Neurotrophic and Neuroprotective Effects of Hericium erinaceus.

Hericium erinaceus is a valuable mushroom known for its strong bioactive properties. It shows promising potential as an excellent neuroprotective agent, capable of stimulating nerve growth factor release, regulating inflammatory processes, reducing oxidative stress, and safeguarding nerve cells from apoptosis. The active compounds in the mushroom, such as erinacines and hericenones, have been the subject of research, providing evidence of their neuroprotective effects. Further research and standardization processes for dietary supplements focused on H. erinaceus are essential to ensuring effectiveness and safety in protecting the nervous system. Advancements in isolation and characterization techniques, along with improved access to pure analytical standards, will play a critical role in achieving standardized, high-quality dietary supplements based on H. erinaceus. The aim of this study is to analyze the protective and nourishing effects of H. erinaceus on the nervous system and present the most up-to-date research findings related to this topic.

Preliminary Study of Iron Concentration in the Human Placenta in Twin Pregnancies.

BACKGROUND: Pregnancy significantly increases the demand for iron (Fe) in the female body to facilitate maternal blood volume expansion, placental development, and fetal growth. As Fe flux in pregnancy is significantly influenced by the placenta, the aim of this study was to determine the dependencies between the Fe concentration in the placenta, the infant's morphometric parameters and the woman's morphological blood parameters in the last trimester. METHODS: The study was conducted on 33 women with multiple (dichorionic-diamniotic) pregnancies from whom the placentas were drawn, and their 66 infants, including pairs of monozygotic (n = 23) and mixed-sex twins (n = 10). Fe concentrations were determined based on inductively coupled plasma atomic emission spectroscopy (ICP-OES) using ICAP 7400 Duo, Thermo Scientific. RESULTS: The results of the analysis showed that lower placental Fe concentrations were associated with deteriorated morphometric parameters of infants, including weight and head circumference. Although we found no statistically significant dependencies between Fe concentration in the placenta and the women's morphological blood parameters, higher Fe concentration in the placenta of mothers supplemented with Fe correlated with better morphometric parameters in infants compared to those whose mothers received no Fe supplementation. CONCLUSIONS: The research adds additional knowledge for placental iron-related processes during multiple pregnancies. However, many limitations of the study do not allow detailed conclusions to be assessed, and statistical data should be assessed conservatively.

Effects of Fermentation Time and Type of Tea on the Content of Micronutrients in Kombucha Fermented Tea.

The fermented tea beverage Kombucha is obtained through a series of biochemical and enzymatic reactions carried out by symbiotic cultures of bacteria and yeasts (SCOBY). It contains organic acids, vitamins, amino acids, and biologically active compounds, notably polyphenols, derived mainly from tea. Kombucha exhibits a range of health-promoting properties, including antioxidant or detoxifying effects. This fermented beverage is traditionally brewed with black tea, but other types of tea are used increasingly, which may have significant implications in terms of chemical composition and health-promoting effects. In this preliminary study, we investigated the content of micronutrients (manganese (Mn), copper (Cu), iron (Fe), chromium (Cr) and zinc (Zn)) by the ICP-OES method in Kombucha prepared with black, red, green and white tea at different time points of fermentation (1, 7, 14 days). It should be noted that the composition of separate ingredients such as tea, leaven or sugar has not been studied. Kombucha had the highest content of zinc-0.36 mg/L to 2.08 mg/L, which accounts for between 3% and 26% of the RDA (Recommended Dietary Allowance) for adults, and the smallest amounts of chromium (0.03 mg/L to 0.09 mg/L), which however represents as much as between 75% and 232% of the RDA. It has been demonstrated that the type of tea as well as the day of fermentation have a significant effect on the concentrations of selected minerals. Kombucha can therefore supplement micronutrients in the human diet.

The Use of Antioxidants in the Treatment of Migraine.

Despite numerous studies concerning the pathophysiology of migraine, the exact molecular mechanism of disturbances underlying migraine is still unknown. Furthermore, oxidative stress is considered to play a significant role in migraine pathogenesis. The notion of oxidative stress in migraine patients has been discussed for several decades. Over the past few years, among the substances that could potentially be used for migraine treatment, particular attention has been paid to the so-called nutraceutics, including antioxidants. Antioxidants supplied with food prevent oxidative stress by inhibiting initiation, propagation, and the oxidative chain reaction itself. Additionally, the agents used so far in the prevention of migraine indeed show some anti-oxidative action. The antioxidants discussed in the present paper are increasingly more often used by migraine patients not only due to mild or even a lack of side effects but also because of their effectiveness (decreased frequency of migraine episodes or shortening of an episode duration). The present review provides a summary of the studies on nutraceuticals with antioxidative properties.

The Influence of New Silicate Cement Mineral Trioxide Aggregate (MTA Repair HP) on Metalloproteinase MMP-2 and MMP-9 Expression in Cultured THP-1 Macrophages.

The aim of the present study was to investigate the new silicate cement mineral trioxide aggregate (MTA Repair HP) with respect to its effect on the inflammation process involving the tooth and periodontal tissues. The composition of MTA Repair HP was supplemented with plasticizer agents which can have a negative effect on the modulation of tooth inflammation. The silicate-based material in question is widely used in regeneration of the pulp-dentin complex, treatment of perforations of various locations in the tooth, as well as in surgical treatment of the complications of periapical tissue. The improved bioceramic restorative cement can affect the expression of metalloproteinases MMP-2 and MMP-9 in monocytes/macrophages involved in modulation of inflammation and regenerative processes of the tooth and periodontal tissues. The novel aspect of the present study lies in the application of the model of THP-1 monocyte/macrophage and applying the biomaterial in direct contact with the cells. Hence, it provides a representation of clinical conditions with respect to regenerative pulp and periodontal treatment with the use of MTA Repair HP. A lack of macrophage activation (as measured with flow cytometry) was found. Moreover, the study identified a lack of expression stimulation of the studied metalloproteinases (with the use of Western blotting and fluorescent microscopy). Similarly, no increase in MMP-2 and MMP-9 concentration was found (measured by ELISA method) in vitro when incubated with MTA Repair HP. Based on the results it can be concluded that new MTA Repair HP does not increase the inflammatory response in monocytes/macrophages associated with the activity of the described enzymes. It can also be speculated that they do not affect the process of dentin regeneration in which MMP-2 and MMP-9 play significant roles.

Analysis of Bone Mineral Profile After Prolonged Every-Other-Day Feeding in C57BL/6J Male and Female Mice.

Intermitted fasting or every-other-day feeding (EOD) has many positive effects in rodents and humans. Our goal was to describe how EOD influences bone mineral composition in female and male mice under prolonged EOD feeding. Male and female adult mice were fed EOD for 9 months. After this time, we used a direct method of measurement of mineral components in ashes of long bones (humerus and radius) to estimate the content of calcium (Ca), phosphorus (P), potassium (K), magnesium (Mg), and sodium (Na). We also performed histological analysis of sections of long bones. We found no significant changes in mineral composition between ad libitum and EOD fed males and females. We noted higher Ca and P contents in control males vs. females and lower content of Mg in control males vs. females. We observed the presence of marrow adipose tissue (MAT) in sections of EOD-fed females. EOD without supplementation during feeding days did not increase loss of mineral content of bones in C57BL/6J mice, but the presence of MAT only in EOD females indicates a gender-dependent response to EOD treatment in C57BL/6J mice.

Old and New Threats-Trace Metals and Fluoride Contamination in Soils at Defunct Smithy Sites.

The aim of this study was to investigate soil contamination with trace elements and fluoride at sites in Szczecin (NW Poland) where economic activity was historically associated with the use of trace metals. As the Polish legislation does not recognize the lasting impact of historical pollution on soils, land developers are not obliged to determine soil pollution in the new residential areas, including parks and playgrounds for children. Therefore, in this study, at the locations of defunct metalwork enterprises (smithies, foundries, chemical plants, and small metal production plants), which were closed down after World War II, we determined lead (Pb), chromium (Cr), copper (Cu), zinc (Zn), iron (Fe), manganese (Mn), nickel (Ni), mercury (Hg), cadmium (Cd), and cobalt (Co) levels in the soil. In addition, we also determined fluoride (F) levels due to the contemporary fluoride pollution in the area generated by a large chemical plant with a post-production phosphogypsum waste landfill and a power plant complex. Our results show that soil at the sites of now-defunct smithies can still act as a significant source of trace metals. Pb concentration in the surface (0⁻20 cm) and subsurface (20⁻40 cm) layers exceeded concentration thresholds for soils with first-degree pollution. The concentrations of Zn and Cu also exceeded their natural background limits. Furthermore, our research indicates an increased concentration of fluoride in surface layers of the soil; however, not exceeding the fluoride content threshold. These observations have important consequences for public health and safety because, presently, the studied sites function as housing estates and other public facilities. Therefore, contaminated soil at these sites may pose a threat to the health of local residents and should be closely monitored for trace metal contamination levels.

Role of Water Soluble Vitamins in the Reduction Diet of an Amateur Sportsman.

This study is aimed at determining the content of water soluble vitamins in amateur sportsmen before and after the use of reduction diet. Twenty adult male amateur sportsmen aged between 20 and 43 qualified for this study. The participants adhered to individually adjusted reduction diets for 3 months. Diet supplements were excluded from the diet during that time. Vitamins were analyzed before and after the reduction diet using HPLC. The following vitamins were analyzed: B1, B2, B3, PP, B5, B6, B7, B9, B12 and vitamin C. Statistically significant increase of riboflavin in blood plasma (p=0.0254) and statistically significant (p=0.048) decrease in the concentration of niacin was found when compared to the period before the diet. Appropriate level of riboflavin can be obtained by the consumption of proper amount of diary in the diet. Supplementation with PP is advised and, in case of improper diet, the supplementation of B1, B7 and B12 may also be considered.

Macro- and Microelement Content and Other Properties of Chaenomeles japonica L. Fruit and Protective Effects of Its Aqueous Extract on Hepatocyte Metabolism.

This growing interest in the cultivation of Japanese quince Chaenomeles japonica L. results from the potentially beneficial properties of its fruit. Fresh fruits are very firm and too acidic to eat raw, but their bioactive components, distinctive aroma, and high amount of dietary fiber make the fruits well suited for industrial processing. However, not all the properties of the fruit have been investigated. For example, there are no comprehensive reports about the mineral content or potentially harmful effects on liver metabolism. Hence, the purpose of our study was to examine fresh Japanese quince fruit in terms of (1) ascorbic acid, oxalate, fiber, macro- and micronutrients, dry matter, extract, total acidity, antioxidant activity, and phenolic compound levels; and (2) the effect of its extract on in vitro hepatocyte metabolism, measured by the concentration of lipid peroxides (LPO) and reactive oxygen species (ROS) and the severity of apoptosis and necrosis. The fruit of C. japonica had high levels of macro- and microelements, ascorbic acid, phenolic compounds, fiber, and low oxalate levels. Our analysis of macro- and microelements showed that the average content of Fe was 0.516 mg/g, Cu 0.146 mg/g, Zn 0.546 mg/g, Mg 16.729 mg/g, and Ca 22.920 mg/g of fresh fruit. A characteristic feature of the fresh fruit of C. japonica is a high level of polyphenols, which-combined with a high content of vitamin C-affect their high antioxidant potential. In the tested hepatocyte cultures incubated with extract of the Japanese quince, we observed a significant decrease in the concentration of lipid peroxides compared to the control. There were also no signs of increased formation of ROS in the mitochondria of hepatocytes incubated with the extract of quince. Malondialdehyde was strongly negatively correlated with the concentration of Japanese quince extract, which indicates the hepatoprotective properties of Japanese quince. In addition, our analysis of confocal microscopy images showed that the hepatocytes incubated with the extract of Japanese quince at any concentration did not show any signs of apoptosis or necrosis. The aqueous extract of quince fruit has antioxidative and antiapoptotic hepatocytes, thus exerting a hepatoprotective effect.

[Trans fatty acids (elaidic and vaccenic) in the human milk]. / Wystepowanie nienasyconych kwasów tluszczowych typu trans (elaidynowego i wakcenowego) w mieku kobiecym.

INTRODUCTION: The structure of trans unsaturated fatty acids (TFAs) includes at least one double bond with a trans configuration. Numerous studies have shown that TFAs influence negative changes in blood lipid profile, may initiate or accelerate the course of many inflammatory diseases, and reduce n-6 and n-3 fatty acids' utilization. Their presence in tissues and systemic fluids is mainly the result of ingestion of TFA-containing foods. The objective of this study was to determine the concentration profiles of elaidic and vaccenic acids in human milk, and the existence of potential correlations between the levels of trans-unsaturated fatty acids and long chain polyunsaturated fatty acids. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The study group consisted of 53 lactating women, aged 18-39 years, 5-6 weeks after delivery. Elaidic and vaccenic acid levels were determined in human milk. Fatty acid methyl esters were injected onto the capillary column of an Agilent 6890M gas chromatography system integrated with an autosampler. Geometrical and positional isomers of fatty acids were identified by comparing their retention times with those of the fatty acid standards from Sigma-Aldrich. The content of individual fatty acids was determined from the reference curves and expressed in mg/mL. RESULTS: The level of elaidic acid was 0.2572 ± 0.1811 mg/mL, and the level of vaccenic acid was 0.2736 ± 0.1852 mg/mL. No negative correlations between the levels of the analyzed TFAs and PUFAs were observed in human milk. CONCLUSIONS: The levels of elaidic and vaccenic acid were similar and had no negative influence on the levels of arachidonic acid and docosahexaenoic acid.

The content of linoleic and alpha-linolenic acid in different types of Yerba Mate, depending on country of origin and the conditions of the infusion.

INTRODUCTION: Yerba Mate (Ilexparaguariensis) is one of the most widely consumed teas in South America. It is becoming more and more popular in North America and Europe. The aim of the study was a qualitative and quantitative analysis of the fatty acids from the omega 6 and omega 3 families in Yerba Mate teas. METHODS: There were two types of infusions - cold and hot (three brews from the same leaves). Yerba Mate was incu bated for 10 min, then 2 mL of the brew was taken for isola tion. Fatty acids were extracted by the Folch method. The resulting fatty acid methyl esters were analyzed using gas chromatography. RESULTS: The analysis of fatty acids in the infusions of Yerba Mate showed a significant amount of linoleic acid (LA) and alpha linolenic acids (ALA). The concentrations of these acids present in fresh infusions were approx. 250 ug/mL for infusion of LA, and 600 ug/mL infusion for ALA. With the subsequent brew using the same leaves the amount of fatty acids decreased significantly (p < 0.01). CONCLUSIONS: Drinking Yerba Mate can supply ALA and LA, which are essential in a well-balanced diet. For individuals who regularly consume Yerba Mate, it can be an important source of polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) supplementation. The most preferred way to brew the tea is cold infusion, which delivers the highest dose of unchanged PUFAs. This method of brewing also reduces the gastrointestinal exposure to high temperature, and thus reduces the risk of cancer incidence.

The risk of abuse of vitamin supplements.

The article presents the results of studies on potential risks associated with the abuse of vitamin supplements which until recently had been considered not only highly effica- cious, but also completely safe. Particular consideration is given to vitamins A, E, D and C. The necessity to control the intake of vitamin supplements and even to strictly super- vise the supply to high risk patients is highlighted.

Risk of anaemia in population of healthy young people inhabiting a region in central europe.

It is quite unbelievable but significant percentage of young healthy women is at risk of anaemia despite proper nutritional state. In this study we decided to determine the lack or excess of which nutrients in a diet can lead to any effects. The major cause of anaemia is not, as in many studies on nutritional status, the deficiency in iron in a diet. Iron intake in women with anaemia exceeded AI (Adequate Intake) level. 120 people took part in the study. Average HGB concentration in female group amounted to 12.45 g/dL and in male group to 14.35 g/dL. Anaemia was determined in 29% women and 4.2% men. In group of women with anaemia a statistically higher intake of SFA, cholesterol, and sucrose and lower intake of pyridoxine, folacin, niacin, and vitamin E, Mn, Cu, Zn, Fe, and Mg were determined. In a group of men with low haemoglobin concentration a statistically higher intake of sucrose but lower intake of fat, especially SFA and MUFA, vitamin C and zinc were observed. Therefore, together with anaemia in the group of women there are coexisting deficiencies in other nutrients, as compared to the group of men. Prevention in both groups should include various supplements.

Changes in male reproductive system and mineral metabolism induced by soy isoflavones administered to rats from prenatal life until sexual maturity.

OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to determine the influence of high-dose soy isoflavones (daidzein and genistein) administered from prenatal life to sexual maturity on testosterone and estradiol levels, testicular and epididymal morphology, the number of epididymal spermatozoa, and mineral metabolism in rats. METHODS: Pregnant Wistar rats received orally soy isoflavones, daidzein, and genistein at a dose of 200 mg/kg of body weight per day. After separating sucklings from their mothers, male rats received the same dose of isoflavones until reaching the age of sexual maturity, i.e., for 3 mo. RESULTS: In the isoflavone-treated group, statistically significant decreased concentrations of zinc (determined using atomic absorption spectrophotometry) in blood serum and increased concentrations in bone were observed. The isoflavones induced changes in the morphology of the seminiferous epithelium of rat testes. However, there were no significant changes in the number of spermatozoa in the epididymis. The levels of estradiol in serum and cauda epididymis homogenates of rats receiving phytoestrogens were significantly higher than in the control group. No differences were observed in testosterone concentrations in the serum of treated and control rats. The testosterone levels in the homogenates of the treated rat testes were significantly lower than in the control group. CONCLUSION: The relatively mild effects of phytoestrogen administration on the morphology of testes and epididymides and the number of epididymal spermatozoa were observed despite the high dose used. The exposure of rats to genistein and daidzein during intrauterine life until sexual maturity influenced the mineral metabolism of the organism by significant decreases of Zn concentration in serum and increased Zn concentration in bones.

The effect of L-ascorbic acid and/or tocopherol supplementation on electrophysiological parameters of the colon of rats chronically exposed to lead.

BACKGROUND: The aim of this study was to assess the effect of diet supplementation with L-ascorbic acid (500 mg/L), tocopherol (3 mg/kg b.w.), and/or a water soluble analog of tocopherol (Trolox) (48 mg/L) on ion transport in the colon of rats subjected to a chronic exposure (9 months) to 0.1% lead acetate in drinking water. MATERIAL/METHODS: The electrophysiological parameters of the colon wall were measured with Ussing methods. Lead content in the whole blood was analyzed by graphite furnace atomic absorption spectrometry (GFAAS) using Zeeman correction. L-ascorbic acid and tocopherol in plasma was measured by high performance liquid chromatography. Immunohistochemical reaction was carried out for visualization of occludin, the intracellular tight junction protein. RESULTS: We showed a strong inhibitory effect of lead on the electrophysiological parameters, changes in intestinal permeability, disappearance of junctional occludin, decreased amount of mucus covering the colon surface, and the accumulation of PAS-positive substance in the apical region of the cytoplasm in the absorptive cells. CONCLUSIONS: Supplementation with tocopherol or Trolox did not exert a beneficial influence on the studied parameters. L-ascorbic acid positively influenced the examined electrophysiological parameters, as it cancelled the inhibitory influence of lead on ion transport in the rat colon. L-ascorbic acid also protected against tight junction disruption of epithelial cells in the colon of the lead-treated rats. A similar effect was observed in the group of rats receiving lead and supplemented with L-ascorbic acid plus Trolox.

[Effects of dietary trans fatty acids in pregnancy and lactation]. / Skutki spozywania trans nienasyconych kwasów tluszczowych w okresie ciazy i laktacji.

Unsaturated fatty acids with the trans configuration (TFA) are recognized as the most harmful type of fatty acids. The main human source of TFA are foods containing hardened plant oils. Evidence is aplenty that TFA are responsible for increased risk of cardiovascular diseases, tumors, type 2 diabetes, and inflammatory conditions. Due to the harmful action of TFA it is of particular importance to determine the exact effects of TFA on pregnancy and fetal development which will in consequence affect the health of adults. It is believed that the inhibited synthesis of polyunsaturated fatty acids in the presence of TFA is among factors that determine birthweight, duration of pregnancy, and development of the nervous system during intrauterine life and after birth. Pregnant women consuming significant amounts of TFA are at risk of pregnancy-induced hypertension, preeclampsia, and insulin resistance. Reports on the harmful action of TFA on humans persuasively reveal the need to limit their intake, particularly during pregnancy and lactation.

Conjugated linoleic acid increases intracellular ROS synthesis and oxygenation of arachidonic acid in macrophages.

OBJECTIVE: Conjugated linoleic acids (CLAs) have potential antiatherosclerotic properties: they may inhibit atherosclerotic processes by reducing the intensity of inflammatory processes. However, in vivo studies have shown that the application of trans-10, cis-12 CLA in obese men increased their oxidative stress. The objective of this study was to determine whether CLA can lead to an increase in oxidative stress and to isoprostane synthesis in macrophages. METHODS: Monocytes from peripheral blood and human monocytic leukemia cells were used in this study. Monocytes were differentiated to macrophages, and were incubated with 30 microM cis-9, trans-11 CLA and trans-10, cis-12 CLA or linoleic acid for 2 days. In some experiments the inhibitors of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-alpha (PPAR-alpha) or respiratory chain were added. After incubation, synthesis of reactive oxygen species (ROS), total cellular concentration of adenosine triphosphate, concentration of 8-epi-prostaglandin F2 alpha, activity of cytoplasolic phospholipase A2 (cPLA2), activity of mitochondria, and expression of mRNA of PPAR-alpha were measured. RESULTS: In cells cultured with CLAs intercellular ROS synthesis increased. In this condition the mitochondrial energy potential was high, and the inhibitors of the respiratory chain and PPAR-alpha reduced ROS concentration. At the same time, the cPLA2 activity was abolished. In contrast, 8-iPF2 alpha III synthesis increased in CLA cells. CONCLUSION: Cultivation of cells with CLA leads to an increased ROS synthesis, partly by PPAR-alpha mechanism. An increase in ROS concentration and inhibition of cPLA2 activity can stimulate oxygenation of arachidonic acid and contribute to an increase in 8-epi-PF2 alpha III level and in the apoptosis process in macrophages.

[Oxidative stress and trace elements affect the activity of sodium transporting systems in a cellular membrane of a erythrocyte]. / Stres oksydacyjny i pierwiastki sladowe wplywaja na aktywnosc systemów transportujacych sód w blonie komórkowej erytrocytu.

We examined the activity of sodium transporting systems (STS) in a cellular membrane of erythrocytes in a group of 21 patients under chronic hemodialysis treatment with the dialyzing fluid containing glucose HD-g(+), and 22 patients dialysed with the fluid not containing glucose HD-g(-), 21 patients with chronic kidney failure already not treated with dialysis and 21 control group. We examined the concentration of antioxidative system cofactors, such as zinc, copper and selenium in erythrocytes and plasma. The marker of oxidative stress in erythrocytes and plasma was the concentration of TBARS. Among all STS we examined the activity of Na(+)/K(+) ATP-ase, Na(+)/K(+)/Cl(-); co-transport, Na(+)/Li(+) exchanger, Na(+), K(+)-outflow. Copper zinc and selenium as cofactors of antioxidative enzymes may reflect the antioxidative processes inside the organism undergoing the influence of free radicals.

Influence of glucose in the dialysate on the activity of erythrocyte-glutathione-peroxidase and blood selenium concentration in hemodialyzed patients.

BACKGROUND: The aim of the study was to show the influence of glucose in the dialysate on the intensity of oxidative stress, activity of glutathione peroxidase (GSHPx) and concentration of selenium in patients undergoing regular hemodialysis. METHODS: The study was comprised of 85 patients hemodialyzed with dialysate containing glucose [HD-g(+)] or not containing glucose [HD-g(-)], patients with chronic renal failure on conservative treatment and control group. The concentrations of the products of reaction with thiobarbituric acid (TBARS), concentration of selenium in erythrocytes and plasma, concentration of copper in erythrocytes and the activity of GSHPx were determined. RESULTS: GSHPx had significantly higher activity in HD-g(-) group before HD than in control group. In HD-g(+) group before hemodialysis, the activity of GSHPx was significantly lower than in the control group. After HD, the activity showed a statistically significant increase. In both hemodialyzed groups, selenium concentration before hemodialysis both in plasma and erythrocytes was significantly lower, compared to control group. In the group of patients with CRF on conservative treatment, selenium concentration in RBC was significantly higher, compared to concentrations obtained in other groups except for control group. The increase of copper concentration in erythrocytes was accompanied by the increase of oxidative stress and increase of TBARS concentration. The opposite relationship was observed for selenium-its concentration was inversely correlated to copper concentration. CONCLUSIONS: In both groups of hemodialyzed patients, hemodialysis caused the increase of GSHPx in erythrocyte activity and increase of plasma and erythrocyte selenium concentration.

[Atherogenic trans isomers of fatty acids in some food products]. / Wystepowanie aterogennych kwasów tluszczowych izomerii trans w niektórych produktach spozywczych.

OBJECTIVE: Trans isomers of fatty acids (TFA) contain double bonds in their molecular structure with the trans configuration. Food products prominent for their TFA content include plant oils (margarine), mayonnaise, products baked with plant oils, and ready-made glazes and icings. The so-called fast foods and snacks (bars, chips) represent a significant source of TFA, particularly for children and youth. Considering the potentially atherogenic properties of TFA, this work was undertaken to determine the content of the principal monounsaturated TFA in some food products ubiquitous on the market, i.e. margarines and snacks. MATERIAL AND METHODS: We studied bars (Snickers, Mars, Twix), chips (Lay's, Snack, Cheetos), and margarines (Rama Classic, Rama Olivio, Vita, Flora, Finea, Delma, Masmix, Krówka, Smakowita with butter, Extra Pomorskie). The content of TFA was determined with gas chromatography. RESULTS: The highest content ofmonounsatured TFA among sweets was disclosed for the Twix bar (2.94 microg/g), while the lowest for Snickers (0.3 microg/g). Among margarines, the highest content of TFA was found for Smakowita with butter (87.6 microg/g), Krówka (46 microg/g), and Vita (38.7 microg/g), whereas the content was lowest in Finea (0.12 microg/g) and Delma (0.14 microg/g). In the case of chips, the content was highest for Cheetos (3.5 microg/g) and lowest for Snack (0.09 microg/g). CONCLUSIONS: The content of atherogenic TFA in common food products varies widely. In some cases, the content of TFA is considerable and unjustly undisclosed by manufacturers. Promotion of these products should include information in respect of TFA. This conclusion is of particular importance considering the significance of these products in the diet of children and youth.