Peanut (Arachis hypogaea L.) seeds and by-products in metabolic syndrome and cardiovascular disorders: A systematic review of clinical studies.

BACKGROUND: Cardiovascular disease (CVDs) is the leading cause of death worldwide. The main risk factors are hypertension, diabetes, obesity, and increased serum lipids. The peanut (Arachis hypogaea L.), also known as the groundnut, goober, pindar, or monkey nut, belongs to the Fabaceae family and is the fourth most cultivated oilseed in the world. The seeds and skin of peanuts possess a rich phytochemical profile composed of antioxidants, such as phenolic acids, stilbenes, flavonoids, and phytosterols. Peanut consumption can provide numerous health benefits, such as anti-obesity, antidiabetic, antihypertensive, and hypolipidemic effects. Accordingly, peanuts have the potential to treat CVD and counteract its risk factors. PURPOSE: This study aims to critically evaluate the effects of peanuts on metabolic syndrome (MetS) and CVD risk factors based on clinical studies. METHOD: This review includes studies indexed in MEDLINE-PubMed, COCHRANE, and EMBASE, and the Preferred Reporting Items for a Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis guidelines were adhered to. RESULTS: Nineteen studies were included and indicated that the consumption of raw peanuts or differing forms of processed foods containing peanut products and phytochemicals could improve metabolic parameters, such as glycemia, insulinemia, glycated hemoglobin, lipids, body mass index, waist circumference, atherogenic indices, and endothelial function. CONCLUSION: We propose that this legume and its products be used as a sustainable and low-cost alternative for the prevention and treatment of MetS and CVD. However, further research with larger sample sizes, longer intervention durations, and more diverse populations is needed to understand the full benefit of peanut consumption in MetS and CVD.

Effects of coconut oil long-term supplementation in Wistar rats during metabolic syndrome - regulation of metabolic conditions involving glucose homeostasis, inflammatory signals, and oxidative stress.

This study was designed to evaluate the long-term effects of Fructose (20%) feeding in rats, simulating metabolic syndrome (MetS), and the effects of coconut oil (C.O.) supplementation when administered in a MetS context. MetS is a cluster of systemic conditions that represent an increased chance of developing cardiovascular diseases and type 2 diabetes in the future. C.O. has been the target of media speculation, and recent studies report inconsistent results. C.O. improved glucose homeostasis and reduced fat accumulation in Fructose-fed rats while decreasing the levels of triglycerides (TGs) in the liver. C.O. supplementation also increased TGs levels and fructosamine in serum during MetS, possibly due to white adipose tissue breakdown and high fructose feeding. Pro-inflammatory cytokines IL-1ß and TNF-α were also increased in rats treated with Fructose and C.O. Oxidative stress marker nitrotyrosine is increased in fructose-fed animals, and C.O. treatment did not prevent this damage. No significant changes were observed in lipoperoxidation marker 4-Hydroxynonenal; however, fructose feeding increased total conjugated dienes and caused conjugated dienes to switch their conformation from cis-trans to trans-trans, which was not prevented by C.O. treatment. Potential benefits of C.O. have been reported with inconsistent results, and indeed we observed some benefits of C.O. supplementation in aiding weight loss, fat accumulation, and improving glucose homeostasis. Nonetheless, we also demonstrated that long-term C.O. supplementation could present some problematic effects with higher risk for individuals suffering MetS, including increased TGs and fructosamine levels and conformational changes in dienes.

Impact of synbiotic supplementation on cardiometabolic and anthropometric indices in patients with metabolic syndrome: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials.

BACKGROUND: Probiotic and synbiotic products are being widely used by a large number of patients and clinicians; however, effects on cardiometabolic indices in patients with the metabolic syndrome remain unclear. This meta-analysis aimed to evaluate the effects of a synbiotic intervention on lipid profile, insulin resistance, blood pressure, anthropometric parameters, and inflammatory markers. METHODS: We searched MEDLINE, Scopus, and Clarivate Analytics Web of Science by October 2021. Studies were selected if they reported the effectiveness of the synbiotic intervention on cardiometabolic and anthropometric indices. The weighted mean difference was calculated as the effect size using a random-effects model. Subgroup analyses were conducted to determine sources of heterogeneity. Dose-dependent effects were assessed using a dose-response meta-analysis of differences in means. RESULTS: Five trials (1049 participants) were finally included in the meta-analysis. Synbiotic intervention significantly reduced serum insulin levels (WMD, -6.39 µU/mL; 95%CI, (-7.2 to -5.4); p = 0.001, I2 = 88.2%, N = 5), triglycerides (WMD, -20.3 mg/dl; 95%CI, (-32.7 to -7.8); p = 0.001, I2 = 87.7, N = 5), total cholesterol (WMD, -7.8 mg/dl; 95%CI, ( -12.5 to -3.02); p = 0.001; I2 = 66.7%, N = 5), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (WMD, -9.02 mg/dl; 95%CI, (-10.8 to -7.2); p < 0.001, I2 = 0%, N = 5), waist circumference (WMD, -4.04 cm; 95%CI, ( -4.9 to -3.08), p < 0.001; I2 = 22.7%, N = 3), body weight (WMD, -4.3 kg; 95%CI, (-6.2 to -2.5); p = 0.001; I2 = 0%, N = 2), systolic blood pressure (WMD, -1.8 mmHg; 95% CI, (-2.8 to -0.7); p = 0.001; I2 = 0%, N = 3), and serum interleukin-6 concentrations (WMD, -0.2 pg/mL; 95%CI, (-0.3 to -0.08); p = 0.001, I2 = 39.8%, N = 2), and increased high-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels (WMD, 2.3 mg/dl; 95%CI, (0.2-4.4); p = 0.03; 03; I2 = 93.1%, N = 5). Synbiotic administration did not significantly affect fasting plasma glucose, homeostatic model assessment for insulin resistance, body mass index, diastolic blood pressure, heart rate, and serum C-reactive protein concentrations. CONCLUSIONS: The present findings suggest that synbiotic intervention effectively improves cardiometabolic risk factors in patients with metabolic syndrome.

Role of vitamins in the metabolic syndrome and cardiovascular disease.

The prevalence of metabolic syndrome and cardiovascular disease has increased and continues to be the leading cause of mortality worldwide. The etiology of these diseases includes a complex phenotype derived from interactions between genetic, environmental, and nutritional factors. In this regard, it is common to observe vitamin deficiencies in the general population and even more in patients with cardiometabolic diseases due to different factors. Vitamins are essential micronutrients for cellular metabolism and their deficiencies result in diseases. In addition to its role in nutritional functions, increasingly, vitamins are being recognized as modulators of genetics expression and signals transduction, when consumed at pharmacological concentrations. Numerous randomized preclinical and clinical trials have evaluated the use of vitamin supplementation in the prevention and treatment of metabolic syndrome and cardiovascular disease. However, it is controversy regarding its efficacy in the treatment and prevention of these diseases. In this review, we investigated chemical basics, physiological effect and recommended daily intake, problems with deficiency and overdose, preclinical and clinical studies, and mechanisms of action of vitamin supplementation in the treatment and prevention of metabolic syndrome and cardiovascular disease.

The effects of consuming a low-fat yogurt fortified with nano encapsulated vitamin D on serum pro-oxidant-antioxidant balance (PAB) in adults with metabolic syndrome; a randomized control trial.

BACKGROUND AND AIM: The current study aimed to assess the effect of fortified yogurt with nano-encapsulated vitamin D on serum pro-oxidant anti-oxidant balance (PAB) in adults with or without metabolic syndrome. METHODS: In a quadruple blind clinical trial study, 139 adults with an age range of 30-50 years were randomly selected to receive either 1500 IU nano-encapsulated vitamin D fortified yogurt or placebo for ten weeks. Before and after the intervention period, blood sample was taken to determine the serum levels of vitamin D, pro-oxidant-antioxidant balance (PAB), and high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP). The laboratory tests were checked at baseline and at the end of the treatment. RESULTS: Serum vitamin D increased significantly, from 14.47 ± 6.07 ng/mL to 21.39 ± 6.54 ng/mL (P < 0.001) after ten weeks in the intervention group. Serum hs-CRP and PAB were significantly lower following consumption period in intervention group [1.95(0.4-8.15) g/dL vs. 1.35(0.25-3.62) g/dL; P = 0.013] and (135.19 ± 42.4 HK vs. 115.39 ± 44.69) HK; P = 0.018] respectively. There were no significant differences between the intervention and control groups regarding weight and BMI at the end of the intervention period (p > 0.05). CONCLUSION: Low-fat yogurt fortified with nano-encapsulated vitamin D was found to reduce serum PAB levels in adults with metabolic syndrome. PRACTICAL APPLICATION: The findings of the present study indicated that a low-fat yogurt fortified with 1500 IU nano-encapsulated vitamin D for ten weeks, leads to a significant reduction in serum hs-CRP and PAB concentrations highlighted the anti-inflammatory/anti-oxidative effect of vitamin D.

Effects of Nutrients on Platelet Function: A Modifiable Link between Metabolic Syndrome and Neurodegeneration?

Metabolic syndrome increases the risk of vascular dementia and other neurodegenerative disorders. Recent studies underline that platelets play an important role in linking peripheral with central metabolic and inflammatory mechanisms. In this narrative review, we address the activation of platelets in metabolic syndrome, their effects on neuronal processes and the role of the mediators (e.g., serotonin, platelet-derived growth factor). Emerging evidence shows that nutritional compounds and their metabolites modulate these interactions-specifically, long chain fatty acids, endocannabinoids and phenolic compounds. We reviewed the role of activated platelets in neurovascular processes and nutritional compounds in platelet activation.

Coffee Bioactive N-Methylpyridinium Attenuates Tumor Necrosis Factor (TNF)-α-Mediated Insulin Resistance and Inflammation in Human Adipocytes.

Although coffee consumption has been historically associated with negative health outcomes, recent evidence suggests a lower risk of metabolic syndrome, obesity and diabetes among regular coffee drinkers. Among the plethora of minor organic compounds assessed as potential mediators of coffee health benefits, trigonelline and its pyrolysis product N-methylpyridinium (NMP) were preliminary shown to promote glucose uptake and exert anti-adipogenic properties. Against this background, we aimed at characterizing the effects of trigonelline and NMP in inflamed and dysfunctional human adipocytes. Human Simpson-Golabi-Behmel syndrome (SGBS) adipocytes were treated with NMP or, for comparison, trigonelline, for 5 h before stimulation with tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α. NMP at concentrations as low as 1 µmol/L reduced the stimulated expression of several pro-inflammatory mediators, including C-C Motif chemokine ligand (CCL)-2, C-X-C Motif chemokine ligand (CXCL)-10, and intercellular adhesion Molecule (ICAM)-1, but left the induction of prostaglandin G/H synthase (PTGS)2, interleukin (IL)-1ß, and colony stimulating factor (CSF)1 unaffected. Furthermore, NMP restored the downregulated expression of adiponectin (ADIPOQ). These effects were functionally associated with downregulation of the adhesion of monocytes to inflamed adipocytes. Under the same conditions, NMP also reversed the TNF-α-mediated suppression of insulin-stimulated Ser473 Akt phosphorylation and attenuated the induction of TNF-α-stimulated lipolysis restoring cell fat content. In an attempt to preliminarily explore the underlying mechanisms of its action, we show that NMP restores the expression of the master regulator of adipocyte differentiation peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor (PPAR)γ and downregulates activation of the pro-inflammatory mitogen-activated protein jun N-terminal kinase (JNK). In conclusion, NMP reduces adipose dysfunction in pro-inflammatory activated adipocytes. These data suggest that bioactive NMP in coffee may improve the inflammatory and dysmetabolic milieu associated with obesity.

Dietary flaxseed reduces Myocardial Ischemic Lesions, improves cardiac function and lowers cholesterol levels despite the presence of severe obesity in JCR:LA-cp Rats.

Previous work has shown that dietary flaxseed can significantly reduce cardiac damage from a coronary artery ligation-induced myocardial infarction. However, this model uses healthy animals and the ligation creates the infarct in an artificial manner. The purpose of this study was to determine if dietary flaxseed can protect the hearts of JCR:LA-cp rats, a model of genetic obesity and metabolic syndrome, from naturally occurring myocardial ischemic lesions. Male and female obese rats were randomized into four groups (n = 8 each) to receive, for 12 weeks, either a) control diet (Con), b) control diet supplemented with 10% ground flaxseed (CFlax), c) a high-fat, high sucrose (HFHS) diet, or d) HFHS supplemented with 10% ground flaxseed (HFlax). Male and female JCR:LA-cp lean rats served as genetic controls and received similar dietary interventions. In male obese rats, serum total cholesterol and LDL-C were significantly lower in CFlax compared to Con.  Obese rats on HFHS exhibited increased myocardial ischemic lesions and diastolic dysfunction regardless of sex. HFlax significantly lowered the frequency of cardiac lesions and improved diastolic function in male and female obese rats compared to HFHS. Blood pressures were similar in obese and lean rats. No aortic atherosclerotic lesions were detectable in any group. Collectively, this study shows that a HFHS diet increased myocardial ischemic lesion frequency and abolished the protective effect of female sex on cardiac function. More importantly, the data demonstrates dietary flaxseed protected against the development of small spontaneous cardiac infarcts despite the ingestion of a HFHS diet and the presence of morbid obesity.

Low-molecular alginate improved diet-induced obesity and metabolic syndrome through modulating the gut microbiota in BALB/c mice.

Alginate is the most abundant polysaccharide in brown seaweed, which is widely used as a food additive, but its high viscosity and gel property limit its applications in foods as a functional ingredient. In this study, low-molecular alginate from Laminaria japonica (L-LJA) was prepared, and its effect on obesity and metabolic syndrome was analyzed in high-fat diet (HFD)-fed mice. L-LJA reduced weight gain, fat accumulation in the liver and epididymal adipose tissue, lipid abnormality and inflammation in HFD-fed mice accompanied with the improvement of gut microbiota. L-LJA modulated the structure of gut microbiota, increased some Bacteroidales members, and reduced some Clostridiales members in mice, which were positively correlated with the improvement of physiological status. Fecal transplant from L-LJA-fed mice reduced fat accumulation in body tissues and lipid abnormality in the serum and liver and increased short chain fatty acids production in HFD-fed mice, confirming that L-LJA-induced gut microbiota alteration played an important role in its bioactivity. L-LJA has better solubility and can be utilized in food systems in high dose, implying that it can be developed as a prebiotic agent to increase both economic value and nutritive value of alginate.

Beneficial Effects of a Specially Designed Home Meal Replacement on Cardiometabolic Parameters in Individuals with Obesity: Preliminary Results of a Randomized Controlled Clinical Trial.

We aimed to investigate if a home meal replacement (HMR), designed with a low ω-6/ω-3 fatty acid ratio, improves cardiometabolic parameters, including metabolic syndrome (MetS) in obese individuals. We conducted a monocentric, controlled, randomized crossover trial. The HMR contains higher protein and fat content, lower carbohydrate content, and a lower ω6FA/ω3FA ratio than the regular diet. Sixty-four participants were randomized into two groups and switched to the other group following a 4-week intervention. While subjects in the HMR group were provided three HMRs daily, those in the control group were requested to maintain their regular dietary pattern. We conducted paired t-tests, repeated measures analysis of variance, and McNemar tests before and after the intervention. Body mass index (BMI) and weight were lower in the HMR group after adjusting for age, sex, and total energy intake and significantly changed in the between-group differences. The waist circumference, systolic blood pressure, triglycerides, triglyceride-glucose index, and triglyceride to high-density lipoprotein cholesterol ratio were reduced in the HMR group (all p < 0.05). The percentage of subjects with MetS significantly decreased from 39.1% at baseline to 28.1% post-intervention (p = 0.035). Using the HMR for 4 weeks reduced the BMI, weight, and MetS prevalence in individuals with obesity. This trial was registered at clinicaltrials.gov (NCT04552574).

[Effects of the intake of dairy products naturally enriched with selenium and omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids in a sample of postmenopausal women with metabolic syndrome: a randomized, triple-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial]. / Efectos de la ingesta de lácteos enriquecidos de forma natural con selenio y omega-3 en una muestra de mujeres posmenopáusicas con síndrome metabólico: un ensayo clínico aleatorizado, triple ciego y controlado con placebo.

INTRODUCTION: Introduction: metabolic syndrome in postmenopausal women can improve with a healthy diet. Objectives: to evaluate whether a dietary intervention with dairy products naturally enriched with selenium and omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids increases selenium plasma levels and improves cardiovascular risk factors in postmenopausal women with metabolic syndrome. Material and methods: a randomized, triple-blind, controlled clinical trial carried out in GP surgeries. Recruitment: April 2018, 46 postmenopausal women with metabolic syndrome who were frequent dairy consumers. Randomization: 23 in control group and 23 in experimental group. Intervention: consumption of dairy products naturally enriched with selenium and omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (milk, yogurt, fresh cheese) for three months. Controls took conventional dairy. Primary endpoint: plasma selenium levels; secondary endpoints: metabolic syndrome criteria. Registration number 2018/256, Galicia Ethics Committee. Results: in all, 23 women in the control group and 21 in the intervention group completed the trial. Selenium increased in the intervention group (7.2 µg/L, 95 % CI, 3.7/10.8) compared to the control group (-4.5 µg/L, 95 % CI, -8/-1) (p < 0.001) and very low-density lipoprotein cholesterol decreased (-2.3 mg/dL, 95 % CI, -5.6/1) compared to the control group (1.9 mg/dL, 95 % CI, -0.7/4.5) (p = 0.043). Waist circumference (p = 0.010), body mass index (p = 0.047) and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (p < 0.001) in the experimental group improved in comparison to baseline measurements. Conclusions: an intervention with dairy products naturally enriched with selenium and omega-3 in a sample of postmenopausal women with metabolic syndrome can improve plasma selenium levels and very low-density lipoprotein cholesterol.

INTRODUCCIÓN: Introducción: el síndrome metabólico de las mujeres posmenopáusicas puede mejorar con una alimentación saludable. Objetivos: evaluar si una intervención alimentaria con productos lácteos enriquecidos en selenio y ácidos grasos poliinsaturados omega-3 aumenta los niveles de selenio y mejora los factores de riesgo cardiovascular en las mujeres posmenopáusicas con síndrome metabólico. Material y métodos: ensayo clínico aleatorizado, triple ciego y controlado, realizado en atención primaria. Captación: abril 2018, 46 mujeres posmenopáusicas con síndrome metabólico consumidoras habituales de lácteos. Aleatorización: 23 en el grupo de control y 23 en el grupo experimental. Intervención: consumo durante 3 meses de lácteos enriquecidos naturalmente con selenio y ácidos grasos poliinsaturados omega-3 (leche, yogur y queso fresco). Controles: consumo de lácteos convencionales. Variable principal: selenio en plasma; secundarias: criterios del síndrome metabólico. Número de registro 2018/256, Comité de Ética Galicia. Resultados: finalizaron 23 mujeres en el grupo de control y 21 en el grupo de intervención. Aumentó el selenio en el grupo de intervención (7,2 µg/L, IC del 95 %: 3,7/10,8) frente al grupo de control (-4,5 µg/L, IC del 95 %: -8/-1) (p < 0,001) y disminuyó el colesterol unido a lipoproteínas de muy baja densidad (-2,3 mg/dl, IC del 95 %: -5,6/1) respecto al grupo de control (1,9 mg/dl, IC del 95 %: -0,7/4,5) (p = 0,043). Las mujeres del grupo experimental mejoraron respecto a su medición basal en perímetro de cintura (p = 0,010), índice de masa corporal (p = 0,047) y colesterol unido a lipoproteínas de alta densidad (p < 0,001). Conclusiones: una intervención con lácteos enriquecidos naturalmente con selenio y omega-3 en mujeres posmenopáusicas con síndrome metabólico puede mejorar los niveles de selenio en plasma y de colesterol unido a lipoproteínas de muy baja densidad.

Clinical Efficacy of Brown Seaweeds Ascophyllum nodosum and Fucus vesiculosus in the Prevention or Delay Progression of the Metabolic Syndrome: A Review of Clinical Trials.

Metabolic syndrome (MetS) is a global public health problem affecting nearly 25.9% of the world population characterised by a cluster of disorders dominated by abdominal obesity, high blood pressure, high fasting plasma glucose, hypertriacylglycerolaemia and low HDL-cholesterol. In recent years, marine organisms, especially seaweeds, have been highlighted as potential natural sources of bioactive compounds and useful metabolites, with many biological and physiological activities to be used in functional foods or in human nutraceuticals for the management of MetS and related disorders. Of the three groups of seaweeds, brown seaweeds are known to contain more bioactive components than either red and green seaweeds. Among the different brown seaweed species, Ascophyllum nodosum and Fucus vesiculosus have the highest antioxidant values and highest total phenolic content. However, the evidence base relies mainly on cell line and small animal models, with few studies to date involving humans. This review intends to provide an overview of the potential of brown seaweed extracts Ascophyllum nodosum and Fucus vesiculosus for the management and prevention of MetS and related conditions, based on the available evidence obtained from clinical trials.

Pharmacological Therapy Determines the Gut Microbiota Modulation by a Pomegranate Extract Nutraceutical in Metabolic Syndrome: A Randomized Clinical Trial.

SCOPE: Poly-pharmacological therapy shapes the gut microbiota (GM) in metabolic syndrome (MetS) patients. The effects of polyphenols in poly-medicated MetS patients are unknown. METHODS AND RESULTS: A randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blinded, and crossover trial in poly-medicated MetS patients (n=50) explored whether the effects of a pomegranate extract nutraceutical (PE, 320 mg phenolics/day for 1 month) are affected by the drug therapy. Considering the lipid-lowering (LL-), anti-hypertensive (HP-) and(or) anti-diabetic (AD-) treatments: GM (16S rRNA sequencing), short-chain fatty acids, 40 inflammatory-metabolic and endotoxemia-related biomarkers, associations between biomarkers and GM with 53 cardiometabolic dysfunctions-related single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs), and urolithin metabotypes (UMs) influence are evaluated. Representative SNPs-GM associations after PE include Lactococcus and ClostridiumXIVa with rs5443-GNB3 (G-protein-ß-polypeptide-3) and ClostridiumXIVa with rs7903146-TCF7L2 (transcription-factor-7-like-2) and rs1137101-LEPR (leptin-receptor). PE decreases sICAM-1 in LL-patients and the lipopolysaccharide-binding protein in all the patients. PE does not affect the other patients' markers as a group or stratifying by UMs. After PE, Lactococcus increases in AD-, LL-, and HP-patients, Bifidobacterium increases in LL- and AD-, while Clostridium XIVa decreases in non-LL- and non-HP-patients. CONCLUSION: The prebiotic effect of PE depends on the medication, mainly on HP-treatments. Targeting GM can complement MetS therapy, but the patients' drug therapy should be considered individually.

The Role of Bioactive Compounds from Dietary Spices in the Management of Metabolic Syndrome: An Overview.

Metabolic syndrome (MetS) is a combination of physiologically dysregulated parameters that can include elevated fasting blood glucose, high blood pressure, central obesity, increased triglyceride levels, insulin resistance, diabetes, elevated low density lipoprotein levels, and reduced high density lipoprotein levels in the blood. Effective clinical management of MetS is critical as it is strongly associated with long lasting and fatal complications in patients. Alongside standard care of lifestyle changes and medication, dietary supplements derived from herbal resources could be an alternative therapeutic strategy that is safe, efficient, culturally acceptable, and has few side effects. Of the dietary supplements, spicy foods have always been considered a great source of functional bioactive compounds. Herbal therapy is broadly used in many countries as a treatment or as a preventive measure in the management of MetS risk factors, including blood glucose, blood pressure, and blood lipid levels. Herein, an attempt is made to evaluate the recent studies in the management of MetS with herbal alternatives, and to explore the possibility of their use as therapeutic treatments or supplements.

The impact of EPA and DHA on ceramide lipotoxicity in the metabolic syndrome.

The metabolic syndrome (MetS) is a cluster of cardiovascular risk factors including obesity, insulin resistance (IR) and dyslipidaemia. Consumption of a high-fat diet (HFD) enriched in SFA leads to the accumulation of ceramide (Cer), the central molecule in sphingolipid metabolism. Elevations in plasma and tissue Cer are found in obese individuals, and there is evidence to suggest that Cer lipotoxicity contributes to the MetS. EPA and DHA have shown to improve MetS parameters including IR, inflammation and hypertriacylglycerolaemia; however, whether these improvements are related to Cer is currently unknown. This review examines the potential of EPA and DHA to improve Cer lipotoxicity and MetS parameters including IR, inflammation and dyslipidaemia in vitro and in vivo. Current evidence from cell culture and animal studies indicates that EPA and DHA attenuate palmitate- or HFD-induced Cer lipotoxicity and IR, whereas evidence in humans is greatly lacking. Overall, there is intriguing potential for EPA and DHA to improve Cer lipotoxicity and related MetS parameters, but more research is warranted.

Lepidium meyenii Supplemented Diet Modulates Neurobehavioral and Biochemical Parameters in Mice Fed High-Fat High-Sugar Diet.

BACKGROUND: Metabolic syndrome has been associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular disease, diabetes mellitus, and neurodegenerative disorders. Known side-effects of currently- available drugs necessitate the search for possibly better treatment options. OBJECTIVE: This study examined the effects of dietary lepidium meyenii (MACA) supplementation on neurobehaviour, metabolic profile, levels of inflammatory markers, and oxidative stress parameters in a mouse model of metabolic syndrome. METHODS: Mice were randomly assigned into 8 groups of ten animals each. Groups consist of standard diet (SD) control, high fat/high sugar (HFHS) control and three groups each of lepidium meyenii incorporated into either SD or HFHS diet at 0.1, 0.2 and 0.4%. Mice were fed for seven weeks, and body weight was measured weekly. Open-field behaviors and radial-arm/Y-maze spatial memory were scored at the end of the study. Twenty-four hours after the last behavioral test, fasting blood glucose levels were estimated. Animals were then euthanized, and blood was drawn for estimation of serum lipid profile. Whole brains were excised, weighed and homogenized to estimate the levels of lipid peroxidation, inflammatory markers, antioxidant status, and acetylcholinesterase activity. RESULTS: MACA-supplemented diet was associated with a decrease in body weight gain, an increase in food intake (at lower concentrations), suppression of grooming behavior, and decrease in acetylcholinesterase activity. MACA-supplement also reversed HFHS-induced memory impairment, anxiety, hyperglycaemia, lipid derangement, oxidative stress, and derangement of inflammatory markers. CONCLUSION: Dietary supplementation with MACA shows beneficial effects in mitigating the effects of metabolic syndrome on the brain in mice.

Sulfated polysaccharides from Undaria pinnatifida improved high fat diet-induced metabolic syndrome, gut microbiota dysbiosis and inflammation in BALB/c mice.

Undaria pinnatifida was shown to reduce serum lipids and fat accumulation and produce beneficial effect on type 2 diabetes, but its effect on intestinal micro-ecology remains unclear. This study showed that sulfated polysaccharides from U. pinnatifida (UPSP) reduced weight gain, fat accumulation and metabolic disorders in mice fed with high fat diet (HFD). UPSP not only alleviated HFD-induced microbiota dysbiosis indicated as increased abundances of some Bacteroidales members that had positive correlations with the improvement of physiological indexes, but also maintained gut barrier integrity and reduced metabolic endotoxemia. A dose-effect relationship was observed between the dose of UPSP and its effect on some physiological indexes, gut microbiota community and nutrient utilization. The in vitro result showed that the use of Bacteroides species within Bacteroidales on UPSP was species-dependent, and the dose of UPSP affected the growth properties of some Bacteroides species. It implied that UPSP can be considered as prebiotic agent to prevent gut dysbiosis and obesity-related diseases in obese individuals.

Effects of whey protein on glycemic control and serum lipoproteins in patients with metabolic syndrome and related conditions: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled clinical trials.

BACKGROUND: This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to assess the effects of whey protein on serum lipoproteins and glycemic status in patients with metabolic syndrome (MetS) and related disorders. METHODS: Online databases, such as Web of Science, Cochrane Library, PubMed and Scopus were systematically searched by two independent authors from inception until 30th April 2020 for English randomized clinical trials investigating the efficacy of whey protein administration in subjects with Mets or related conditions on the parameters of glycemic and lipid control compared to certain control. In order to evaluate the included studies' methodological quality, Cochrane Collaboration risk of bias tool was applied. Using Cochrane's Q test and I-square (I2) statistic, the included trials' heterogeneity was also examined. Using a random-effects model, data were pooled, and weighted mean difference (WMD) was considered as the overall effect size. RESULTS: Twenty-two studies were selected to be included in this meta-analysis. Consumption of whey protein resulted in significant reduction of HbA1c (WMD: -0.15; 95% CI: - 0.29, - 0.01) insulin (WMD: -0.94; 95% CI: - 1.68, - 0.21) and homeostasis model assessment-estimated insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) (WMD: -0.20; 95% CI: - 0.36, - 0.05). A significant reduction in triglycerides levels (WMD: -17.12; 95% CI: - 26.52, - 7.72), total cholesterol (WMD: -10.88; 95% CI -18.60, - 3.17), LDL-cholesterol levels (WMD: -8.47 95% CI: - 16.59, - 0.36) and total cholesterol/HDL-cholesterol ratio (WMD: -0.26; 95% CI: - 0.41, - 0.10) was found as well. CONCLUSIONS: This meta-analysis suggests that supplementation with whey protein had beneficial effect on several indicators of glycemic control and lipid parameters in patients with MetS and related conditions.

Effectiveness of Multi Interventional Package on Selected Parameters of Metabolic Syndrome among Women: A Pilot Study.

PURPOSE: The purpose of the study was to compare the effectiveness of multi interventional package (MIP) and lifestyle interventions (LI) on physiological parameters of women with metabolic syndrome, to compare the effectiveness of MIP and LI on biochemical parameters of women with metabolic syndrome and to compare the effectiveness of MIP and LI on socio-psychological parameters of women with metabolic syndrome. METHODS: A quasi experimental nonequivalent control group design with two experimental groups and one control group was used to collect data from 60 self-help group women. Samples were selected by multistage sampling. Reflexology foot massage, dietary modification, moderate intensity exercise and structured education were given to MIP group and dietary modification, moderate intensity exercise and structured education were given to LI group for 12 weeks. Control group received routine care. Demographic and clinical data sheets were used to collect basic information. Knowledge was assessed by a knowledge questionnaire. Physiological (weight, body mass index, waist circumference and blood pressure) and biochemical parameters (HDL, triglycerides and FBS) were assessed before and after the intervention. RESULTS: The study found significant change in the physiological and biochemical parameters of metabolic syndrome as well as knowledge among the MIP group and LI group compared to the control group (p < .001). CONCLUSION: MIP and LI are effective in controlling the parameters of metabolic syndrome. Hence the guidance may be provided to women with metabolic syndrome for adopting necessary lifestyle changes as well as reflexology foot massage to control the physiological and biochemical parameters of metabolic syndrome.

Phytosome Loading the Combined Extract of Mulberry Fruit and Ginger Protects against Cerebral Ischemia in Metabolic Syndrome Rats.

The prevalence of ischemic stroke in metabolic syndrome (MetS) is continually increasing and produces a great impact on both qualities of life and annual healthcare budget. Due to the efficiency limitation of the current therapeutic strategy, the poor availability of polyphenol substances induced by the first pass effect and the beneficial effects of mulberry fruit and ginger on brain and MetS-related diseases together with the synergistic concept, the neuroprotective effect against ischemic stroke in MetS condition of phytosome containing the combined extract of mulberry fruit and ginger (PMG) has been considered. To explore the neuroprotective effect and possible underlying mechanism of PMG on brain damage in cerebral ischemic rat with MetS, male Wistar rats were induced MetS by high-carbohydrate high-fat diet (HCHF) for 16 weeks and subjected to the cerebral ischemia/reperfusion injury (CIRI) at the right middle cerebral artery (Rt. MCAO). PMG at doses of 50, 100, and 200 mg/kg were orally fed with for 21 days, and they were assessed brain damage, neurological deficit score, and the changes of oxidative stress markers, inflammatory markers, PPARγ expression, and epigenetic modification via DNMT-1 were performed. All doses of PMG significantly improved brain infarction, brain edema, and neurological deficit score. In addition, the reduction in DNMT-1, MDA level, NF-κB, TNFα, and C-reactive protein together with the increase in SOD, CAT, and GPH-Px activities, and PPARγ expression in the lesion brain were also observed. The current data clearly revealed the neuroprotective effect against cerebral ischemia with MetS condition. The possible underlying mechanism might occur partly via the suppression of DNMT-1 giving rise to the improvement of signal transduction via PPARγ resulting in the decreasing of inflammation and oxidative stress. In conclusion, PMG is the potential neuroprotectant candidate against ischemic stroke in the MetS condition. However, the clinical trial is still essential.