Search Results (402)

Background/Objectives: Animal-source protein consumption in Saudi Arabia has increased substantially over the last two decades, raising concerns regarding its environmental impact in a country with among the highest per capita carbon emissions globally. Despite growing interest in sustainable diets, empirical evidence on dietary carbon footprint (CF) in Gulf Cooperation Council countries remains limited. This study aimed to quantify the CF associated with the consumption of animal- and plant-based protein foods among Saudi adults and to identify sociodemographic and lifestyle predictors of dietary CF, with attention to sex differences. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 1624 Saudi adults (47.1% males; 52.9% females). A newly developed, expert-reviewed, and pilot-tested food frequency questionnaire covering 21 protein-containing food items (13 animal-based; 8 plant-based) was used to estimate daily intake. CF values were calculated using Life Cycle Assessment-derived greenhouse gas emission factors (kgCO₂e/kg food) obtained from peer-reviewed sources. Sex-stratified multiple linear regression models and a pooled sex × animal-source protein food interaction model was used to identify independent predictors of daily CF. Results: Animal-source protein foods contributed 45,641.8 kgCO₂e/week to cumulative CF—a 64-fold excess over plant-based sources (708.33 kgCO₂e/week). Mean individual protein-food CF was 4.07 kgCO₂e/day, of which 98.5% derived from animal sources. Lamb and beef carried the highest emission intensities; nuts the lowest. Animal-source intake was the strongest independent predictor of CF in both sexes, with a significantly stronger association in males than females. High consumers substantially exceeded EAT–Lancet red meat targets across all consumption strata. Conclusions: Red meat dominates protein-food-related GHG emissions among Saudi adults. Even a partial dietary shift toward plant-based proteins, embedded within a coordinated food-system transformation framework, could substantially reduce per capita emissions in alignment with Saudi Vision 2030 and One Health targets. Full article

Background: Adequate nutrition during young adulthood is essential for health promotion, optimal physiological function, and the prevention of non-communicable diseases. However, evidence describing both nutrient adequacy and compliance with dietary recommendations in well-characterized samples of young adults remains limited. Therefore, the aim of the present study was to describe macronutrient and micronutrient adequacy and to quantify compliance with current dietary recommendations in young adults using an individualized energy-adjusted nutrient adequacy approach (NARm), and to explore sex differences to identify priority targets to inform tailored health promotion and public health nutrition strategies. Methods: This cross-sectional study included 74 young adults aged 18–45 years participating in the NutAF project. Dietary intake was assessed using a 5-day dietary record, including three weekdays and two weekend days. Modified nutrient adequacy ratios (NARm), adjusted according to individualized total daily energy expenditure, were calculated for macronutrients and micronutrients. The prevalence of compliance with current dietary recommendations was also determined. Differences between men and women were analyzed using independent samples t-tests. Results: Protein and total lipid intake levels exceeded recommended values in most participants, whereas carbohydrate adequacy was below recommendations. Regarding micronutrients, adequate intake was observed for several nutrients; however, low adequacy and low compliance rates were identified for calcium, folate, vitamin D, and omega-3 and omega-6 polyunsaturated fatty acids. No participants met the recommendations for vitamin D. No significant sex differences were observed for most nutrients. Conclusions: Despite intake levels above recommendations for some macronutrients, young adults included in this study exhibited inadequate intake and low compliance with current dietary recommendations for several key nutrients. No relevant sex differences were observed for most nutrients. These findings, obtained using an individualized energy-adjusted nutrient adequacy approach (NARm), underscore the need for targeted nutritional strategies, including nutrition education and micronutrient-focused interventions, aimed at improving dietary adequacy and supporting health promotion in this population. Full article

Almond (Prunus dulcis) is a highly nutritious nut, rich in unsaturated fatty acids, fibre, and bioactive compounds such as tocopherols, phenolic compounds, and carotenoids. Processing methods commonly applied in the almond industry, including blanching and roasting, may modify the nutritional composition and bioactive profile of the kernels. Therefore, the aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of blanching and roasting on the nutritional composition and bioactive compound content of the ‘Largueta’ almond variety. Three forms were analysed: raw almonds with skin, blanched (peeled) raw almonds, and roasted almonds, with their chemical composition, lipid profile and bioactive compound content being examined. The data obtained indicated that raw almonds with skin showed higher levels of fibre (12.16 g/100 g), phenolic compounds (66.35 mg gallic acid/100 g), and β-carotene (65.88 µg/100 g). Roasted almonds contained lower amounts of phenolic compounds (42.87 mg gallic acid/100 g), tocopherols (7.64 mg α-tocopherol/100 g and 1.99 mg γ-tocopherol/100 g) and essential amino acids such as tryptophan (1.23 g/100 g protein) and lysine (3.22 g/100 protein). Blanching, by removing the skin, significantly reduces fibre (7.52 g/100 g) and carotenes (26.60 µg β-carotene/100 g). With regard to fatty acids, the main components of nuts, oleic acid predominated in all samples (>65%), with no significant changes due to processing. Thermal treatments modify the composition of almonds. Roasting concentrates some nutrients but reduces antioxidants, while blanching mainly affects fibre content. Therefore, the consumption of raw sweet almonds with skin is recommended to preserve their nutritional and antioxidant benefits, or to subject them to moderate heat treatment. Full article

Background/Objectives: Cognitive function is fundamental to daily life, and nutrition is a key modifiable determinant of brain health across the lifespan. While plant-based “brain foods” have been emphasized, the contributions of animal-sourced foods (ASF) to neurodevelopment and cognitive performance remain underexplored. This review synthesizes current evidence on the effects of both plant- and animal-derived foods on cognitive outcomes from early development through older adulthood. Methods: A narrative review was conducted focusing on eight major categories of brain-supportive foods—dairy, eggs, seafood, lean meat, berries, leafy green vegetables, nuts, and whole grains. Evidence was evaluated across life stages, considering nutrient bioavailability, dietary patterns, and the interplay between structural, socioeconomic, and environmental factors that influence access to these foods. Results: Nutrient-dense foods, including ASF and plant-based sources, support cognitive outcomes across the life course. In early childhood, eggs, meat, and nuts were linked to improved neurodevelopment and reductions in developmental delays, while evidence for seafood and dairy was more mixed. During adolescence and adulthood, berries, walnuts, vegetables, and whole grains were associated with improvements in executive function, verbal reasoning, and mood, with adequate bioavailable protein from ASF remaining important. Among older adults, higher intake of leafy greens, nuts, berries, and moderate seafood consumption correlated with slower cognitive decline and improved memory. Findings were limited by heterogeneous study designs, dietary assessments, and underrepresentation of adolescents and populations in low- and middle-income countries. Conclusions: Both animal-sourced and plant-based brain foods uniquely support cognitive development, maintenance, and resilience. While nutritional needs vary across the life course, strong evidence supporting distinct food-based dietary recommendations for cognitive outcomes at different ages, particularly adolescents, remains limited. Current findings suggest stage-specific associations, particularly during early development, but more longitudinal and experimental research is needed. Expanding rigorous, inclusive research will be critical for informing nutrition policies that support lifelong cognitive health. Full article

Background/Objective: Rapid, validated dietary screening tools are lacking for individuals with spinal cord injury (SCI), where routine clinical check-ups do not allow sufficient time for extensive dietary assessments typically required to evaluate adherence to dietary recommendations. We developed a 15-item dietary screener (SCI NutriTool) and evaluated its accuracy in classifying non-adherence to a healthy food pyramid compared with a validated food frequency questionnaire (FFQ). Methods: The SCI NutriTool was developed through literature review and expert consensus. In a validation study, 51 adults with SCI (mean age 57.0 years; 76.5% men; 68.8% traumatic injury) completed the SCI NutriTool twice and a validated 97-item FFQ, which served as the reference method. Results: The SCI NutriTool demonstrated substantial variability in performance across food groups, reflecting its domain-specific screening properties. Sensitivity was high for fruits and vegetables (91.7%), protein-rich foods (90.5%), and sweetened/alcoholic beverages and snacks (82.4%), with relatively high positive predictive values (PPV: 73.7–90.5%), supporting the tool’s ability to identify individuals who are likely non-adherent and may benefit from further nutritional assessment or counselling. In contrast, for starchy foods and nuts, oils, and fatty spreads/sauces, sensitivity was low (20.0% and 50.0%), while specificity was modest. This indicates that the tool performs better in correctly identifying adherent individuals in these domains, which is reflected in higher negative predictive values (NPV: up to 94.1%). However, the low sensitivity suggests that individuals with non-adherence may be missed, limiting the tool’s usefulness as an early screening trigger for these food groups. Conclusions: The SCI NutriTool’s performance varies across food groups, demonstrating a stronger ability to identify non-adherence in protein-rich foods, fruit and vegetables, sweetened and alcoholic beverages, and snacks, but limited discriminatory capacity for others. In particular, it is not suitable for screening non-adherence to starchy foods and fats. Accordingly, it is best used as a triage tool to guide further dietary assessment and targeted nutritional interventions rather than as a standalone diagnostic instrument. Full article

Brosimum alicastrum Swartz (Mayan Nut) is a traditional Mesoamerican resource with nutritional potential exceeding many cereal grains, yet its therapeutic efficacy relative to processing remains under-researched. This study investigated the impact of geographic origin and processing on its hypolipidemic and antioxidant properties. Seed flours from Campeche (green raw—GsF), Nayarit (dried—DsF), and Yucatán (commercial roasted—RsF) were evaluated. Following proximal analysis and acute toxicity screening (up to 2000 mg/kg), effects were tested in a tyloxapol-induced hypertriglyceridemia rat model monitoring triglyceride (TG), and hepatic oxidative stress (OS) biomarkers. Proximal profiles were stable across regions. All samples were non-lethal, and, significantly, DsF and RsF achieved a maximum reduction of TG and protein carbonyl content (PCC) at only 200 mg/kg, whereas raw GsF required 2000 mg/kg. Hypertriglyceridemia induced a compensatory increase in SOD activity (~555%), which was maintained across all treated groups. Conversely, tyloxapol depleted GSH-Px activity by 16%, and only DsF, at 20 mg/kg, preserved activity statistically similar to the healthy control (6.71 ± 0.65 IU/μL). Drying and roasting seemed critical for enhancing the acute therapeutic effects observed at lower dosages. Full article

This study evaluated the effects of replacing soybean meal with cashew nut roasting residue (CNRR) on feed intake, nutrient digestibility, rumen fermentation, blood metabolites, and economic efficiency in lactating crossbred Saanen goats. Fifteen does were assigned to a completely randomized design with three treatments: 0% CNRR (T1), 10% replacement of soybean meal protein (T2), and 20% replacement (T3). Goats were fed pangola hay ad libitum and concentrate according to milk yield (1:2). Total dry matter, organic matter, crude protein, and fiber intake were not affected by dietary treatments (p > 0.05). However, crude protein digestibility decreased from 68.83% in the control group to 52.72% and 51.21% in the CNRR treatments (p < 0.05). Rumen pH and total volatile fatty acids remained within normal physiological ranges, suggesting stable rumen fermentation. Blood parameters, including packed cell volume, glucose, and blood urea nitrogen, were not influenced by CNRR supplementation (p > 0.05). Economic analysis showed reduced feed cost with increasing CNRR inclusion. In conclusion, CNRR can replace soybean meal protein at rates of up to 20% without affecting feed intake, ruminal pH, or measured blood metabolites; however, crude protein digestibility was reduced, indicating that dietary formulation may require adjustment. Full article

Phenylketonuria (PKU) is an autosomal recessive disorder characterised by an inborn error of phenylalanine (Phe) metabolism. Such errors are attributed to pathogenic gene variants causing phenylalanine hydroxylase (PAH) deficiency, impairing the hydroxylation of phenylalanine to tyrosine in the Phe metabolic pathway. This defect leads to plasma Phe concentrations above the normal range. If untreated, hyperphenylalaninemia can adversely affect brain function, leading to severe intellectual disability and seizures. Since 1969, the newborn dried blood spot test has remained the main method of early screening and diagnosis for PKU. The primary therapeutic management is a lifelong phenylalanine-restricted diet with the aim of decreasing plasma Phe levels. The recommended diet consists of avoiding high-protein foods such as meat, fish, eggs and nuts, and can be supplemented with high-protein medical formulas which are low in phenylalanine. Pharmacological interventions such as sapropterin, sepiapterin and pegvaliase can also be used as treatment adjuncts in patients with PKU. Currently, small-molecule inhibitors reducing renal phenylalanine reabsorption are being explored as a potential therapeutic intervention. Furthermore, novel gene-editing techniques are under evaluation as potential curative strategies, with preclinical studies showing promising results in correcting pathogenic phenylalanine hydroxylase variants. This non-systematic review synthesises current literature on the management of PKU, with a focus on dietary interventions and recommendations. Full article

Walnut is an important nut with a rich nutritional profile and associated health benefits for the human body. B-box (BBX) proteins containing one or two BBX motifs play pivotal roles in plant growth and developmental processes; nevertheless, the functions of JrBBXs in walnut anthocyanin biosynthesis remain inadequately understood. In this study, 39 JrBBXs in red walnut ‘RW-1’ were identified, with phylogenetic analysis suggesting that they were divided into six classes based on the distribution of conserved domains and unevenly distributed on 14 chromosomes. Promoter analysis demonstrated that JrBBX promoters possessed an abundance of light responsiveness elements, ABA responsiveness elements, MYB binding sites and MYC binding sites. The transcriptome analysis results demonstrated that eight JrBBXs were differently expressed in normal green walnut ‘Zhonglin 1’ and red walnut ‘RW-1’ seed coats. Furthermore, qRT-PCR (quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction) analysis showed that JrBBX3 exhibited lower expression during seed coat development in ‘RW-1’. Y1H (Yeast One-Hybrid) and LUC (dual-luciferase reporter) assays revealed that JrBBX3 directly inhibited the expression of JrUFGT5, considered a key anthocyanin biosynthesis structural gene in research. Subcellular localization analysis indicated both cytoplasmic and nuclear localization of JrBBX3. Transient overexpression of JrBBX3 in walnut leaves resulted in reduced JrUFGT5 expression and anthocyanin accumulation. Collectively, these findings revealed the negative regulation of JrBBX3 in red walnut anthocyanin biosynthesis, and provided a basis to further study the anthocyanin biosynthesis mechanism of red walnut. Full article

Objectives: The present study aimed to examine the relationship between dietary habits and anthropometric characteristics of high school adolescents. Participants and Methods: This cross-sectional study involved randomly selecting 104 students (34 boys and 70 girls) who were 17–19 years old. To evaluate dietary habits, a validated and standardized EPIC-Norfolk frequency food questionnaire was used, and anthropometric characteristics of the participants were assessed. Results: The most often consumed foods during the week were meats and fruits, while the least frequently consumed were fish and vegetables. For all participants, intake below the recommended levels was for alpha-carotene, total carbohydrate sugars, vitamin D, milk, dairy products, nuts, and seeds. Intake of proteins and iron was below the recommended levels in girls. Boys had a lower intake of proteins and fruits compared to girls. No differences were observed in the consumption of macronutrients. The median of all anthropometric values was within the reference values. Boys were slightly older and had significantly higher values of body weight and height, BMI, waist circumference, and waist-to-hip-ratio (WHR) compared to girls. In addition, systolic blood pressure (SBP) was significantly higher in males than in females. Participants with increased arterial blood pressure (ABP) showed significantly higher energy intake from fat, sodium intake, and total fat intake compared to those with normal ABP. Participants with increased WHR had significantly higher energy intake, intake of sodium, and total carbohydrates compared to those with normal WHR. Conclusions: This study shows that adolescents’ eating habits (particularly intake of fat and sodium) were associated with anthropometric values, ABP, and WHR, which present risks for cardiometabolic diseases in adulthood. Full article

The escalating global burden of Ulcerative Colitis (UC) underscores the urgent need for novel therapeutic strategies. Although dietary modulation is known to influence UC progression, the specific molecular mediators remain largely undefined. Recently, the G protein coupled receptor 35 (GPR35) has emerged as a promising target for maintaining gut homeostasis and promoting intestinal epithelium repair. Yet, whether the therapeutic benefits of dietary polyphenols are mediated through the direct activation of GPR35 remains unexplored. Here, the NanoLuc Binary Technology (NanoBiT) assay was first used to identify the potential GPR35 agonist from a library of 30 natural polyphenolic compounds. We discovered Ellagic acid (EA), a natural polyphenol abundant in fruits and nuts, as the potent GPR35 agonist owing to its most potent agonistic effect. The dose-dependent effect was further confirmed by both NanoBiT and Bret assay. Then, the binding site of the ligand-receptor complex was predicted via molecular docking, and key interactions were validated by site-directed mutagenesis. The results indicated the key binding site of the complex was Gln93, Arg100, Arg151, Phe163 and Ser262. And the conformation of the complex was verified stable by the molecular dynamics simulation. The bioactivity of EA was then evaluated in vivo. And the in vivo experiment indicated that EA alleviated the symptoms of UC. In addition, complementary in vitro assays, including a wound healing (scratch) assay and an SRB proliferation assay, were employed to investigate its effect on intestinal epithelial repair. The in vitro experiment demonstrated that EA enhanced the migration and proliferation of human colonic epithelial cells, an effect that was specifically abolished by the GPR35 antagonist CID2745687, indicating the key role GPR35 played in the intestinal repair. Collectively, our study demonstrates that the natural polyphenolic compound EA promotes epithelial healing and ameliorates colitis by acting as a GPR35 agonist. Full article

(1) Background: Nutrition research in cancer care has largely focused on disease prevention and management, overlooking the importance of food literacy. Culinary cancer care programs may address this gap by facilitating the practical application of nutrition through culinary skills, fostering social connections over nutrient-dense meals, and supporting individuals during periods of physical and social vulnerability. The Not-Just-Supper Club (NJSC) at Gilda’s Club Toronto (GT) is a community-based culinary cancer care program delivering evidence-based, plant-forward meals. The objectives of this study were to examine how NJSC supports its members and to provide recommendations to inform future models of culinary cancer care programs. (2) Methods: An explanatory sequential mixed methods design was used. Participants completed a modified food frequency questionnaire (FFQ) assessing major protein food groups since joining NJSC. Semi-structured interviews explored perceived dietary changes, food literacy, and social engagement. Associations between duration of participation and protein food intake were examined using multivariable-adjusted linear regression models. Interview field notes and transcripts were coded in NVivo 12 and thematically analyzed. (3) Results: Among 41 participants, 36 (88%) were female and 17 (41%) were of White ethnicity. A total of 38 (93%) participants reported that NJSC had a positive impact on their lives, and 27 (66%) reported positive changes in eating habits. In multivariable-adjusted analyses, longer participation in NJSC was associated with higher nut consumption (β = 0.49 servings/day per year; 95% CI, 0.02–0.96). Interviews were completed by 40 participants. Seven themes described program support across psychosocial domains (social network; social support; emotional support and mental health; impact on health) and practical nutritional domains (improved food literacy and skills; food decisions; inclusion of plant-based foods). Participants described applying program knowledge at home and perceived improvements in well-being and cancer-related symptoms. (4) Conclusions: NJSC was perceived by members as beneficial across psychosocial and nutritional domains and supported food literacy and plant-forward dietary choices. These findings contribute to our understanding of how culinary cancer care programs can complement existing cancer support services and provide insights for designing future programs for cancer survivors and their support networks. Full article

Background/Objectives: ATPase family AAA domain-containing protein 2 (ATAD2) is an oncogenic chromatin regulator that amplifies E2F/MYC transcriptional programs, yet direct modulators remain scarce. Arecoline (ARE), the primary alkaloid of the areca nut, is a known carcinogen but paradoxically exhibits context-dependent anti-proliferative activities. In this study, we resolve this paradox by defining ARE’s anti-cancer mechanism. Methods: Breast cancer cell proliferation and colony formation assays were performed to evaluate the anti-proliferative effects of ARE. Cell-cycle distribution was analyzed to determine phase-specific effects. Transcriptomic profiling was conducted to identify affected gene networks. An unbiased Cellular Thermal Shift Assay–Mass Spectrometry (CETSA-MS) screening was used to identify direct protein targets, followed by CETSA–Western blotting for validation. Finally, in silico structure-based design was applied to generate novel derivatives with improved predicted properties. Results: ARE suppressed breast cancer cell proliferation and colony formation by inducing G1/S phase arrest. Transcriptomic analysis revealed that this phenotype was driven by profound suppression of the E2F/Cell Cycle gene network. CETSA-MS identified ATAD2 through multi-omics convergence, as the 67 direct targets were collectively most significantly enriched in the E2F pathway. CETSA–Western blotting confirmed that ARE binds and thermally stabilizes ATAD2. Mechanistically, ARE engagement of ATAD2 led to downregulation of key downstream proteins, including MYC and Cyclin D1, directly linking target modulation to G1/S arrest. Structure-based design further yielded novel derivatives with predicted enhanced ATAD2 binding and substantially reduced toxicity. Conclusions: Together, these findings uncover ATAD2 as a druggable target of ARE, establish proof-of-concept for repurposing this scaffold, and provide a rational framework for developing safer ATAD2-targeted therapies. Full article

Non-specific lipid transfer proteins (nsLTPs) constitute a widely distributed family of plant allergens with substantial clinical relevance, particularly in food allergy. Their marked thermal and proteolytic stability enables them to provoke reactions ranging from mild local symptoms to severe anaphylaxis. This narrative review synthesises current knowledge on nsLTP allergens, focusing on their molecular characteristics, taxonomic distribution, exposure routes, and clinical impact. Major allergenic sources include fruits, nuts and seeds, vegetables and cereals, as well as various pollens. Across these sources, Pru p 3 has emerged as the central and most extensively studied allergen, frequently acting as the primary sensitiser and exhibiting broad cross-reactivity with homologous nsLTPs from diverse plant species. Despite growing evidence, significant knowledge gaps remain regarding sensitisation pathways, environmental modifiers, and phenotype stratification. Continued research is required to improve diagnostic precision and guide the development of targeted therapeutic strategies for patients with nsLTP-mediated allergy. Full article

Biomasses from agro-industrial practices in the Amazon have generated significant inputs in the last decade for the development of projects and the extension of more sustainable production chains, based on the results of research on both laboratory and pilot scales, and from the rapid expansion in industrial scaling. The rise in the use of biomass includes the use of raw materials from so-called superfruits, notable examples of which include açaí (Euterpe oleracea Mart.), Brazil nut (Bertholletia excelsa HBK), pupunha (Bactris gasipaes Kunth), tucumã (Astrocaryum aculeatum) and buriti (Mauritia flexuosa). All of these are of great importance to the trade balance of the Amazon region, contributing significantly to the import of products and by-products from Brazil. In view of the above, this research aims to present the nutritional, functional and technological properties of these biomasses as a contribution to industrial innovation in the use of isolated constituents in various segments of the food, pharmaceutical, dermocosmetic and packaging industries. The data show that research into the protein, fibrous and starch-based biopolymers contained in these biomasses has been guided and deepened, with an emphasis on investigations in isolation and on applications of bioactive compounds and starches and fibers in the development of films and packaging with good resistance properties and high environmental biodegradability, these being economically viable as food coatings, acting in synergy with the application of technologies and the increase in the sustainable circular bioeconomy in the Amazon, combining techno-economic and environmental development in the most diverse industrial sectors. Full article