Effects of Cashew Nuts (Anacardium occidentale L.) and Cashew Nut Oil on Intestinal Permeability and Inflammatory Markers during an Energy-Restricted 8-Week Intervention: A Randomized Controlled Trial (Brazilian Nuts Study).

Cashew nuts can contribute to improving intestinal permeability and inflammation as they contain essential nutrients and bioactive compounds, but no clinical trials have evaluated these potential effects. This randomized trial aimed to assess the effects of cashew nuts and their oil on intestinal permeability and inflammatory markers. Sixty-four adults with overweight or obesity were allocated into three groups receiving energy restriction (-500 kcal/day): control (CT, free nuts), cashew nuts (CN, 30 g/day), or cashew nut oil (OL, 30 mL/day). Urine lactulose and mannitol, plasma zonulin and the lipopolysaccharide-binding protein (LBP), plasma interleukins (IL-6, TNF-α, IL-10, IL-1ß, IL-8, and IL-12p70), and C-reactive proteins were analyzed. Energy restriction reduced body fat and other indicators of adiposity without differences between the groups. Only the control group increased LBPs after an 8-week intervention. There were no statistically significant differences found between the groups in terms of intestinal permeability and inflammatory markers. In conclusion, incorporating cashew nuts or cashew nut oil into an energy-restricted 8-week dietary intervention did not change intestinal permeability and inflammatory markers. As studies evaluating cashew nuts on these markers remain scarce, further research is needed, perhaps with a longer study period and a higher concentration of cashew nuts and oil.

Effect of Nuts Combined with Energy Restriction on the Obesity Treatment: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials.

Obesity is a multifactorial disease that is difficult to control worldwide. Although nuts are recognized health foods, the application of food in obesity management is unclear. We systematically reviewed the literature and performed a meta-analysis to evaluate if nut consumption favors people on energy restriction (ER) dietary interventions. Four databases were used to search for eligible articles in May 2024. This review was conducted according to the PRISMA guide, and the bias risk of papers was evaluated. For the meta-analysis, we extracted the endpoint values of the group's variables and estimated the effect sizes by the random-effects model. Sixteen and ten articles were included in the systematic review and meta-analysis, respectively. Almonds were evaluated in the majority of studies (n = 6). The consumption of nuts (28 to 84 g/d, 4 to 72 months) included in ER (-250 to 1000 kcal/d) did not differently affect anthropometry (weight loss, BMI, waist and hip circumferences), body composition (fat mass, fat-free mass, or lean mass), markers of glucose (glycemia and insulinemia), lipid metabolism (total cholesterol, HDL-c, LDL-c, LDL-c/HDL-c, or triglycerides), and systolic and diastolic blood pressure. In most analyses, stratifying studies by type of nut or intervention time did not present different results in the meta-analysis. As there are few studies, in addition to great methodological variability, more high-quality trials are needed to confirm these results. The PROSPERO registration number is CRD42023444878.

Cashew nut (Anacardium occidentale L.) and cashew nut oil reduce cardiovascular risk factors in adults on weight-loss treatment: a randomized controlled three-arm trial (Brazilian Nuts Study).

Introduction: Cashew nut contains bioactive compounds that modulate satiety and food intake, but its effects on body fat during energy restriction remains unknown. This study aimed to assess the effects of cashew nut and cashew nut oil on body fat (primary outcome) as well as adiposity, cardiometabolic and liver function markers (secondary outcomes). Materials and methods: An eight-week (8-wk) randomized controlled-feeding study involved 68 adults with overweight/obesity (40 women, BMI: 33 ± 4 kg/m2). Participants were randomly assigned to one of the energy-restricted (-500 kcal/d) groups: control (CT, free-nuts), cashew nut (CN, 30 g/d), or cashew nut oil (OL, 30 mL/d). Body weight, body composition, and blood collection were assessed at the baseline and endpoint of the study. Results: After 8-wk, all groups reduced significantly body fat (CT: -3.1 ± 2.8 kg; CN: -3.3 ± 2.7 kg; OL: -1.8 ± 2.6 kg), body weight (CT: -4.2 ± 3.8 kg; CN: -3.9 ± 3.1 kg; OL: -3.4 ± 2.4 kg), waist (CT: -5.1 ± 4.6 cm; CN: -3.9 ± 3.9 cm; OL: -3.7 ± 5.3 cm) and hip circumferences (CT: -2.9 ± 3.0 cm; CN: -2.7 ± 3.1 cm; OL: -2.9 ± 2.3 cm). CN-group reduced liver enzymes (AST: -3.1 ± 5.3 U/L; ALT: -6.0 ± 9.9 U/L), while the OL-group reduced LDL-c (-11.5 ± 21.8 mg/dL) and atherogenic index (-0.2 ± 0.5). Both intervention groups decreased neck circumference (CN: -1.0 ± 1.2 cm; OL: -0.5 ± 1.2 cm) and apo B (CN: -6.6 ± 10.7 mg/dL; OL: -7.0 ± 15.3 mg/dL). Conclusion: After an 8-wk energy-restricted intervention, all groups reduced body fat (kg), weight, and some others adiposity indicators, with no different effect of cashew nut or cashew nut oil. However, participants in the intervention groups experienced additional reductions in atherogenic marker, liver function biomarkers, and cardiovascular risk factors (neck circumference and apo B levels), with these effects observed across the OL group, CN group, and both intervention groups, respectively.Clinical trial registration:https://ensaiosclinicos.gov.br/rg/RBR-8xzkyp2, identifier 8xzkyp2.

Brazil Nut (Bertholletia excelsa H.B.K.) Consumption in Energy-Restricted Intervention Decreases Proinflammatory Markers and Intestinal Permeability of Women with Overweight/Obesity: A Controlled Trial (Brazilian Nuts Study).

BACKGROUND: Obesity is associated with low-grade inflammation and increased intestinal permeability (IP). The Brazil nut (BN) (Bertholletia excelsa H.B.K.) appears to be a promising dietary intervention to control inflammation by enhancing antioxidant defenses. OBJECTIVES: We aimed to assess the effect of daily BN consumption on inflammatory biomarkers and IP in the context of an energy-restricted intervention. Furthermore, we evaluated the correlation between the changes in these inflammatory markers and the changes in serum selenium and IP. METHODS: In this 8-wk nonrandomized controlled trial, 56 women with overweight or obesity were allocated into 2 groups, both following an energy-restricted diet (-500 kcal/d). The control group (CO) consumed a nut-free diet, while the BN group consumed 8 g BN/d, providing 347.2 µg selenium (Se). Inflammatory cytokines were analyzed in plasma and Se in serum. IP was assessed using the lactulose/mannitol test (LM ratio). RESULTS: Forty-six women completed the intervention. Both groups achieved similar energy restriction (CO Δ= -253.7 ± 169.4 kcal/d; BN Δ= -265.8 ± 141.8 kcal/d) and weight loss (CO Δ= -2.5 ± 0.5 kg; BN Δ= -3.5 ± 0.5 kg). The BN group showed lower values of C-reactive protein, tumor necrosis factor, interleukin (IL)1-ß, IL-8, percentage lactulose excretion, and LM ratio than the CO group. Additionally, changes in serum Se concentration were predictive of changes in IL-8 concentration (ß: -0.054; adjusted R2: 0.100; 95% confidence interval [CI]: -0.100; -0.007; P = 0.025), and changes in IL-8 were predictive of changes in the LM ratio (ß: 0.006; adjusted R2: 0.101; 95% CI: 0.001, 0.011; P = 0.024). CONCLUSIONS: Regular intake of BNs can be a promising complementary dietary strategy for controlling low-grade inflammation and improving IP in women with overweight/obesity undergoing energy-restricted treatment. However, the effects of BNs seem to be Se status-dependent. This trial was registered at the Brazilian Registry of Clinical Trials (ReBEC: https://ensaiosclinicos.gov.br/rg/RBR-3ntxrm/.

Lymphocyte to High-density Lipoprotein Cholesterol Ratio is Positively Associated with Pre-diabetes, Metabolic Syndrome, and Non-traditional Cardiometabolic Risk Markers: A Cross-sectional Study at Secondary Health Care.

High scores of lymphocyte-to-high-density lipoprotein cholesterol ratio (lymphocyte-to-HDL-c) may be a new indicator of inflammation and metabolic syndrome. Here, we investigated the associations of the lymphocyte-to-HDL-c with traditional and non-traditional cardiometabolic risk markers in subjects at high cardiovascular risk. This study is a cross-sectional analysis with subjects assisted in a Secondary Health Care (n = 581, age = 63.06 ± 13.86 years; 52.3% women). Lymphocyte-to-HDL-c ratio were assessed by routine laboratory tests. Anthropometric and/or biochemical variables were used to calculate traditional (body mass index - BMI, and waist-to-height ratio - WHtR) and non-traditional (lipid accumulation product index-LAP, visceral adiposity index-VAI, deep-abdominal-adipose-tissue index-DAAT, atherogenic index of plasma-AIP, and waist-hypertriglyceridemic phenotype-HTGW) cardiometabolic risk markers. Furthermore, anthropometric measurement waist circumference (WC), blood pressure, metabolic syndrome (MS), and biochemical markers (lipid and glycemic profile) were considered traditional markers of cardiometabolic risk. Pearson's chi-square test, Poisson regression with robust variance, or multinomial logistic regression were performed (α = 0.05). Individuals with a high lymphocyte-HDL-c ratio (> 0.84, 3rd tertile) were associated with the HTGW phenotype, high VAI, high LAP, hypertriglyceridemia, high AIP, high very low-density lipoprotein-cholesterol (VLDL-c), pre-diabetes, and 3 and 4 MS components compared with individuals in the first tertile, independent of confounders. Our findings supported the lymphocyte-to-HDL-c ratio as a potential biomarker during the screening of subjects at high cardiovascular risk.

Questionário Palmore-Neri-Cachioni de Conhecimentos Básicos sobre a Velhice: atualização e validação de conteúdo / Palmore-Neri-Cachioni Questionnaire on Basic Knowledge about Old Age: Update and content validation

RESUMO O objetivo do estudo foi atualizar e avaliar a validade de conteúdo do Questionário Palmore-Neri-Cachioni de Conhecimentos Básicos sobre a Velhice. A atualização contou com três especialistas em gerontologia. Realizou-se duas rodadas de validação de conteúdo. Utilizou-se o Índice de Validade de Conteúdo a nível de item, traduzido pelo Kappa modificado e a Razão de Validade de Conteúdo, adotando pontuações ≥ 0,78, 0,74 e 1,00, respectivamente. A validade de conteúdo global foi avaliada pelo Índice de Validade de Conteúdo a nível de escala de acordo com a média, assumindo ponto de corte de 0,90. Uma reunião com a autora da versão brasileira foi realizada para esclarecimentos. O estudo piloto foi conduzido com indivíduos da população alvo e avaliado pela taxa de concordância, com ponto de corte 80%. Atualizou-se as respostas de sete itens, 14 itens foram revisados e após a segunda rodada, a validade geral do instrumento foi de 0,96. Quatro itens e a instrução foram discutidos com a autora. O estudo piloto contou com 34 respondentes e alcançou satisfatoriedade. Foi possível obter o Questionário Palmore-Neri-Cachioni - Atualizado e Revisado (2022) que evidenciou validade de conteúdo e de face quando aplicado a uma amostra de profissionais e gestores de saúde.

ABSTRACT The aim of the study was to update and assess the content validity of the Palmore-Neri-Cachioni Questionnaire on Basic Knowledge of Old Age. Three gerontology specialists were involved in the update. Two rounds of content validation were carried out. The Content Validity Index at item level was used, translated by the modified Kappa and the Content Validity Ratio, adopting scores ≥ 0.78, 0.74 and 1.00, respectively. Overall content validity was assessed by the Content Validity Index at scale level according to the mean, assuming a cut-off point of 0.90. A meeting was held with the author of the Brazilian version for clarification. The pilot study was conducted with individuals from the target population and assessed by the agreement rate, with a cut-off point of 80%. The answers to seven items were updated, 14 items were revised and after the second round, the overall validity of the instrument was 0.96. Four items and the instruction were discussed with the author. The pilot study had 34 respondents and was satisfactory. It was possible to obtain the Palmore-Neri-Cachioni Questionnaire - Updated and Revised (2022), which showed content and face validity when applied to a sample of health professionals and managers.

Risk and protective factors for Long COVID in Brazilian adults (CUME Study).

Background: Most people recover from COVID-19, however, between 5 to 20% have experienced new, recurring, or continuous health problems four or more weeks after being infected, a phenomenon called Long COVID, and whose reasons for its manifestation are incipient. Our objective was to analyse the risk and protective factors for Long COVID in Brazilian adults participating in the CUME Study. Methods: The CUME Study is a prospective cohort conducted with graduates from federal universities in the State of Minas Gerais, Brazil. In this study, 390 participants who answered the baseline questionnaire in 2016 and the third follow-up questionnaire in 2022 (which contained a block of questions about occurrence of COVID-19 and Long COVID) were included. The diagnosis of Long COVID was based on self-reporting of persistence of signs and symptoms of COVID-19 between 30 days and 6 months after remission of the disease. To estimate the risk and protective factors for Long COVID, a hierarchical multivariate statistical analysis was conducted using the Poisson regression technique. Results: Long COVID was observed in 48.9% of the participants. The following characteristics were identified as risk factors for the outcome: female sex (RR = 1.56; 95% CI = 1.22-1.99); prior diagnosis of hypertension (RR = 1.46; 95% CI = 1.19-1.80); having contracted COVID-19 in the first (RR =1.38; 95% CI = 1.07-1.79) or in the second waves (RR = 1.33; 95% CI = 1.07-1.65) of the pandemic period; and having presented three or more signs and symptoms during the acute phase of COVID-19 (RR = 2.99; 95% CI = 1.08-8.24). On the other hand, having a doctoral/postdoctoral educational level (RR = 0.69; 95% CI = 0.50-0.94) was identified as a protective factor for the outcome. Conclusion: Health system managers and healthcare professionals should be aware of the socioeconomic profile and disease history of patients who have had COVID-19 because women, people with a prior diagnosis of hypertension, and those who manifested multiple signs and symptoms of COVID-19 during the acute phase of the disease were at greater risk of developing Long COVID.

Mapping and projections of obesity in the Brazilian adult population assisted in Primary Health Care: impact of the COVID-19 pandemic / Mapeamento e projeções da obesidade na população adulta brasileira atendida na Atenção Primária à Saúde: impacto da pandemia de COVID-19

Objective: To map the temporal evolution of overweight and obesity in Brazilian adults and estimate the prevalence of obesity for 2025 and 2030, evaluating the potential impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. Method: Data were collected on the nutritional status of adults from 2008 to 2021 from the Food and Nutrition Surveillance System (SISVAN), from which we calculated the prevalence and average annual rates of the variation of overweight and obesity. The projection of obesity, using linear regression, was analyzed in three scenarios: PP: with data from the pre-pandemic period (2008-2019); outlier: with adjustment of the data trend (2008-2021), including the pandemic period, considering a return of scenario PP for projections from 2022; P: adjustment of pandemic data (2019-2021) to estimate the projection. Result: In the period 2008­2021, we observed an average annual rate of overweight increase of 0.48 %/year. The prevalence of obesity more than doubled during this period, from 14.5% in 2008 to 32.9% in 2021 (i.e., an increase of 1.42). In the outlier scenario, the prevalence projections for obesity are 38.8% and 45.5% for 2015 and 2030, respectively. In the PP scenario (without the pandemic), the expected prevalence for the same period would be approximately 36.8% and 43.4%, respectively. Conclusion: Obesity and overweight follow an increasing trend. The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated the increase in the prevalence of obesity in Brazil and impacted its projections for the coming years

Objetivo: Mapear a evolução temporal de sobrepeso e obesidade de adultos brasileiros e estimar as prevalências de obesidade para 2025 e 2030, avaliando o potencial impacto da pandemia de COVID-19. Método: Foram coletados dados do estado nutricional de adultos de 2008 a 2021 do Sistema de Vigilância Alimentar e Nutricional (SISVAN), a partir dos quais foram calculadas as prevalências e taxas médias anuais da variação de sobrepeso e obesidade. A projeção da obesidade, utilizando regressão linear, foi analisada em três cenários: PP: com dados do período pré-pandemia (2008-2019); outlier: com ajuste da endência de dados (2008-2021), incluindo o período da pandemia, considerando um retorno do cenário PP para projeções a partir de 2022; P: ajuste dos dados da pandemia (2019-2021) para estimativa da projeção. Resultado: No período de 2008 e 2021, observamos uma taxa anual média de aumento de sobrepeso de 0,48 %/ano. A prevalência de obesidade mais que dobrou nesse período, passando de 14,5% em 2008 para 32,9% em 2021 (i.e., um aumento de 1,42). No cenário outlier, as projeções das prevalências de obesidade são de 38,8% e 45,5% para os anos de 2015 e 2030, respectivamente. No cenário PP (sem a pandemia), a prevalência esperada para o mesmo período estaria em torno de 36,8% e 43,4%, respectivamente. Conclusão: A obesidade e o sobrepeso seguem uma tendência de aumento crescente. A pandemia de COVID-19 acelerou o aumento da prevalência de obesidade no Brasil e impactou a sua projeção para os próximos anos.

Fatty acid intake and prevalence of depression among Brazilian graduates and postgraduates (CUME Study).

BACKGROUND: Dietary fatty acids are related to the development of several inflammatory-related diseases, which may include depression. So, the association between fatty acids, culinary oils and fat intake and depression in highly educated Brazilians was evaluated. METHODS: Multicenter cross-sectional study using baseline data from the Cohort of Universities of Minas Gerais. The diagnosis of depression was self-reported, and the daily intake of fatty acids was assessed using a 144-item food frequency questionnaire (FFQ). RESULTS: A total of 7157 participants (68.83 % women) with a median age of 33 years were included. The prevalence of depression was 12.60 % (N = 902). In the adjusted analyses, it was observed that individuals with the highest intake of omega-6 fatty acids (n-6) (OR: 1.36, 95 % CI 1.11-1.67) had a higher prevalence of depression. This increased n-6 intake was identified as a risk factor for depression only among male participants, while among overweight participants, higher n-6 intake was also positively associated with depression. Conversely, a higher ratio of polyunsaturated to monounsaturated and saturated fatty acids (PM/S) was also found to be positively associated with depression, but this association was observed only among non-overweight participants. No associations were found between the consumption of culinary oils or fats and depression. LIMITATIONS: Cross-sectional design limits the assessment of causality. The use of the FFQ can make estimates more difficult. CONCLUSION: Higher consumption of n-6, and higher PM/S ratios were associated with depression, and individual factors can interfere. The mental health care policies should include specific nutritional strategies.

Food consumption according to the degree of industrial food processing in Brazilian graduates (CUME Project): A hierarchical analysis of associated factors / Consumo alimentar segundo o grau de processamento industrial dos alimentos em brasileiros graduados (Projeto CUME): uma análise hierarquizada dos fatores associados

ABSTRACT Objective Evaluate the food consumption of the participants of the Cohort of Universities of Minas Gerais, according to the degree of processing, and its relationship with socioeconomic, behavioral, and individual factors. Methods A total of 4,124 individuals from the baseline of the Cohort of Universities of Minas Gerais (2016 and 2018) participated in this study. Food consumption was self-reported by completing an online Food Frequency Questionnaire. The foods were divided into 3 groups: Group 1, in natura, minimally processed foods, culinary ingredients and culinary preparations; Group 2, processed foods; Group 3, ultra-processed foods. A hierarchical multiple linear regression model was used to verify the associated factors. Results Regarding the factors associated with food consumption, it is noteworthy that Group 1 was positively associated with the practice of physical activity, female gender, age, "non-white" skin color, and the presence of diabetes Mellitus; and negatively with "not married/without stable union" marital status, alcohol abuse, tobacco use, obesity, and depression. Considering Group 2, it was positively associated with alcohol abuse, tobacco use, and age; and negatively with physical activity, female gender, and "non-white" skin color. As for Group 3 it was positively associated with a marital status of "not married/without stable union", obesity, and depression; and negatively with physical activity, age, "non-white" skin color, and presence of diabetes Mellitus. Conclusion The factors that are in at least one of the final hierarchical linear regression models stand out: marital status, physical activity, alcohol abuse, tobacco use, sex, age, skin color, obesity, diabetes mellitus, and depression.

RESUMO Objetivo Avaliar o consumo alimentar dos participantes da Coorte de Universidades Mineiras, de acordo com grau de processamento, e sua relação, com fatores socioeconômicos, comportamentais e individuais. Método Participaram desse estudo 4.124 indivíduos da linha de base da Coorte de Universidades Mineiras (2016 e 2018). O consumo alimentar foi autorrelatado por um questionário online de frequência de consumo alimentar. Os alimentos foram divididos em: Grupo 1: alimentos in natura, minimamente processados, ingredientes culinários e preparações culinárias; Grupo 2: alimentos processados; e Grupo 3: alimentos ultraprocessados. Foi utilizado modelo de regressão linear múltipla hierarquizada para verificar os fatores associados. Resultados O Grupo 1 se associou positivamente à prática de atividade física, sexo feminino, idade, cor da pele "não branca" e presença de diabetes Mellitus; e negativamente ao estado civil "não casado/sem união estável", consumo abusivo de álcool, uso do tabaco, obesidade e depressão. O Grupo 2 se associou positivamente ao consumo abusivo de álcool, uso do tabaco e idade; e negativamente à prática de atividade física, sexo feminino e cor da pele "não branca". O Grupo 3 se associou positivamente ao estado civil "não casado/sem união estável", obesidade e depressão; e negativamente à prática de atividade física, idade, cor da pele "não branca" e presença de diabetes Mellitus. Conclusão Destacam-se os fatores que estão em pelo menos um dos modelos de regressão linear hierarquizada final: estado civil, atividade física, consumo abusivo de álcool, uso do tabaco, sexo, idade, cor da pele, obesidade, diabetes mellitus e depressão.

30-Year High Cardiovascular Risk Incidence and its Determinants: CUME Study.

OBJECTIVE: Estimate the incidence of the 30-year high cardiovascular risk and its determinants among graduates of federal universities in Minas Gerais. METHODS: This is a prospective cohort of 2,854 adults aged 20 to 59. The incidence of the outcome was calculated using the Framingham equation and its determinants were determined through multivariate Cox regression. RESULTS: After an average of 2.62 years, the incidence of high cardiovascular risk was 8.09 and 20.1 cases per 1,000 person-years, for females and males respectively. Being male (HR: 2.34; 95% CI: 1.58 - 3.46), employment (HR: 2.13; 95% CI: 1.13 - 3.99), high consumption of processed foods (HR: 2.44; 95% CI: 1.21 - 4.90), and being physically active (HR: 0.63; 95% CI: 0.41 - 0.98) were associated with high cardiovascular risk. CONCLUSIONS: Among highly educated adults, being male, employment, and high consumption of processed foods are predictors of high cardiovascular risk, while being physically active acts as a protective factor.

Are ambulatory blood pressure parameters associated more with central adiposity than with total adiposity? Results of the ELSA-Brasil study.

Background: Worldwide obesity has a high prevalence, as well as carries a high risk of several chronic diseases, including hypertension. Studies of the association between obesity and ambulatory blood pressure (BP) are scarce and most use only body mass index (BMI) as indicator of adiposity. Thus, we aimed to examine for associations between total and central adiposity and ambulatory BP parameters (BP means and variability, nocturnal dipping and morning surge) among participants in the Brazilian Longitudinal Study of Adult Health (ELSA-Brasil). Methods: This cross-sectional study (2012-2014) used a subsample of participants (n = 812) of ELSA-Brasil who underwent 24-hour ambulatory BP monitoring to assess systolic and diastolic BP (SBP and DBP, respectively) over 24-hour periods and sub-periods. Indicators for total adiposity were BMI and body fat (BF) and, for central adiposity, waist circumference (WC) and waist-to-height ratio (WHR). Associations were tested using crude and adjusted gamma and logistic regression. Results: Overweight (BMI) and abdominal obesity (WC and WHR) associated positively with mean 24-hour (Coef = 2.71, 3.09 and 4.00, respectively), waking (Coef = 2.87, 3.26 and 4.16, respectively), and sleeping (Coef = 2.30, 2.74 and 3.50, respectively) SBP; mean DBP associated with high WHR in these three periods (Coef = 2.00, 2.10 and 1.68, respectively) and with WC in the waking period (Coef = 1.44). Overweight and abdominal obesity (WC and WHR) were positively associated with SBP variability over 24 h (Coef = 0.53, 0.45 and 0.49, respectively) and in sleep (Coef = 0.80, 0.74 and 0.59, respectively), and with DBP variability in 24 h (Coef = 0.64, 0.73 and 0.58, respectively), wakefulness (Coef = 0.50, 0.52 and 0.52, respectively) and sleep (Coef = 0.53, 0.45 and 0.49); excess BF associated positively with DBP variability over 24 h (Coef = 0.43) and in wakefulness (Coef = 0.38). Lastly, high WHR and excess BF were associated with higher odds of extreme dipping (OR = 1.03 for both), while high WC and WHR associated with higher odds of exacerbated diastolic morning surge (OR = 3.18 and 3.66, respectively). Conclusion: Indicators of adiposity were associated with the BP means and variability, nocturnal dipping and morning surge, with more substantial results for indicators of central adiposity that the others.

Tools developed in Brazil for the promotion and assessment of adequate and healthy eating habits: A scoping review. / Ferramentas para promoção e avaliação da alimentação adequada e saudável desenvolvidas no Brasil: uma revisão de escopo.

The objective of this study was to identify and discuss the tools for the promotion and evaluation of adequate and healthy eating based on the Food Guide for the Brazilian Population. The scoping review was conducted according to the JBI Manual for Evidence Synthesis via the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analyses extension for Scoping Reviews (PRISMA-ScR) checklist and by searching PubMed/MEDLINE, EMBASE, SciELO and LILACS. Sixteen studies on relevant tools, based on the food guide for individuals of all age groups, were thus included: two descriptive studies, two randomized clinical trial protocols, eleven methodological analyses, and one psychometric paper, aimed at either a focal population (n=12) or health professionals (n=4). Six studies addressed tools for promoting adequate and healthy eating, and ten developed tools for evaluating dietary practices or the knowledge and activities of health professionals. This review can therefore assist health professionals in choosing instruments for the implementation and/or dissemination of food guide recommendations, contributing to the promotion of adequate and healthy eating habits.

O objetivo deste estudo foi identificar e discutir as ferramentas de promoção e avaliação da alimentação adequada e saudável baseadas no Guia Alimentar para a População Brasileira. A revisão de escopo foi conduzida de acordo com o JBI Manual for Evidence Synthesis, utilizando para relatório de revisão de escopo o guia Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analyses extension for Scoping Reviews, com busca nas bases de dados PubMed/MEDLINE, EMBASE, SciELO e LILACS. Dezesseis estudos sobre ferramentas baseadas no guia alimentar para indivíduos de todas as faixas etárias, foram incluídos: dois descritivos, dois de protocolo de estudo clínico randomizado, onze metodológicos e um psicométrico, direcionados à população (n=12) ou à profissionais de saúde (n=4). Seis estudos abordaram ferramentas para promoção da alimentação adequada e saudável e dez desenvolveram ferramentas para avaliação de práticas alimentares ou de conhecimento e atividades de profissionais da saúde. Esta revisão auxiliará os profissionais de saúde na escolha dos instrumentos para o processo de implementação e, ou, divulgação das recomendações do guia alimentar, contribuindo para a promoção da alimentação adequada e saudável.

Ferramentas para promoção e avaliação da alimentação adequada e saudável desenvolvidas no Brasil: uma revisão de escopo / Tools developed in Brazil for the promotion and assessment of adequate and healthy eating habits: A scoping review

Resumo O objetivo deste estudo foi identificar e discutir as ferramentas de promoção e avaliação da alimentação adequada e saudável baseadas no Guia Alimentar para a População Brasileira. A revisão de escopo foi conduzida de acordo com o JBI Manual for Evidence Synthesis, utilizando para relatório de revisão de escopo o guia Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analyses extension for Scoping Reviews, com busca nas bases de dados PubMed/MEDLINE, EMBASE, SciELO e LILACS. Dezesseis estudos sobre ferramentas baseadas no guia alimentar para indivíduos de todas as faixas etárias, foram incluídos: dois descritivos, dois de protocolo de estudo clínico randomizado, onze metodológicos e um psicométrico, direcionados à população (n=12) ou à profissionais de saúde (n=4). Seis estudos abordaram ferramentas para promoção da alimentação adequada e saudável e dez desenvolveram ferramentas para avaliação de práticas alimentares ou de conhecimento e atividades de profissionais da saúde. Esta revisão auxiliará os profissionais de saúde na escolha dos instrumentos para o processo de implementação e, ou, divulgação das recomendações do guia alimentar, contribuindo para a promoção da alimentação adequada e saudável.

Abstract The objective of this study was to identify and discuss the tools for the promotion and evaluation of adequate and healthy eating based on the Food Guide for the Brazilian Population. The scoping review was conducted according to the JBI Manual for Evidence Synthesis via the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analyses extension for Scoping Reviews (PRISMA-ScR) checklist and by searching PubMed/MEDLINE, EMBASE, SciELO and LILACS. Sixteen studies on relevant tools, based on the food guide for individuals of all age groups, were thus included: two descriptive studies, two randomized clinical trial protocols, eleven methodological analyses, and one psychometric paper, aimed at either a focal population (n=12) or health professionals (n=4). Six studies addressed tools for promoting adequate and healthy eating, and ten developed tools for evaluating dietary practices or the knowledge and activities of health professionals. This review can therefore assist health professionals in choosing instruments for the implementation and/or dissemination of food guide recommendations, contributing to the promotion of adequate and healthy eating habits.

Higher caffeine consumption is associated with insufficient sleep time in Brazilian adults (CUME study).

We aimed to evaluate the association between caffeine intake and sleep time in Brazilian adults. This cross-sectional study was conducted with 6,356 participants from the Cohort of Universities of Minas Gerais (CUME Study). Data was collected through an online self-report questionnaire. Of the total, 31.9% of the participants had insufficient sleep. Women were found to sleep less than men (64.1 vs. 35.9%; p < 0.001), as well as being more likely to consume higher doses of caffeine (55.2%, p < 0.001). Coffee (35.7%), dark chocolate (25.2%), milk chocolate (15.2%), and diet soda (11.0%) were the foods that more contributed to caffeine intake. Individuals in the highest quartile of caffeine intake (87.0 - 572.0 mg/day) had a 19% higher prevalence of insufficient sleep compared with the lowest quartile (PR: 1.19; 95%CI: 1.08 - 1.31). Future studies are needed to investigate the genetic and hormonal factors involved in the interindividual response in this population.

The 30-year cardiovascular risk trajectories and their independently associated factors in participants of a Brazilian cohort (CUME Study).

We aimed to analyze the different trajectories of 30-year cardiovascular risk (CVR) and its independently associated factors in participants of the CUME Study, a prospective study with alumni from federal universities of Minas Gerais State, Brazil. In this study, 1,286 participants who answered the baseline (2016) and follow-up (2018 and 2020) questionnaires were included. Trajectories of CVR, according to the Framingham score, were identified with the latent class growth modelling technique with the use of the censored normal model. Analysis of the factors independently associated with each of the trajectories was conducted with multinomial logistic regression technique. Three CVR trajectories were identified: Low-Low (68.3%), Medium-Medium (26.2%), and High-High (5.5%). Male sex, living in a stable union, and having moderate and high intakes of ultra-processed foods were positively associated with the Medium-Medium and High-High CVR trajectories. Having non-healthcare professional training and working were positively associated with the Medium-Medium CVR trajectory, whereas being physically active was negatively associated with the High-High CVR trajectory. In conclusion, more than one-third of participants had CVR trajectories in the Medium-Medium and High-High categories. Food consumption and physical activity are modifiable factors that were associated with these trajectories; thus, implementing health promotion measures could help prevent the persistence or worsen of CVR. On the other hand, sociodemographic and labor characteristics are non-modifiable factors that were associated with Medium-Medium and High-High trajectories, which could help identify people who should be monitored with more caution by health services.

Effect of carotenoids on gut health and inflammatory status: A systematic review of in vivo animal studies.

Carotenoids have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, being a potential bioactive compound for gut health. The objective of this systematic review was to investigate the effects of carotenoids on gut microbiota, gut barrier, and inflammation in healthy animals. The systematic search from PubMed, Scopus, and Lilacs databases were performed up to March 2023. The final screening included thirty studies, with different animal models (mice, rats, pigs, chicks, drosophila, fish, and shrimp), and different carotenoid sources (ß-carotene, lycopene, astaxanthin, zeaxanthin, lutein, and fucoxanthin). The results suggested that carotenoids seem to act on gut microbiota by promoting beneficial effects on intestinal bacteria related to both inflammation and SCFA production; increase tight junction proteins expression, important for reducing intestinal permeability; increase the mucins expression, important in protecting against pathogens and toxins; improve morphological parameters important for digestion and absorption of nutrients; and reduce pro-inflammatory and increase anti-inflammatory cytokines. However, different carotenoids had distinct effects on gut health. In addition, there was heterogeneity between studies regarding animal model, duration of intervention, and doses used. This is the first systematic review to address the effects of carotenoids on gut health. Further studies are needed to better understand the effects of carotenoids on gut health.

Acute effect of a beverage containing Brazil and cashew nuts on oxidative stress, lipemia, and blood pressure of women with cardiometabolic risk (Brazilian Nuts Study): a randomized clinical trial.

Nuts are important sources of antioxidants that combat oxidative stress and improve lipid profile as well as vascular function. However, the intake of typical Brazilian nuts and its acute effect on cardiovascular health needs to be better understood. Thus, the present study aimed to evaluate the acute effect of a beverage containing cashew (Anacardium occidentale L.) and Brazil nuts (Bertholletia excelsa H.B.K.) on postprandial oxidative stress, lipemia, and blood pressure of adult women aged 20 to 55 years with cardiometabolic risk. This was an acute, randomized, parallel arm, controlled clinical trial. The participants received either a beverage containing nuts (30 g Brazil nuts + 15 g cashew nuts) or a beverage without nuts with similar macronutrient composition. Oxidative stress markers and lipid profiles were evaluated at fasting and 4 h after beverage consumption. Blood pressure was measured during fasting and after beverage intake (1, 2, 3, and 4 h). In the postprandial state, there was a greater reduction in malondialdehyde levels in the intervention group compared to the control group (-12.3 ± 0.59 vs. -10.7 ± 0.43 µmol/mL; p < 0.05), which was positively correlated with the concentrations of TG (r = 0.399; p < 0.05), VLDL (r = 0.399; p < 0.05), TG/HDL (r = 0.380; p < 0.05), and blood pressure (iAUC SBP r = 0.391; p < 0.05, iAUC DBP r = 0.409; p < 0.05). The remaining oxidative stress markers showed similar postprandial changes between groups. In women with cardiometabolic risk, a beverage containing Brazilian nuts promoted a significant acute reduction on postprandial malondialdehyde levels. The study was registered in the Brazilian Clinical Trials Registry-ReBEC (protocol: RBR-3ntxrm).

Intra-Amniotic Administration of Cashew Nut (Anacardium occidentale L.) Soluble Extract Improved Gut Functionality and Morphology In Vivo (Gallus gallus).

Cashew nuts are rich in dietary fibers, monounsaturated fatty acids, carotenoids, tocopherols, flavonoids, catechins, amino acids, and minerals that offer benefits for health. However, the knowledge of its effect on gut health is lacking. In this way, cashew nut soluble extract (CNSE) was assessed in vivo via intra-amniotic administration in intestinal brush border membrane (BBM) morphology, functionality, and gut microbiota. Four groups were evaluated: (1) no injection (control); (2) H2O injection (control); (3) 10 mg/mL CNSE (1%); and (4) 50 mg/mL CNSE (5%). Results related to CNSE on duodenal morphological parameters showed higher Paneth cell numbers, goblet cell (GC) diameter in crypt and villi, depth crypt, mixed GC per villi, and villi surface area. Further, it decreased GC number and acid and neutral GC. In the gut microbiota, treatment with CNSE showed a lower abundance of Bifidobacterium, Lactobacillus, and E. coli. Further, in intestinal functionality, CNSE upregulated aminopeptidase (AP) gene expression at 5% compared to 1% CNSE. In conclusion, CNSE had beneficial effects on gut health by improving duodenal BBM functionality, as it upregulated AP gene expression, and by modifying morphological parameters ameliorating digestive and absorptive capacity. For intestinal microbiota, higher concentrations of CNSE or long-term intervention may be necessary.