistance programs in reducing cognitive health disparities in later life. Full article

Background/Objectives: Understanding the purchasing behaviour of sweetened beverages is important, as beverages have been highlighted as a key target for reducing sugar intake. This research aimed to provide a comprehensive understanding of trends in per capita volume sales of non-alcoholic water-based beverages (WBB) in Australia and their contribution to dietary sugars between 1997 and 2024. Methods: Volume sales data for the years 2018 to 2024 (Circana Connect) were integrated with three previously published datasets spanning 1997 to 2018, with adjustments to reflect the total market where applicable. Per capita volume sales were determined using national population data (Australian Bureau of Statistics) for each corresponding year. Linear regression analysis was performed to assess trends in per capita volume sales over time. Sugar contributions of each beverage category were modelled based on representative sugar content data. Results: Total WBB sales showed consistent growth over the 28-year period (1.68 L/person/year, 36.2%). Within this, sales of sugar-sweetened beverages (SSB) declined (−1.08 L/person/year), with a concurrent increase in non-sugar-sweetened and unsweetened beverage purchases (2.74 L/person/year). This transition became more pronounced from 2015 and coincided with a decreased contribution of WBB to dietary sugars (−0.13 kg/person/year, p < 0.001). There was variation in sales and sugar contribution trends by beverage category. Functional beverages (e.g., coconut water, protein water) showed increases in sales and sugar contribution. Conclusions: The last 28 years have seen a trend in beverage purchases away from sugar-sweetened to non-sugar-sweetened and unsweetened varieties. This comprehensive analysis of consumer beverage choices makes a valuable contribution to policy and health-focused food industry initiatives. Full article

Steviol glycosides (SGs) are high-intensity, zero-calorie natural sweeteners with demonstrated safety and potential health benefits, positioning them as ideal sucrose substitutes for metabolic disorder management. However, their broad application is limited by inherent drawbacks such as bitterness, low solubility, and inefficient production systems. This review provides a comprehensive summary of recent advances in SG research, covering their sources, properties, and bioactivities. A particular focus is placed on innovative bioproduction strategies—including enzyme engineering, metabolic pathway optimization, and sustainable extraction techniques. Strategies to overcome these challenges through sensory-function enhancement—including formulation and structural modification—are discussed. Furthermore, it highlights emerging trends like microbial chassis-based production and next-generation sweetener design, providing actionable insights for overcoming industrial bottlenecks. By integrating multidisciplinary advances in bioengineering, sensory science, and sustainable processing, this review offers a forward-looking perspective on the development and application of SGs as functional sweeteners in the global food industry. Full article

Promising approach for the expansion of the functional food sector is combining various ingredients with potential health benefits. The aim of this study was to create protein aggregates by freeze-drying encapsulation. Rice or pea proteins were used as carriers for encapsulation of chokeberry juice polyphenols. Additionally, disaccharides (sucrose and trehalose) were added to explore possible enhancement of encapsulation of polyphenols. Two methods were employed for complexation of ingredients prior to freeze-drying: one based on complexation of all ingredients at the same time and the other on complexation first of proteins with disaccharides and then with chokeberry juice. All parameters affected the binding of polyphenols on proteins. Total polyphenols, proanthocyanidins, individual polyphenols, and antioxidant potentials of created protein aggregates were determined. When rice protein was the main carrier, the addition of disaccharides caused a decrease in total polyphenols and proanthocyanindins contents (22.41–24.01 mg GAE/g and 6.36–7.28 mg PB2E/g, respectively) in comparison to aggregates without their addition (28.03 mg GAE/g and 8.57 mg PB2E/g, respectively). In the case of pea proteins, a different trend was observed. Aggregates without disaccharide addition had a lower amount of total polyphenols and proanthocyanindins (21.25 mg GAE/g and 5.56 mg PB2E/g, respectively) than those with disaccharide addition (21.42–26.44 mg GAE/g and 6.37–9.45 mg PB2E/g, respectively). Interactions between compounds were proven through IR spectra, and they included changes in amid structures, as well as hydrogen bonds and hydrophobic interactions. Such formulated plant-based protein aggregates can be used in the food industry for the enrichment of foods with polyphenols, incensement of antioxidant potential, and prolonging stability of products. Full article

Pregnancy represents a period of heightened oxidative demand in which maternal metabolic adaptations are tightly regulated by redox-sensitive molecular pathways. Imbalances in these systems have been associated with gestational complications, impaired placental function, and long-term effects on offspring health. This review examines the molecular mechanisms through which adherence to the Mediterranean diet (MD) influences oxidative balance during pregnancy. We summarize evidence on how MD-derived bioactives regulate oxidative stress pathways and affect oxidative stress biomarkers, as well as the expression of antioxidant enzymes such as superoxide dismutase and glutathione peroxidase. At the same time, certain MD foods containing environmental contaminants may potentially attenuate its protective effects. In addition, the review explores molecular insights into how the MD may counteract oxidative stress induced by environmental pollutants through modulation of redox signaling and detoxification pathways. By integrating biochemical, molecular, and environmental perspectives, this review highlights the MD as a potential nutrigenomic intervention to optimize oxidative balance, support healthy pregnancy outcomes linked to environmental pollution. Full article

Background/Objectives: Youth with type 1 diabetes (T1DM) face unique challenges in balancing dietary choices, physical health outcomes, and social–emotional well-being in school settings. This cross-sectional exploratory pilot study examined the associations of diet with physical health and teacher-reported social–emotional functioning in students with T1DM. Methods: Students with T1DM (mean age = 13.42; 47 female, 50 male; 50% White, Non-Hispanic, 50% minority) self-reported their nutritional habits using the KBlock Dietary Screener for Children when school was in session. Teacher-rated school-related behaviors were assessed through the Behavior Assessment Scale for Children-2nd Edition (BASC-2). Canonical correlation analysis was conducted to determine whether the variable sets (diet with physical health and school-related behavioral health) shared a significant multivariate relationship. Results: Youth with lower glycemic loads and consuming more sugar, dairy, and meat/poultry/fish but fewer legumes, fruit, and less saturated fat exhibited fewer externalizing symptoms and higher BMI. Diet uniquely accounted for modest variance in combined social–emotional and physical health, controlling for demographics and T1DM duration. Findings support increasing the availability of whole, nutrient-rich foods, integrating comprehensive nutrition education into curricula, and ensuring access for all students, regardless of socioeconomic status. Conclusions: Comprehensive dietary assessments and school-based randomized control trials are needed to enact more evidence-based dietary recommendations or interventions for youth, aiming for a balanced approach that addresses both mental and physical health outcomes. Full article