Journal Description
Nutrients
Nutrients
is an international, peer-reviewed, open access journal of human nutrition published semimonthly online by MDPI. The Asia Pacific Nutrigenomics Nutrigenetics Organisation (APNNO), Italian Society for Pediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition (SIGENP), Nutrition Society of New Zealand (NSNZ), Ocular Wellness & Nutrition Society (OWNS) and others are affiliated with Nutrients and their members receive a discount on article processing charges.
- Open Access— free for readers, with article processing charges (APC) paid by authors or their institutions.
- High Visibility: indexed within Scopus, SCIE (Web of Science), PubMed, MEDLINE, PMC, Embase, PubAg, AGRIS, and other databases.
- Journal Rank: JCR - Q1 (Nutrition & Dietetics) / CiteScore - Q1 (Nutrition and Dietetics)
- Rapid Publication: manuscripts are peer-reviewed and a first decision is provided to authors approximately 14.5 days after submission; acceptance to publication is undertaken in 2.4 days (median values for papers published in this journal in the second half of 2023).
- Recognition of Reviewers: reviewers who provide timely, thorough peer-review reports receive vouchers entitling them to a discount on the APC of their next publication in any MDPI journal, in appreciation of the work done.
- Companion journal: Dietetics
Impact Factor:
5.9 (2022);
5-Year Impact Factor:
6.6 (2022)
Latest Articles
The Usefulness of Intraepithelial Lymphocyte Immunophenotype Testing for the Diagnosis of Coeliac Disease in Clinical Practice
Nutrients 2024, 16(11), 1633; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu16111633 (registering DOI) - 26 May 2024
Abstract
Background: The diagnosis of coeliac disease (CD) in adults is based on clinical, serological and histological criteria. The inappropriate performance of intestinal biopsies, non-specificity of mild histological lesions and initiation of a gluten-free diet (GFD) before biopsy may hamper the diagnosis. In these
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Background: The diagnosis of coeliac disease (CD) in adults is based on clinical, serological and histological criteria. The inappropriate performance of intestinal biopsies, non-specificity of mild histological lesions and initiation of a gluten-free diet (GFD) before biopsy may hamper the diagnosis. In these situations, determining the intraepithelial lymphogram of the duodenum by flow cytometry (IEL-FC) can be helpful. Objectives: To describe the clinical scenarios in which the IEL-FC is used and its impact on the diagnosis of CD. Methods: All adult patients with suspected CD at three tertiary centres for whom the duodenal histology and IEL-FC were available were identified. Catassi and Fasano’s diagnostic criteria and changes to a CD diagnosis after the IEL-FCs were collected. Results: A total of 348 patients were included. The following indications for an IEL-FC formed part of the initial study for CD (38%): negative conventional work-up (32%), already on a GFD before duodenal biopsies (29%) and refractoriness to a GFD (2%). The IEL-FC facilitated a definitive diagnosis in 93% of patients with an uncertain diagnosis who had had a conventional work-up for CD or who were on a GFD before histology. Conclusions: The IEL-FC facilitates the confirmation or rejection of a diagnosis of CD in clinical scenarios in which a conventional work-up may be insufficient.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Coeliac Disease, Microscopic Colitis and Exclusion Diets—a Commemorative Issue in Honour of Dr. Fernando Fernández-Bañares)
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Serum Folate, Red Blood Cell Folate, and Zinc Serum Levels Are Related with Gestational Weight Gain and Offspring’s Birth-Weight of Adolescent Mothers
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Reyna Sámano, Hugo Martínez-Rojano, Gabriela Chico-Barba, Ricardo Gamboa, Maricruz Tolentino, Alexa Xiomara Toledo-Barrero, Cristina Ramírez-González, María Eugenia Mendoza-Flores, María Hernández-Trejo and Estela Godínez-Martínez
Nutrients 2024, 16(11), 1632; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu16111632 (registering DOI) - 26 May 2024
Abstract
Background: Gestational weight gain below or above the Institute of Medicine recommendations has been associated with adverse perinatal and neonatal outcomes. Very few studies have evaluated the association between serum and red blood cell folate concentrations and gestational weight gain in adolescents. Additionally,
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Background: Gestational weight gain below or above the Institute of Medicine recommendations has been associated with adverse perinatal and neonatal outcomes. Very few studies have evaluated the association between serum and red blood cell folate concentrations and gestational weight gain in adolescents. Additionally, zinc deficiency during pregnancy has been associated with impaired immunity, prolonged labor, preterm and post-term birth, intrauterine growth restriction, low birth weight, and pregnancy-induced hypertension. Objective: The purpose of our study is to evaluate the association between serum concentrations of zinc, serum folate, and red blood cell folate, with the increase in gestational weight and the weight and length of the newborn in a group of adolescent mothers from Mexico City. Results: In our study, 406 adolescent-neonate dyads participated. The adolescents’ median age was 15.8 years old. The predominant socioeconomic level was middle-low (57.8%), single (57%), 89.9% were engaged in home activities, and 41.3% completed secondary education. Excessive gestational weight gain was observed in 36.7% of cases, while insufficient gestational weight gain was noted in 38.4%. Small for gestational age infants were observed in 20.9% of the sample. Low serum folate (OR 2.1, 95% CI 1.3–3.3), decreased red blood cell folate (OR 1.6, 95% CI 1.0–2.6), and reduced serum zinc concentrations (OR 3.3, 95% CI 2.1–5.2) were associated with insufficient gestational weight gain. Decreased serum zinc levels (OR 1.2, 95% CI 1.2–3.4) were linked to an increased probability of delivering a baby who is small for their gestational age. Conclusions: Low serum folate, red blood cell folate, and serum zinc concentrations were associated with gestational weight gain and having a small gestational age baby. Both excessive and insufficient gestational weight gain, as well as having a small gestational age baby, are frequent among adolescent mothers.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Effects of Nutritional Intake during Pregnancy on Maternal and Offspring Health)
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Preventive Intake of a Multiple Micronutrient Supplement during Mild, Acute SARS-CoV-2 Infection to Reduce the Post-Acute COVID-19 Condition: A Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled, Randomized Clinical Trial
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Teresa Maria Tomasa-Irriguible, Ramon Monfà, Cristina Miranda-Jiménez, Rosa Morros, Neus Robert, Luisa Bordejé-Laguna, Sandra Vidal, Pere Torán-Monserrat and Ana Maria Barriocanal
Nutrients 2024, 16(11), 1631; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu16111631 (registering DOI) - 26 May 2024
Abstract
Patients hospitalized with COVID-19 have low levels of vitamins and trace elements. This could lead to a post-acute COVID-19 condition (PCC) that can worsen a patient’s quality of life. We aimed to study the baseline micronutrient status of patients and assess whether a
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Patients hospitalized with COVID-19 have low levels of vitamins and trace elements. This could lead to a post-acute COVID-19 condition (PCC) that can worsen a patient’s quality of life. We aimed to study the baseline micronutrient status of patients and assess whether a multiple micronutrient supplement (MMS) taken for 2 weeks at the first sign of COVID-19 symptoms would be able to reduce the incidence of PCC. This double-blind, placebo-controlled, randomized clinical trial was conducted in adult outpatients with acute COVID-19, recruited between 2021 and 2023 in Spain. Of the 285 patients assessed for eligibility, 267 were randomized and 246 were included in the intent-to-treat population. The mean age was 46.8 years, and 68% were female. Overall, 54.6% had micronutrient deficiencies in the acute phase of COVID-19 at baseline, and 26.2% had PCC after 180 days of follow-up (D180). The most frequently recorded PCC symptoms were neurological (14.1%), with 24% patients scoring worse in the cognitive tests compared to their baseline status. The rate of PCC at D180 was similar between the placebo (25.0%) and intervention (27.7%) groups, without significant differences (p = 0.785). Age over 50 years was the most relevant risk factor for developing PCC, followed by female sex. The most important protective factor against PCC was SARS-CoV-2 vaccination. In this population of predominantly middle-aged, white women with acute COVID-19 not requiring hospital admission, MMS intake for 14 days at symptom onset did not prevent PCC nor improve their micronutrient status at D180.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nutritional Status and Frailty during and after COVID-19)
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Open AccessArticle
Prevalence of Dietary Modification and Supplement Use in Patients with Metastatic Renal Cell Carcinoma Receiving Systemic Therapy
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Hedyeh Ebrahimi, Dena Battle, Nicholas J. Salgia, Zeynep B. Zengin, Nazli Dizman, Luis Meza, Cristiane D. Bergerot, Regina Barragan-Carrillo, JoAnn Hsu, Daniela Castro, Benjamin Mercier, Neal Chawla, Xiaochen Li, Abhishek Tripathi, Sandy T. Liu, Alex Chehrazi-Raffle, Ulka Vaishampayan, Michael D. Staehler and Sumanta K. Pal
Nutrients 2024, 16(11), 1630; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu16111630 (registering DOI) - 26 May 2024
Abstract
Many patients diagnosed with cancer adopt dietary changes and supplement use, and a growing body of evidence suggests that such modifications can affect outcomes to cancer therapy. We sought to assess the prevalence of these practices and the surrounding physician-patient dialogue among patients
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Many patients diagnosed with cancer adopt dietary changes and supplement use, and a growing body of evidence suggests that such modifications can affect outcomes to cancer therapy. We sought to assess the prevalence of these practices and the surrounding physician-patient dialogue among patients with metastatic renal cell carcinoma. An online survey was administered by Kidney Cancer Research Alliance (KCCure), interrogating dietary modification patterns, supplement usage, out-of-pocket expenditure related to supplements, and patients’ views toward alternative medicine practices. Patients with metastatic renal cell carcinoma receiving combination therapy were actively solicited. In total, 289 unique responses were collected. The most common first-line treatments were nivolumab/ipilimumab (32.4%) and axitinib/pembrolizumab (13.1%). Within the cohort, 147 (50.9%) started using supplements following diagnosis of renal cell carcinoma; the most utilized supplements were probiotics, cannabidiol (CBD) oil/marijuana, and Vitamin C, reported by 70 (47.6%), 61 (41.4%), and 54 (36.7%), respectively. Dietary modifications following cancer diagnosis were reported by 101 (34.9%) respondents, of which 19.8% followed the Mediterranean diet and 18.8% adopted a ketogenic diet. Most respondents (71.3%) noted that they consistently report supplement usage to their physicians. A substantial proportion of patients with metastatic renal cell carcinoma utilize dietary modification and supplements as an adjunct to antineoplastic therapy. Considering the widespread adoption of these practices and the reported effects on cancer treatment, it is crucial for healthcare providers to engage in discussions with patients regarding supplement use.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nutritional Status and Interventions for Patients with Cancer—2nd Edition)
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Obesity, Dietary Patterns, and Hormonal Balance Modulation: Gender-Specific Impacts
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Elisa Mazza, Ersilia Troiano, Yvelise Ferro, Fabrizia Lisso, Martina Tosi, Ettore Turco, Roberta Pujia and Tiziana Montalcini
Nutrients 2024, 16(11), 1629; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu16111629 (registering DOI) - 26 May 2024
Abstract
Understanding the intricate relationship between nutrition, hormonal balance, and gender-specific factors is crucial for developing targeted interventions to mitigate obesity-related endocrine disruptions and improve metabolic health. This narrative review examines the impact of various dietary patterns on hormonal regulation in both men and
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Understanding the intricate relationship between nutrition, hormonal balance, and gender-specific factors is crucial for developing targeted interventions to mitigate obesity-related endocrine disruptions and improve metabolic health. This narrative review examines the impact of various dietary patterns on hormonal regulation in both men and women, focusing on their effects on hormonal balance and metabolic health in the context of obesity. Calorie restriction, the Western diet, high-fat diets, low-CHO diets, plant-based diets, and the Mediterranean diet are analyzed in relation to their influence on obesity-related endocrine disruptions and metabolic health. Future research directions include investigating the specific mechanisms underlying dietary influences on hormonal regulation, addressing the gender-specific metabolic differences and body fat distribution, and exploring the dietary needs of individuals undergoing gender transition. Personalized dietary interventions tailored to individual metabolic and hormonal profiles are essential for optimizing health outcomes across the gender spectrum. By integrating gender-specific considerations into dietary recommendations, healthcare professionals can better support individuals in achieving optimal metabolic health and hormonal balance.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Nutrition and Obesity)
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Relationship between Frequency of Meals Comprising Staple Grain, Main, and Side Dishes and Nutritional Adequacy in Japanese Adults: A Cross-Sectional Study
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Aiko Narumi-Hyakutake, Kimika Yamada and Yatsuki Yanagihara
Nutrients 2024, 16(11), 1628; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu16111628 (registering DOI) - 26 May 2024
Abstract
Meals comprising a staple grain, a main, and side dishes (SMS meals) promote good dietary intake, yet limited studies have examined their multifactorial relationship with dietary intake. We investigated how demographic characteristics, lifestyle, and dietary habits affect the relationship between SMS meal frequency
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Meals comprising a staple grain, a main, and side dishes (SMS meals) promote good dietary intake, yet limited studies have examined their multifactorial relationship with dietary intake. We investigated how demographic characteristics, lifestyle, and dietary habits affect the relationship between SMS meal frequency and nutrient intake adequacy. This cross-sectional study analyzed survey data from 331 Japanese adults (208 men and 123 women) aged 30–69 years in February 2019. SMS meal frequency was evaluated according to respondents’ answers to how many days a week they consumed ≥2 daily SMS meals. Dietary intake was evaluated using the brief self-administered diet history questionnaire. Differences in nutrient intake adequacy among groups according to SMS meal frequency were determined using multiple logistic regression. Less frequent SMS meals correlated with a lower intake of protein, water-soluble vitamins, and certain minerals, with more individuals falling below the estimated average requirement for nutrient intake. However, no relationship was found between SMS meal frequency and nutrient intake concerning tentative dietary goals for preventing lifestyle-related diseases. Our findings indicate that adopting SMS meals could achieve adequate intake of some nutrients and enhance overall diet quality among Japanese adults.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Nutrition and Public Health)
Open AccessArticle
Genome-Wide Admixture and Association Study of Serum Selenium Deficiency to Identify Genetic Variants Indirectly Linked to Selenium Regulation in Brazilian Adults
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Ligia Moriguchi Watanabe, Lisete Sousa, Francisco M. Couto, Natália Yumi Noronha, Marcela Augusta de Souza Pinhel, Gleyson Francisco da Silva Carvalho, Guilherme da Silva Rodrigues, Carlos Roberto Bueno Júnior, Leslie Domenici Kulikowski, Fernando Barbosa Júnior and Carla Barbosa Nonino
Nutrients 2024, 16(11), 1627; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu16111627 (registering DOI) - 26 May 2024
Abstract
Blood selenium (Se) concentrations differ substantially by population and could be influenced by genetic variants, increasing Se deficiency-related diseases. We conducted a genome-wide association study (GWAS) to identify single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) associated with serum Se deficiency in 382 adults with admixed ancestry.
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Blood selenium (Se) concentrations differ substantially by population and could be influenced by genetic variants, increasing Se deficiency-related diseases. We conducted a genome-wide association study (GWAS) to identify single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) associated with serum Se deficiency in 382 adults with admixed ancestry. Genotyping arrays were combined to yield 90,937 SNPs. R packages were applied to quality control and imputation. We also performed the ancestral proportion analysis. The Search Tool for the Retrieval of Interacting Genes was used to interrogate known protein–protein interaction networks (PPIs). Our ancestral proportion analysis estimated 71% of the genome was from Caucasians, 22% was from Africans, and 8% was from East Asians. We identified the SNP rs1561573 in the TraB domain containing 2B (TRABD2B), rs425664 in MAF bZIP transcription factor (MAF), rs10444656 in spermatogenesis-associated 13 (SPATA13), and rs6592284 in heat shock protein nuclear import factor (HIKESHI) genes. The PPI analysis showed functional associations of Se deficiency, thyroid hormone metabolism, NRF2-ARE and the Wnt pathway, and heat stress. Our findings show evidence of a genetic association between Se deficiency and metabolic pathways indirectly linked to Se regulation, reinforcing the complex relationship between Se intake and the endogenous factors affecting the Se requirements for optimal health.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Micronutrients and Human Health)
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Plain Water Intake, Sleep Quality, and Hydration Status of Pregnant Woman in Hainan, China: A Cross-Sectional Study
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Guotian Lin, Na Zhang, Zhixiong Lin, Limin He and Fan Zhang
Nutrients 2024, 16(11), 1626; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu16111626 (registering DOI) - 26 May 2024
Abstract
Objective: Both short and long sleep durations are associated with decreased kidney function; however, few studies have examined the relationship between sleep, hydration status, and plain water intake. This study aimed to assess the relationship between sleep quality, hydration status, and plain water
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Objective: Both short and long sleep durations are associated with decreased kidney function; however, few studies have examined the relationship between sleep, hydration status, and plain water intake. This study aimed to assess the relationship between sleep quality, hydration status, and plain water intake in pregnant women. Methods: A cross-sectional study method was used to collect data from 380 pregnant women with regular examinations at the hospital between May 2019 and February 2021. Results: There were statistically significant differences in daily plain water intake (x2 = 14.118, p = 0.001), PSQI score (x2 = 77.708, p < 0.001), sleep duration (x2 = 67.569, p > 0.001), subjective sleep quality (x2 = 67.441, p = 0.001), time to fall asleep (x2 = 64.782, p < 001), sleep disorders (x2 = 70.853, p < 0.001), and daytime dysfunction (x2 = 38.441, p < 0.001) among different hydration status groups. Ordinal logistic regression results indicated that the intake of plain water ≥1500 mL/d (OR = 0.40, 95% CI = 0.24~0.67), good subjective sleep quality (OR = 0.15, 95% CI = 0.07~0.32), short time to fall asleep (OR = 0.32, 95% CI = 0.14~0.70), 8 h of sleep (OR = 0.06, 95% CI = 0.02~0.17), 6–7 h of sleep (OR = 0.19, 95% CI = 0.07~0.54), no sleep disturbance (OR = 0.31, 95% CI = 0.11~0.89), and high sleep efficiency (OR = 0.46, 95% CI = 0.03~0.79) were factors that were correlated with optimal hydration status. Sleep duration and daytime dysfunction partially mediated the effect of plain water intake on hydration status. The mediating effect of sleep duration was −0.036, accounting for 14.006% of the overall effect. The mediating effect of daytime dysfunction was −0.024, accounting for 9.459% of the overall effect. Conclusion: The hydration status in pregnant women may be affected by daily plain water intake and sleep quality.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nutrition and Food Safety in Pregnancy)
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Beverage Consumption and Factors Influencing the Choice of Beverages among Polish Children Aged 11–13 Years in 2018–2023
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Julianna Kostecka, Izabella Jackowska, Izabela Chabros, Joanna Kostecka-Jarecka, Paulina Kawecka and Malgorzata Kostecka
Nutrients 2024, 16(11), 1625; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu16111625 (registering DOI) - 26 May 2024
Abstract
Adequate hydration is essential for good health, and an individual’s hydration status is determined by the quantity and type of ingested fluids. The aim of the present study was to determine the hydration status of school-age children and evaluate changes in the type
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Adequate hydration is essential for good health, and an individual’s hydration status is determined by the quantity and type of ingested fluids. The aim of the present study was to determine the hydration status of school-age children and evaluate changes in the type and quantity of consumed beverages between 2018 and 2023. The study was conducted in two stages between 2018 and 2023, and a total of 1030 fully completed questionnaires were returned by the children and their parents. A comparison of the parents’ responses regarding factors that affect beverage choices revealed that beverage composition was more significant for the parents in 2023 than in 2018, whereas health-promoting properties were significant for only less than 30% of the respondents. Taste preferences were important for both the parents and the children, and they were the main criterion in the choice of beverages in both 2018 and 2023. In turn, advertising was an important factor for children, and the percentage of children who were guided by advertising in their choice of beverages increased from 52.1% in 2018 to 58.5% in 2023 (p < 0.05). Daily fluid intake in children aged 11–13 years generally does not meet physiological requirements. Low fluid intake can negatively affect children’s hydration status and bodily functions. Taste preferences and advertising were correlated with a higher intake of carbonated and non-carbonated sugar-sweetened beverages (SSBs) and dairy beverages. The percentage of children who bought drinks independently and had access to SSBs increased significantly during the analyzed period. Obtain results indicate that nutrition education programs are needed to teach adolescents to make healthy drink choices, limit their consumption of SSBs and EDs, and promote regular intake of natural mineral water and non-sweetened dairy beverages.
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(This article belongs to the Section Carbohydrates)
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Eight Weeks of Intermittent Exercise in Hypoxia, with or without a Low-Carbohydrate Diet, Improves Bone Mass and Functional and Physiological Capacity in Older Adults with Type 2 Diabetes
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Raquel Kindlovits, Ana Catarina Sousa, João Luís Viana, Jaime Milheiro, Bruno M. P. M. Oliveira, Franklim Marques, Alejandro Santos and Vitor Hugo Teixeira
Nutrients 2024, 16(11), 1624; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu16111624 (registering DOI) - 26 May 2024
Abstract
In an increasingly aging and overweight population, osteoporosis and type 2 diabetes (T2DM) are major public health concerns. T2DM patients experience prejudicial effects on their bone health, affecting their physical capacity. Exercise in hypoxia (EH) and a low-carbohydrate diet (LCD) have been suggested
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In an increasingly aging and overweight population, osteoporosis and type 2 diabetes (T2DM) are major public health concerns. T2DM patients experience prejudicial effects on their bone health, affecting their physical capacity. Exercise in hypoxia (EH) and a low-carbohydrate diet (LCD) have been suggested for therapeutic benefits in T2DM, improving bone mineral content (BMC) and glycemic control. This study investigated the effects of EH combined with an LCD on body composition and functional and physiologic capacity in T2DM patients. Older T2DM patients (n = 42) were randomly assigned to the following groups: (1) control group: control diet + exercise in normoxia; (2) EH group: control diet + EH; (3) intervention group: LCD + EH. Cardiopulmonary tests (BRUCE protocol), body composition (DEXA), and functional capacity (6MWT, handgrip strength) were evaluated. Body mass index (kg/m2) and body fat (%) decreased in all groups (p < 0.001). BMC (kg) increased in all groups (p < 0.001) and was significantly higher in the EH and EH + LCD groups (p < 0.001). VO2peak improved in all groups (p < 0.001), but more so in the hypoxia groups (p = 0.019). Functional capacity was increased in all groups (p < 0.001), but more so in the EH group in 6MWT (p = 0.030). EH with and without an LCD is a therapeutic strategy for improving bone mass in T2DM, which is associated with cardiorespiratory and functional improvements.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Diet Quality, Cardiometabolic Risk and Diabetes)
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N-Acetylcysteine Alleviates Impaired Muscular Function Resulting from Sphingosine Phosphate Lyase Functional Deficiency-Induced Sphingoid Base and Ceramide Accumulation in Caenorhabditis elegans
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Min Liu, Yunfei You, Huaiyi Zhu, Yu Chen, Zhenying Hu and Jingjing Duan
Nutrients 2024, 16(11), 1623; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu16111623 (registering DOI) - 26 May 2024
Abstract
Sphingosine-1-phosphate lyase (SPL) resides at the endpoint of the sphingolipid metabolic pathway, catalyzing the irreversible breakdown of sphingosine-1-phosphate. Depletion of SPL precipitates compromised muscle morphology and function; nevertheless, the precise mechanistic underpinnings remain elusive. Here, we elucidate a model of SPL functional deficiency
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Sphingosine-1-phosphate lyase (SPL) resides at the endpoint of the sphingolipid metabolic pathway, catalyzing the irreversible breakdown of sphingosine-1-phosphate. Depletion of SPL precipitates compromised muscle morphology and function; nevertheless, the precise mechanistic underpinnings remain elusive. Here, we elucidate a model of SPL functional deficiency in Caenorhabditis elegans using spl-1 RNA interference. Within these SPL-deficient nematodes, we observed diminished motility and perturbed muscle fiber organization, correlated with the accumulation of sphingoid bases, their phosphorylated forms, and ceramides (collectively referred to as the “sphingolipid rheostat”). The disturbance in mitochondrial morphology was also notable, as SPL functional loss resulted in heightened levels of reactive oxygen species. Remarkably, the administration of the antioxidant N-acetylcysteine (NAC) ameliorates locomotor impairment and rectifies muscle fiber disarray, underscoring its therapeutic promise for ceramide-accumulation-related muscle disorders. Our findings emphasize the pivotal role of SPL in preserving muscle integrity and advocate for exploring antioxidant interventions, such as NAC supplementation, as prospective therapeutic strategies for addressing muscle function decline associated with sphingolipid/ceramide metabolism disruption.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Dietary Lipid and Human Health)
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Open AccessBrief Report
Effect of Acute Dietary Nitrate Supplementation on the Changes in Calf Venous Volume during Postural Change and Skeletal Muscle Pump Activity in Healthy Young Adults
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Anna Oue, Yasuhiro Iimura, Yuichi Miyakoshi and Masako Ota
Nutrients 2024, 16(11), 1621; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu16111621 (registering DOI) - 26 May 2024
Abstract
Dietary nitrate (NO3−) supplementation is known to enhance nitric oxide (NO) activity and acts as a vasodilator. In this randomized crossover study, we investigated the effect of inorganic NO3− supplementation on the changes in calf venous volume during
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Dietary nitrate (NO3−) supplementation is known to enhance nitric oxide (NO) activity and acts as a vasodilator. In this randomized crossover study, we investigated the effect of inorganic NO3− supplementation on the changes in calf venous volume during postural change and subsequent skeletal muscle pump activity. Fifteen healthy young adults were assigned to receive beetroot juice (BRJ) or a NO3−-depleted control beverage (prune juice: CON). Two hours after beverage consumption, the changes in the right calf volume during postural change from supine to upright and a subsequent right tiptoe maneuver were measured using venous occlusion plethysmography. The increase in calf volume from the supine to upright position (total venous volume [VV]) and the decrease in calf volume during the right tiptoe maneuver (venous ejection volume [Ve]) were calculated. Plasma NO3− concentration was higher in the BRJ group than in the CON group 2 h after beverage intake (p < 0.05). However, VV and Ve did not differ between CON and BRJ. These results suggest that acute intake of BRJ may enhance NO activity via the NO3− → nitrite → NO pathway but does not change calf venous pooling due to a postural change or the calf venous return due to skeletal muscle pump activity in healthy young adults.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Effects of Phytochemicals on Human Health)
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Amelioration of Insulin Resistance by Whey Protein in a High-Fat Diet-Induced Pediatric Obesity Male Mouse Model
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Kengo Matsuda, Nobuhiko Nagano, Kimitaka Nakazaki, Daichi Katayama, Wataru Tokunaga, Koh Okuda, Shoichi Shimizu, Ryoji Aoki, Kazumasa Fuwa, Keisuke Shirai, Kazumichi Fujioka and Ichiro Morioka
Nutrients 2024, 16(11), 1622; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu16111622 (registering DOI) - 25 May 2024
Abstract
This study examined whey protein’s impact on insulin resistance in a high-fat diet-induced pediatric obesity mouse model. Pregnant mice were fed high-fat diets, and male pups continued this diet until 8 weeks old, then were split into high-fat, whey, and casein diet groups.
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This study examined whey protein’s impact on insulin resistance in a high-fat diet-induced pediatric obesity mouse model. Pregnant mice were fed high-fat diets, and male pups continued this diet until 8 weeks old, then were split into high-fat, whey, and casein diet groups. At 12 weeks old, their body weight, fasting blood glucose (FBG), blood insulin level (IRI), homeostatic model assessment for insulin resistance (HOMA-IR), liver lipid metabolism gene expression, and liver metabolites were compared. The whey group showed significantly lower body weight than the casein group at 12 weeks old (p = 0.034). FBG was lower in the whey group compared to the high-fat diet group (p < 0.01) and casein group (p = 0.058); IRI and HOMA-IR were reduced in the whey group compared to the casein group (p = 0.02, p < 0.01, p < 0.01, respectively). The levels of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor α and hormone-sensitive lipase were upregulated in the whey group compared to the casein group (p < 0.01, p = 0.03). Metabolomic analysis revealed that the levels of taurine and glycine, both known for their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, were upregulated in the whey group in the liver tissue (p < 0.01, p < 0.01). The intake of whey protein was found to improve insulin resistance in a high-fat diet-induced pediatric obesity mouse model.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Effect of Perinatal Condition and Nutritional Management on Patterns of Growth and Body Composition in Low-Birth-Weight Infants)
Open AccessArticle
Investigating the Effectiveness of a Carb-Free Oloproteic Diet in Fibromyalgia Treatment
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Giuseppe Castaldo, Carmen Marino, Mariangela Atteno, Maria D’Elia, Imma Pagano, Manuela Grimaldi, Aurelio Conte, Paola Molettieri, Angelo Santoro, Enza Napolitano, Ilaria Puca, Mariangela Raimondo, Chiara Parisella, Anna Maria D’Ursi and Luca Rastrelli
Nutrients 2024, 16(11), 1620; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu16111620 (registering DOI) - 25 May 2024
Abstract
Fibromyalgia (FM), a chronic disease with a high incidence in women, poses a significant challenge for diagnosis and treatment, especially due to the absence of specific biomarkers and the multifaceted nature of its symptoms, which range from neuromuscular pain to mood disorders and
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Fibromyalgia (FM), a chronic disease with a high incidence in women, poses a significant challenge for diagnosis and treatment, especially due to the absence of specific biomarkers and the multifaceted nature of its symptoms, which range from neuromuscular pain to mood disorders and intestinal dysbiosis. While diagnosis currently relies on rheumatological clinical evaluations and treatment options mainly focus on symptom management, FM seems to have possible links with systemic metabolic dysfunctions with a common inflammatory root. In this context, a new therapeutic avenue emerges: could a therapeutic nutritional approach be the missing piece of the puzzle? Indeed, diet therapies employed particularly for metabolic syndromes proved recently to be efficacious for correcting systemic dysmetabolism and a high number of chronic inflammation conditions. In particular, the very-low-calorie ketogenic diet (VLCKD) demonstrated therapeutic benefits in many disorders. In the present study, we aimed to investigate the specific effects of two dietary interventions, namely the oloproteic VLCKD and the low-glycemic insulinemic (LOGI) diet, on two groups of female FM patients (FM1 and FM2) over a 45-day period. Utilizing clinical and laboratory tests, as well as non-invasive NMR metabolomic analysis of serum, urine, and saliva samples, we sought to uncover how these dietary regimens impact the metabolic dysfunctions associated with FM.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Carbohydrates)
Open AccessArticle
Assessing the Impact of Religion and College Life on Consumption Patterns of Ultra-Processed Foods by Young Adults: A Cross-Sectional Study
by
Silvia Navarro-Prado, Jacqueline Schmidt-RioValle, Ángel Fernández-Aparicio, Miguel Ángel Montero-Alonso, Javier S. Perona and Emilio González-Jiménez
Nutrients 2024, 16(11), 1619; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu16111619 (registering DOI) - 25 May 2024
Abstract
(1) Background: University students, often constrained by time and influenced by socio-economic factors such as culture and religion, frequently adopt diets centred on ultra-processed foods (UPFs), increasing the risk of long-term non-communicable diseases. This study aimed to assess UPF consumption among Spanish university
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(1) Background: University students, often constrained by time and influenced by socio-economic factors such as culture and religion, frequently adopt diets centred on ultra-processed foods (UPFs), increasing the risk of long-term non-communicable diseases. This study aimed to assess UPF consumption among Spanish university students and explore the potential impact of religion and the academic year on their eating habits. (2) Methods: In a cross-sectional study of 257 university students aged 18–31, UPF consumption was assessed using NOVA food classification at the academic year’s start and end. Chi-square and Wilcoxon tests analysed UPF consumption changes, while binary logistic regression identified associations between religion and weekly UPF consumption. (3) Results: Muslim students had a consumption of industrial bakery products almost five times [95% CI: 2.694–9.259] higher than that observed among Christians. Similar data were observed for artificial juice consumption (OR = 3.897, 95% CI = 2.291–6.627) and candy consumption (OR = 3.724, 95% CI = 2.051–6.762). Moreover, a greater percentage of calories and grams of saturated fats from UPFs was observed for Muslims at the end of the study. (4) Conclusions: Highlighting the impact of religion on UPF consumption among students underscores the necessity of monitoring and intervening in dietary habits to prevent undesirable long-term complications such as cardiovascular diseases.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Ultra-Processed Food and Human Health)
Open AccessArticle
Exploring Family Perspectives on a Group-Based Hands-on Advanced Carbohydrate Counting Education Program for Children and Adolescents with Type 1 Diabetes: A Qualitative Study
by
Zandra Overgaard Pedersen, Sabine Schade Jacobsen, Bettina Ewers and Dan Grabowski
Nutrients 2024, 16(11), 1618; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu16111618 (registering DOI) - 25 May 2024
Abstract
Abstract: The care needs of children and adolescents with type 1 diabetes and their families are frequently approached as if they were identical to those of adults, overlooking the distinct challenges young people may face. It has been stated that children and
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Abstract: The care needs of children and adolescents with type 1 diabetes and their families are frequently approached as if they were identical to those of adults, overlooking the distinct challenges young people may face. It has been stated that children and adolescents often find conventional conversations with diabetes specialists tiresome and unpleasant. The present study focuses on familial experiences of an advanced carbohydrate counting program tailored to children and adolescents. The data encompass semi-structured interviews with families who participated in a group-based child-centered advanced carbohydrate counting program. The analysis revealed five themes: (1) peer-to-peer interaction is an essential determinant of sharing and learning; (2) illness perception significantly influences dietary intake; (3) normalization of diabetes in everyday life eases the disease burden; (4) repetition of dietary knowledge is important for retention; and (5) creating a safe and playful learning environment is crucial to engaging children and adolescents in their own treatment. The present findings suggest that it would be beneficial to explore and consider alternative teaching approaches that are adapted to a more interactive and engaging learning environment that is specifically tailored to children and adolescents. This entails moving away from traditional individual approaches.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Nutrition and Diabetes)
Open AccessArticle
The Association between Diet–Exercise Patterns and Cirrhosis: A Cross-Sectional Study from NHANES 2017-March 2020
by
Jialu Liu, Xinhao Han, Lu Chen, Liudan Mai, Xiaoman Su, Yanlin Dong, Baolong Wang and Qiuju Zhang
Nutrients 2024, 16(11), 1617; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu16111617 (registering DOI) - 25 May 2024
Abstract
Background: Liver cirrhosis (LC) is one of the most significant causes of morbidity and mortality in patients with chronic liver disease worldwide. Nutrition may be an important component of primary prevention of chronic liver disease. Diet–exercise patterns frame the eating behaviors and exercise
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Background: Liver cirrhosis (LC) is one of the most significant causes of morbidity and mortality in patients with chronic liver disease worldwide. Nutrition may be an important component of primary prevention of chronic liver disease. Diet–exercise patterns frame the eating behaviors and exercise habits of people through statistical methods related to nutritional epidemiology, which can explore the relationship between living habits and diseases among diverse populations. The purpose of this study was to explore the association between diet–exercise patterns and cirrhosis, and provide guidance on preventive diets for liver patients. Methods: This study identified diet–exercise patterns via clustering analysis of principal components and assessed their association with cirrhosis through the population samples of the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) from 2017 to March 2020. Results: We identified two diet–exercise patterns that were named the “prudent pattern” (consumption of various staple foods, eggs, meat, fruits and vegetables; less sedentary) and the “dangerous pattern” (higher consumption of desserts, nuts, milk, meat, alcoholic beverages; recreational activities). The t-test demonstrated a significant relationship between patterns and multiple foods. The simple logistic regression test showed a lower risk of cirrhosis in those in the “prudent pattern” (OR = 0.73, 95%CI = 0.59–0.93). Conclusions: Two diet–exercise patterns associated with cirrhosis were identified: “prudent pattern” and “dangerous pattern”. The results of this study may be useful for suggesting preventive diets for people at risk of cirrhosis.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Nutritional Epidemiology)
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Yerba Mate (Ilex Paraguariensis) Reduces Colitis Severity by Promoting Anti-Inflammatory Macrophage Polarization
by
Alexandra Olate-Briones, Sofía Albornoz-Muñoz, Francisca Rodríguez-Arriaza, Valentina Rodríguez-Vergara, Juan Machuca Aguirre, Chaohong Liu, Carlos Peña-Farfal, Noelia Escobedo and Andrés A. Herrada
Nutrients 2024, 16(11), 1616; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu16111616 (registering DOI) - 25 May 2024
Abstract
Yerba Mate (YM) (Ilex paraguariensis) is a natural herbal supplement with a well-described anti-inflammatory capacity and beneficial effects in different inflammatory contexts such as insulin resistance or obesity. However, whether YM could improve other inflammatory conditions such as colitis or the immune cell
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Yerba Mate (YM) (Ilex paraguariensis) is a natural herbal supplement with a well-described anti-inflammatory capacity and beneficial effects in different inflammatory contexts such as insulin resistance or obesity. However, whether YM could improve other inflammatory conditions such as colitis or the immune cell population that can be modulated by this plant remains elusive. Here, by using 61 male and female C57BL/6/J wild-type (WT) mice and the dextran sodium sulfate (DSS)-induced acute colitis model, we evaluated the effect of YM on colitis symptoms and macrophage polarization. Our results showed that the oral administration of YM reduces colitis symptoms and improves animal survival. Increasing infiltration of anti-inflammatory M2 macrophage was observed in the colon of the mice treated with YM. Accordingly, YM promoted M2 macrophage differentiation in vivo. However, the direct administration of YM to bone marrow-derived macrophages did not increase anti-inflammatory polarization, suggesting that YM, through an indirect mechanism, is able to skew the M1/M2 ratio. Moreover, YM consumption reduced the Eubacterium rectale/Clostridium coccoides and Enterobacteriaceae groups and increased the Lactobacillus/Lactococcus group in the gut microbiota. In summary, we show that YM promotes an immunosuppressive environment by enhancing anti-inflammatory M2 macrophage differentiation, reducing colitis symptoms, and suggesting that YM consumption may be a good cost-effective treatment for ulcerative colitis.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Effects of Nutraceuticals on Intestinal Inflammation)
Open AccessArticle
The Impact of Haplotypes of the FTO Gene, Lifestyle, and Dietary Patterns on BMI and Metabolic Syndrome in Polish Young Adult Men
by
Sylwia Górczyńska-Kosiorz, Mateusz Lejawa, Marcin Goławski, Agnieszka Tomaszewska, Martyna Fronczek, Beata Maksym, Maciej Banach and Tadeusz Osadnik
Nutrients 2024, 16(11), 1615; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu16111615 (registering DOI) - 25 May 2024
Abstract
Background: Variants in fat mass and the obesity-associated protein (FTO) gene have long been recognized as the most significant genetic predictors of body fat mass and obesity. Nevertheless, despite the overall evidence, there are conflicting reports regarding the correlation between different
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Background: Variants in fat mass and the obesity-associated protein (FTO) gene have long been recognized as the most significant genetic predictors of body fat mass and obesity. Nevertheless, despite the overall evidence, there are conflicting reports regarding the correlation between different polymorphisms of the FTO gene and body mass index (BMI). Additionally, it is unclear whether FTO influences metabolic syndrome (MetS) through mechanisms other than BMI’s impact. In this work, we aimed to analyze the impact of the following FTO polymorphisms on the BMI as well as MetS components in a population of young adult men. Methods: The patient group consisted of 279 Polish young adult men aged 28.92 (4.28) recruited for the MAGNETIC trial. The single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs), located in the first intron of the FTO gene, were genotyped, and the results were used to identify “protective” and “risk” haplotypes and diplotypes based on the literature data. Laboratory, as well as anthropometric measurements regarding MetS, were performed. Measured MetS components included those used in the definition in accordance with the current guidelines. Data regarding dietary patterns were also collected, and principal components of the dietary patterns were identified. Results: No statistically significant correlations were identified between the analyzed FTO diplotypes and BMI (p = 0.53) or other MetS components (waist circumference p = 0.55; triglycerides p = 0.72; HDL cholesterol p = 0.33; blood glucose p = 0.20; systolic blood pressure p = 0.06; diastolic blood pressure p = 0.21). Stratification by the level of physical activity or adherence to the dietary patterns also did not result in any statistically significant result. Conclusions: Some studies have shown that FTO SNPs such as rs1421085, rs1121980, rs8050136, rs9939609, and rs9930506 have an impact on the BMI or other MetS components; nevertheless, this was not replicated in this study of Polish young adult males.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nutrition and Gene Interaction)
Open AccessArticle
Supplementation of Seaweed Extracts to the Diet Reduces Symptoms of Alzheimer’s Disease in the APPswePS1ΔE9 Mouse Model
by
Nikita Martens, Na Zhan, Sammie C. Yam, Frank P. J. Leijten, Marcella Palumbo, Martien Caspers, Assia Tiane, Silvia Friedrichs, Yanlin Li, Leonie van Vark-van der Zee, Gardi Voortman, Francesca Zimetti, Dick Jaarsma, Lars Verschuren, Johan W. Jonker, Folkert Kuipers, Dieter Lütjohann, Tim Vanmierlo and Monique T. Mulder
Nutrients 2024, 16(11), 1614; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu16111614 (registering DOI) - 25 May 2024
Abstract
We previously demonstrated that diet supplementation with seaweed Sargassum fusiforme (S. fusiforme) prevented AD-related pathology in a mouse model of Alzheimer’s Disease (AD). Here, we tested a lipid extract of seaweed Himanthalia elongata (H. elongata) and a supercritical fluid
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We previously demonstrated that diet supplementation with seaweed Sargassum fusiforme (S. fusiforme) prevented AD-related pathology in a mouse model of Alzheimer’s Disease (AD). Here, we tested a lipid extract of seaweed Himanthalia elongata (H. elongata) and a supercritical fluid (SCF) extract of S. fusiforme that is free of excess inorganic arsenic. Diet supplementation with H. elongata extract prevented cognitive deterioration in APPswePS1ΔE9 mice. Similar trends were observed for the S. fusiforme SCF extract. The cerebral amyloid-β plaque load remained unaffected. However, IHC analysis revealed that both extracts lowered glial markers in the brains of APPswePS1ΔE9 mice. While cerebellar cholesterol concentrations remained unaffected, both extracts increased desmosterol, an endogenous LXR agonist with anti-inflammatory properties. Both extracts increased cholesterol efflux, and particularly, H. elongata extract decreased the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines in LPS-stimulated THP-1-derived macrophages. Additionally, our findings suggest a reduction of AD-associated phosphorylated tau and promotion of early oligodendrocyte differentiation by H. elongata. RNA sequencing on the hippocampus of one-week-treated APPswePS1ΔE9 mice revealed effects of H. elongata on, amongst others, acetylcholine and synaptogenesis signaling pathways. In conclusion, extracts of H. elongata and S. fusiforme show potential to reduce AD-related pathology in APPswePS1ΔE9 mice. Increasing desmosterol concentrations may contribute to these effects by dampening neuroinflammation.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Dietary Factors and Interventions for Neurodegenerative Diseases)
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