Search Results (941)

Background: There is a growing number of studies suggesting the effectiveness of dietary supplements in preventing and treating endometriosis. It has been suggested that deficiencies in vitamins D and E as well as zinc are associated with the increased risk of endometriosis development. Beneficial effects of magnesium, curcumin, resveratrol and epigallocatechin-3-gallate were found in experimental animal studies. A reduction in pain related to endometriosis was shown in women using omega-3 and alpha-lipoic acid. Meanwhile, decreasing endometriotic lesion size after the supplementation of omega-3, N-acetylcysteine, vitamin C and epigallocatechin-3-gallate was observed in animal and human studies. Thus, the aim of this critical review was to summarize the available data describing the effects of dietary supplements used in the treatment of endometriosis. Material and Methods: The PubMed, Embase, Cochrane, and Web of Science databases were searched for related studies until 15 December 2025. Finally, 34 studies were included in the synthesis. Results: Of these 34 studies, only 23 were randomized, placebo-controlled trials. There have been no RCTs evaluating the effectiveness of vitamin E, zinc, alpha-LA, EGCG and DIM in the treatment of endometriosis. Single studies evaluating the effectiveness of vitamin C, magnesium, resveratrol, NAC and PEA with PLD have not confirmed it. Meanwhile single studies evaluating the effectiveness of selenium, propolis and quercetin have confirmed it. Of the four studies assessing the effectiveness of vitamin D, two confirmed it and two did not; of the two studies assessing probiotics, one confirmed its effectiveness and one did not; of the two studies assessing curcumin, one confirmed its effectiveness and one did not; and of the three studies assessing omega-3, two confirmed its effectiveness and one did not. All four RCTs assessing the combination of vitamins C and E confirmed their effectiveness. Conclusions: Despite encouraging observations from experimental studies, the results of RCTs are less encouraging and do not allow for the formulation of recommendations concerning the use of supplements in the treatment of endometriosis symptoms according to EBM. Full article

Zinc deficiency is recognized as a global public health concern, affecting populations of all ages. This study aims to develop zinc supplements (nutraceuticals) based on by-products of the fruit and vegetable processing industry. Dehydrated apple and beetroot pomace powders were enriched with vitamin C and zinc via fluid-bed wet granulation, producing granules with substantially improved flowability (Carr’s index reduced by up to 45%, Hausner ratio by up to 25%, while the bulk and tapped density were reduced by up to 25% and 40%, respectively). Microbiological and long-term storage stability was demonstrated by low water activity (aw) (≤0.3), moisture content (<10%), and glass transition temperatures (T_g = 29–34 °C) that were well above standard storage conditions. The formulated nutraceuticals exhibited stronger antioxidant activity compared to the starting powders, as well as significant anti-hyperglycemic activity. Furthermore, the enhanced bioaccessibility of zinc was confirmed upon in vitro digestion of granulated samples, using atomic absorption spectrometry and differential pulse voltammetry. The present findings demonstrate that apple and beetroot pomaces can be successfully valorized as sustainable and functional matrices for zinc enrichment, being free of gluten, artificial sweeteners, colorants, preservatives, anti-caking agents, and anti-nutritional factors such as phytic acid. Full article

As populations age, micronutrient deficiencies increase and are linked to frailty, functional decline, cognitive impairment, anemia, and a higher healthcare burden. This review synthesizes evidence from the past five years on adults ≥65 years, comparing residents of nursing homes/assisted-living facilities with community-dwelling peers. Community-dwelling older adults show high prevalence of deficiencies—particularly vitamin D, calcium, magnesium, folate, and zinc—while vitamin B12 deficiency is less common overall but increases with age due to malabsorption. Institutionalized adults face higher risk, driven by limited dietary variety, reduced sunlight exposure, greater multimorbidity, and polypharmacy. Reported rates include vitamin D deficiency in 70–94% of institutionalized adults (≈6.3-fold higher odds), zinc deficiency in 50–66% (vs. 31–49% in the community), iodine deficiency in 67–78% (vs. 22% in the community), and a Mini Nutritional Assessment classification of severe malnutrition/at risk in 67.9% (vs. 28% in the community). Consequences encompass frailty, falls, infections, higher costs, and increased institutionalization. Recommended actions include routine biomarker screening, improving access to vitamin D (supplementation/fortification), individualized care for micronutrient deficiencies—including vitamin B12 when relevant—multidisciplinary nutrition support, and long-term targeted research to guide best practices for healthy aging and equity. Full article

Micronutrient deficiencies are commonly observed in patients with obesity and may persist or worsen following bariatric and metabolic surgery. Emerging evidence suggests that micronutrients play a fundamental role in tissue repair, collagen synthesis, immune function, and inflammatory regulation processes that are critical in postoperative healing. Therefore, deficiencies in these nutrients could be pivotal in understanding and preventing postoperative complications. However, the potential link between preoperative micronutrient status and the development of postoperative complications, such as anastomotic or gastric fistula, remains underexplored. This narrative review aims to investigate the correlation between specific micronutrient deficiencies (e.g., vitamin C, zinc, selenium, vitamin A, and iron) and the incidence of fistula after bariatric surgery. We will discuss the underlying biological mechanisms, clinical evidence, and possible preventive strategies, including preoperative screening and targeted supplementation. Our aim is to highlight the often-overlooked micronutrient deficiency as a risk factor in patients undergoing bariatric surgery, both in the pre- and postoperative periods, and to propose a more comprehensive approach to patient assessment and management. Full article

Eating disorders (EDs), including anorexia nervosa (AN), bulimia nervosa (BN), and binge-eating disorder (BED), are complex psychiatric conditions characterized by high morbidity and mortality. Increasing evidence suggests that beyond disorder-specific symptomatology, shared transdiagnostic mechanisms contribute to their onset and persistence. This narrative review synthesizes current data on neurobiological and nutritional factors implicated in EDs, with particular emphasis on trait–state interactions and starvation-induced neuroadaptations. Predisposing vulnerabilities such as heightened anxiety, cognitive rigidity, and perfectionism appear to interact with state-dependent biological alterations induced by malnutrition. Chronic dietary restriction is associated with measurable alterations in serotonergic and dopaminergic systems, altered reward processing, and persistent activation of the hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal (HPA) axis. Experimental studies suggest that acute tryptophan depletion may transiently reduce anxiety in individuals with anorexia nervosa, suggesting that, in some individuals, food restriction may function as a biologically reinforced strategy of affect regulation. Furthermore, disturbances in leptin and ghrelin signaling, along with widespread micronutrient deficiencies—including zinc, iron, selenium, and B vitamins—may exacerbate cognitive inflexibility, mood instability, and impaired decision-making. These metabolic and endocrine adaptations may contribute to a self-perpetuating cycle in which starvation-induced neurochemical changes reinforce restrictive or dysregulated eating behaviors. Importantly, several of these mechanisms extend beyond anorexia nervosa and may represent common transdiagnostic processes across eating disorders and related mental health conditions, including anxiety, depression, and addictive behaviors. Recognition of these biological and nutritional factors has significant implications for treatment. Nutritional rehabilitation should be conceptualized not solely as weight restoration, but as a neurobiological recalibration of stress regulation, reward sensitivity, and affective processing systems. An integrative treatment approach that combines behavioral stabilization with attention to underlying neurobiological and relational mechanisms may offer a more comprehensive framework for long-term recovery. Full article

Background: Obesity is commonly seen as a condition of overnutrition; however, it is paradoxically associated with micronutrient deficiencies. These deficiencies are clinically relevant and may contribute to the progression of obesity-related comorbidities through interconnected pathways, including chronic low-grade inflammation, oxidative stress, gut dysbiosis, and impaired nutrient absorption. Objectives: This narrative review aims to summarize current evidence regarding the prevalence, underlying mechanisms, and clinical consequences of micronutrient deficiencies in individuals with obesity, with particular emphasis on their metabolic implications and potential therapeutic strategies. Results: Among individuals with obesity, iron, zinc, magnesium, calcium, vitamin D, vitamin B12, and folate are the most frequently reported deficiencies. These deficiencies arise from multiple mechanisms, including poor diet quality, increased metabolic demands, and compromised gastrointestinal absorption. In addition, obesity-related alterations in pharmacokinetics may further interfere with micronutrient distribution and bioavailability. Together, these mechanisms may lead to various clinical outcomes, such as anemia, immune, metabolic, and cardiovascular dysfunctions, along with cognitive impairment. Although several studies suggest that correcting these deficiencies may improve clinical outcomes, findings remain inconsistent, highlighting the complex and multifactorial pathophysiology underlying micronutrient imbalance in obesity. Conclusions: Micronutrient deficiencies represent frequently overlooked contributors to metabolic dysregulation in obesity. Their identification and correction should be considered a central part of the obesity management strategy. A personalized supplementation approach, based on clinical, biological, and pathophysiological characteristics, may provide a complementary support for weight-management treatments. Full article

Cholestasis in children is characterized by impaired bile flow that disrupts hepatic metabolism, nutrient homeostasis, and effects trace element balance. This narrative review summarizes current evidence on the metabolism, biological functions, and clinical implications of key trace elements—zinc, selenium, copper, and manganese—in pediatric cholestatic liver disease. The liver regulates trace element absorption, intracellular trafficking, storage, and biliary excretion; cholestasis alters these processes, leading to deficiencies or toxic accumulation. Zinc and selenium deficiencies are common and contribute to impaired growth, immune dysfunction, oxidative stress, and delayed hepatic regeneration. Conversely, reduced biliary excretion promotes copper and manganese accumulation, potentially exacerbating liver injury and causing manganese-related neurotoxicity. Recent advances in understanding metal-specific hepatic transporters and trafficking pathways have provided mechanistic insight into these alterations. Management strategies emphasize individualized supplementation, monitoring during enteral and parenteral nutrition, and prevention of deficiency and toxicity. Precision-based nutritional approaches may improve outcomes in pediatric cholestatic liver disease. Full article

Artemisia maritima holds potential applications in the rehabilitation of degraded environments, particularly in salt-affected areas, for biosaline agriculture aimed at biomass production for further valorization and green biotechnology. The aim of the present study was to investigate the response of A. maritima to alterations in soil chemical composition, including differences in mineral supply, the addition of various sodium salts, and contamination with several heavy metals (cadmium, lead, copper, manganese, zinc), in order to establish a scientific basis for further applied research. Under standard fertilization conditions, the growth of A. maritima plants was restrained by nitrogen deficiency. Surplus nitrogen enhanced mineral uptake and growth, especially for shoots, and stimulated clonal development. Low to moderate (50 and 100 mmol L⁻¹) NaNO₃ treatment significantly stimulated shoot growth, while Na₂HPO₄ and NaHCO₃ treatments exhibited the most adverse effects at 200 and 400 mmol L⁻¹, resulting in reduced growth and biomass, and even the deterioration of the aboveground parts. Chlorophyll fluorescence parameters served as reliable early indicators of the detrimental effects of salinity associated with individual anions. Shoot macronutrient levels remained unchanged for phosphorus and calcium, while nitrogen increased in nitrate treatments. Root mineral nutrient content was more susceptible to salinity, with significant changes observed for all macro- and micronutrients, varying depending on the specific element and anion type. The alterations in mineral nutrition observed for each anion treatment exhibited distinct characteristics. A. maritima plants demonstrated high tolerance to all heavy metals, with roots being more susceptible compared to shoots. At the shoot level, statistically significant growth inhibition was evident only for 1000 mg L⁻¹ lead and 1000 mg L⁻¹ zinc treatments. A. maritima plants can be characterized as high accumulators of cadmium, lead, manganese, and zinc, and as extreme accumulators of copper in shoots. Nitrophily, clonal expansion with a help of bud-bearing roots, and the ability to accumulate relatively high concentrations of mineral elements in shoots are among the important physiological characteristics of A. maritima plants, enabling them to exhibit high resilience in environmentally heterogeneous habitats. Full article

Natural pasture, the primary feed source in sheep production, often provides insufficient levels of essential minerals and vitamins required for proper metabolic regulation during pregnancy and early development. This study aimed to analyze patent developments of mineral and vitamin complexes (MVCs) for pregnant ewes and lambs and to evaluate the biochemical and molecular relevance of their components based on scientific evidence. A search of the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) database using the keywords “vitamins for sheep” and “minerals for sheep” identified 120 patents related to sheep feed additives, including 23 specifically formulated for pregnant ewes and lambs. Comparative analysis revealed that calcium, selenium, iron, copper, cobalt, sodium, manganese, zinc, and vitamins A, D, and E were the most frequently included components. These micronutrients play critical roles in enzymatic activity, regulation of gene expression, antioxidant defense systems, and mineral homeostasis. In particular, zinc and selenium function as structural and catalytic cofactors for antioxidant enzymes such as superoxide dismutase and glutathione peroxidase, while vitamins A and D regulate cellular differentiation and calcium–phosphorus metabolism through transcriptional control mechanisms. Additionally, functional additives, including amino acids and plant-derived bioactive compounds, contribute to improved mineral bioavailability and modulation of metabolic pathways. The analyzed formulations demonstrate a consistent focus on correcting mineral deficiencies, enhancing antioxidant protection, and supporting metabolic adaptation during pregnancy and early postnatal development. Overall, the findings indicate that modern MVCs are rationally formulated to improve mineral utilization, physiological stability, and reproductive outcomes, highlighting their critical role in optimizing maternal health and offspring viability in sheep production systems. Full article

Introduction: Trace elements such as zinc, selenium, iron, copper, and manganese play a vital role in human health—especially in how the immune system responds and how the body handles viral infections. These trace elements have complex and sometimes context-dependent effects: while they can strengthen the body’s defenses, imbalances may promote viral replication and worsen tissue damage. Methods: Relevant articles discussed in this narrative review were identified through searches in major databases, including PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science, primarily those published from 2020 onwards. Discussion: In this review, we examine key findings on how trace elements influence antioxidant defense, modulate viral replication, and regulate cytokine signaling, considering the context of innate immunity and the pathology of viral diseases. We discuss their impact on major infections such as HIV, viral hepatitis, and coronaviruses, highlighting how deficiencies or excesses of certain minerals can affect disease severity, immune responses, and clinical outcomes. The therapeutic use of trace element supplementation is also examined, emphasizing the importance of maintaining proper balance to avoid harmful effects. Conclusions: These findings contribute to a deeper understanding of the complex relationship between micronutrients and viral infections, which can inform the development of more effective prevention and treatment strategies. This review underscores the need for further clinical and experimental studies to define optimal levels of these elements in different health and disease scenarios. Full article

Zinc (Zn) is a mineral that plays a vital role in the growth and development processes of different plants. Although it is required in small quantities, its presence is essential in a crop. In recent years, zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO NPs) have garnered significant interest in agriculture due to their unique physical and chemical properties. As a result, they can be used as alternative fertilizers to help crops experiencing mineral deficiency, stress, or fungal problems. These nanomaterials can be obtained through various synthesis methods, including sol–gel, chemical precipitation, microemulsion, and green synthesis, among others. This enables managing their size, shape, and internal arrangement, establishing their ultimate characteristics and feasible uses. In this review, we will present some of the most commonly used synthesis methods for obtaining ZnO NPs, the frequently used characterization techniques, as well as some of the positive and toxic effects caused by their application in crops. Full article

Background: Both chronic kidney disease (CKD) and the haemodialysis procedure can contribute to disturbances in mineral homeostasis, which can potentially result in cellular pathologies. Our study aims to investigate trace element levels in haemodialysis patients and evaluate their potential impact on cellular adhesion molecules. This will clarify the clinical significance of trace element imbalances in this population. Methods: The study included 84 haemodialysis patients and 42 healthy controls. Trace element levels in blood (Zn, Cu, Mn, Mo, V, Sb and Cr) were measured using inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS), and cellular adhesion markers ICAM-1 and VCAM-1 were analysed by ELISA. Data analysis was conducted using SPSS 20.00, with significance set at p < 0.005. Results: Manganese (Mn) levels were significantly higher in haemodialysis patients (p = 0.019). Copper (Cu), Molybdenum (Mo), Vanadium (V), Antimony (Sb) and Chromium (Cr) levels were higher in the control group. Zinc (Zn) and Cr levels differed significantly between the control group (p = 0.018; p = 0.007). Cu levels were lower in hypertensive patients (p = 0.011), while Zn and Mn levels were higher in diabetic patients (p = 0.048 and p = 0.004, respectively). Dialysis duration, however, correlated with Sb (r = 0.295; p = 0.01), and Kt/V correlated with Mn, Sb and Cr (r = 0.256, r = 0.272 and r = 0.259, respectively; p = 0.05). Mo levels showed a positive correlation with both pre-dialysis (r = 0.230) and post-dialysis (r = 0.281) creatinine levels, and a negative correlation with post-dialysis GFR (r = −0.294). ICAM-1 and VCAM-1 levels were significantly elevated in dialysis patients (p = 0.001 for both); however, it was not found to be related to variables in the vascular access route. Conclusions: The levels of trace elements and adhesion molecules were examined in haemodialysis patients. High Mn levels indicate a risk of accumulation, while low Cu, Mo, V, Sb and Cr levels may require monitoring for deficiency. ICAM-1 and VCAM-1 levels in haemodialysis patients are associated with some trace elements (Mn and Zn); however, this relationship requires further evidence. In conclusion, the levels of trace elements and adhesion molecules in haemodialysis patients indicate the need for regular monitoring and show that the relationships between creatinine and GFR can be applied to larger patient groups. Full article

Dromedary camels possess unique anatomical, physiological, and metabolic adaptations that enable survival in arid environments; however, these same adaptations make them highly sensitive to nutritional imbalance under modern feeding conditions. This review synthesizes current knowledge on nutritional pathologies and metabolic disorders in camels, emphasizing the links between diet composition, foregut fermentation, mineral status, and systemic health. Imbalances in energy and carbohydrates predispose camels to subacute and acute acidosis, negative energy balance, and ketosis-like syndromes, particularly when rapidly fermentable feeds are introduced without adequate fiber or water. Protein and nitrogen disorders, including ammonia toxicity and impaired urea recycling, arise from mismatches between degradable protein, fermentable energy, hydration, and mineral availability. Widespread deficiencies of phosphorus, copper, cobalt, zinc, selenium, and vitamins A and E remain major constraints, leading to pica, poor microbial fermentation, oxidative stress, immunosuppression, reproductive failure, and skeletal disorders. Nutritional disturbances frequently extend beyond the gastrointestinal tract, forming a gut–liver–kidney metabolic axis characterized by hepatic dysfunction, renal compromise, and systemic oxidative stress. The review also addresses gastrointestinal impaction, foreign-body ingestion, toxic plant consumption, and feeding on human food waste as emerging nutritional challenges, particularly in peri-urban systems. Advances in diagnostic ultrasonography, feed evaluation techniques, probiotics, mineral–vitamin supplementation, and omics-based approaches are discussed as tools for improving early diagnosis and precision nutrition. Despite growing research interest, the lack of camel-specific feeding standards and reliance on cattle-based recommendations remain critical gaps. This review highlights the need for species-specific nutrient requirement models, sustainable rangeland management, and integrative research to support the health, resilience, and productivity of camels under changing environmental and production systems. Full article

Reproductive efficiency in female cattle is significantly influenced by micronutrient status, particularly the availability and balance of essential trace minerals. Selenium, copper, zinc, cobalt, and iron serve as critical components of enzymatic systems, antioxidant defense networks, hormone synthesis, and cellular metabolism, collectively sustaining reproductive health. This review integrates current research evidence on the physiological functions and molecular mechanisms through which these five trace minerals regulate reproductive performance in female cattle, with a specific focus on iron—an often overlooked element—highlighting the novelty of this synthesis. Both deficiency and excess of these minerals impair key reproductive outcomes such as estrous cyclicity, conception rate, and embryonic survival. Furthermore, complex interactions among minerals influence their bioavailability and physiological responses. Advances in mineral supplementation strategies, particularly the application of organic minerals and precision feeding technologies, offer promising solutions to improve reproductive performance. Elucidating these interrelationships provides a theoretical foundation for optimizing trace mineral nutrition, thereby enhancing female cattle fertility, reducing metabolic disorders and promoting the sustainable development of beef and dairy industries. Full article

Children living in resource-limited regions with inadequate environmental sanitation, such as the Bolivian highlands, are affected by parasitic infections that may compromise nutritional status. Objective: This study aimed to assess the prevalence of intestinal parasitic infections and their associations with nutritional status, micronutrient deficiencies, and anemia in school-aged children from La Paz, Bolivia. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 212 schoolchildren aged 5–13 years in the municipality of La Paz, in highland areas characterized by high poverty levels. Parasitological examination, anthropometric measurements, and biochemical assessment of micronutrients (vitamins A and D, zinc, iron) were performed to evaluate children’s health status. Results: Mild malnutrition was more prevalent than moderate-to-severe forms. Micronutrient analysis revealed substantial deficiencies in vitamin A (39%), zinc (25%), and vitamin D (18%). Zinc deficiency was significantly more common in children aged 11–13 years compared to younger age groups (p = 0.034). Intestinal protozoan infections showed significant associations with micronutrient deficiencies. Giardia lamblia infection was associated with both vitamin A (30.9%, p = 0.042) and vitamin D (78.9%, p = 0.001) deficiencies. Blastocystis spp. infection was similarly linked to higher prevalence of vitamin A (35.8%, p = 0.025) and vitamin D (69.7%, p = 0.004) deficiencies. Entamoeba coli infection was significantly associated with vitamin D deficiency (p = 0.021), while Iodamoeba bütschlii infection showed a significant association with zinc status (p = 0.027), with notably lower zinc deficiency prevalence in infected children (7.7%) compared to non-infected children. Among helminth infections, Ascaris lumbricoides was significantly associated with vitamin D deficiency (37%, p = 0.018). Moderate-to-severe anemia was highly prevalent, affecting over half of the children regardless of sex. Wasting (BAZ) was significantly associated with age (p = 0.030), with moderate-to-severe cases most prevalent in children aged 5–7 years and absent in older groups, while mild wasting increased with age. In univariate logistic regression analysis, zinc deficiency emerged as a significant risk factor for anemia (OR = 2.51, 95% CI: 1.19–5.29, p = 0.016). No significant associations were observed between anemia and sex, age group, vitamin A or D status, or anthropometric indicators including underweight, stunting, or wasting. Conclusions: These findings highlight the substantial burden of micronutrient deficiencies, parasitic infections, and anemia among children in this impoverished region, underscoring the urgent need for targeted public health interventions addressing nutritional supplementation, parasite control, and improved sanitation. Full article