Search Results (61)

Background/Objectives: Surgical resection of non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) often results in temporary suppression of natural killer cell activity (NKA), potentially increasing the risk of recurrence. This study aimed to evaluate whether multivitamin and mineral complexes containing Agaricus blazei could support postoperative immune recovery. Methods: In this randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled multicenter pilot trial, 66 patients with stage I–III NSCLC received either a supplement or a placebo for 28 days post-surgery. NKA was assessed using an interferon-γ release assay preoperatively, on postoperative days (POD) 1–4, and on POD 30. Immune cell subsets, cytokine levels, clinical parameters, and quality of life were evaluated. Results: Both groups showed a postoperative decline in NKA, with recovery observed by POD 30. Although the increase in NKA was not statistically significant, the treatment group showed a greater relative recovery (17.8% vs. 9.9%, p = 0.104). Immune profiling demonstrated significantly better preservation of T cells (p = 0.026) and B cells (p = 0.001) as well as a greater reduction in monocytes (p = 0.031) in the treatment group. No significant differences were observed in cytokine levels, body mass index, Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group Performance Status, or patient-reported outcomes. Conclusions: Supplementation with a multivitamin and mineral complex containing Agaricus blazei may contribute to favorable immune modulation in patients undergoing curative surgery for NSCLC. Larger long-term trials are warranted to confirm these findings and facilitate clinical application. Full article

The Polish dietary supplement market is undergoing rapid development, driven by an increasing societal interest in preventative healthcare and the utilisation of products that have demonstrated efficacy. Poland is a leading European dietary supplement market, driven by a number of factors, including increased nutritional awareness, an ageing population, and intensive marketing efforts by manufacturers. In this study, the elemental composition of 24 dietary supplements containing iron, folic acid, and other vitamins and essential macro- and micronutrients was examined using CV AAS, F AAS, and ICP-OES techniques. The samples analysed included supplements intended for pregnant and breastfeeding women, supplements for individuals struggling with anaemia, and multivitamin supplements containing a complete set of both vitamins and minerals. In order to ensure the accuracy of the product, the mineral doses listed in the package inserts were also verified. The study’s findings revealed significant discrepancies between the doses declared by manufacturers and the doses obtained through analysis, particularly with regard to iron and zinc. Furthermore, an inconsistency was observed between the mineral doses and the values recommended by Polish law. Full article

Background: Cognitive decline is a growing public health concern in Latin America, driven by rapid aging, widespread micronutrient inadequacies, and socioeconomic disparities. Despite the recognized importance of nutrition, many older adults struggle to meet daily dietary micronutrients requirements, increasing the risk of mild cognitive impairment (MCI). This study aimed to establish expert consensus on the role of Multivitamin and Mineral supplements (MVMs) in promoting cognitive healthy aging among older adults in Latin America. Methods: A panel of nine experts in geriatrics, neurology, and nutrition applied a modified Delphi methodology to generate consensus statements. The panel reviewed the literature, engaged in expert discussions, and used structured voting to develop consensus statements. Results: Consensus was reached on 14 statements. Experts agreed that cognitive aging in Latin America is influenced by neurobiological, lifestyle, and socioeconomic factors, including widespread micronutrient inadequacies (vitamins B-complex, C, D, E, and minerals such as zinc, magnesium, chromium, copper, iron and selenium), which were identified as critical for global cognitive function and brain structures, yet commonly inadequate in the elderly. While a balanced diet remains essential, MVMs can be recommended as a complementary strategy to bridge nutritional gaps. Supporting evidence, including the COSMOS-Mind trials, demonstrate that MVM use improves memory and global cognition, and reduces cognitive aging by up to 2 years in older adults. Conclusions: MVMs offer a promising, accessible adjunct for cognitive healthy aging in Latin America’s elderly population, particularly where dietary challenges persist. Region-specific guidelines, public health initiatives, and targeted research are warranted to optimize outcomes and reduce health inequities. Full article

Background and Objectives: Studies investigating the types of dietary supplements associated with the atopic triad using large-scale data remain limited. We assessed the prevalence of the atopic triad, the types of dietary supplements used, and their associations in Korean adults using a 4-year national survey data. Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional study utilized data from the Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (2018–2021). Adults aged ≥ 19 years were included. Descriptive statistics were used to summarize participants’ overall characteristics and estimate the national prevalence of the atopic triad, defined as a diagnosis of asthma, allergic rhinitis, or atopic dermatitis. Logistic regression analyses were conducted using each atopic condition as a dependent variable, with the types of dietary supplements currently used as independent variables. Covariates included socioeconomic status, lifestyle factors, frailty, and diet. Dietary supplements were categorized as multivitamins/minerals, vitamin C, vitamin D, vitamin A/lutein, propolis, omega-3, probiotics, red ginseng, calcium, or iron. Results: A total of 18,182 adults were analyzed, representing an estimated 52.8 million adults (mean age: 47 years; 50% male). Of these, 21% reported a history of any atopic triad, and 61% were current supplement users. Logistic regression showed significantly higher odds of all three atopic conditions among users of propolis (asthma: OR 1.90, 95% CI 1.04–3.47; allergic rhinitis: OR 1.64, 95% CI 1.25–2.17; atopic dermatitis: OR 2.04, 95% CI: 1.18–3.52), and higher odds of allergic rhinitis among users of probiotics (OR 1.21, 95% CI 1.06–1.38) and vitamin D (OR 1.43, 95% CI 1.16–1.75). Conclusions: A positive association was found between propolis use and all three atopic conditions. Also, a positive association was found between probiotics or vitamin D use and allergic rhinitis. We did not find significant associations with the other supplements. Further research in establishing causal relationships between the dietary supplements and atopic conditions are needed. Full article

Background: Dietary supplements (DSs) are widely used to complement diets, particularly among individuals with specific nutritional needs. While DSs can promote health and prevent disease, improper use may lead to adverse effects or medication interactions, highlighting the need for safe, informed consumption. This study assesses knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) related to DSs in Western Saudi Arabia, providing insights into national consumption patterns. Method: A cross-sectional online survey was conducted between December 2023 and February 2024. A 28-item questionnaire covering demographics, knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding DSs was administered. Participants aged 18 years and older residing in the study regions were recruited through convenience sampling. Data were analyzed with SPSS version 22 using descriptive statistics and chi-square tests. Results: A total of 1006 participants completed the survey, with 70.5% (n = 709) reporting DS use. Most respondents were female (71.8%) and 34.3% were aged between 18 and 30 years. Although 82.5% were aware of DSs, only 41% knew the correct dosages, and 30.3% expressed uncertainty about DS safety. About 28.1% of DS users experienced side effects. Multivitamins were the most commonly used DS type (44.9%), followed by mono-vitamins (39.9%) and minerals (7.5%). The primary motivations for DS use were health improvement and ensuring adequate nutrition (66%), while 20% used DSs to address specific deficiencies. Most participants sourced DSs from pharmacies (85.5%), and 46.6% relied on the internet for information. Significant differences in DSs use were observed based on gender and age (p < 0.001). Conclusion: This study highlights the widespread use of DSs, with significant gaps in knowledge, attitudes, and practices concerning dosage and safety. Associations between DS use and demographic factors indicate that public health strategies should address these variables. Targeted education and clear guidance on safe DS use are essential for promoting informed consumption and reducing potential health risks. Full article

Background/Objectives: Dietary supplements are associated with general well-being. However, there is a growing concern about health risks from unlabeled harmful substances, contaminants, or their interactions with conventional drugs. The use of dietary supplements should also be monitored in vulnerable groups. Hence, this study aimed to explore key factors associated with dietary supplement use and health status among Portuguese adults. Methods: An online-based cross-sectional survey was conducted to assess health, medication, and dietary supplement use. Data were collected from January to February 2023. The participants (N = 449) were categorized into age groups (18–29, 30–39, 40–60, and 60+). Descriptive and multivariate statistical analysis were performed. Results: Overall, 73% of the participants were female, with 38% in the 40–60 age group. Among male participants (27%), more than half belonged to the two older age groups. Additionally, 42% reported having a diagnosed disease, 43% reported using medication, and 66% rated their health as “good”. Participants aged 60+ with multiple diagnosed diseases and a higher BMI were associated with poorer self-rated health. Cardiovascular drug use was more prevalent among males and the 60+ age group, positively correlating with the number of medications (r = 0.40, p < 0.001). Medication use (OR = 0.25, 95%CI: 0.10–0.60) and diagnosed diseases (OR = 0.34, 95%CI: 0.17–0.69) were associated with a lower likelihood of avoiding supplement use. Females were more likely to use supplements, with multivitamin–mineral supplements most common among both sexes and adults aged 60+. Conclusions: As supplement use increases, developing evidence-based guidelines for safe use, especially among vulnerable populations, is crucial. Full article

Background: Associations of antioxidants in prenatal over-the-counter multivitamin-mineral (OTC MVM) supplements with in-utero oxidative stress (OS), antioxidant capacity, and fetal growth are limited. Our objectives were to determine if five fetal ultrasound measurements [biparietal diameter (BPD), head circumference (HC), abdominal circumference (AC), femur length (FL), and estimated fetal weight] were associated with OTC MVM supplements and with minerals, biomarkers of OS, and total antioxidant capacity in amniotic fluid (AF). Methods: For this retrospective study, 176 pregnant women who had undergone age-related amniocentesis for genetic testing were included. Questionnaires recorded prenatal OTC MVM supplementation (yes, no). Ultrasound measurements for early (16–20 weeks) and late (32–36 weeks) gestation were extracted from medical charts. AF concentrations for 15 minerals and trace elements and OS biomarkers in AF [nitric oxide (NO), thiobarbituric acid-reactive substances (TBARS), and ferric-reducing antioxidant power (FRAP)] were measured at 12–20 weeks of gestation. Associations of AF minerals, OS biomarkers, and ultrasound measures were analyzed using multiple linear regressions. Results: Positive associations were observed between AF TBARS and seven AF minerals/elements (calcium, copper, magnesium, nickel, strontium, zinc and iron). At 16–20 weeks, AF copper, nickel, strontium, and selenium were positively associated with BPD, HC, AC, and FL, respectively, NO was positively associated with FL, and FRAP was inversely associated with estimated weight. At 32–36 weeks, calcium was positively associated with BPD and chromium and arsenic were negatively with HC. At 16–20 weeks, higher AF FRAP was inversely associated with FL and this exposure continued to be inversely associated with estimated weight at 32–36 weeks. Conclusions: Concentrations of AF minerals, trace elements and biomarkers of OS and in-utero antioxidant capacity were linked to specific ultrasound measurements at different stages of gestation, suggesting a complex interplay among in utero OS, antioxidant capacity, OTC MVM supplements, and fetal growth. Full article

The important trace elements, copper and selenium, have diverse effects on human health. As well as other important roles in living tissues, these trace elements are toxic at high levels but are key constituents of various enzymes and proteins essential for maintaining physiological health. However, links between dietary intakes of these elements, particularly copper, and bone mineral density (BMD) in humans remain uncertain. This study aimed to investigate whether dietary intakes of copper and selenium are associated with BMD in women. Dietary intakes of copper and selenium were assessed for 575 women in the Geelong Osteoporosis Study, using a detailed semi-quantitative food frequency questionnaire in conjunction with nutrition composition databases. Participants taking oral multivitamin preparations were excluded from analyses; 522 participants (ages 20–88 y) met the eligibility criteria. BMD at multiple skeletal sites was measured by dual energy X-ray absorptiometry (Lunar DPX-L). Separate multivariable regression models were developed to identify associations between copper and selenium intakes and BMD, after adjustments for age, anthropometry, other dietary factors, medication use, and lifestyle factors. Median (interquartile range) daily intake for copper was 1.5 mg (1.2–1.9) and for selenium, 72 μg (57–90). Low intakes (lowest tertile versus pooled upper tertiles) of copper and selenium were consistently associated with lower BMD at multiple skeletal sites. Fully adjusted models identified small but statistically significant differences in BMD, ranging from 1.8% to 4.0% for low copper intakes and 1.4% to 4.0% for low selenium intakes. Low dietary intakes of copper and selenium were both independently associated with lower BMD, at least in this sample of women. The results contribute to the evidence base for informing dietary recommendations for these trace elements with respect to their contributions to optimal bone health. Full article

Previous studies investigating temporal changes in dietary supplement (DS) use have used representative samples but have not followed the same cohort over time. This study investigated longitudinal patterns of changes in DS use and factors associated with discontinuing DS use in a single group of active-duty United States military service members (SMs). SMs (n = 5778) completed two identical questionnaires on their DS use and demographic/lifestyle characteristics an average ± standard deviation 1.3 ± 0.2 years apart. Prevalences of reported DS use ≥1 times/week in the baseline (BL) and follow-up (FU) phases were: any DS, BL = 77%, FU = 78%; multivitamins/multiminerals (MVM), BL = 50%, FU = 48%; individual vitamins/minerals, BL = 33%, FU 35%; proteins/amino acids, BL = 43%, FU = 39%; combination products, BL = 44%, FU = 37%; prohormones, BL = 5%, FU = 4%; herbal products, BL = 23%, FU = 21%; joint health products, BL = 12%, FU = 12%; fish oils, BL = 25%, FU = 23%; other DSs, BL = 17%, FU = 17%. Among BL users, the proportions reporting use in the FU phase were: any DS 88%, MVM 74%, protein/amino acids 70%, individual vitamin/minerals 62%, combination products 62%, fish oils 61%, joint health products 57%, herbal products 50%, other DSs 50%, and prohormones 37%. Higher odds of discontinuing any DS use in the follow-up were associated with female gender, younger age, higher BMI, and less weekly resistance training. Overall, prevalence of DS use was relatively consistent in the two phases; however, the cohort changed their use patterns in the follow-up with some discontinuing use and others initiating use, thus maintaining use prevalence over the period. These findings have implications for repeated cross-sectional DS studies where different samples are followed over time. Full article

Scientific evidence regarding the effectiveness of vitamin and mineral supplements in healthy individuals remains scarce. In a randomized, double-blind study, 30 healthy individuals were assigned to receive a single daily dose of multivitamin and multimineral supplementation or a double daily dose for 30 days. Before and after the intake, an untargeted metabolomics assay for serum metabolites was conducted by hydrophilic interaction liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry, and clinical assessments of peripheral blood samples were performed. A paired t-test for metabolic analysis, adjusted using the false discovery rate (FDR) and p-value correction method (rate of change > 2 and FDR < 0.05), the Shapiro–Wilk test, Student’s t-test, and the Mann–Whitney U test were applied depending on the variable, with a 5% significance level. An impact on oxidative stress was observed, with a significant reduction in homocysteine levels and an increment of pyridoxic acid (vitamin B6). The effect on energy metabolism was shown by a significant increase in diverse metabolites, such as linoleoylcarnitine. Serum iron and calcium levels were also impacted. Overall, we observed a nutritional balance compatible with a good state of health. In conclusion, beneficial effects on adult health were demonstrated in relation to oxidative stress, energy metabolism, and nutritional balance. Full article

The environment of the test laboratory affects the reproducibility of treatment effects on physiological phenotypes of rodents and may be attributed to the plasticity of the epigenome due to nutrient-gene-environment interactions. Here, we explored the reproducibility of adding a multi-vitamin-mineral (MVM) mix to a nutrient-balanced high-fat (HF) diet on obesity, insulin resistance (IR), and gene expression in the tissues of adult male mice. Experiments of the same design were conducted in three independent animal facilities. Adult C57BL/6J male mice were fed an HF diet for 6 weeks (diet induced-obesity model) and then continued for 9–12 weeks on the HF diet with or without 5-fold additions of vitamins A, B1, B6, B12, Zn, and 2-fold Se. The addition of the MVM affected body weight, fat mass, gene expression, and markers of IR in all three locations (p < 0.05). However, the direction of the main effects was influenced by the interaction with the experimental location and its associated environmental conditions known to affect the epigenome. In conclusion, MVM supplementation influenced phenotypes and expression of genes related to adipose function in obese adult male mice, but the experimental location and its associated conditions were significant interacting factors. Preclinical studies investigating the relationship between diet and metabolic outcomes should acknowledge the plasticity of the epigenome and implement measures to reproduce studies in different locations. Full article

Iodine is an essential micronutrient for humans due to its fundamental role in the biosynthesis of thyroid hormones. As a key parameter to assess health conditions, iodine intake needs to be monitored to ascertain and prevent iodine deficiency. Iodine is available from various food sources (such as seaweed, fish, and seafood, among others) and dietary supplements (multivitamins or mineral supplements). In this work, a microfluidic paper-based analytical device (μPAD) to quantify iodide in seaweed and dietary supplements is described. The developed μPAD is a small microfluidic device that emerges as quite relevant in terms of its analytical capacity. The quantification of iodide is based on the oxidation of 3,3′,5,5′-tetramethylbenzidine (TMB) by hydrogen peroxide in the presence of iodine, which acts as the catalyst to produce the blue form of TMB. Additionally, powder silica was used to intensify and uniformize the colour of the obtained product. Following optimization, the developed μPAD enabled iodide quantification within the range of 10–100 µM, with a detection limit of 3 µM, and was successfully applied to seaweeds and dietary supplements. The device represents a valuable tool for point-of-care analysis, can be used by untrained personnel at home, and is easily disposable, low-cost, and user-friendly. Full article

Objectives: This study aims to examine the relationship between dietary inflammatory index (DII) and bone mineral density (BMD) changes among Chinese pregnant women, offering valuable insights for dietary guidance during pregnancy. Methods: 289 pregnant women were enrolled in this cohort. Serum inflammatory factors and ultrasonic BMD were measured at the first, second, and the third trimesters. DII scores were calculated based on a semi-quantitative food frequency questionnaire (FFQ) and divided into tertiles. We compared the differences in inflammatory factors in serum across the tertiles of DII and changes in BMD at the second and third trimesters across the tertiles. Results: The participants with higher DII scores had higher total energy intakes than those with lower DII scores. The serum level of interleukin-6 (IL-6) was significantly different across the tertiles of the DII. Women who had lower DII scores had higher T-scores and Z-scores in the BMD assessment. In the test of trends, after adjusting potential covariates, including educational level, physical activity, body mass index, and calcium, vitamin D, or multivitamin supplements, DII values were determined to be positively related to the maternal BMD lost. Conclusions: DII was positively associated with serum IL-6. Meanwhile, higher DII scores were associated with more bone mass loss in pregnant women. We recommend adhering to a lower-DII diet to preserve BMD during pregnancy. Full article

Traditional clinical methodologies often fall short of revealing the complex interplay of multiple components and targets within the human body. This study was designed to explore the complex and synergistic effects of phytochemicals in a plant-based multivitamin/mineral supplement (PBS) on oxidative stress and inflammation in healthy individuals. Utilizing a systems biology framework, we integrated clinical with multi-omics analyses, including UPLC-Q-TOF-MS for 33 phytochemicals, qPCR for 42 differential transcripts, and GC-TOF-MS for 17 differential metabolites. A Gene Ontology analysis facilitated the identification of 367 biological processes linked to oxidative stress and inflammation. As a result, a comprehensive network was constructed consisting of 255 nodes and 1579 edges, featuring 10 phytochemicals, 26 targets, and 218 biological processes. Quercetin was identified as having the broadest target spectrum, succeeded by ellagic acid, hesperidin, chlorogenic acid, and quercitrin. Moreover, several phytochemicals were associated with key genes such as HMOX1, TNF, NFE2L2, CXCL8, and IL6, which play roles in the Toll-like receptor, NF-kappa B, adipocytokine, and C-type lectin receptor signaling pathways. This clinical data-driven network system approach has significantly advanced our comprehension of a PBS’s effects by pinpointing pivotal phytochemicals and delineating their synergistic actions, thus illuminating potential molecular mechanisms. Full article

While traditional multivitamin and mineral (MVM) supplements generally come in tablet form, new powder forms of MVM supplements are available with theoretically higher bioavailability relative to tablet MVM supplements. The purpose of this study was to assess the bioaccessibility and bioavailability of minerals (magnesium (Mg), zinc (Zn), calcium (Ca), and potassium (K)) in a tablet MVM supplement compared to a novel powder Foundational Nutrition supplement (AG1^®), containing minerals, vitamins, phytochemicals, and pre-/probiotics, in the upper gastrointestinal tract. The tablet MVM supplement was specifically formulated for this study, with matched mineral contents and identical chemical structures. The adapted Simulator of the Human Intestinal Microbial Ecosystem (SHIME^®) model was used to assess the bioaccessibility and bioavailability of soluble minerals using a simulated upper gastrointestinal tract and dialysis membrane to mimic human digestion and absorption. The bioaccessibility was assessed at the end of the stomach and duodenum. The bioaccessibility and bioavailability were assessed at 1, 2, and 3 h following dialysis. The preliminary soluble mineral analysis of the tablet (crushed to a powder) and AG1 powder demonstrated significantly higher (p < 0.05) soluble fractions of Zn and Ca, but lower Mg in the AG1 powder vs. the tablet. The total soluble mineral percentages at the stomach and duodenum end were all significantly higher for the AG1 powder vs. the tablet (p < 0.05). Mg, Ca, and Zn were more (p < 0.05) bioaccessible and bioavailable in the powder compared to the tablet during the small intestine simulation. The bioaccessible fraction of K was higher (p < 0.05) only at 3 h for the tablet vs. the powder. These preclinical data demonstrate that the AG1 powder has superior dissolution and disintegration characteristics compared to the tablet, leading to increased bioaccessibility and bioavailability in vitro. Full article