Search Results (2,054)

Callistemon citrinus has shown antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties in certain tissues. However, its impact on the brain remains unproven. This study investigates the effect of C. citrinus extract and phytosomes on the oxidative status of the brains of rats fed a high-fat–fructose diet (HFD). Fifty-four male Wistar rats were randomly divided into nine groups (n = 6). Groups 1, 2, and 3 received a standard chow diet; Group 2 also received the vehicle, and Group 3 was supplemented with C. citrinus extract (200 mg/kg). Groups 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, and 9 received a high-fat diet (HFD). Additionally, groups 5, 6, 7, 8, and 9 were supplemented with orlistat at 5 mg/kg, C. citrinus extract at 200 mg/kg, and phytosomes loaded with C. citrinus at doses of 50, 100, and 200 mg/kg, respectively. Administration was oral for 16 weeks. Antioxidant enzymes, biomarkers of oxidative stress, and fatty acid content in the brain were determined. A parallel artificial membrane permeability assay (PAMPA) was employed to identify compounds that can cross the intestinal and blood–brain barriers. The HFD group (group 4) increased body weight and adipose tissue, unlike the other groups. The brain fatty acid profile showed slight variations in all of the groups. On the other hand, group 4 showed a decrease in the activities of antioxidant enzymes SOD, CAT, and PON. It reduced GSH level, while increasing GPx activity as well as MDA, 4-HNE, and AOPP levels. C. citrinus extract and phytosomes restore the antioxidant enzyme activities and mitigate oxidative stress in the brain. C. citrinus modulates oxidative stress in brain tissue through 1.8-cineole and α-terpineol, which possess antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Full article

Background/Objectives: Pica, the compulsive ingestion of non-nutritive substances, has long been observed in patients with iron deficiency anemia (IDA). This behavior is particularly noted in adults, including pregnant women, and poses both diagnostic and management challenges. We conducted a review of studies from the past decade to evaluate the epidemiology and nature of pica in adult IDA patients and the outcome of various treatment strategies on anemia and pica behaviors. Methods: We searched PubMed, Scopus, and Cochrane Library for peer-reviewed articles (including observational studies, clinical trials, and reviews) published in English between 2015 and 2025. Inclusion criteria targeted studies of adult populations with IDA that reported on pica prevalence, characteristics, or treatment outcomes. We also reviewed clinical guidelines and meta-analyses on IDA treatment in adults for recommended management approaches. Results: Pica was found to be a prevalent symptom among individuals with IDA, but was readily treatable with appropriate iron deficiency treatment. Among treatment options, both oral and parenteral iron supplementation were found to be effective in resolving iron deficiency and pica. Choice of treatment depends on tolerance to oral iron, speed of resolution required, and comorbid conditions. Conclusions: Pica is closely intertwined with IDA; our review highlighted the prevalence of pica among individuals with IDA, which serves as both a clinical clue to underlying anemia and a potential source of complications. Crucially, the treatment of IDA is also effective for pica. We recommend oral iron therapy on alternate-day dosing as first-line therapy to minimize side effects, alongside dietary optimization. If IDA and pica are resistant to oral iron supplementation or oral iron cannot be tolerated, parenteral iron therapy can be considered. Full article

Obesity remains a major global health challenge with limited therapeutic options. Bromelain, a proteolytic enzyme complex derived from pineapple, has been recognized for its natural anti-inflammatory, anti-edematous, and appetite-suppressing properties. This study aimed to investigate the effects of bromelain on hypothalamic neuropeptides and metabolic markers in a high-fat diet (HFD)-induced obesity model in rats. Thirty-six male Wistar albino rats were randomly divided into four groups: standard diet (SD), standard diet with bromelain (SDBro), high-fat diet (HFD), and high-fat diet with bromelain (HFDBro). Obesity was induced by a 3-month HFD regimen, followed by bromelain supplementation (200 mg/kg/day, orally) for one month. Hypothalamic tissues were analyzed via ELISA for neuropeptide Y (NPY), pro-opiomelanocortin (POMC), glucose transporter 2 (GLUT2), fibroblast growth factor 2 (FGF2), and insulin-like growth factor 1 receptor (IGF1R). While NPY levels showed no significant changes, POMC increased in the HFD and was normalized with bromelain. GLUT2 was downregulated in the HFD and significantly restored by bromelain. FGF2 levels remained unchanged. IGF1R was upregulated in the HFD but reduced by bromelain, with an unexpected increase in SDBro. Overall, bromelain partially reversed HFD-induced disruptions in hypothalamic energy-regulating pathways, particularly affecting GLUT2 and POMC. These findings highlight bromelain’s potential role in central metabolic regulation under dietary stress. Full article

Deoxynojirimycin (DNJ), the first isolated iminosugar, is a natural alkaloid acting as a potent inhibitor of α-glucosidase with high nutritional value. It naturally occurs in plants (especially Morus spp.), microbes, and insects or can be synthesized. Diverse biological activities, such as antihyperglycemic, lipid-lowering, antitumor, antiviral, and anti-inflammatory, have been recognized for this compound. However, DNJ has not been approved as a food supplement until now. Several studies, also in clinics, are carried out on Morus spp. containing DNJ. Among Morus spp., Morus alba L. (white mulberry), Morus nigra L. (black mulberry), and Morus rubra L. (red mulberry) are the three main species that grow all over the world. Some spurious studies have been conducted on Reducose^® and Glubloc™, two products that contain DNJ and Morus alba, respectively. However, mulberry allergy, including respiratory allergy, airborne contact urticaria, anaphylaxis, oral allergy syndrome, and food induced urticaria, may be observed. This review aims to explore a crucial and timely question: how DNJ exerts its biological effects and what role it may play in therapeutic applications. We provide a comprehensive summary of the current understanding of DNJ’s pharmacological potential and the methods used for its production. We also report recent developments in clinical studies on Morus alba, Reducose^® and Glubloc™. Full article

Hyaluronic acid (HA) is a ubiquitous glycosaminoglycan with distinct biological functions, dependent on its molecular weight. High-molecular-weight HA (HMWHA) primarily exhibits structural and anti-inflammatory roles, whereas low-(LMWHA) and very low-molecular-weight HAs (vLMWHA) actively participate in tissue regeneration and angiogenesis. This review highlights the pivotal roles of HA across the female reproductive lifespan, emphasizing how molecular weight dictates its therapeutic potential. In gynecology, LMWHA effectively alleviates symptoms of genitourinary syndrome of menopause, restores vaginal architecture, and mitigates complications following pelvic radiotherapy, improving both tissue integrity and patient quality of life. vLMWHA shows promise in enhancing viral clearance and lesion regression in human papillomavirus (HPV) infections. In obstetrics, HMWHA plays crucial roles in implantation, immunotolerance, and embryogenesis and maintains cervical barrier integrity to prevent ascending infections and preterm birth. Moreover, emerging clinical evidence supports oral HMWHA supplementation for reducing pregnancy complications, such as threatened miscarriage, subchorionic hematomas, and preterm delivery. This review underscores the necessity of considering HA’s molecular weight to optimize interventions in gynecological and obstetric care, offering tailored strategies to support women’s health throughout their lives. Full article

Oxidative stress, driven by impaired antioxidant defence systems, is a major contributor to cognitive decline and neurodegenerative processes in brain ageing. This study investigates the neuroprotective effects of a natural compound mixture—composed of Hericium erinaceus, Palmitoylethanolamide, Bilberry extract, and Centella asiatica—using a multi-step in vitro strategy. An initial evaluation in a 3D intestinal epithelial model demonstrated that the formulation preserves barrier integrity and may be bioaccessible, as evidenced by transepithelial electrical resistance (TEER) and the expression of tight junctions. Subsequent analysis in an integrated gut–brain axis model under oxidative stress conditions revealed that the formulation significantly reduces inflammatory markers (NF-κB, TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6; about 1.5-fold vs. H₂O₂), reactive oxygen species (about 2-fold vs. H₂O₂), and nitric oxide levels (about 1.2-fold vs. H₂O₂). Additionally, it enhances mitochondrial activity while also improving antioxidant responses. In a co-culture of neuronal and astrocytic cells, the combination upregulates neurotrophic factors such as BDNF and NGF (about 2.3-fold and 1.9-fold vs. H₂O₂). Crucially, the formulation also modulates key biomarkers associated with cognitive decline, reducing APP and phosphorylated tau levels (about 98% and 1.6-fold vs. H₂O₂) while increasing Sirtuin 1 and Nrf2 expression (about 3.6-fold and 3-fold vs. H₂O₂). These findings suggest that this nutraceutical combination may support the cellular pathways involved in neuronal resilience and healthy brain ageing, offering potential as a functional food ingredient or dietary supplement. Full article

Background: There is little information about the effectiveness of oral nutritional supplements (ONS) in combatting nutrient inadequacies in primary care, where most malnutrition exists. Aim: To examine the extent to which readymade ONS add or displace the nutrients consumed in the diet and their impact on combatting dietary inadequacies. Methods: 308 free-living people >50 years with medium + high risk of malnutrition (Malnutrition Universal Screening Tool) were randomised to receive readymade low volume (2.4 kcal/mL), liquid ONS plus dietary advice (ONS + DA) or dietary advice alone (DA). Intake was assessed at baseline (24 h recall) and 4-weekly for 12 weeks (3-day diet record). Total nutrient intake was benchmarked against UK and European dietary reference values (DRVs). The proportion of energy and nutrients from the ONS that added or displaced those from the diet (net addition/displacement) was calculated. Results: ONS + DA led to significantly greater total energy and nutritional intakes, with 25/29 nutrient intakes significantly higher than with DA alone. There were no significant differences in dietary energy and nutrient intakes from food between the groups. There was little or no displacement of nutrients from the diet, with over 90% of the energy and nutrients consumed in the ONS additive to the diet. ONS + DA more than halved the number of people with nutrient intakes that failed to meet DRVs and the number of nutrients per person that did not meet DRVs compared to DA alone. Conclusions: Supplementation with readymade, low volume (2.4 kcal/mL) liquid ONS overcomes most nutrient intake inadequacies in malnourished older people in primary care without significantly reducing intake from the diet. This makes ONS an effective way to improve nutritional intakes above dietary advice alone to improve the outcomes for the management of older people at risk of malnutrition. Full article

Skin aging causes reduced hydration, elasticity, and increased wrinkles. Recent safety and compliance concerns over oral collagen supplements have increased interest in plant-based alternatives like Hibiscus sabdariffa with antioxidant and anti-aging properties. However, clinical evidence regarding its efficacy remains limited. We aimed to evaluate the effects of this plant-based collagen alternative (VC-H1, Hibiscus Enzyme Extract) supplement on skin hydration, transepidermal water loss (TEWL), desquamation, elasticity, and wrinkle reduction in photoaged individuals. A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial was conducted with 98 participants (aged 35–60 years) presenting with dry skin and periorbital wrinkles. Participants randomly received 1.5 g/day of VC-H1 or placebo for 12 weeks. Skin hydration, TEWL, deep moisture, keratin index, elasticity, and wrinkle parameters were assessed at baseline, 6 weeks, and 12 weeks. VC-H1 supplementation significantly increased skin hydration, reduced the TEWL and keratin index, and improved deep moisture content for those receiving it compared with the controls. Wrinkle depth significantly decreased, and skin elasticity also improved. Those in the VC-H1 group showed greater overall improvement than those in the control group. Oral VC-H1 supplementation significantly improved skin hydration, elasticity, and wrinkle reduction, suggesting its potential as a plant-based alternative to traditional collagen supplements for skin rejuvenation. Full article

Background/Objectives: Diatomaceous earth (DE), a natural substance rich in amorphous silica and recognized as a food additive, is gaining attention as a dietary silicon supplement. However, its bioavailability and impact on lipid digestion and absorption remain poorly characterized. This study aimed to investigate silicon bioavailability after short-term DE supplementation and its effects on postprandial glycemia and triglyceridemia, the expression of lipid metabolism-related proteins, and the modulation of the intestinal mucosal barrier. Methods: Female Wistar rats received daily oral supplementation of DE (equivalent to 2 or 4 mg silicon/kg body weight) for one week. Silicon digestibility, excretion, and hepatic accumulation were quantified. Postprandial glycemia and triglyceridemia were monitored. Lipid profile was analyzed by HPSEC in gastric and intestinal contents. Jejunal morphology and mucin-secreting cells were assessed histologically. Lipid metabolism markers were evaluated by immunohistochemistry and Western blot in both intestinal and hepatic tissues. Results: DE supplementation enhanced silicon absorption and increased hepatic levels. Fecal output and moisture content were also elevated, especially at the higher dose. DE significantly reduced postprandial triglyceridemia and consequently increased luminal triglyceride retention. These changes were associated with decreased jejunal levels of IFABP, ACAT2, and MTP, as well as reduced hepatic levels of MTP and LDLr, alongside increased levels of ABCG5/G8 and LXRα/β, indicating a partial blockage of lipid absorption and enhanced cholesterol efflux. The effects on the intestinal barrier were evidenced by villi shortening and an increase in mucin-producing cells. Conclusion: Food-grade DE is a bioavailable source of silicon with hypolipidemic potential, mainly by reducing intestinal lipid absorption. This is supported by lower postprandial triglycerides, increased luminal lipid retention, and decreased expression of lipid transport proteins. The study in healthy female rats underscores the importance of sex-specific responses and supports DE as a dietary strategy to improve lipid metabolism. Full article

Background/Objectives: Parenteral nutrition (PN) supports patients unable to receive nutrients via the gastrointestinal tract, but it lacks the health-promoting natural bioactive compounds found in a typical oral diet. This study aimed to develop a human serum albumin-based intravenous delivery system for lutein (an antioxidant carotenoid with vision-supportive and hepatoprotective properties) as a PN additive. Methods: An albumin–lutein nanosuspension (AlbLuteN) was synthesized using a modified nanoparticle albumin-bound (nab^TM) technology and characterized physicochemically. The nanoformulation was added to four commercial PN admixtures to assess the supplementation safety throughout the maximum infusion period. Visual inspection and measurements of fat globules larger than 5 µm (PFAT5) and the mean hydrodynamic diameter (Z-average), zeta potential, pH, osmolality, and lutein content were performed to detect potential interactions and evaluate the physicochemical stability. Results: AlbLuteN consisted of uniform particles (Z-average of 133.5 ± 2.8 nm) with a zeta potential of −28.1 ± 1.8 mV, lutein content of 4.76 ± 0.39%, and entrapment efficiency of 84.4 ± 6.3%. Differential scanning calorimetry confirmed the amorphous state of lutein in the nanosuspension. AlbLuteN was successfully incorporated into PN admixtures, without visible phase separation or significant changes in physicochemical parameters. The PFAT5 and Z-average values remained within pharmacopeial limits over 24 h. No substantial shifts in zeta potential, pH, or osmolality were observed. The lutein content remained stable, with losses below 3%. Conclusions: AlbLuteN can be safely added to representative PN admixtures without compromising their stability. This approach offers a novel strategy for intravenous lutein delivery and may contribute to improving the nutritional profile of PN. Full article

A psoriasis vulgaris flare is characterized by a rapid intensification of symptoms, which is often triggered by various factors that can worsen the condition. The risk factors for these exacerbations are numerous and include obesity, antihypertensive drugs, and psychological stress. Moreover, links have been documented between type II diabetes, hypertension, and psoriasis vulgaris. The present case report describes a 52-year-old female patient who presented at the clinic with disseminated erythematous-squamous plaques and patches covered by thick, white-pearly, easily detachable scales, along with stress, fatigue, anxiety, severe pruritus, irritability, insomnia, and decreased self-esteem. Her past medical regimen included various conventional topical options, including calcipotriol combined with betamethasone, clobetasol, betamethasone combined with salicylic acid, and betamethasone combined with gentamicin, yet the condition remained refractory, with periodic flare-ups. The integrated and personalized therapeutic approach aimed to target both the dermatological issues and the associated systemic and psychological factors contributing to the condition. The therapeutic strategy implemented in this case combined psychological counseling sessions, a very low-calorie ketogenic diet, oral supplementation with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant vitamins and minerals, topical treatments utilizing urea and Dead Sea-mineral-based formulations, and rosemary extract-based scalp care, without requiring additional conventional treatment. This comprehensive approach led to significant improvement, ultimately achieving complete remission of the patient’s psoriasis. The associated comorbidities were well controlled with the specified medication, without any further complications. Thus, the importance of alternative options was emphasized, particularly in the context of an incurable disease, along with the need for continued research to improve the ongoing therapeutic management of psoriasis vulgaris. Such approaches are essential to reducing the risk of flare-ups and to achieving better management of associated risk factors. Full article

Background: Malnutrition and cancer-related fatigue (CRF) are prevalent in cancer patients, significantly impacting prognosis and quality of life. Oral nutritional supplements (ONSs) enriched with protein and ω-3 fatty acids may improve nutritional status and mitigate CRF. This study evaluates the effects of a high-protein, fish oil-enriched ONS (FOHP-ONS) on nutritional intake, body composition, fatigue, and quality of life in malnourished cancer patients. Methods: Cancer patients with malnutrition or inadequate food intake received 8 weeks of FOHP-ONS (2 cans/day, providing 4.2 g/day of ω-3 fatty acids). Dietary intake, body weight, handgrip strength, serum biochemical markers, nutritional status (PG-SGA), fatigue (BFI-T), and quality of life (EORTC QLQ-C30) were assessed at baseline, week 4, and week 8. Results: Of the 33 enrolled patients, 30 completed the study. Energy and protein intake significantly increased (p < 0.05), and body BMI and handgrip strength showed significant improvements (p < 0.05), while muscle mass did not change significantly. Nutritional status, assessed by PG-SGA, improved, with the proportion of severely malnourished patients (Stage C) decreasing from 46.7% to 13.3%, and moderately malnourished patients (Stage B) improving to well-nourished status (Stage A) from 10.0% to 30.0% (p < 0.001). Serum albumin levels increased significantly (p < 0.05), while fasting blood glucose significantly decreased (p < 0.05). Additionally, triglyceride levels significantly decreased (p < 0.05), while total cholesterol and LDL-C showed a downward trend. Cancer-related fatigue scores improved across all domains (p < 0.05), and quality of life significantly increased, particularly in physical and role functioning (p < 0.05). Conclusions: FOHP-ONS supplementation improved nutritional intake, body composition, and muscle strength while alleviating CRF and enhancing quality of life in malnourished cancer patients. These findings support its potential role in nutritional intervention for malnourished cancer patients. Full article

Objective: To evaluate the effect of a probiotic combination on clinical and oral microbiological parameters in patients with head and neck cancer (HNC) undergoing radiotherapy. Materials and Methods: A randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial was conducted with 72 HNC patients who had received radiotherapy within the past year. Participants were randomly assigned to receive either daily probiotic sachets or placebo for 30 days. Salivary parameters—including unstimulated and stimulated flow rates and pH—were evaluated alongside oral microbiota profiles, including total bacterial load and selected periodontopathogens. Assessments were performed at baseline and post-intervention using sialometry, pH analysis, bacterial culture, and quantitative real-time PCR (qPCR). Results: Sixty-one patients completed the study (31 in the probiotic group, 30 in the placebo group). Stimulated salivary flow increased significantly in the probiotic group (p = 0.0016), while unstimulated flow improved in both groups (p < 0.05). Salivary pH decreased significantly in the probiotic group (p = 0.0209); however, no intergroup differences were observed at the end of the intervention (p = 0.9839). qPCR showed significant reductions in total bacterial load (p = 0.0209) and Fusobacterium nucleatum (p = 0.0080). Culture confirmed the reduction of F. nucleatum (p = 0.0026), with a trend towards significance for total cultivable bacterial count (p = 0.0502). Conclusions: Daily supplementation with a probiotic combination may serve as a practical and well-tolerated adjunctive measure in clinical settings to improve salivary function and reduce key oral pathogens, particularly Fusobacterium nucleatum, in patients undergoing or recovering from radiotherapy for head and neck cancer. These findings support its potential integration into routine supportive care protocols to mitigate xerostomia and oral dysbiosis in this population. Full article

Biotin (vitamin B7) is a common, naturally occurring water-soluble vitamin. It belongs to the broad group of B vitamins. It is a common ingredient in dietary supplements, cosmetics, medicines, and parapharmaceutical preparations administered orally or applied topically (to the skin, hair, nails). The problem of the relationship between vitamin B supplementation and sensitivity seems to be multi-threaded. There is little literature data that would confirm that oral vitamin B supplementation or local exposure to biotin is a significant sensitizing factor. Moreover, it seems that allergy to vitamin B7 is very rare. It is possible, however, that the relationship between biotin and hypersensitivity is not limited to its direct action, but results from its essential metabolic function. Vitamin B7, as a cofactor of five carboxylases, affects the main pathways of cellular metabolism. Both deficiency and excess of biotin can result in metabolic disorders, which can have a significant impact on the homeostasis of the entire organism, including the efficient functioning of the immune system. Dysregulation of immune systems leads to its dysfunctional functioning, which can also lead to sensitization to various environmental antigens (allergens). Biotin is also used as an element of some methodological models in immunochemical tests (in vitro diagnostics), including methods used to measure the concentration of immunoglobulin E (IgE), both total (tIgE) and allergen-specific (sIgE). For this reason, vitamin B7 supplementation can be a significant interfering factor in some immunochemical tests, which can lead to false laboratory test results, both false positive and false negative, depending on the test format. This situation can have a direct impact on the quality and effectiveness of diagnostics in various clinical situations, including allergy diagnostics. This review focuses on the role of biotin in allergic reactions, both as a causative factor (allergen/hapten), a factor predisposing to the development of sensitization to various allergens, and an interfering factor in immunochemical methods used in laboratory diagnosis of hypersensitivity reactions and how it can be prevented. Full article

Background/Objectives: Enriched oral nutritional supplementation (ONS) has been shown to increase muscle mass in cancer patients. This study aims to identify the immunomodulatory effects and predictive biomarkers associated with this intervention. Methods: The soluble levels of 92 immune- and oncology-related mediators were determined before and after an intervention (8 weeks) in 28 patients with cancer receiving either a standard (n = 14) or an enriched ONS (n = 14) using the Olink proteomics analysis pipeline (Olink^® Target 96 Immuno-Oncology panel (Uppsala, Sweden)) Results: Patients receiving enriched ONS experienced an average weight gain of 1.4 kg and a muscle mass increase of 2.2 kg after 8 weeks, both statistically significant (p < 0.05), while no such improvements were observed in the standard ONS group. Inflammatory markers TRAIL and LAMP3 were significantly reduced, along with an increase in Gal-1, suggesting lower inflammation and enhanced myogenic differentiation. However, patients who failed to gain muscle mass with the enriched formula showed a more aggressive inflammatory profile, characterized by higher serum levels of soluble MUC16, ARG, and IL12RB1. Interestingly, muscle mass gain could be predicted before the intervention, as responders had lower baseline levels of PGF, CD28, and IL12RB1. These differences were specific to recipients of the enriched ONS, confirming its immunomodulatory effects. Conclusions: Our findings support the use of enriched oral nutritional supplementation (ONS) as an effective strategy not only to enhance caloric and protein intake but also to promote anabolism and preserve muscle mass in cancer patients. The identification of immune profiles suggests that specific biomarkers could be used to predict which patients will benefit most from this type of intervention. This may allow for the implementation of personalized immunonutrition strategies that optimize resource allocation and improve clinical outcomes, particularly in vulnerable populations at risk of cachexia. Full article