Association Between Cardiovascular Risk Factors and Stress Hormones With Cognitive Performance in Mexican Adolescents.

Objective: The objective of this study was to determine whether cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk factors and stress hormones are associated with cognitive performance in Mexican adolescents. Methods: This was a cross-sectional study including 139 Mexican adolescents 10-14 years old. Participants were divided into three categories: 0, 1-2, and ≥3 CVD risk factors. These factors included: high-density lipoprotein-cholesterol (HDL-C) <40 mg/dl; waist circumference (WC) ≥90th percentile for age and sex, systolic or diastolic blood pressure ≥90th percentile for age, sex, and height; and triacylglycerols (TGs) ≥110 mg/dl. Low-density lipoprotein-cholesterol (LDL-C), very low-density lipoprotein-cholesterol (VLDL-C), total cholesterol, cortisol, and plasma catecholamines were measured as well. Furthermore, attention, memory, and executive functions were evaluated using a validated test for Spanish-speaking individuals (Neuropsi). Results: Adolescents in the three risk categories did not show significant differences in Neuropsi test performance tasks; however, they presented different lipid and plasma norepinephrine concentrations. TG and VLDL-C were inversely associated with memory (r = -0.19, **p < .01). Multivariate regression analysis showed consistently that TG/HDL-C ratio was inversely related to attention-memory general score (standardized ß = -0.99, t = -2.30, p = .023), memory (standardized ß = -0.83, t = -2.08, p = .039), and attention-executive functions (standardized ß = -1.02, t = -2.42, p = .017). Plasma epinephrine levels presented an inverse and weak relation to the attention-executive functions score (standardized ß = -0.18, t = -2.19, p = .030). Conclusions: Cognitive performance is not completely dependent on the accumulation of risk factors, but instead on the combination of strong predictors of CVD like waist to height ratio, TG/HDL-C, and VLDL-C. Plasma norepinephrine and epinephrine have a stronger association with cognition and CVD risk than dopamine and cortisol.

The Effect of Dietary Patterns on Inflammatory Biomarkers in Adults with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials.

Some evidence supports the fact that chronic low-grade inflammation contributes to the physiopathology of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), and circulating markers of inflammation (e.g., C-reactive protein (CRP), pro- and anti-inflammatory biomarkers (e.g., adiponectin), and endothelial function markers could indicate an ongoing pathology. Following certain dietary patterns (DPs) may result in favorable changes in inflammatory biomarkers. The overarching aim of this systematic review and meta-analysis is to explore the inflammatory effect of healthy DPs on inflammatory biomarkers in adults with T2DM. A systematic search of the literature was conducted using the electronic databases MEDLINE, SCOPUS, and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials. A total of 10 randomized controlled clinical trials (RCTs) were analyzed. In our linear meta-analysis, the random-effects model was applied to estimate standardized mean differences (SMD) to associate the effect of the interventions. Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension (DASH), Diabetes UK healthy eating, Mediterranean Diet (MD), Diabetes Prevention Program (DPP), and the American Heart Association's Therapeutic Lifestyle Changes diet were associated with a significant reduction in CRP (SMD: −0.83, 99% CI −1.49, −0.17, p < 0.001; I2 94%), while plasma levels of adiponectin were significantly higher with the intake of MD, DPP, and Diabetes UK healthy eating (SMD: 0.81, 99% CI 0.06,1.56, p < 0.005; I2 96%), both of which indicate less inflammation. Sensitivity analyses were carried out, and potential publication bias was examined. In conclusion, low- moderate-quality evidence from RCTs suggests that, for the DPs evaluated, there are favorable changes in CRP and adiponectin.

Changes in Metabolic Regulation and the Microbiota Composition after Supplementation with Different Fatty Acids in db/db Mice.

INTRODUCTION: The effects of fatty acids on health vary and depend on the type, amount, and route of consumption. EPA and DHA have a defined role in health, unlike coconut oil. OBJECTIVE: The aim was to investigate the changes in metabolic regulation and the composition of the culture-dependent microbiota after supplementation with different fatty acids in db/db mice. Material and Methods. We were using 32 8-week-old db/db mice, supplemented for eight weeks with EPA/DHA derived from microalgae as well as coconut oil. The lipid, hormonal profiles, and composition of the culture-dependent microbiota and the phylogenetic analysis based on the 16S rRNA gene sequencing were determined for identification of the intestinal microbiota. RESULTS: Enriched diet with EPA/DHA reduced TNF-α, C-peptide, insulin resistance, resistin, and the plasma atherogenic index, but increased TC, LDL-c, VLDL-c, and TG without changes in HDL-c. Coconut oil raised the HDL-c, GIP, and TNF-α, with TG, insulin resistance, adiponectin, and C-peptide reduced. CONCLUSION: The most abundant microbial populations were Firmicutes and the least Proteobacteria. EPA/DHA derived from microalgae contributes to improving the systemic inflammatory status, but depressed the diversity of the small intestine microbiota. Coconut oil only decreased the C-peptide, raising TNF-α, with an unfavorable hormonal and lipid profile.

Effect of n-3 (Omega-3) Polyunsaturated Fatty Acid Supplementation on Metabolic and Inflammatory Biomarkers and Body Weight in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of RCTs.

Beneficial effects of n-3 fatty acids on metabolic biomarkers in patients with type 2 diabetes (T2DM) has been reported. The objectives of this current research were to investigate the effects of n-3 supplementation on metabolic factors, weight, and body mass index (BMI) in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), using a meta-analysis of randomized, controlled trials (RCTs). Online databases PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, and Science Direct were searched until 2021 to identify eligible articles. Thirty trials were included. The results showed that n-3 consumption can significantly reduce glycemic factors including fasting blood sugar (FBS) (-0.36 (-0.71 to -0.01)), glycated hemoglobulin (HbA1c) (-0.74 (-1.13 to -0.35)), and homeostatic model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA.IR) (-0.58 (-1.13 to -0.03)). Furthermore, significant improvement in lipid profile including triglycerides (TG) (-0.27 (-0.37 to -0.18)), total cholesterol (-0.60 (-0.88 to -0.32)), low density lipoprotein (LDL) (-0.54 (-0.85 to -0.23)), and high-density lipoprotein (HDL) (0.60 (0.23 to 0.96)) levels were found in the present meta-analysis. The reduction in the inflammatory marker's tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) (-0.13 (-0.75 to 0.48)) and c-reactive protein (CRP) (-0.72 (-1.70 to 0.27)), as well as weight (-0.09 (-0.24 to 0.07)) and BMI (-0.13 (-0.29 to 0.02)) were not statistically significant. Furthermore, the findings revealed that the optimal dose and duration of n-3 consumption for patients with T2DM is 1000-2000 mg/d for more than 8 weeks. The present meta-analysis and review reveals that n-3 supplementation can improve glycemic factors and lipid profile in patients with T2DM. Furthermore, n-3 supplementation may provide beneficial effects on inflammatory markers and body weight if used at the appropriate dose and duration.

Chronic consumption of sweeteners in mice and its effect on the immune system and the small intestine microbiota / Consumo crónico de edulcorantes en ratones y su efecto sobre el sistema inmunitario y la microbiota del intestino delgado

Introduction: Sweeteners are additives used in different foods. They can be natural (sucrose and stevia) or artificial (sucralose). Currently, they are routinely consumed in multiple products and their effects on the mucosa of the small intestine and its microbiota are still controversial. Objective: To relate the consumption of sweeteners and their effect on the immune system and the microbiota of the small intestine in CD1 mice. Materials and methods: We used 54 three-week-old CD1 mice divided into three groups in the experiments: 1) A group of three weeks without treatment, 2) a group treated for six weeks, and 3) a group treated for 12 weeks using sucrose, sucralose, and stevia. We obtained CD19+ B lymphocytes, IgA+ antibodies, transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-b), and interleukins 12 and 17 (IL-12 and -17) from Peyer's patches and lamina propria cells while DNA was obtained from intestinal solids to identify bacterial species. Results: After 12 weeks, sucrose and sucralose consumption caused a reduction in bacterial communities with an increase in CD19+, a decrease in IgA+ and TGF-b, and an increase in IL-12 and -17 in the Peyer's patches while in the lamina propria there was an increase in all parameters. In contrast, stevia led to an improvement in bacterial diversity and percentage of CD19+ lymphocytes with minimal increase in IgA+, TGF-b, and IL-12, and a decrease in IL-17. Conclusion: Sucrose and sucralose caused negative alterations in bacterial diversity and immune parameters after 12 weeks; in contrast, stevia was beneficial for the intestinal mucosa.

Introducción. Los edulcorantes son aditivos que se consumen en los alimentos. Pueden ser naturales (sacarosa y estevia) o artificiales (sucralosa). Actualmente, se consumen rutinariamente en múltiples productos, y sus efectos en la mucosa y la microbiota del intestino delgado aún son controversiales Objetivo. Relacionar el consumo de edulcorantes y su efecto en el sistema inmunitario y la microbiota del intestino delgado en ratones CD1. Materiales y métodos. Se utilizaron 54 ratones CD1 de tres semanas de edad divididos en tres grupos: un grupo de tres semanas sin tratamiento, un grupo tratado durante seis semanas y un grupo tratado durante 12 semanas. Se les administró sacarosa, sucralosa y estevia. A partir del intestino delgado, se obtuvieron linfocitos B CD19+ y células IgA+, TGF-ß (Transforming Growth Factor-beta) o el factor de crecimiento transformador beta (TGF-beta), IL-12 e IL-17 de las placas de Peyer y de la lámina propia. De los sólidos intestinales se obtuvo el ADN para identificar las especies bacterianas. Resultados. Después del consumo de sacarosa y sucralosa durante 12 semanas, se redujeron las comunidades bacterianas, la IgA+ y el TGF-beta, se aumentó el CD19+, y además, se incrementaron la IL-12 y la IL-17 en las placas de Peyer; en la lámina propia, aumentaron todos estos valores. En cambio, con la estevia mejoraron la diversidad bacteriana y el porcentaje de linfocitos CD19+, y hubo poco incremento de IgA+, TGF-b e IL-17, pero con disminución de la IL-17. Conclusión. La sacarosa y la sucralosa alteraron negativamente la diversidad bacteriana y los parámetros inmunitarios después de 12 semanas, en contraste con la estevia que resultó benéfica para la mucosa intestinal.

The effect of exercise on cardiovascular risk markers in Mexican school-aged children: comparison between two structured group routines.

OBJECTIVE: To assess the effects of two groups of exercise routines on cardiovascular disease risk markers. MATERIAL AND METHODS: An intervention study was conducted with 319 Mexican school-aged children in which routines were implemented Monday through Friday for 12 weeks. Routine A was the reference group, with 20 min of less intense activity and routine B was the new group with 40 min of aerobic exercises. Body mass index (BMI), waist circumference, fat mass percentage (FM%), systolic and diastolic blood pressure, lipids, lipoproteins, glucose and insulin were measured before and after the intervention. RESULTS: Routine A had an effect on diastolic pressure, while routine B had an effect on BMI, FM%, blood pressure and triglycerides. Routine B had a greater effect on blood pressure than routine A. The prevalence of obesity, high blood pressure and hypertriglyceridemia decreased in both groups. CONCLUSION: Aerobic exercise is an effective health promotion strategy to reduce some cardiovascular disease risk markers.

Effect on Adipose Tissue of Diabetic Mice Supplemented with n-3 Fatty Acids Extracted from Microalgae.

BACKGROUND: Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM) is considered a chronic noncommunicable disease in which oxidative stress is expected as a result of hyperglycaemia. One of the most recent approaches is the study of microalgae fatty acids and their possible antioxidant effect. OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to analyse the effect of supplementation with n-3 fatty acids extracted from microalgae on the total antioxidant capacity (TAC) and lipid peroxidation of adipose tissue and plasma from diabetic (db/db) and healthy (CD1) mice. METHODS: Mice were supplemented with lyophilized n-3 fatty acids extracted from microalgae or added to the diet, from week 8 to 16. TAC assay and Thiobarbituric Acid Reactive Substances assay (TBARS) were performed on adipose tissue and plasma samples. RESULTS: The supplementation of lyophilized n-3 fatty acids from microalgae increased the total antioxidant capacity in adipose tissue of diabetic mice (615.67µM Trolox equivalents vs 405.02µM Trolox equivalents from control mice, p<0.01) and in the plasma of healthy mice (1132.97±85.75µM Trolox equivalents vs 930.64±32µM Trolox equivalents from modified diet mice, p<0.01). There was no significant effect on lipid peroxidation on both strains. CONCLUSION: The use of n-3 fatty acids extracted from microalgae could be a useful strategy to improve total antioxidant capacity in T2DM.

Visceral Adiposity Index in Breast Cancer Survivors: A Case-Control Study.

BACKGROUND: Breast cancer (BC) is the first cause of cancer morbidity and mortality in women. This disease has been linked to obesity; however, it is not clear how fat accumulation affects women who survive breast cancer. Although the visceral adiposity index (VAI) is a marker of cardiometabolic risk and adipose tissue dysfunction, it is not clear how it changes in breast cancer survivors. The aim of this investigation was to compare VAI in women with and without breast cancer. METHODS: A case-control cross-sectional study was conducted on women who were BC survivors and women without the history of BC (control group). Body composition was assessed using electrical bioimpedance while VAI by means of waist circumference (WC), body mass index (BMI), triacylglycerols (TG), and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C). RESULTS: 49 women in the BC survivor group and 50 in the control group. WC was wider in the survivor group as regards control (93.65 ± 10.48 vs. 88.52 ± 9.61 cm) (p=0.025); at once, TG and VAI were significantly higher for the survivor group (243.55 ± 199.84 vs. 159.84 ± 75.77) (p=0.007) and (11.03 ± 11.15 vs. 6.41 ± 3.66) (p < 0.005), respectively. Body composition parameters were similar in both groups. CONCLUSIONS: VAI is higher in women who are BC survivors in comparison with controls matched by age and bodyweight.

Inulin Supplementation Reduces Systolic Blood Pressure in Women with Breast Cancer Undergoing Neoadjuvant Chemotherapy.

INTRODUCTION: Breast cancer is the most frequently diagnosed malignancy in women, and comorbidities like hypertension and obesity diminish their quality of life and negatively affect their response to chemotherapy. Furthermore, inulin supplementation is associated with the reduction of cardiovascular diseases (CVD) risk. OBJECTIVE: To determine whether inulin supplementation prevents the elevation of blood pressure in women with breast cancer undergoing neoadjuvant therapy with cyclophosphamide and doxorubicin. METHODS: This was a randomized, double-blind placebo controlled trial which included women with early-stage breast cancer undergoing neoadjuvant therapy (n=38). Patients were randomly assigned to participate in two different groups to receive either 15 g of inulin or 15 g of placebo (maltodextrin) for 21 days. Body composition and blood pressure were evaluated before and after the supplementation period. RESULTS: Women in the inulin group showed a lower systolic blood pressure (SBP) after the supplementation (-4.21 mmHg, p<0.001). However, SBP increased in the placebo supplemented group. Diastolic blood pressure (DBP) nonsignificantly decreased in the inulin group. Inulin supplementation also increased BMI (p<0.001) but reduced BFP (p=0.288). Furthermore, confounding variables, such as BMI, baseline fasting glucose, age, menopause status, vomiting, constipation, and chronic medication did not have a statistical influence over the inulin effect on SBP. CONCLUSION: Inulin supplementation reduces SBP and prevents increases in DBP in women with breast cancer. This could be an innovative nutraceutical approach to prevent hypertension present in women with this type of cancer at an early stage and may improve the quality of life of the patients and their prognostic development through chemotherapy. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER: This trial is registered with ACTRN12616001532493.

Dietary patterns, central obesity and serum lipids concentration in Mexican adults.

INTRODUCTION: Introduction: dietary patterns (DP) analyse the relationship between consumption of foods or nutrients and disease or health outcomes. High prevalence of obesity in adults in Mexico is associated with factors such as high consumption of certain food groups and nutrients. However, few studies have been conducted to explore associations between dietary patterns and obesity in apparently healthy adults. Objective: to identify major dietary patterns (DP) associated with central-obesity (CO) and lipid concentrations in healthy adults. Methods: longitudinal study including usual dietary intakes derived from multiple 24-hour-recalls. Waist-circumference (WC) and biochemical measurements were obtained by standardized procedures and DP by principal component analysis. Adjusted-logistic regression was used to examine associations between DP, CO and serum-lipid concentrations. Results: three DP were identified: healthy-DP, risky-DP and empty-DP. Participants in the healthy-DP were more likely to have lower risk for central-obesity according to WC criteria (OR = 0.31, CI = 0.12, 0.82), p = 0.017, but also had the highest risk for elevated LDL-cholesterol (OR = 2.98, CI = 1.16, 7.66), p = 0.030. There was no significant association between risky and empty DP with obesity or overweight by body mass index (BMI), central-obesity by WC or serum lipid abnormalities. Conclusions: the healthy-DP is associated with lower risk for CO, with higher risk for elevated LDL-cholesterol. It is necessary to develop longitudinal studies of foods and nutritional analysis of the diet to clarify these associations, to promote the reduction of modifiable risk factors.

INTRODUCCIÓN: Introducción: los patrones de dieta (PD) analizan la relación entre el consumo de alimentos o nutrimentos con la salud y el desarrollo de enfermedades en poblaciones. La elevada prevalencia de obesidad en adultos mexicanos se asocia con factores como el elevado consumo de ciertos grupos de alimentos y nutrimentos. Sin embargo, pocos estudios han explorado la asociación entre los patrones dietéticos y la obesidad en adultos aparentemente sanos. Objetivo: identificar los patrones dietéticos (PD) asociados con la obesidad central (OC) y las concentraciones séricas de lípidos en adultos. Métodos: estudio longitudinal del consumo dietético obtenido de múltiples recordatorios de consumo de 24 horas. La circunferencia de cintura (CC) y las mediciones bioquímicas se obtuvieron mediante procedimientos estandarizados; los PD, por análisis del componente principal. Mediante regresión logística se identificaron las asociaciones entre PD, OC y las concentraciones séricas de lípidos. Resultados: se identificaron tres PD: PD saludable, PD de riesgo y PD vacío. Los participantes del PD saludable presentaron menor riesgo de OC de acuerdo con los criterios de la CC (OR = 0.31, CI = 0.12, 0.82), p = 0.017, pero también fueron los que presentaron mayor riesgo de cifras elevadas de colesterol-LDL (OR = 2.98. CI = 1.16, 7.66), p = 0.030. No hubo asociación estadísticamente significativa entre el PD de riesgo y el PD vacío con obesidad o sobrepeso por IMC, OC por CC o con la presencia de dislipidemias. Conclusiones: el PD saludable se asocia con un menor riesgo para OC pero con mayor riesgo de elevación del colesterol-LDL. Se necesitan estudios longitudinales para esclarecer estas asociaciones para promover la reducción de factores de riesgo modificables.

Evaluating concordance with the 1997 World Cancer Research Fund/American Institute of Cancer Research cancer prevention guidelines: challenges for the research community.

Diet, nutritional status and lifestyle practices are significant determinants of the risk of certain cancers. In 1997 The World Cancer Research Fund/American Institute for Cancer Research (WCRF/AICR) developed a series of evidence-based recommendations to help reduce the population and individual risk of cancer. However, guidance for evaluating concordance or compliance with these recommendations is limited. To illustrate the challenges in evaluation, four publications were reviewed that explored the task of creating operative criteria from which to assess concordance with the tenets of the WCRF/AICR recommendations. Three documents dealt with secondary analysis, whereas one was a prospective inquiry, with procedures and instruments designed to obtain responses to WCRF/AICR cancer-prevention specification. One considered only population-goal criteria, and two dealt implicitly or explicitly with criteria at both population and individual levels. The assessment approaches used by the authors were compared with alternative semantic and conceptual interpretations of the WCRF/AICR population goals and individual guidelines. Attempts to develop operative criteria for assessment of concordance (reflecting either a more superficial or more in-depth parsing of recommendations) have been inconsistent. The results indicate that the language of the WCRF/AICR leaves a certain degree of semantic ambiguity for evaluation purposes. Future design of prospective studies for analyses of behaviours and relevant exposures (including those reported in the 2007 WCRF/AICR report) should carefully consider evaluation criteria and fully document detailed methodology.

Dietary Patterns and Fitness Level in Mexican Teenagers.

BACKGROUND: Nowadays, the term "physical fitness" has evolved from sports performance to health status, and it has been considered a strong predictor of cardiovascular disease. In this sense, test batteries have been developed to evaluate physical fitness such as the ALPHA-FIT battery. On the other hand, the analysis of dietary patterns has emerged as an alternative method to study the relationship between diet and chronic noncommunicable diseases. However, the association between dietary patterns and the physical fitness level has not been evaluated in both adults and adolescents. This association is most important in adolescents due to the fact that establishing healthy dietary behaviors and a favorable nutritional profile in early stages of life prevents various chronic-degenerative diseases. OBJECTIVE: To analyze the association between dietary patterns and the level of fitness in Mexican teenagers. METHODS: We analyzed the relationship between dietary patterns and the fitness level of 42 teenage students in Toluca, Mexico. Students were weighed and measured, and their food intake was recorded for 2 weekdays and one weekend day. Dietary patterns were obtained by factorial analysis. The ALPHA-FIT battery was used to measure the fitness level. RESULTS: Fifty percent of the students were found to have a low fitness level (62.1% men; 37.9% women). There was no association (X2 = 0.83) between the dietary patterns "high in fat and sugar," "high in protein", and "low in fat and protein" and the level of physical condition in teens. CONCLUSIONS: In this study, all of teenagers with a very low level of fitness obtained a high dietary pattern in protein; however, 40% with a high level of physical condition resulted in the same pattern; that is why we did not find a relationship between the fitness level and the patterns investigated in this study.

Chronic Consumption of Sweeteners and Its Effect on Glycaemia, Cytokines, Hormones, and Lymphocytes of GALT in CD1 Mice.

BACKGROUND: The consumption of sweeteners has increased in recent years, being used to control body weight and blood glucose. However, they can cause increased appetite, modification of immune function, and secretion of hormones in the GALT. OBJECTIVE: To assess the effect of chronic sweetener consumption on glycaemia, cytokines, hormones, and GALT lymphocytes in CD1 mice. MATERIAL AND METHODS: 72 CD1 mice divided into 3 groups were used: (a) baseline, (b) middle, and (c) final. Groups (b) and (c) were divided into 4 subgroups: (i) Control, (ii) Sucrose, (iii) Sucralose, and (iv) Stevia. The following were determined: body weight, hormones (GIP, insulin, and leptin), lymphocytes CD3+T cells and CD19+B cells, IgA+ plasma cells, and cytokines (IL-4, IL-5, IFN-γ, and TNF-α). RESULTS: Sucralose reduces secretion of GIP and glycaemia but does not modify insulin concentration, increases body weight, and reduces food intake. Stevia increases the secretion of GIP, insulin, leptin, body weight, and glycaemia but keeps food consumption normal. Sucralose and Stevia showed a higher percentage of CD3+T cells, CD19+B cells, and IgA+ plasma cells in Peyer's patches, but only Stevia in lamina propria. CONCLUSION: Sweeteners modulate the hormonal response of cytokines and the proliferation of lymphocytes in the intestinal mucosa.

Liver Biomarkers and Lipid Profiles in Mexican and Mexican-American 10- to 14-Year-Old Adolescents at Risk for Type 2 Diabetes.

Liver enzymes alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and gamma glutamyl transferase (GGT) are markers for type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM); alkaline phosphatase is a marker of liver disease. Mexican-American adolescents are disproportionately affected by T2DM, while in Mexico its prevalence is emerging. We assessed liver biomarkers and lipid profiles among Mexican and Mexican-American adolescents 10-14 years old with high/low risk of T2DM through a cross-sectional, descriptive study (Texas n = 144; Mexico n = 149). We included family medical histories, anthropometry, and blood pressure. Obesity was present in one-third of subjects in both sites. ALT (UL) was higher (p < 0.001) in high-risk adolescents (23.5 ± 19.5 versus 17.2 ± 13.4 for males, 19.7 ± 11.6 versus 15.1 ± 5.5 for females), in Toluca and in Texas (26.0 ± 14.7 versus 20.0 ± 13.2 for males, 18.2 ± 13.4 versus 14.6 ± 10.1 for females), as well as GGT (UL) (p < 0.001) (18.7 ± 11.1 versus 12.4 ± 2.3 for males, 13.6 ± 5.8 versus 11.5 ± 3.9 for Mexican females; 21.0 ± 6.8 versus 15.4 ± 5.5 for males, 14.3 ± 5.0 versus 13.8 ± 5.3 for females in Texas). We found no differences by sex or BMI. Total cholesterol and HDL were higher among Mexican-Americans (p < 0.001). In conclusion, multiple risk factors were present in the sample. We found differences by gender and between high and low risk for T2DM adolescents in all liver enzymes in both sites.

Overweight or Obesity, Gender, and Age Influence on High School Students of the City of Toluca's Physical Fitness.

MATERIAL AND METHOD: This is a prospective, cross-sectional, and correlational study with a probabilistic sampling in which 150 teenagers from three different high schools from the city of Toluca, Mexico, aged 15-17, were assessed. OBJECTIVE: To determine if weight, age, and gender have an influence on physical fitness evaluated with the EUROFIT and ALPHA-FITNESS batteries. RESULTS: Women have a higher overweight and obesity rate than men (3 : 1). Adolescents who have normal weight have regular physical fitness (74.9%). When comparing genders we found that men have a higher mean than women in the tests, except for skinfold thickness and waist circumference. Age was only correlated with the plate tapping test (p = 0.001). There are significant differences in the standing broad jump test and the Course-Navette of the EUROFIT and ALPHA-FITNESS batteries (p = 0.000). CONCLUSIONS: It is likely that regular physical activity, and not normal weight, helps generate healthy physical fitness. Male subjects had a higher mean than women, reporting a better physical fitness and more frequent physical activity.

Effect of n-3 Polyunsaturated Fatty Acid Supplementation on Metabolic and Inflammatory Biomarkers in Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus Patients.

BACKGROUND: Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is accompanied by chronic low-grade inflammation, with an imbalance in the secretion of adipokines and, worsening insulin resistance. Supplementation with n-3 PUFA in T2DM decreases inflammatory markers, the purpose of the study was to investigate the effect of n-3 PUFA supplementation on adipokines, metabolic control, and lipid profile in T2DM Mexican adults. METHODS: In a randomized, single-blind, placebo-controlled pilot study, 54 patients with T2DM received 520 mg of DHA + EPA-enriched fish-oil (FOG) or a placebo (PG) daily. Baseline and 24-week anthropometric and biochemical measurements included glucose, insulin, glycosylated hemoglobin (Hb1Ac), leptin, adiponectin, resistin, and lipid profile; n-3 PUFA intake was calculated in g/day. RESULTS: Waist circumference and blood glucose showed significant reductions in the FOG group (p = 0.001 and p = 0.011, respectively). Hb1Ac (p = 0.009 and p = 0.004), leptin (p < 0.000 and p < 0.000), and leptin/adiponectin ratio (p < 0.000 and p < 0.000) decreased significantly in both groups after 24 weeks (FOG and PG respectively). Serum resistin (FOG p < 0.000 and PG p = 0.001), insulin (FOG p < 0.000 and PG p < 0.000), and HOMA-IR (FOG p = 0.000 and PG p < 0.000) increased significantly in both groups. FOG had an overall improvement in the lipid profile with a significant decrease in triacylgycerols (p = 0.002) and atherogenic index (p = 0.031); in contrast, the PG group had increased total cholesterol (p < 0.000), non-HDL cholesterol (p < 0.000), and atherogenic index (p = 0.017). CONCLUSIONS: We found a beneficial effect of n-3 PUFA supplementation on waist circumference, glucose, Hb1Ac, leptin, leptin/adiponectin ratio, and lipid profile, without significant changes in adiponectin, and increases in resistin, insulin, and HOMA-IR in both groups.

Weekly iron as a safe alternative to daily supplementation for nonanemic pregnant women.

BACKGROUND: We undertook this study to compare the effectiveness and safety of antenatal daily and weekly supplementation with iron, folic acid, and vitamin B(12) in healthy, pregnant women who were not anemic at gestational week 20. METHODS: Women with singleton pregnancies and blood hemoglobin (Hb) >115 g/L at gestational week 20 (equivalent to 105 g/L at sea level) were randomly assigned to two groups, one consuming one tablet containing 60 mg iron, 200 mug folic acid and 1 mug vitamin B(12) daily (DS, n = 56); the other consuming two tablets once weekly (WS, n = 60). Blood Hb and serum ferritin concentrations were measured every 4 weeks from weeks 20 to 36, and pregnancy outcomes were evaluated. RESULTS: Mild anemia and hypoferritinemia throughout pregnancy occurred less frequently in DS than WS. None of the 116 women had Hb concentrations <103 g/L at any evaluation point. In contrast, hemoconcentration (Hb >145 g/L) from gestational week 28 onwards occurred in 11% in DS and 2% in WS. We observed ex post facto that hemoconcentration at gestational week 28 was associated with a significantly higher relative risk of low birth weight (RR 6.23, 95% CI 1.46-26.57) and premature delivery (RR 7.78, 95% CI 1.45-24.74). CONCLUSIONS: In women who were nonanemic at gestational week 20, both schemes (DS and WS) prevented the occurrence of Hb levels <100 g/L. DS women had a higher incidence of hemoconcentration. Hemoconcentration was associated with increased risk of low birth weight and premature delivery.

Consumo crónico de edulcorantes en ratones y su efecto sobre el sistema inmunitario y la microbiota del intestino delgado / Chronic consumption of sweeteners in mice and its effect on the immune system and the small intestine microbiota

Resumen Introducción. Los edulcorantes son aditivos que se consumen en los alimentos. Pueden ser naturales (sacarosa y estevia) o artificiales (sucralosa). Actualmente, se consumen rutinariamente en múltiples productos, y sus efectos en la mucosa y la microbiota del intestino delgado aún son controversiales. Objetivo. Relacionar el consumo de edulcorantes y su efecto en el sistema inmunitario y la microbiota del intestino delgado en ratones CD1. Materiales y métodos. Se utilizaron 54 ratones CD1 de tres semanas de edad divididos en tres grupos: un grupo de tres semanas sin tratamiento, un grupo tratado durante seis semanas y un grupo tratado durante 12 semanas. Se les administró sacarosa, sucralosa y estevia. A partir del intestino delgado, se obtuvieron linfocitos B CD19+ y células IgA+, TGF-ß (Transforming Growth Factor-beta) o el factor de crecimiento transformador beta (TGF-beta), IL-12 e IL-17 de las placas de Peyer y de la lámina propia. De los sólidos intestinales se obtuvo el ADN para identificar las especies bacterianas. Resultados. Después del consumo de sacarosa y sucralosa durante 12 semanas, se redujeron las comunidades bacterianas, la IgA+ y el TGF-beta, se aumentó el CD19+, y además, se incrementaron la IL-12 y la IL-17 en las placas de Peyer; en la lámina propia, aumentaron todos estos valores. En cambio, con la estevia mejoraron la diversidad bacteriana y el porcentaje de linfocitos CD19+, y hubo poco incremento de IgA+, TGF-ß e IL-17, pero con disminución de la IL-17. Conclusión. La sacarosa y la sucralosa alteraron negativamente la diversidad bacteriana y los parámetros inmunitarios después de 12 semanas, en contraste con la estevia que resultó benéfica para la mucosa intestinal.

Abstract Introduction: Sweeteners are additives used in different foods. They can be natural (sucrose and stevia) or artificial (sucralose). Currently, they are routinely consumed in multiple products and their effects on the mucosa of the small intestine and its microbiota are still controversial. Objective: To relate the consumption of sweeteners and their effect on the immune system and the microbiota of the small intestine in CD1 mice. Materials and methods: We used 54 three-week-old CD1 mice divided into three groups in the experiments: 1) A group of three weeks without treatment, 2) a group treated for six weeks, and 3) a group treated for 12 weeks using sucrose, sucralose, and stevia. We obtained CD19+ B lymphocytes, IgA+ antibodies, transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-b), and interleukins 12 and 17 (IL-12 and -17) from Peyer's patches and lamina propria cells while DNA was obtained from intestinal solids to identify bacterial species. Results: After 12 weeks, sucrose and sucralose consumption caused a reduction in bacterial communities with an increase in CD19+, a decrease in IgA+ and TGF-b, and an increase in IL-12 and -17 in the Peyer's patches while in the lamina propria there was an increase in all parameters. In contrast, stevia led to an improvement in bacterial diversity and percentage of CD19+ lymphocytes with minimal increase in IgA+, TGF-b, and IL-12, and a decrease in IL-17. Conclusion: Sucrose and sucralose caused negative alterations in bacterial diversity and immune parameters after 12 weeks; in contrast, stevia was beneficial for the intestinal mucosa.

Vitamins and type 2 diabetes mellitus.

The present review evaluates the relationship between type 2 diabetes mellitus and individual or combined vitamins. Antioxidant vitamins A, C and E are found decreased in diabetic subjects, possibly due to an increased need to control the excessive oxidative stress produced by abnormalities in glucose metabolism. On the other hand, retinol binding protein exerts a modulating effect, as it has adipokine functions. With respect to the B group vitamins, thiamin, pyridoxine and biotin have been found decreased but the mechanisms are not clear, however supplementation has shown some improvement of the metabolic control in diabetic patients. The absorption of folic acid and vitamin B12 is importantly decreased by the prolongued use of metformin, which is the first choice drug in uncomplicated diabetes, thus these two nutrients have been found deficient in the disease and most probably need to be supplemented regularly. On the other hand, vitamin D is considered a risk factor for the development of diabetes as well as its complications, particularly cardiovascular ones. Although some studies have found an association of vitamin K intake with glucose metabolism further research is needed. Studies on the use of multivitamin supplements have shown unconclusive results. After reviewing the evidence, no real recommendation on the use of vitamin supplements in type 2 diabetes mellitus can be issued, however patients using metformin during prolongued periods may need folic acid and vitamin B12.

Relationship between Fatty Acid Habitual Intake and Early Inflammation Biomarkers in Individuals with and without Type 2 Diabetes in Mexico.

BACKGROUND: Lifestyle changes have led to a high global incidence of type 2 Diabetes mellitus (T2DM). Evidence suggests beneficial effects of the intake of n-3 and n-6 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) in patients with T2DM. OBJECTIVE: To investigate the relationship between habitual fatty acid intake and inflammatory biomarkers in Mexican individuals with and without T2DM. METHODS: A cross-sectional study of 120 adults with and 120 without T2DM; anthropometric assessments (BMI, waist circumference and body fat), blood pressure, PUFA intake, biochemical analyses (glucose and lipid profile) and inflammation biomarkers (IFN-γ, TNF-α, IL-1 ß, IL-2, IL-6, IL-8 and IL-13) was undertaken. RESULTS: Low n-3 intake was found in both groups (0.68 ± 0.55g/day in T2DM vs 0.81 ± 0.53 g/day in non-T2DM). Comparison between groups showed significantly higher concentrations of triacylglcerols (p=.001) and IL-6 (p=.018) in the T2DM group, as well as significant correlations between serum TNF-α and total n-3 fatty acid intake (r=.507, p= .001), EPA (r=.284, p=.002), DHA (r=.404, p=.001), and a weak but significant correlation between serum IL-1ß and total PUFA (r=.245, p=.005), total n-3 (r=.214, p=.019) and total n-6 (r=.241, p=.008) intake. CONCLUSIONS: Patients with T2DM had a tendency for higher pro-inflammatory cytokines than subjects without T2DM. There was an association between PUFA intake and pro-inflammatory biomarkers in patients with T2DM. Further studies of anti-inflammatory nutrients and plasma and cell fatty acid profiles are needed to corroborate the present findings in patients with and without T2DM.