(+)Alpha-Lipoic Acid Regulates Lipid Metabolism Gene Expression and Lipidic Profile in a Cellular Model of Fatty Acid Overload.

BACKGROUND: Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a prevalent condition characterized by hepatic fat accumulation, often progressing to severe liver injury, for which approved treatments are currently lacking. This study explores the potential therapeutic impact of alpha-lipoic acid (ALA), a natural compound crucial in lipid metabolism, on NAFLD using an in vitro model. METHODS: HepG2 cells were treated with a palmitic acid:oleic acid (PA:OA) mixture, representing a cellular model of steatosis. Subsequent treatment with ALA at concentrations of 1 µM and 5 µM aimed to evaluate its effects on lipid content and metabolism. Real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR), BODIPY staining, cytofluorimetric analysis, and lipidomics were used to assess gene expression, lipid droplet accumulation, and fatty acid profiles. RESULTS: Our results showed that ALA significantly reduced lipid droplets in PA:OA-treated HepG2 cells, with a concentration-dependent effect. Analysis of fatty acid profiles demonstrated a decrease in palmitic acid levels with ALA treatment, while oleic acid reduction was observed only at the higher concentration. Moreover, ALA modulated the expression of genes involved in cholesterol biosynthesis and low-density lipoprotein (LDL) metabolism, indicating a potential role in lipid homeostasis. Further insights into molecular mechanisms revealed that ALA modulated peroxisome proliferator activated receptors (PPARs), specifically PPAR-alpha and PPAR-gamma, involved in fatty acid metabolism and insulin sensitivity. Finally, ALA counteracted the overexpression of thermogenic genes induced by exogenous fatty acids, suggesting a regulatory role in energy dissipation pathways. CONCLUSION: In conclusion, this study highlights ALA as a therapeutic agent in mitigating lipid accumulation and dysregulation in NAFLD.

Curcumin potentiates the ErbB receptors inhibitor Afatinib for enhanced antitumor activity in malignant mesothelioma.

Several attempts have been made to develop targeted therapies for malignant mesothelioma (MM), an aggressive tumour with a poor prognosis. In this study we evaluated whether Curcumin (CUR) potentiated the antitumor activity of the ErbB receptors inhibitor Afatinib (AFA) on MM, employing cell lines cultured in vitro and mice bearing intraperitoneally transplanted, syngeneic MM cells. The rationale behind this hypothesis was that CUR could counteract mechanisms of acquired resistance to AFA. We analysed CUR and AFA effects on MM cell growth, cell cycle, autophagy, and on the modulation of tumour-supporting signalling pathways.This study demonstrated that, as compared to the individual compounds, the combination of AFA + CUR had a stronger effect on MM progression which can be ascribed either to increased tumour cell growth inhibition or to an enhanced pro-apoptotic effect. These results warrant future studies aimed at further exploring the therapeutic potential of AFA + CUR-based combination regimens for MM treatment.

Are (poly)phenols contained in 100% fruit juices mediating their effects on cardiometabolic risk factors? A meta-regression analysis.

Background: The consumption of 100% fruit juices has not been associated with substantial detrimental outcomes in population studies and may even contribute to improving the cardiometabolic profile if included in a healthy balanced diet. The main contributors to such potential beneficial effects include vitamins, minerals, and likely the (poly)phenol content. This study aimed to investigate whether the (poly)phenols contained in 100% fruit juices may mediate their effects on cardiometabolic risk factors based on published randomized controlled trials (RCT). Methods: A systematic search in PubMed/MEDLINE and Embase, updated till the end of October 2022, was carried out to identify RCT providing quantitative data on (poly)phenol content in 100% fruit juices and used as an intervention to improve cardiometabolic parameters such as blood lipids, glucose, and blood pressure. Meta-regression analysis was performed to calculate the effect of the intervention [expressed as standardized mean difference and 95% confidence intervals (CI)] using the (poly)phenol content as moderator. Results: A total of 39 articles on RCT investigating the effects of 100% fruit juices on cardiometabolic risk factors reporting data on total (poly)phenol and anthocyanin content were included in the analysis. Total (poly)phenol content was substantially unrelated to any outcome investigated. In contrast, each 100 mg per day increase in anthocyanins was related to 1.53 mg/dL decrease in total cholesterol (95% CI, -2.83, -0.22, p = 0.022) and 1.94 mg/dL decrease in LDL cholesterol (95% CI, -3.46, -0.42, p = 0.012). No other potential mediating effects of anthocyanins on blood triglycerides, glucose, systolic and diastolic pressure were found, while a lowering effect on HDL cholesterol after excluding one outlier study was observed. Discussion: In conclusion, the present study showed that anthocyanins may mediate the potential beneficial effects of some 100% fruit juices on some blood lipids. Increasing the content of anthocyanins through specific fruit varieties or plant breeding could enhance the health benefits of 100% fruit juices.

Dietary Fats and Cognitive Status in Italian Middle-Old Adults.

The increase in life expectancy led to a significant rise in the prevalence of age-related neurological diseases, such as cognitive impairment, dementia, and Alzheimer's disease. Although genetics certainly play a role, nutrition emerged as a key factor in maintaining optimal cognitive function among older adults. Therefore, the study aimed to investigate whether specific categories and subcategories of dietary fats, based on carbon-chain length, are associated with cognitive status in a cohort of 883 Italian participants over the age of 50. METHODS: The intake of total, single class of dietary fat, such as saturated fatty acids (SFA), monounsaturated fatty acid (MUFA), and polyunsaturated fatty acid (PUFA), and also single fatty acids grouped according to carbon-chain length, were evaluated by food frequency questionnaires (FFQs). Cognitive health was assessed using the short portable mental status questionnaire (SPMSQ). RESULTS: After adjustment for potential confounding factors subjects with a moderate consumption of both short-chain SFA (for Q2 vs. Q1, OR = 0.23, 95% CI: 0.08, 0.66) and middle-chain SFA specifically lauric acid (C12:0) intake (for Q2 vs. Q1, OR = 0.27, 95% CI: 0.09, 0.77) were less likely to suffer from cognitive impairment. Among single MUFAs, erucic acid (C22:1) intake resulted in an inverse association, in a linear way, with cognitive impairment (for Q4 vs. Q1, OR = 0.04, 95% CI: 0.00, 0.39). Conversely, moderate intake of linoleic acid (C18:2) was associated with cognitive impairment (Q3 vs. Q1, OR = 4.59, 95% CI: 1.51, 13.94). Regarding other PUFAs, individuals consuming moderate intake alpha linolenic acid (C18:3) were less likely to have cognitive impairment (for Q3 vs. Q1, OR = 0.19, 95% CI: 0.06, 0.64). CONCLUSIONS: Total SFA intake appeared to be inversely associated with cognitive impairment. Regarding specific subtypes of fatty acids, the results mostly referred to short- and middle-chain SFA. Further studies are needed to validate the results of the present study.

Dietary Fats and Depressive Symptoms in Italian Adults.

BACKGROUND: Depression represents one of the major causes of disability worldwide, with an important socioeconomic cost. Although many risk factors have been considered in its pathogenesis, nutrition seems to play a determinant role in its prevention. With regard to individual macronutrients, dietary fats and especially n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (n-3 PUFA) are the most studied. However, previous data about other dietary fatty acids, such as n-6 PUFA, are conflicting, and little is known about saturated fatty acids (SFA), especially when considering carbon chain length. Thus, we investigated whether single types and subtypes of dietary fats are related to depressive symptoms in Italian individuals living in the Mediterranean area. METHODS: Dietary and socio-demographic data of 1572 individuals were analyzed. Food frequency questionnaires (FFQs) were used to determine the consumption of total dietary fat and each specific class of dietary fat, such as SFA, monounsaturated fatty acid (MUFA), and PUFA. The intake of fatty acids was also assessed according to the carbon-chain length of each single class. The Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale (CES-D) was used as a screening tool for depressive symptoms. RESULTS: After adjustment for potential confounding factors, a significant inverse association between low/moderate levels of PUFA intake and depressive symptoms (Q2 vs. Q1, odds ratio (OR) = 0.60, 95% CI: 0.44, 0.84) was found. On the other hand, moderate saturated fat consumption was associated with depressive symptoms (Q3 vs. Q1, OR = 1.44, 95% CI: 1.02, 2.04). However, when considering carbon chain length, individuals with a lower to moderate intake of short-chain saturated fatty acids (SCSFA) and medium-chain saturated fatty acids (MCSFA) were less likely to have depressive symptoms (Q3 vs. Q1, OR = 0.48, 95% CI: 0.31, 0.75), while moderate intake of arachidic acid (C20:0) was directly associated with depressive symptoms (Q3 vs. Q1, OR = 1.87, 95% CI: 1.26, 2.77). Among single MUFAs, higher myristoleic acid (C14:1) intake was directly associated with depressive symptoms (Q4 vs. Q1, OR = 1.71, 95% CI: 1.12, 2.61), while moderate intake of erucic acid (C22:1) was associated with lower odds of having depressive symptoms (Q3 vs. Q1, OR = 0.54, 95% CI: 0.33, 0.86). When considering individual PUFAs, individuals with moderate and higher intakes of arachidonic acid (C20:4) were less likely to have depressive symptoms (OR = 0.64, 95% CI: 0.45, 0.91; OR = 0.59, 95% CI: 0.38, 0.91, respectively). Similarly, higher eicosapentaenoic acid (C20:5) intake was inversely associated with depressive symptoms (Q4 vs. Q1, OR = 0.35, 95% CI: 0.12, 0.98), while a significant association for docosahexaenoic acid (C22:6) was retrieved only for low intakes (Q2 vs. Q1, OR = 0.33, 95% CI: 0.12, 0.88). CONCLUSIONS: Dietary fat intake may be associated with depressive symptoms, underlying the importance of distinguishing between different fat types. This study confirms the pivotal role of PUFAs and reopens the debate on the role of saturated fatty acids, suggesting plausible effects of moderate intakes of short-chain fatty acids.

Comparative Evaluation of a Low-Carbohydrate Diet and a Mediterranean Diet in Overweight/Obese Patients with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus: A 16-Week Intervention Study.

INTRODUCTION: The worldwide prevalence of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and obesity has been steadily increasing over the past four decades, with projections indicating a significant rise in the number of affected individuals by 2045. Therapeutic interventions in T2DM aim to control blood glucose levels and reduce the risk of complications. Dietary and lifestyle modifications play a crucial role in the management of T2DM and obesity. While conventional medical nutritional therapy (MNT) often promotes a high-carbohydrate, low-fat Mediterranean diet as an elective treatment, low-carbohydrate diets (LCDs), specifically those restricting carbohydrate intake to less than 130 g/day, have gained popularity due to their multifaceted benefits. Scientific research supports the efficacy of LCDs in improving glycemic control, weight loss, blood pressure, lipid profiles, and overall quality of life. However, sustaining these benefits over the long term remains challenging. This trial aimed to compare the effects of a Mediterranean diet vs. a low-carbohydrate diet (carbohydrate intake < 130 g/day) on overweight/obese patients with T2DM over a 16-week period. The study will evaluate the differential effects of these diets on glycemic regulation, weight reduction, lipid profile, and cardiovascular risk factors. METHODS: The study population comprises 100 overweight/obese patients with poorly controlled T2DM. Anthropometric measurements, bioimpedance analysis, and blood chemistry assessments will be conducted at baseline and after the 16-week intervention period. Both dietary interventions were hypocaloric, with a focus on maintaining a 500 kcal/day energy deficit. RESULTS: After 16 weeks, both diets had positive effects on various parameters, including weight loss, blood pressure, glucose control, lipid profile, and renal function. However, the low-carbohydrate diet appears to result in a greater reduction in BMI, blood pressure, waist circumference, glucose levels, lipid profiles, cardiovascular risk, renal markers, and overall metabolic parameters compared to the Mediterranean diet at the 16-week follow up. CONCLUSIONS: These findings suggest that a low-carbohydrate diet may be more effective than a Mediterranean diet in promoting weight loss and improving various metabolic and cardiovascular risk factors in overweight/obese patients with T2DM. However, it is important to note that further research is needed to understand the clinical implications and long-term sustainability of these findings.

Dietary Fats and Cardio-Metabolic Outcomes in a Cohort of Italian Adults.

BACKGROUND: Dietary fats, and especially saturated fatty acid (SFA), have been blamed for being the culprit in the dramatic increase in obesity and its associated diseases. However multiple systematic reviews and recent meta-analyses do not support the association between SFA and cardiovascular diseases. Thus, the objective of this study was to test whether specific types and subtypes of dietary fats are associated with metabolic outcomes in a cohort of Italian adults. METHODS: Nutritional and demographic data of 1936 adults living in the south of Italy were examined. Food frequency questionnaires (FFQs) were administered to assess the intake of total dietary fat and each specific class of dietary fat, such as SFA, monounsaturated fatty acid (MUFA) and polyunsaturated fatty acid (PUFA). The intake of fatty acids was also examined according to the carbon-chain length of each individual class. Cases of hypertension, type-2 diabetes and dyslipidemias were collected from previous doctor-confirmed diagnosis records (or direct measurement of blood pressure). RESULTS: After adjustment for potential confounding factors, individuals reporting higher intakes of total and saturated fats were associated with lower likelihood of having hypertension (odds ratio (OR) = 0.57, 95% CI: 0.35, 0.91 and OR = 0.55, 95% CI: 0.34, 0.89, respectively). Moreover, higher intake of short-chain saturated fatty acids (SCSFAs) and medium-chain saturated fatty acids (MCSFAs) was inversely associated with dyslipidemia and diabetes (OR = 0.43, 95% CI: 0.23, 0.82 and OR = 0.25, 95% CI: 0.09, 0.72, respectively). Among MUFAs, C18:1 was inversely associated with hypertension and diabetes (OR = 0.52, 95% CI: 0.30, 0.92 and OR = 0.21, 95% CI: 0.07, 0.67, respectively), while C14:1 intake was inversely associated only with hypertension (OR = 0.57, 95% CI: 0.37, 0.88). In contrast, C20:1 intake was associated with dyslipidemia (OR = 3.35, 95% CI: 1.33, 8.42). Regarding PUFA, C18:2 and 20:5 were inversely associated with hypertension (OR = 0.33, 95% CI: 0.18, 0.60 and OR = 0.30, 95% CI: 0.10, 0.89, respectively). CONCLUSIONS: The consumption of SFA does not seem to be harmful to cardio-metabolic health and, on the contrary, SCSFA may exert beneficial effects. Further studies are needed to clearly validate the results of the present study.

The Effect of Dietary Polyphenols on Vascular Health and Hypertension: Current Evidence and Mechanisms of Action.

The aim of this review was to explore existing evidence from studies conducted on humans and summarize the mechanisms of action of dietary polyphenols on vascular health, blood pressure and hypertension. There is evidence that some polyphenol-rich foods, including berry fruits rich in anthocyanins, cocoa and green tea rich in flavan-3-ols, almonds and pistachios rich in hydroxycinnamic acids, and soy products rich in isoflavones, are able to improve blood pressure levels. A variety of mechanisms can elucidate the observed effects. Some limitations of the evidence, including variability of polyphenol content in plant-derived foods and human absorption, difficulty disentangling the effects of polyphenols from other dietary compounds, and discrepancy of doses between animal and human studies should be taken into account. While no single food counteracts hypertension, adopting a plant-based dietary pattern including a variety of polyphenol-rich foods is an advisable practice to improve blood pressure.

Polyphenols and neuroprotection: Therapeutic implications for cognitive decline.

Dietary polyphenols have been the focus of major interest for their potential benefits on human health. Several preclinical studies have been conducted to provide a rationale for their potential use as therapeutic agents in preventing or ameliorating cognitive decline. However, results from human studies are scarce and poorly documented. The aim of this review was to discuss the potential mechanisms involved in age-related cognitive decline or early stage cognitive impairment and current evidence from clinical human studies conducted on polyphenols and the aforementioned outcomes. The evidence published so far is encouraging but contrasting findings are to be taken into account. Most studies on anthocyanins showed a consistent positive effect on various cognitive aspects related to aging or early stages of cognitive impairment. Studies on cocoa flavanols, resveratrol, and isoflavones provided substantial contrasting results and further research is needed to clarify the therapeutic potential of these compounds. Results from other studies on quercetin, green tea flavanols, hydroxycinnamic acids (such as chlorogenic acid), curcumin, and olive oil tyrosol and derivatives are rather promising but still too few to provide any real conclusions. Future translational studies are needed to address issues related to dosage, optimal formulations to improve bioavailability, as well as better control for the overall diet, and correct target population.

The Relationship between Body Dissatisfaction and Eating Disorder Symptoms in Young Women Aspiring Fashion Models: The Mediating Role of Stress.

It is widely recognized that body dissatisfaction is an important public health concern. In the past, being a fashion model was almost synonymous with anorexia/bulimia, and even today, there are cases of eating disorders in young women whose ambition is to become a top model. Moreover, stress can play a substantial role within ill health via related behaviors such as smoking, substance abuse, and inappropriate eating. In our study, we examined 112 aspiring fashion models aged between 15 and 24 years (M = 19.5, SD = 2.08) from 32 different countries of the world during an international contest, and 100 students (control group), aged between 16 and 22 years (M = 18.6, SD = 1.39). The purpose of this cross-sectional study was to examine whether stress mediated the relationship between body dissatisfaction and eating disorders. The study included the administration of stress and self-efficacy and the locus of control dimensions, body (image) dissatisfaction, and eating attitude disorder. Results indicated higher scores on body dissatisfaction, stress level, and eating attitudes disorder among the group of fashion models compared to the control. Mediational analyses showed that body dissatisfaction was partially mediated by stress level on eating disorders. Especially in the aspiring fashion models, there are often many possibilities that competitive stress causes candidates to exacerbate attempts to maintain their body weight below normal weight/height parameters. These results indicated that appropriate intervention for the management of stress level could possibly defend against the negative impact of body dissatisfaction on eating disorder symptoms. The presence of skilled health workers in the field of nutrition and psychology can be extremely important in the field of fashion to maintain an adequate quality of life.

Improving Cognition with Nutraceuticals Targeting TGF-ß1 Signaling.

Rescue of cognitive function represents an unmet need in the treatment of neurodegenerative disorders such as Alzheimer's disease (AD). Nutraceuticals deliver a concentrated form of a presumed bioactive(s) agent(s) that can improve cognitive function alone or in combination with current approved drugs for the treatment of cognitive disorders. Nutraceuticals include different natural compounds such as flavonoids and their subclasses (flavan-3-ols, catechins, anthocyanins, and flavonols), omega-3, and carnosine that can improve synaptic plasticity and rescue cognitive deficits through multiple molecular mechanisms. A deficit of transforming growth factor-ß1 (TGF-ß1) pathway is an early event in the pathophysiology of cognitive impairment in different neuropsychiatric disorders, from depression to AD. In the present review, we provide evidence that different nutraceuticals, such as Hypericum perforatum (hypericin and hyperforin), flavonoids such as hesperidin, omega-3, and carnosine, can target TGF-ß1 signaling and increase TGF-ß1 production in the central nervous system as well as cognitive function. The bioavailability of these nutraceuticals, in particular carnosine, can be significantly improved with novel formulations (nanoparticulate systems, nanoliposomes) that increase the efficacy and stability of this peptide. Overall, these studies suggest that the synergism between nutraceuticals targeting the TGF-ß1 pathway and current approved drugs might represent a novel pharmacological approach for reverting cognitive deficits in AD patients.

Time-Restricted Feeding and Metabolic Outcomes in a Cohort of Italian Adults.

BACKGROUND: research exploring the effects of food timing and frequency on health and disease is currently ongoing. While there is an increasing body of scientific literature showing the potential health benefits of intermittent fasting (IF) in laboratory settings and in animals, studies regarding IF on humans are limited. Therefore, the objective of this research was to evaluate the relationship between the feeding/fasting time window and metabolic outcomes among adult individuals. METHODS: dietary and demographic data of 1936 adult subjects living in the south of Italy were examined. Food frequency questionnaires (FFQ) were administered to determine the period of time between the first and the last meal of a typical day. Subjects were then divided into those with a time feeding window lasting more than 10 h, within 8 h (TRF-8) and within 10 h. RESULTS: after adjustment for potential confounding factors related to eating habits (such as adherence to the Mediterranean diet, having breakfast/dinner), TRF-10 was inversely associated with being overweight/obese (OR = 0.05, 95% CI: 0.01, 0.07), hypertension (OR = 0.24, 95% CI: 0.13, 0.45), and dyslipidemias (OR = 0.26, 95% CI: 0.10, 0.63), while TRF-8 only with being overweight/obese (OR = 0.08, 95% CI: 0.04, 0.15) and hypertension (OR = 0.33, 95% CI: 0.17, 0.60). No associations were found with type-2 diabetes. CONCLUSIONS: individuals with a restricted feeding time window were less likely to be overweight, obese and hypertensive. Further studies are needed to clearly validate the results of the present study.

Time-restricted feeding is associated with mental health in elderly Italian adults.

In recent years, mental disorders have represented a relevant public health problem due to their deleterious effect on quality of life and the difficulty of timely diagnosis. The growing trends have been shown to be highly influenced by modern society, unhealthy lifestyle and harmful dietary habits. Not only the specific foods or dietary patterns have been hypothesized to play a role on mental health; also, temporal regulation of feeding and fasting has emerged as an innovative strategy to prevent and treat mental health disease. The aim of this cross-sectional study was to investigate the association between time-restricted feeding (TRF) and mental health outcomes including perceived stress, depressive symptoms, and sleep quality assessed in a cohort of southern Italian adults. Demographic and dietary characteristics of 1,572 adults living in southern Italy were analyzed. Food frequency questionnaires were used to calculate dietary intakes; participants were also asked what time, on average, they consumed their meals to calculate the eating window of time and identify those eating within 8 hours or less. Logistic regression analyses were performed to test the association between mental health outcomes. After adjusting for potential confounding factors, including adherence to the Mediterranean diet and having breakfast/dinner, no associations were found between TRF and mental health outcomes; however, when performing the analyses by age groups, individuals older than 70 years having a feeding time window of 8 hours were less likely to have signs of mental health distress [odds ratio (OR) = 0.14, 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.03-0.65] compared to those having no feeding time restriction independently of diet quality; notably, adjusting for having breakfast nullified the association (OR = 0.13, 95% CI: 0.02-1.18), while adjusting for having dinner did not change it (OR = 0.14, 95% CI: 0.03-0.67). No further associations were found for specific mental health outcomes explored separately. In conclusion, restricting the daily time feeding window is associated with lower signs of mental health distress in individuals older than 70 years. Albeit preliminary, these findings on elderly individuals require further investigation using prospective design and an amended approach to control for fasting.

Effects of intragastric balloon in patients with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease and advanced fibrosis.

BACKGROUND AND AIMS: Effective therapy for clinically significant fibrosis in nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is an unmet need. Data on the effectiveness of endoscopic placement of intragastric balloon (IGB) in patients with NAFLD are limited. In this study, we evaluated the impact of IGB placement in NAFLD patients with advanced fibrosis. METHODS: We retrospectively assessed the effects of the Orbera™ fluid-filled IGB in a cohort of obese patients with liver stiffness ≥9.7 kPa (corresponding to F3-F4). Patients with endoscopic signs of portal hypertension were excluded. Changes in metabolic and liver parameters from baseline to follow-up (6 mo) were assessed. RESULTS: A total of 26 obese patients, aged 53 [44 - 62] years, with BMI 35.1 ± 4.7 kg/m2 were included. All patients achieved a significant body weight loss (106 ± 19.7 vs. 92 ± 18.3 kg, P < .001) and waist circumference reduction (116 ± 13.3 vs. 104 ± 13.4 kg, P < .001) at 6-month follow-up after IGB placement. Weight loss induced by IGB lowered blood glucose (140 [112; 169] vs. 118 [94; 144] mg/dl, P < .01), glycated hemoglobin (7.5 ± 1.3 vs. 6.6 ± 1.2%, P < .001), FIB-4 (3.2 ± 0.7 vs. 2.7 ± 0.8, P < .001), liver stiffness (13.3 ± 3.2 vs. 11.3 ± 2.8 kPa, P < .001) and controlled attenuation parameter (355 [298-400] vs. 296 [255-352] dB/m, P < .01). Gastroesophageal reflux symptoms were common, but no severe adverse event was observed. CONCLUSION: Obese patients with advanced liver fibrosis, treated with 6-month IGB, can achieve regression of fibrosis as assessed by reduction of liver stiffness and FIB-4. Randomized controlled trials are needed to confirm these findings.

Influence of Habitual Dairy Food Intake on LDL Cholesterol in a Population-Based Cohort.

BACKGROUND: Cholesterol has a pivotal role in human physiology, exerting both structural and functional activity. However, higher blood cholesterol levels, especially low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), are a major cardiovascular risk factor. Therefore, special attention has been given to the effect of dietary factors in influencing LDL-C blood levels. In particular, much research has focused on dairy products, since they are a main component of different dietary patterns worldwide. A large body of evidence did not support the hypothesis that dairy products significantly increase circulating LDL-C, but no definitive data are available. Hence, we aimed to assess the relationships among LDL-C, habitual dairy food intake and anthropometric variables in a cohort representative of the general population in a Mediterranean area. METHODS: We evaluated 802 healthy adults included in the ABCD_2 (Alimentazione, Benessere Cardiovascolare e Diabete) study (ISRCTN15840340), a longitudinal observational single-center study of a cohort representative of the general population of Palermo, Sicily. The habitual intake of dairy products was assessed with a validated food frequency questionnaire, and LDL-C serum levels and several anthropometric parameters were measured. RESULTS: The group with high LDL-C serum concentrations (≥130 vs. <130 mg/dL) exhibited higher age, body mass index (BMI), waist-to-hip ratio (WHR), body fat percentage, systolic and diastolic blood pressure, carotid intima-media thickness and glycated hemoglobin. The habitual diet was not different between the groups in terms of macronutrient, cholesterol, egg and dairy food intake, with the exception of the weekly number of portions of milk (higher in the low LDL-C group vs. the high LDL-C group) and ricotta cheese (higher in the high LDL-C group vs. the LDL-C group). No significant correlation was found between LDL-C blood levels and the habitual intake of dairy products or the dietary intake of cholesterol and fats. The multivariate regression analyses (R2 = 0.94) showed that LDL-C blood levels were significantly associated with the habitual intake of milk (p < 0.005) and ricotta cheese (p < 0.001) and with BMI (p < 0.001). CONCLUSION: Our study reported that total dairy food consumption was not correlated with LDL-C blood levels. However, multivariate analyses showed an inverse association between serum LDL-C and milk intake as well as a positive association between ricotta cheese intake and LDL-C concentrations. More studies are needed to better characterize the relationship between dairy products and circulating LDL-C.

Association between Time Restricted Feeding and Cognitive Status in Older Italian Adults.

BACKGROUND: Due to the increased life expectancy, the prevalence of aging-related health conditions, such as cognitive impairment, dementia and Alzheimer's disease is increasing. Among the modifiable risk factors, dietary factors have proved to be of primary importance in preserving and improving mental health and cognitive status in older adults, possibly through the modulation of adult neurogenesis, neuronal plasticity and brain signaling. Feeding/fasting timing manipulation has emerged as an innovative strategy to counteract and treat cognitive decline. The aim of this study was to investigate the association between the timing of the feeding period and cognitive status in a cross-sectional cohort of adults living in the Mediterranean area. METHODS: Demographic and dietary characteristics of 883 adults living in Southern Italy (Sicily) were analyzed. Food frequency questionnaires were used to calculate the time window between the first and the last meal of an average day. Participants with an eating time window duration of more than 10 h were then identified, as well as those with eating time restricted to less than 10 h (TRF). RESULTS: After adjusting for potential confounding factors, individuals adherent to TRF were less likely to have cognitive impairment, compared to those with no eating time restrictions [odds ratio (OR) = 0.28; 95% confidence intervals (CI): 0.07-0.90]; a similar association was found for individuals having breakfast (OR = 0.37, 95% CI: 0.16-0.89), but not for those having dinner. CONCLUSIONS: The results of this study reveal that time restricted eating may be positively associated with cognitive status, and thus exert plausible effects on brain health.

Time restricted feeding and mental health: a review of possible mechanisms on affective and cognitive disorders.

In the last decades, a high increase in life expectancy not adequately balanced by an improvement in the quality of life has been observed, leading possibly to an increase in the prevalence of affective and cognitive disorders related to aging, such as depression, cognitive impairment, dementia and Alzheimer's disease. As mental illnesses have multifactorial aetiologies, many modifiable factors including lifestyle and nutrition play an essential role. Among nutritional factors, intermittent fasting has emerged as an innovative strategy to prevent and treat mental health disorders, sleep disturbances and cognitive impairment. Among all types of intermittent fasting regimens, the time restricted feeding appears to be the most promising protocol as it allows to induce benefits of a total fasting without reducing global calories and nutrients intake. This review summarises the evidence on the effect of time restricted feeding towards brain health, emphasising its role on brain signalling, neurogenesis and synaptic plasticity.

A new standardized phytoextract from red orange and lemon wastes (red orange and lemon extract) reduces basophil degranulation and activation.

Citrus fruits are rich sources of bioactive compounds and their consumption is associated to health-promoting effects. Citrus processing wastes contain bioflavonoids and other high added value compounds. The aim of this study was to evaluate the antiallergic properties of a new phytoextract obtained by citrus wastes and peels. Blood orange and lemon processing wastes were used to produce a Red orange and Lemon Extract (RLE). Blood samples from 30 allergic donors were collected and used to evaluate the basophil activation (CD203c) and degranulation (CD63) by stimulation trough allergen with and without the RLE. Reduced basophil expression of CD203c and CD63 were observed in RLE + Allergen treated samples, with -20.21% of CD203c expression (p < 0.0001) and -54.11% of CD63 expression (p < 0.0001), compared to Allergen treated samples. The RLE evidenced a good antiallergic activity, mainly acting on basophils degranulation, and therefore reducing the key event of pro-inflammatory mediators release after allergic stimuli.

A Posteriori Dietary Patterns and Rheumatoid Arthritis Disease Activity: A Beneficial Role of Vegetable and Animal Unsaturated Fatty Acids.

To our knowledge, no studies have investigated the relationship between a posteriori dietary patterns (DPs)-representing current dietary behavior-and disease activity in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA). We analyzed data from a recent Italian cross-sectional study including 365 RA patients (median age: 58.46 years, 78.63% females). Prevalent DPs were identified through principal component factor analysis on 33 nutrients. RA activity was measured according to the Disease Activity Score on 28 joints (DAS28) and the Simplified Disease Activity Index (SDAI). Single DPs were related to disease activity through linear and logistic regression models, adjusted for the remaining DPs and confounders. We identified five DPs (~80% variance explained). Among them, Vegetable unsaturated fatty acids (VUFA) and Animal unsaturated fatty acids (AUFA) DPs were inversely related to DAS28 in the overall analysis, and in the more severe or long-standing RA subgroups; the highest score reductions (VUFA: 0.81, AUFA: 0.71) were reached for the long-standing RA. The SDAI was inversely related with these DPs in subgroups only. This Italian study shows that scoring high on DPs based on unsaturated fats from either source provides independent beneficial effects of clinical relevance on RA disease activity, thus strengthening evidence on the topic.

Association Between Dietary Flavonoids Intake and Cognitive Function in an Italian Cohort.

BACKGROUND: Diet is one of the leading factors contributing to the prevalence of non-communicable diseases, including neurodegenerative disorders. Dietary polyphenols, antioxidant components and anti-inflammatory agents of plant-based foods rich diets have been shown to modulate neuro-inflammation, adult neurogenesis and brain signaling, all of which are linked to cognitive function. As epidemiological evidence is limited and the results are contradictory, the aim of this study is to explore the association between dietary flavonoid intake and cognitive health among the adult population living in the Mediterranean area. METHODS: The demographic and dietary habits of 808 adults living in southern Italy were analyzed. Food frequency questionnaires (FFQs) were used to assess dietary intake. Data on the polyphenol content in foods were estimated using the Phenol-Explorer database. The Short Portable Mental Status Questionnaire was used as a screening tool for cognitive status. Multivariate logistic regression analyses were used to assess the associations. RESULTS: A significant inverse association between higher dietary intake of total flavonoids (Q4 vs. Q1: OR = 0.39, 95% CI: 0.15, 1.00) and impaired cognitive status was found. Among individual subclasses of flavonoids, flavan-3-ols (Q3 vs. Q1: OR = 0.30, 95% CI: 0.11, 0.76), catechins (Q4 vs. Q1: OR = 0.24, 95% CI: 0.08, 0.72), anthocyanins (Q4 vs. Q1: OR = 0.38, 95% CI: 0.14, 1.00) and flavonols (Q3 vs. Q1: OR = 0.30, 95% CI: 0.11, 0.76) were associated with cognitive health. Among individual polyphenols, only quercetin was associated with cognitive health (Q4 vs. Q1: OR = 0.30, 95% CI: 0.10, 0.91). CONCLUSIONS: The results of this study suggest that higher dietary intake of flavonoids may be associated with better cognitive health among adult individuals.