The relationships between dietary patterns and socioeconomic status with anthropometric and body composition indices in Iranian preschool children: A cross-sectional study.

Background: The prevalence of overweight and obesity among Iranian children is on the rise. Dietary patterns (DPs) and socioeconomic status ( socioeconomic status (SES)) may relate to children's excess weight as a predictor of the risk of obesity in adulthood that may vary by geographical regions. Aim: The relationship between DPs and the development of obesity in preschool children has not been adequately evaluated. The present study evaluates this relationship by considering SES. Methods: A total of 320 preschool children (4-6 years) were randomly selected from three different areas of Mashhad based on economic status. Dietary intake was evaluated using a semi-quantitative food frequency questionnaire completed by the children's parents. Anthropometric and body composition variables were measured by means of valid tools and standard methods. socioeconomic status data were collected through a researcher-made questionnaire. Results: Three dominant DPs of 'healthy', 'unhealthy', and 'meat-free' were identified using factor analysis. The prevalence of overweight and obesity among the children who followed meat-free DP was significantly higher than that of other children (p = 0.004). The means and standard deviations of energy intake, body mass index (BMI), waist circumference, fat-free mass, and fat mass were 1187.97 ± 356.87 Kcal/day, 16.23 ± 2.28 kg/m2, 54.28 ± 6.49 cm, 16.24 ± 2.23 kg, and 4.62 ± 2.70 kg respectively. Being in the higher levels of SES was significantly related to height (p = 0.02), energy intake (p < 0.001), BMI (p = 0.003), waist circumference (p = 004), and fat mass (p = 0.002). Conclusions: Adherence to meat-free DP and being in the highest levels of SES may be associated with a greater chance of developing overweight and obesity. Therefore, meat consumption and SES can be used to predict childhood overweight and obesity.

Effects of sumac supplementation on lipid profile: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials.

This systematic review aimed to gather data on the effects of sumac supplementation on lipid profile. A systematic literature search was carried out using electronic databases (PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science) up to March 2023 to identify eligible randomized controlled trials (RCTs) assessing the effects of sumac intake on lipid profile as an outcome. All participants enrolled in our study were adult individuals who consumed sumac, in various forms, as an intervention. The included articles were assessed using the Cochrane risk of bias assessment tool. Heterogeneity tests of the selected trials were performed using the I2 statistic. Random effects models were assessed based on the heterogeneity tests, and pooled data were determined as the weighted mean difference with a 95% confidence interval. In total, seven RCTs with a total sample size of 570 subjects were included. This study found a significant decrease in total cholesterol (TC) (weighted mean difference [WMD]: -10.01 mg/dL; 95% CI: -18.67, -1.34), triglyceride (TG) (WMD: -8.52 mg/dL; 95% CI: -14.79, -2.25), and low-density lipoprotein (LDL)-C levels (WMD: -9.25 mg/dL; 95% CI: -14.56, -3.93); Moreover, a significant increase was observed in high-density lipoprotein (HDL)-C concentration (WMD: 2.97 mg/dL; 95% CI: 0.75, 5.19). The reduction in TG and TC was greater in studies with a duration of ≥12 compared to <12 weeks. The increase in HDL-C was greater in participants with an intervention duration of ≥12 compared to <12 weeks. Moreover, subgroup analysis based on the dose of sumac suggested a significant reduction in TC and LDL, specifically for doses below 3 g. Consumption of sumac significantly decreased serum TC, LDL-C, and TG concentrations. This study suggested significantly positive effects on HDL-C by intake of sumac. Longer interventions (>12 weeks) have a more favorable impact on TC, LDL-C, and HDL-C, while sumac doses below 3 g/day show greater effects on TC and LDL-C. These findings underscore the potential of sumac supplementation as a valuable approach to lipid profile management.

The effects of cinnamon supplementation on adipokines and appetite-regulating hormones: A systematic review of randomized clinical trials.

Objective: Cinnamon is extracted from the inner bark of Cinnamomum trees. Recent studies have indicated that cinnamon is a safe and cost-effective treatment for improving body weight, lipid profiles, insulin resistance, and blood pressure. This systematic review aimed to summarize the effect of cinnamon supplementation on adipokines and appetite-regulating hormones. Materials and Methods: This comprehensive literature search was conducted using databases such as PubMed, Scopus, ISI Web of Science, and Google Scholar up to March 2022 without any limitation. The quality of eligible studies was evaluated through the Cochrane Collaboration's tool for assessing the risk of bias. Results: This systematic review included six clinical trial studies (363 participants), among which, only one study was performed on children, and two investigations were conducted on obese participants. A decreasing effect was found in the level of leptin and visfatin after cinnamon supplementation. Two out of three studies examined adiponectin levels and revealed non-significant effects of cinnamon consumption on this parameter. Two studies evaluated ghrelin levels and found an increase after cinnamon supplementation. The result of cinnamon supplementation on other biomarkers such as glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide, glucagon-like peptide 1, and resistin was inconsistent. Conclusion: The result of this systematic review indicated the increasing effect of cinnamon supplementation on ghrelin levels and decreasing effect on leptin and visfatin levels. However, more clinical data are required to clarify the beneficial effects of cinnamon on adipokines levels due to the controversial findings of the studies.

No benefit of soluble fiber on liver function.

Background: To conduct a systematic review and dose-response meta-analysis of current findings from randomized controlled trials (RCTs) on the effect of soluble fiber supplementation on liver function in both healthy individuals and people with specific health conditions, PubMed, Scopus, and ISI Web of Science were systematically searched for relevant RCTs published prior to April 2022. Methods: We estimated the change in liver function parameters for each 5 g/d increment in soluble fiber in each trial and then calculated the mean difference (MD) and 95%CI. A total of 25 RCTs with 27 treatment arms (1744 subjects; 884 cases, 860 controls) were included. Results: A total of 25 RCTs with 27 treatment arms were included. The intervention duration of the included studies ranged from 3 to 52 weeks and the dose of soluble fiber supplementation varied from 0.0025 to 40 g/d. Soluble fiber supplementation could not significantly affect serum alanine transaminase (MD: -0.02 U/L, 95% CI: -1.06 to 1.01), aspartate transaminase (MD: -0.34 U/L, 95% CI: -0.84 to 0.15), alkaline phosphatase (MD: 0.29 U/L, -0.14 to 0.71), gamma-glutamyl transferase (MD: 0.12 U/L; 95% CI: -0.81 to 1.05), serum bilirubin (MD: 0.42µmol/L, 95% CI: -0.08 to 0.93) and albumin (MD: 0.64 g/dl, 95% CI: -0.42 to 1.70) levels. Conclusions: Findings from this study did not support the beneficial effects of soluble fiber supplementation on liver function biomarkers. There is a need for long-term high-quality interventions to examine the effects of different types and doses of soluble fibers on liver function as primary outcome.

The Effects of Coenzyme Q10 Supplementation on Oxidative Status and Lipid Profile in Migraine Patients: A Randomized Double-Blinded Controlled Clinical Trial.

Migraine is a common neurological disease correlated with oxidative stress and lipid profile disorders. The present study was designed to determine the effects of Coenzyme Q10 (Co-Q10) supplementation on oxidative status and lipid profile in migraine individuals. This clinical trial was conducted on 84 females aged 18-50 years, diagnosed for episodic migraine according to the International Headache Society. Subjects were randomized to receive either Co-Q10 supplement (400 mg/day) or placebo for 12 weeks. Lipid profile and oxidative stress indices including malondialdehyde (MDA) and total antioxidant capacity (TAC) were measured before and after intervention in both groups. Also, anthropometric indices, dietary intakes, and clinical features were collected. Data analysis was conducted using SPSS version 16. Seventy-seven of the participants, with mean age of 33.70 ± 7.75 years, completed the study. After 12-week intervention, Co-Q10 led to a significant decrease in MDA levels compared to placebo (p = 0.009), with no effect on TAC levels (p = 0.106). A significant increase in serum Co-Q10 concentration and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) level in Co-Q10 group was observed, but no significant differences were found in other lipid profile variables (low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, triglycerides and total cholesterol). Among anthropometric variables, Co-Q10 only caused a significant reduction in body fat percentage (BFP), but we did not find any significant changes in others. A 12-week Co-Q10 supplementation led to significant improvement in clinical features, BFP, and HDL-C level among migraine individuals. Trial Registration: Iranian Registry of Clinical Trials Identifier: IRCT201508265670N10.

Effect of soluble fiber on blood pressure in adults: a systematic review and dose-response meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials.

OBJECTIVES: Pervious epidemiologic evidence indicates that soluble fiber is protective against hypertention: however, randomized controlled trials (RCTs) have presented varying results. In the present study, we aimed to conduct a systematic review and dose-response meta-analysis to summarize published RCTs which assess the effect of soluble fiber supplementation on systolic blood pressure (SBP) and diastolic blood pressure (DBP). METHODS: Scopus, PubMed, and ISI Web of Sciences were searched to identify relevant studies up to Aug 2022. We estimated the change in blood pressure for each 5 g/d increment in soluble fiber supplementation in each trial and then calculated the weighted mean difference (WMD) and 95%CI using a random-effects model. We estimated dose-dependent effects using a dose-response meta-analysis of differences in means. The risk of bias for study was assessed using the Cochrane tool. Publication bias was evaluated via funnel plot and Begg's test and Egger's test. RESULTS: Eighty-three eligible studies with total sample size of 5,985 participants were included in the meta-analysis. Soluble fiber supplementation significantly decreased SBP (WMD: -1.36 mmHg, 95% CI: -2.13 to -0.60, P < 0.001; I2 = 47.1%, P < 0.001) and DBP (WMD: -0.72 mmHg, 95% CI: -1.26 to -0.18, P = 0.009; I2 = 45.4%, P < 0.001). Each 5 g/d increment in soluble fiber supplementation had a significant reduction in SBP (WMD: -0.54 mmHg; 95%CI: -0.86, -0.22, P = 0.001; I2 = 52.2, Phet < 0.001) and DBP (WMD: -0.28 mmHg; 95%CI: -0.49, -0.80, P = 0.007; I2 = 43.1%, Phet < 0.001). The levels of SBP decreased proportionally with the increase in soluble fiber supplementation up to 20 g/d (MD20g/d: -1.79 mmHg, 95%CI: -2.86, -0.71). CONCLUSION: Current evidence indicated the beneficial effect of soluble fiber supplementation on blood pressure. Our findings suggest that soluble fiber supplementation could contribute to the management of hypertension and the reduction of cardiovascular disease risk.

The effect of conjugated linoleic acids on inflammation, oxidative stress, body composition and physical performance: a comprehensive review of putative molecular mechanisms.

Conjugated linoleic acids (CLAs) are polyunsaturated fatty acids primarily found in dairy products and ruminant animal products such as beef, lamb, and butter. Supplementation of CLAs has recently become popular among athletes due to the variety of health-promoting effects, including improvements in physical performance. Preclinical and some clinical studies have shown that CLAs can reduce inflammation and oxidative stress and favorably modulate body composition and physical performance; however, the results of previously published clinical trials are mixed. Here, we performed a comprehensive review of previously published clinical trials that assessed the role of CLAs in modulating inflammation, oxidative stress, body composition, and select indices of physical performance, emphasizing the molecular mechanisms governing these changes. The findings of our review demonstrate that the effect of supplementation with CLAs on inflammation and oxidative stress is controversial, but this supplement can decrease body fat mass and increase physical performance. Future well-designed randomized clinical trials are warranted to determine the effectiveness of (1) specific doses of CLAs; (2) different dosing durations of CLAs; (3) various CLA isomers, and the exact molecular mechanisms by which CLAs positively influence oxidative stress, inflammation, body composition, and physical performance.

The effect of propolis supplementation on cardiovascular risk factors in women with rheumatoid arthritis: A double-blind, placebo, controlled randomized clinical trial.

Propolis has gained popularity in recent years because of its beneficial properties, which make it a possible preventative and therapeutic agent as well as a valuable food and cosmetic ingredient. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of propolis supplementation on cardiovascular risk factors in women with rheumatoid arthritis. This randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial was performed among 48 patients diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis. Subjects were randomly assigned to placebo and intervention groups, supplemented with 1000 mg/day of propolis for 12 weeks. Cardiovascular risk factors including, high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP), monocyte chemoattractant protein (MCP-1), Nitric oxide, blood pressure, and lipid profile were assessed pre-and post-intervention. The atherogenic index of plasma value, as well as total cholesterol/high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C), triglyceride/HDL-C, and non-HDL-C/HDL-C ratios, were significantly reduced in the intervention group, compared with the placebo group post-intervention (p < 0.05). Moreover, there was a significant reduction in the serum level of hs-CRP in the intervention group when compared with the placebo group (p = 0.001). Furthermore, propolis supplementation could marginally reduce MCP-1 (p = 0.051). These data indicate that propolis supplementation may be a promising treatment strategy for cardiovascular complications among rheumatoid arthritis patients.

The effects of Chlorella vulgaris on cardiovascular risk factors: A comprehensive review on putative molecular mechanisms.

High incidence rate of cardiovascular disease (CVD) make this condition as an important public health concern. The use of natural products in treating this chronic condition has increased in recent years one of which is the single-celled green alga Chlorella. Chlorella vulgaris (CV) has been studied for its potential benefits to human health due to its biological and pharmacological features. CV contains a variety of macro and micronutrients, including proteins, omega-3, polysaccharides, vitamins, and minerals. Some studies have indicated that taking CV as a dietary supplement can help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress. In some studies, cardiovascular risk factors that are based on hematological indices did not show these benefits, and no molecular mechanisms have been identified. This comprehensive review summarized the research on the cardio-protective benefits of chlorella supplementation and the underlying molecular processes.

Soluble Fiber Supplementation and Serum Lipid Profile: A Systematic Review and Dose-Response Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials.

To present a comprehensive synthesis of the effect of soluble fiber supplementation on blood lipid parameters in adults, a systematic search was undertaken in PubMed, Scopus, and ISI Web of Science of relevant articles published before November 2021. Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) evaluating the effects of soluble fibers on blood lipids in adults were included. We estimated the change in blood lipids for each 5 g/d increment in soluble fiber supplementation in each trial and then calculated the mean difference (MD) and 95% CI using a random-effects model. We estimated dose-dependent effects using a dose-response meta-analysis of differences in means. The risk of bias and certainty of the evidence was evaluated using the Cochrane risk of bias tool and the Grading Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation methodology, respectively. A total of 181 RCTs with 220 treatment arms (14,505 participants: 7348 cases and 7157 controls) were included. There was a significant reduction in LDL cholesterol (MD: -8.28 mg/dL, 95% CI: -11.38, -5.18), total cholesterol (TC) (MD: -10.82 mg/dL, 95% CI: -12.98, -8.67), TGs (MD: -5.55 mg/dL, 95% CI: -10.31, -0.79), and apolipoprotein B (Apo-B) (MD: -44.99 mg/L, 95% CI: -62.87, -27.12) after soluble fiber supplementation in the overall analysis. Each 5 g/d increase in soluble fiber supplementation had a significant reduction in TC (MD: -6.11 mg/dL, 95% CI: -7.61, -4.61) and LDL cholesterol (MD: -5.57 mg/dl, 95% CI: -7.44, -3.69). In a large meta-analysis of RCTs, results suggest that soluble fiber supplementation could contribute to the management of dyslipidemia and the reduction of cardiovascular disease risk.

Double blind control trial of vitamin D fortified milk on the expression of lncRNAs and adiponectin for patients with metabolic syndrome.

BACKGROUND: Metabolic syndrome (Mets) is a common metabolic disorder in which hypoadiponectinemia is one of the consequences for the body caused by inflammation, and vitamin D may help improve inflammatory symptoms. LncRNAs (long non-coding RNA) play several different regulatory roles in the body. The goal of this study was to see how adding vitamin D to milk affected the levels of adiponectin and inflammatory lncRNAs in the serum of people with Mets. METHODS: This clinical trial was conducted on staff and students between the ages of 30 and 50 at Mashhad University of Medical Sciences and met the International Diabetes Federation's criteria for Mets. Eighty-two Mets were assigned randomly to one of two groups for ten weeks: fortified milk (FM) with 1500 IU vitamin D or non-fortified milk (NFM). Total RNA was extracted from both frozen clinical samples using Trizol reagent. APQ AS and MALAT1 lncRNA gene expression were measured by Real-Time PCR. RESULTS: Serum adiponectin levels in the FM group increased significantly compared to the NFM group (p = 0.01). Also, the expression of APQ AS and MALAT1 genes decreased after ten weeks, which showed a significant decrease in APQ AS (p = 0.036). CONCLUSION: As in FM, vitamin D may have anti-inflammatory effects and increase adiponectin levels in people with Mets via decreasing APQ AS gene expression.

Association between Inflammatory Factors, Vitamin D, Long Non-Coding RNAs, MALAT1, and Adiponectin Antisense in Individuals with Metabolic Syndrome.

BACKGROUND: Metabolic syndrome (MetS) is a common clustering of cardiovascular risk factors associated with increased inflammation. Long non-coding RNA (LncRNA) are involved in many of the body's metabolic activities, including inflammation. Vitamin D may play a vital role in preventing metabolic syndrome risk factors. This study aimed to evaluate the status of inflammation and expression of LncRNA and their relationship with serum vitamin D levels in patients with metabolic syndrome. METHOD: This cross-sectional study included staff and Mashhad University of Medical Sciences students between 30 and 50 years old who met the International Diabetes Federation criteria for Mets. Total RNA was extracted from both frozen clinical samples using the Trizol reagent. RESULTS: A total of eighty people were recruited into the two groups, with and without MetS. Inflammatory markers were higher in the individuals in the MetS group, and linear regression showed an inverse association between serum vitamin D and LncRNAs. There was a positive association between inflammatory biomarkers, lipid profiles and Adiponectin Antisense (APQ AS) expression. CONCLUSION: APQ AS and MALAT1 levels are positively associated with inflammatory biomarkers and inverse relation between MALAT1 and serum 25 (OH) D concentration.

The effect of nigella sativa supplementation on cardiometabolic outcomes in patients with non-alcoholic fatty liver: A randomized double-blind, placebo-controlled trial.

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE: Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is one of the metabolic disturbances associated with liver cell inflammation. Nigella sativa (N.sativa) is a widely used medicinal plant known for its anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, antioxidant, and hepato-protective properties. This study aimed to assess the effect of supplementation of N. sativa oil on plasma levels of adiponectin, leptin, and blood pressure (BP) in patients diagnosed with NAFLD. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial was conducted on 44 NAFLD patients. Participants were randomly assigned to two groups (n = 22/group); the experimental group received 1000 mg of N. sativa oil per day, while the control group received a placebo for eight weeks. The primary outcome measures were serum levels of adiponectin, leptin, and systolic and diastolic blood pressure measured at the baseline and the end of the intervention. RESULTS: After eight weeks of supplementation with N. sativa oil, no statistically significant differences were found in serum levels of adiponectin (p = 0.40), leptin (p = 0.89), systolic BP (p = 0.13), and diastolic BP (p = 0.09) between the two groups. Furthermore, after supplementation with N. sativa, no significant changes were observed in leptin (p = 0.07), adiponectin (p = 0.13), systolic BP (p = 0.82), and diastolic BP (p = 0.38) within the two groups. CONCLUSION: These results indicate that administration of N. sativa oil 1000 mg/day for 8 weeks has no favorable effect on cardiometabolic measures in NAFLD patients. Further studies with higher dosage over a longer period are needed to investigate whether this effect is dose- and time-dependent.

The role of Pycnogenol in the control of inflammation and oxidative stress in chronic diseases: Molecular aspects.

The prevalence of chronic diseases has increased significantly with the rising trend of sedentary lifestyles, reduced physical activity, and dietary modifications in recent decades. Inflammation and oxidative stress play a key role in the pathophysiology of several chronic diseases, such as type II diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, and hepatic conditions. Therefore, reducing inflammation and oxidative stress may be beneficial in the prevention and treatment of various chronic disorders. Since chronic diseases are not completely curable, various methods have been proposed for their control. Complementary therapies and the use of natural antioxidant and antiinflammatory compounds are among these novel approaches. Pycnogenol (PYC) is a natural compound that could control inflammation and oxidative stress. Furthermore, some previous studies have shown that PYC could effectively reduce inflammation through signaling the downstream of insulin receptors, inhibiting the phosphorylation of the serine residues of insulin receptor substrate-1, reducing pro-inflammatory cytokines and oxidative stress indices through the stimulation of antioxidant pathways, increasing free radical scavenging activities, preventing lipid peroxidation, and protecting the erythrocytes in glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase-deficient individuals, although these effects have not been fully proved. The present study aimed to comprehensively review the evidence concerning the positive physiological and pharmacological properties of PYC, with an emphasis on the therapeutic potential of this natural component for enhancing human health.

Does propolis have any effect on rheumatoid arthritis? A review study.

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic autoimmune disease in which inflammation and oxidative stress play a key role in its pathophysiology. Complementary therapies along with medications may be effective in the control of RA. Propolis is a natural substance extracted from beehives, which have confirmed anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. The present study aimed to review the possible effects of propolis on inflammation, oxidative stress, and lipid profile in patients with RA. English articles in online databases such as PubMed­Medline, AMED, Google Scholar, EMBASE, Scopus, and Web of Science databases were searched. Pieces of evidence show that supplementation with propolis may have therapeutic effects on RA patients. Due to increased inflammation and oxidative stress in the affected joints of RA patients, propolis could inhibit the inflammatory cascades by inhibiting the nuclear factor kappa B pathway and reducing reactive oxygen species, malondialdehyde, and interleukin-17 by increasing some antioxidants. Therefore, inflammation and pain reduce, helping improve and control RA in patients. Further investigations are required with larger sample sizes and different doses of propolis to demonstrate the definite effects of propolis on various aspects of RA.

The effect of low FODMAP diet with and without gluten on irritable bowel syndrome: A double blind, placebo controlled randomized clinical trial.

BACKGROUND & AIM: Although the effects of low fermentable oligosaccharide, disaccharide, monosaccharide, and polyol (FODMAP) diet on amelioration of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) symptoms have been reported previously, it has not yet been elucidated whether the gluten of wheat and barley induces the symptoms or only their fructans lead to aggravation of the symptoms. The aim of this study was to assess the effect of low FODMAPs diet with vs. without gluten on clinical symptoms in IBS patients. METHODS: In this double-blind, placebo-controlled randomized trial, forty nine IBS patients were randomly assigned to placebo and/or intervention group. Patients in the intervention group received 5 gr/day of gluten powder with low FODMAP diet, while placebo group received 5 gr of rice flour as placebo, with low FODMAP diet. Quality of life (QoL) and IBS-SSS (symptom severity score) were measured before and after the intervention using a valid QoL questionnaire and a standard visual analog scale, respectively. RESULTS: Significant improvements were observed in total scores of IBS-SSS (-32% vs. - 49%), abdominal pain intensity (-45% vs. -52%), and frequency (-26 vs. -46%), abdominal distension (-29% vs. -63%), Interference with community function (-14% vs. -45%) and quality of life (+23 vs. +32%) in both gluten and placebo groups respectively (P < 0.05). Only 5 patients in the gluten-containing diet reported exacerbation of their symptoms. CONCLUSION: Exacerbation of IBS symptoms after wheat and barley consumption is due to their fructan, and not related to their gluten content in most of the patients. CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION NO: IRCT20100524004010N29.

Effects of microwave technology on the subcutaneous abdominal fat and anthropometric indices of overweight adults: A clinical trial.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE: Non-invasive body contouring devices have fewer side effects and are the new techniques for the treatment of obesity. The present study aimed to evaluate the effects of microwave technology on the abdominal obesity and anthropometric indices of overweight adults. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This clinical trial was conducted on 53 overweight adults aged 18-65 years who referred to Behbood Clinic in Tehran, Iran. The participants were exposed to microwave technology (radiofrequency: 2.5 GHz) based on a standard treatment protocol at three intervals (0, 20, and 40 days). Abdominal obesity, body mass index, waist-to-hip ratio, body fat mass, and fat thickness were measured at the beginning and 20, 40, and 60 days after the study. In addition, three-day dietary records were collected at intervals. RESULTS: In total, 77.6% of the subjects were female and 22.4% were male. The mean calorie intake of the participants was 2245.14 ± 1981.16 kcal/day. Microwave shock significantly reduced fat thickness in four abdominal areas (p < 0.001). Moreover, waist circumference (p < 0.001) and total fat thickness of the abdomen decreased (p = 0.003 and p = 0.002, respectively). CONCLUSION: According to the results, microwave technology and radiofrequency could effectively reduce anthropometric indices. In general, the reduction of these indicators and weight may be more significant in men compared to women.

Biological and pharmacological effects and nutritional impact of phytosterols: A comprehensive review.

Phytosterols (PSs), classified into plant sterols and stanols, are bioactive compounds found in foods of plant origin. PSs have been proposed to exert a wide number of pharmacological properties, including the potential to reduce total and low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol levels and thereby decreasing the risk of cardiovascular diseases. Other health-promoting effects of PSs include anti-obesity, anti-diabetic, anti-microbial, anti-inflammatory, and immunomodulatory effects. Also, anticancer effects have been strongly suggested, as phytosterol-rich diets may reduce the risk of cancer by 20%. The aim of this review is to provide a general overview of the available evidence regarding the beneficial physiological and pharmacological activities of PSs, with special emphasis on their therapeutic potential for human health and safety. Also, we will explore the factors that influence the physiologic response to PSs.

The Effect of Garlic (Allium sativum L) Supplementation on Circulating Adiponectin: a Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials.

Our aim was to conduct a systematic review and meta-analysis on randomized controlled trials (RCTs) evaluating the effect of garlic on serum adiponectin levels. We searched Scopus, Web of Science, PubMed, and Cochrane Library to databases up to January 2021. RCTs investigating the effects of garlic on serum adiponectin levels in adult participants were included. The change in serum adiponectin levels was estimated using weighted mean differences (WMD) and standard deviations (SD). The random effects model was used to provide a summary of mean estimates and their SDs. Out of 386 records, 6 trials with 8 arms treatment which enrolled 266 subjects were included. Garlic supplementation resulted in a non-significant increase in adiponectin concentrations when compared to placebo, according to the pooled data (WMD, 0.27 Hedges' g; 95% confidence interval [CI], -0.07, 0.62; p = 0.124). Greater effects on adiponectin were observed in trials with supplementation dose less than 1.5 gram per day (WMD, 0.71 Hedges' g; 95% CI, -0.01, 1.43; p = 0.600) and in trials with female subset (WMD, 0.62 Hedges' g; 95% CI, -0.96, 2.21; p = 0.441). Garlic boosts adiponectin levels in general. However, due to different target population, various units for reporting adiponectin level and few eligible studies in final analysis, more research is needed to get a firm conclusion about the influence of garlic on adiponectin levels.

A systematic review and meta-analysis of the impact of cornelian cherry consumption on blood lipid profiles.

Polyphenolic and flavonoid compounds are claimed to improve blood lipid profiles and to provide protective effects against cardiovascular disease. For this reason, we conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis of studies that comprehensively investigated the effects of cornelian cherry supplementation on lipid profiles in rat models. Up to December 2020, 855 articles were screened, and finally, seven articles were selected as eligible for the meta-analysis. This meta-analysis revealed that cornelian cherry supplementation significantly decreased low-density lipoprotein (LDL) (WMD = -6.38 mg/dl; 95% CI, -9.93 to-2.84; p < .001), triglyceride (TG) (WMD = -52.36 mg/dl; 95% CI, -80.50 to -24.22; p < .005), and cholesterol level (WMD = -37.16 mg/dl; 95% CI, -51.19 to -23.13; p < .005) in treated rats compared with control groups. A nonsignificant increase in high-density lipoprotein (HDL) level was observed (WMD = 4.21 mg/dl; 95% CI, -3.25 to 11.66; p = .268). These results suggest that cherry supplementation may have health effects by modifying lipid profiles. However, there is a need for more well-controlled human clinical trials to make more definitive conclusions about the potential health benefits of cherry supplementation.