Purpose: Prior research has yielded mixed results regarding the impact of acarbose intake on glycemic markers. To provide a more comprehensive analysis, a systematic review and meta-analysis was performed to compile data from various randomized controlled trials (RCTs) examining the effects of acarbose intake on fasting blood sugar (FBS), insulin, hemoglobin A1C (HbA1c), and homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) in adults. Methods: To identify relevant literature up to April 2023, a comprehensive search was conducted on various scholarly databases, including PubMed, Web of Science, and Scopus databases. The effect size of the studies was evaluated using a random-effects model to calculate the weighted mean differences (WMD) and 95% confidence intervals (CI). Heterogeneity between studies was assessed using Cochran's Q test and I2. Results: This systematic review and meta-analysis included a total of 101 RCTs with a total of 107 effect sizes. The effect sizes for FBS in milligrams per deciliter (mg/dl), insulin in picomoles per liter (pmol/l), hemoglobin A1C (HbA1c) in percentage (%), and homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) were 92, 46, 80, and 22, respectively. The pooled analysis indicated that acarbose intake resulted in significant decreases in FBS (p = 0.018), insulin (p < 0.001), HbA1c (p < 0.001), and HOMA-IR (p < 0.001). Conclusion: The findings of this systematic review and meta-analysis suggest that acarbose intake can potentially lead to significant improvements in glycemic parameters by decreasing the levels of FBS, HbA1c, and insulin. However, larger and more rigorously designed studies are still needed to further evaluate and strengthen this association.
Pomegranate juice (PJ) has a possible anti-inflammatory effect because of its polyphenol content and antioxidants. However, the anti-inflammatory effect of PJ in randomized controlled trials (RCTs) has not been consistent. A previous meta-analysis conducted in 2016 reported a nonsignificant lowering effect of PJ on C-reactive protein (CRP) levels. This systematic review and meta-analysis aim to update the pooled effect size of PJ supplementation on CRP levels in RCT studies. PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science databases were comprehensively searched until July 2023. Eligible studies were found by screening, their relevant data was extracted, and a risk of bias assessment was performed. The pooled effect size was calculated using a random effect model as the weighted mean difference (WMD) with a 95% confidence interval. This systematic review included 11 studies with 13 effect sizes and 696 participants. Meta-analysis showed that PJ supplementation led to a significant decrease in CRP levels compared to control groups (WMD: -2.55 mg/L; 95%CI: -3.44 to -1.66; p < 0.001). Subgroup analysis demonstrated the significant reduction effect of PJ on CRP levels in studies conducted on the both sexes or only females as well as Iranian population, individuals with 40 years≤, type 2 diabetes, polycystic ovary syndrome, or trials that intervened with PJ dosage of <250 ml/day. Meta-regression and dose-response analysis reported a nonsignificant linear and nonlinear relationship between intervention characteristics (duration and dose of PJ) and CRP changes. The current meta-analysis revealed that PJ supplemantation has a beneficial effect in improving CRP levels. It is recommended to understand this effect better, and find the optimal dose and duration of PJ supplementation to reduce CRP levels in the blood, and repeat meta-analysis after related RCTs are available. For the final proof of these effects, more detailed human studies are needed.
C-Reactive Protein , Fruit and Vegetable Juices , Pomegranate , Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic , C-Reactive Protein/analysis , Humans , Pomegranate/chemistry , Dietary Supplements , Anti-Inflammatory Agents/pharmacology , Female , Dose-Response Relationship, Drug , Antioxidants/pharmacology
Background: The prevalence of overweight and obesity among Iranian children is on the rise. Dietary patterns (DPs) and socioeconomic status ( socioeconomic status (SES)) may relate to children's excess weight as a predictor of the risk of obesity in adulthood that may vary by geographical regions. Aim: The relationship between DPs and the development of obesity in preschool children has not been adequately evaluated. The present study evaluates this relationship by considering SES. Methods: A total of 320 preschool children (4-6 years) were randomly selected from three different areas of Mashhad based on economic status. Dietary intake was evaluated using a semi-quantitative food frequency questionnaire completed by the children's parents. Anthropometric and body composition variables were measured by means of valid tools and standard methods. socioeconomic status data were collected through a researcher-made questionnaire. Results: Three dominant DPs of 'healthy', 'unhealthy', and 'meat-free' were identified using factor analysis. The prevalence of overweight and obesity among the children who followed meat-free DP was significantly higher than that of other children (p = 0.004). The means and standard deviations of energy intake, body mass index (BMI), waist circumference, fat-free mass, and fat mass were 1187.97 ± 356.87 Kcal/day, 16.23 ± 2.28 kg/m2, 54.28 ± 6.49 cm, 16.24 ± 2.23 kg, and 4.62 ± 2.70 kg respectively. Being in the higher levels of SES was significantly related to height (p = 0.02), energy intake (p < 0.001), BMI (p = 0.003), waist circumference (p = 004), and fat mass (p = 0.002). Conclusions: Adherence to meat-free DP and being in the highest levels of SES may be associated with a greater chance of developing overweight and obesity. Therefore, meat consumption and SES can be used to predict childhood overweight and obesity.
Objective: Cinnamon is extracted from the inner bark of Cinnamomum trees. Recent studies have indicated that cinnamon is a safe and cost-effective treatment for improving body weight, lipid profiles, insulin resistance, and blood pressure. This systematic review aimed to summarize the effect of cinnamon supplementation on adipokines and appetite-regulating hormones. Materials and Methods: This comprehensive literature search was conducted using databases such as PubMed, Scopus, ISI Web of Science, and Google Scholar up to March 2022 without any limitation. The quality of eligible studies was evaluated through the Cochrane Collaboration's tool for assessing the risk of bias. Results: This systematic review included six clinical trial studies (363 participants), among which, only one study was performed on children, and two investigations were conducted on obese participants. A decreasing effect was found in the level of leptin and visfatin after cinnamon supplementation. Two out of three studies examined adiponectin levels and revealed non-significant effects of cinnamon consumption on this parameter. Two studies evaluated ghrelin levels and found an increase after cinnamon supplementation. The result of cinnamon supplementation on other biomarkers such as glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide, glucagon-like peptide 1, and resistin was inconsistent. Conclusion: The result of this systematic review indicated the increasing effect of cinnamon supplementation on ghrelin levels and decreasing effect on leptin and visfatin levels. However, more clinical data are required to clarify the beneficial effects of cinnamon on adipokines levels due to the controversial findings of the studies.
Migraine is a common neurological disease correlated with oxidative stress and lipid profile disorders. The present study was designed to determine the effects of Coenzyme Q10 (Co-Q10) supplementation on oxidative status and lipid profile in migraine individuals. This clinical trial was conducted on 84 females aged 18-50 years, diagnosed for episodic migraine according to the International Headache Society. Subjects were randomized to receive either Co-Q10 supplement (400 mg/day) or placebo for 12 weeks. Lipid profile and oxidative stress indices including malondialdehyde (MDA) and total antioxidant capacity (TAC) were measured before and after intervention in both groups. Also, anthropometric indices, dietary intakes, and clinical features were collected. Data analysis was conducted using SPSS version 16. Seventy-seven of the participants, with mean age of 33.70 ± 7.75 years, completed the study. After 12-week intervention, Co-Q10 led to a significant decrease in MDA levels compared to placebo (p = 0.009), with no effect on TAC levels (p = 0.106). A significant increase in serum Co-Q10 concentration and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) level in Co-Q10 group was observed, but no significant differences were found in other lipid profile variables (low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, triglycerides and total cholesterol). Among anthropometric variables, Co-Q10 only caused a significant reduction in body fat percentage (BFP), but we did not find any significant changes in others. A 12-week Co-Q10 supplementation led to significant improvement in clinical features, BFP, and HDL-C level among migraine individuals. Trial Registration: Iranian Registry of Clinical Trials Identifier: IRCT201508265670N10.
Conjugated linoleic acids (CLAs) are polyunsaturated fatty acids primarily found in dairy products and ruminant animal products such as beef, lamb, and butter. Supplementation of CLAs has recently become popular among athletes due to the variety of health-promoting effects, including improvements in physical performance. Preclinical and some clinical studies have shown that CLAs can reduce inflammation and oxidative stress and favorably modulate body composition and physical performance; however, the results of previously published clinical trials are mixed. Here, we performed a comprehensive review of previously published clinical trials that assessed the role of CLAs in modulating inflammation, oxidative stress, body composition, and select indices of physical performance, emphasizing the molecular mechanisms governing these changes. The findings of our review demonstrate that the effect of supplementation with CLAs on inflammation and oxidative stress is controversial, but this supplement can decrease body fat mass and increase physical performance. Future well-designed randomized clinical trials are warranted to determine the effectiveness of (1) specific doses of CLAs; (2) different dosing durations of CLAs; (3) various CLA isomers, and the exact molecular mechanisms by which CLAs positively influence oxidative stress, inflammation, body composition, and physical performance.
BACKGROUND: Royal jelly (RJ) may contribute to glycemic control and liver function through various mechanisms. The present study aimed to quantify the effect of RJ supplementation on these outcomes. METHODS: A literature search of Web of Science, Scopus, and PubMed/Medline, was conducted for RCTs investigating the efficacy of RJ on plasma liver enzymes and glycemic indices. Weighted mean differences (WMDs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated for net changes using a random-effects model. RESULTS: Ten RCTs were selected for inclusion in this meta-analysis. Combined estimate of effect sizes for the impact of RJ on neither the plasma liver enzymes nor the glycemic indices were statistically significant. Subgroup analysis showed a significant reduction of serum FPG in trials with intervention duration ≥ 8 weeks (WMD: -4.28 mg/dl, 95% CI -7.41 to -1.14 mg/dl, p = 0.007), and those conducted in non-healthy populations (WMD: -4.28 mg/dl, 95% CI -7.41 to -1.14, p = 0.007). CONCLUSION: RJ does not significantly affect liver function and glycemic profile of adult population. In trials with longer intervention and those conducted in non-healthy populations a significant reduction of serum FBG was observed. This meta-analysis should be repeated in the future, with more primary articles included, in order to provide conclusive results.
Fatty Acids , Glycemic Index , Adult , Humans , Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic , Liver
High incidence rate of cardiovascular disease (CVD) make this condition as an important public health concern. The use of natural products in treating this chronic condition has increased in recent years one of which is the single-celled green alga Chlorella. Chlorella vulgaris (CV) has been studied for its potential benefits to human health due to its biological and pharmacological features. CV contains a variety of macro and micronutrients, including proteins, omega-3, polysaccharides, vitamins, and minerals. Some studies have indicated that taking CV as a dietary supplement can help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress. In some studies, cardiovascular risk factors that are based on hematological indices did not show these benefits, and no molecular mechanisms have been identified. This comprehensive review summarized the research on the cardio-protective benefits of chlorella supplementation and the underlying molecular processes.
Cardiovascular Diseases , Chlorella vulgaris , Humans , Dietary Supplements , Antioxidants/pharmacology , Oxidative Stress
OBJECTIVE: Smoking is a common public problem leading to increases in oxidative stress and decreases in the levels of some micronutrients, finally affecting adipokine levels. The aim of this study was to compare the serum levels of omentin (intelectin-1), chemerin, TNF-α, and some micronutrient intakes in male smokers and non-smokers. METHODS: 40 male smokers and 40 male non-smokers with a mean age of 38.6±14.1 years were included in this study. Serum levels of omentin, chemerin, and TNF-α were measured. To calculate the daily intake of energy, carbohydrate, protein, fat, and some of the micronutrients, the 24-h recall and semi-quantitative food frequency questionnaire (FFQ) was used. RESULTS: Omentin, chemerin, and TNF-α levels in male smokers were lower than non-smokers, but these differences were not statistically significant. However, after adjustment for total and saturated fat intakes and age, omentin (ß=138.4, p=0.027) and TNF-α (ß=144.5, p=0.015) revealed significant differences. CONCLUSION: The serum levels of omentin, chemerin, TNF-α, and some micronutrient intakes were not significantly different between smokers and non-smokers. Further population studies are needed to clarify this subject.
Adipokines , Micronutrients , Non-Smokers , Smoking , Adult , Humans , Male , Middle Aged , Young Adult , Adipokines/blood , Case-Control Studies , Micronutrients/blood , Tumor Necrosis Factor-alpha/blood , Smoking/blood
BACKGROUND: There are few studies about the relationship between dietary patterns and aggression. The aim of this study was to assess the relationship between the main dietary patterns and aggression scores among adolescent girls in Iran. METHODS: This cross-sectional study was conducted on 670 adolescent girls. The 168-item self-administered Semi-quantitative Food Frequency Questionnaire was used to evaluate dietary intake and to identify major dietary patterns, while factor analysis was applied. Aggression was evaluated by the validated Persian version of the Buss-Perry questionnaire. Statistical analysis was performed by crude and adjusted models. RESULTS: Three main dietary patterns including healthy, fast food, and Western were identified. A significant positive association was found between more adherence to Western dietary pattern and the presence of a high aggression score (OR: 2.00; 95% CI: 1.32-3.05, p-trend = .001); even after adjustment for potential confounders, these findings were significant. CONCLUSION: Although Western dietary patterns were associated with increased aggression risk, there was no significant relationship between healthy and fast food dietary patterns and the prevalence of a high aggression score. Further studies, particularly longitudinal intervention studies, are required to clarify this relationship.
Aggression , Diet, Western , Female , Humans , Adolescent , Cross-Sectional Studies , Diet, Western/adverse effects , Surveys and Questionnaires , Factor Analysis, Statistical
BACKGROUND: Diet plays an important role in regulating inflammation, which is a hallmark of rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Our aim was to investigate the association between the Dietary Inflammatory Index (DII) scores and RA activity. METHODS: This cross-sectional study was conducted on 184 patients with RA in rheumatology clinic in Kermanshah city, Iran, in 2020. RA was diagnosed according to the criteria of the 2010 American College of Rheumatology/ European League against Rheumatism. The overall inflammatory potential of the diet was extracted from a validated 168-item food frequency questioner (FFQ) using the DII. RA disease activity was assessed using Disease Activity Score 28 (DAS-28) scores. Logistic regression and one-way ANOVA/ ANCOVA were conducted. RESULTS: Individuals in the highest DII quartile had the significantly higher odds of positive C-reactive protein than those in the lowest quartile of the DII scores (OR 4.5, 95% CI 1.16 - 17.41, P = 0.029). A statistically significant downward linear trend in fat-free mass and weight were observed with increasing the DII quartiles (P = 0.003, P = 0.019, respectively). Patients in the highest DII quartile had higher DAS-28 scores than those in the first quartile (Mean difference: 1.16, 95% CI 0.51 - 1.81, P < 0.001) and second quartile of the DII scores (Mean difference: 1.0, 95% CI 0.34 - 1.65, P < 0.001). CONCLUSION: Our results indicated that reducing inflammation through diet might be one of the therapeutic strategies to control and reduce the disease activity in RA patients.
Arthritis, Rheumatoid , Diet , Cross-Sectional Studies , Diet/methods , Humans , Inflammation , Risk Factors
Introduction: SARS-CoV-2 causes severe acute respiratory syndrome prompting worldwide demand for new antiviral treatments and supportive care for organ failure caused by this life-threatening virus. This study aimed to help develop a new Traditional Persian Medicine (TPM) -based drug and assess its efficacy and safety in COVID-19 patients with major symptoms. Methods: In February 2022, a randomized clinical trial was conducted among 160 patients with a confirmed diagnosis of COVID-19 admitted to Emam Reza (AJA) Hospital in Tehran, Iran. During their hospitalization, the intervention group received a treatment protocol approved by Iran's Ministry of Health and Medical Education (MOHME), consisting of an Iranian regimen, Ficus carica; Vitis vinifera, Safflower, Cicer arietinum, Descurainiasophia seeds, Ziziphus jujuba, chicken soup, barley soup, rose water, saffron, and cinnamon spices. All patients were compared in terms of demographics, clinical, and laboratory variables. Results: One hundred and sixty COVID-19 patients were divided into two groups: intervention and control. In baseline characteristics, there was no significant difference between the intervention and control groups (p>0.05). Using SPSS software version 22, statistical analysis revealed a significant difference in four symptoms: myalgia, weakness, headache, and cough (p<0.05). During the 5-day treatment period, the control group had significantly lower C-reactive protein (p<0.05). Conclusion: While more research with a larger sample size is needed, the proposed combination appears to be effective in the treatment of symptoms as well as inflammatory biomarkers such as C-reactive protein in COVID-19 patients.Iranian registry of clinical trials (IRCT) IRCT20220227054140N1.
A crucial component of the immune system are chemokiness. Chemokine's dysregulation has been linked to a number of pathological diseases. Recently, CXCL17, a chemokine belonging to the CXC subfamily, was identified. With regard to a number of physiological conditions and disorders, CXCL17 either has homeostatic or pathogenic effects. Some research suggests that CXCL17 is an orphan ligand, despite the fact that G protein-coupled receptor (GPR) 35 has been suggested as a possible receptor for CXCL17. Since CXCL17 is primarily secreted by mucosal epithelia, such as those in the digestive and respiratory tracts, under physiological circumstances, this chemokine is referred to as a mucosal chemokine. Macrophages and monocytes are the cells that express GPR35 and hence react to CXCL17. In homeostatic conditions, this chemokine has anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and chemotactic properties. CXCL17 promotes angiogenesis, metastasis, and cell proliferation in pathologic circumstances like malignancies. However, other studies suggest that CXCL17 may have anti-tumor properties. Additionally, studies have shown that CXCL17 may have a role in conditions such as idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis, multiple sclerosis, asthma, and systemic sclerosis. Additionally, deregulation of CXCL17 in some diseases may serve as a biomarker for diagnosis and prognosis. Clarifying the underlying mechanism of CXCL17's activity in homeostatic and pathological situations may thus increase our understanding of its role and hold promise for the development of novel treatment strategies.
Chemokines, CXC , Infections , Inflammation , Neoplasms , Chemokines , Chemokines, CXC/physiology , Humans , Infections/immunology , Inflammation/immunology , Neoplasms/immunology , Receptors, G-Protein-Coupled
SARS-CoV-2 (Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome-Coronavirus-2) is the most dangerous form of the coronavirus, which causes COVID-19. In patients with severe COVID-19, the immune system becomes markedly overactive. There is evidence that supplementation with select micronutrients may play a role in maintaining immune system function in this patient population. Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, significant emphasis has been placed on the importance of supplementing critical micronutrients such as Vitamin C and Zinc (Zn) due to their immunomodulatory effects. Viral infections, like COVID-19, increase physiological demand for these micronutrients. Therefore, the purpose of this review was to provide comprehensive information regarding the potential effectiveness of Vitamin C and Zn supplementation during viral infection and specifically COVID-19. This review demonstrated a relation between Vitamin C and Zn deficiency and a reduction in the innate immune response, which can ultimately make patients with COVID-19 more vulnerable to viral infection. As such, adequate intake of Vitamin C and Zn, as an adjunctive therapeutic approach with any necessary pharmacological treatment(s), may be necessary to mitigate the adverse physiological effects of COVID-19. To truly clarify the role of Vitamin C and Zn supplementation in the management of COVID-19, we must wait for the results of ongoing randomized controlled trials. The toxicity of Vitamin C and Zn should also be considered to prevent over-supplementation. Over-supplementation of Vitamin C can lead to oxalate toxicity, while increased Zn intake can reduce immune system function. In summary, Vitamin C and Zn supplementation may be useful in mitigating COVID-19 symptomology.
Introduction: Although, some evidence has shown that obestatin, ghrelin, and neurotrophic factors can be involved in the development of cardio-metabolic risk factors, there are some contradictions in this regard. We aimed to investigate the association of serum neurotrophic factors and some gastric hormones with cardio-metabolic risk factors among apparently healthy women. Methods: In the present study, 90 apparently healthy women were recruited by a convenient sampling method from the nutrition counseling clinic in Tabriz, Iran. All participants need dietary counseling for weight loss and were recruited before receiving any dietary interventions. Anthropometric, biochemical, physical activity, and blood pressure (BP) measurements, as well as dietary assessment, were done in all participants. Results: Women who were in the highest tertile of serum obestatin levels (OR=0.118, 95% CI:0.035-0.396) had a significantly lower risk for development of hypertriglyceridemia compared to the reference group (Ptrend < 0.001). Participants in the highest tertile of serum ghrelin had a significant lower risk of hypertriglyceridemia, hyperglycemia, low HDL-C, and MetS (Ptrend < 0.05). Women who were in the higher tertile of serum NGF levels had a significantly lower risk for development of hypertriglyceridemia after adjustment for potential confounding variables (OR=0.091, 95% CI: 0.023-0.361 and OR=0.193, 95% CI: 0.057-0.649 respectively). Conclusion: In the current study serum levels of obestatin, NGF, and ghrelin were associated with some cardio-metabolic risk factors such as hypertriglyceridemia and MetS. It seems that these factors are associated with metabolic regulation. However, further studies are needed to substantiate this claim.
AIM: Critical ill patients experience catabolic stress, which results in a systemic inflammatory response. The inflammatory response is associated with increased complications, including infection, multi-organ dysfunction, increased length of ICU stays, and mortality. l-Carnitine supplementation may play an important role in these patients by regulating inflammatory cell function. The purpose of the present study was to investigate the effect of l-Carnitine supplementation on clinical status, inflammatory markers, and mortality rate in critically ill patients admitted to the intensive care unit (ICU). METHODS: This randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial was performed on critically ill patients. Subjects were randomly assigned into placebo (n = 27) and l-Carnitine (n = 27) groups. l-Carnitine (3000 mg/day) was administered via nasogastric tube for the intervention group for 7 days, while the other group received a placebo for the same duration. Serum levels of inflammatory markers, including C-reactive protein (CRP) and interleukin-6 (IL-6) were measured. Nutritional status and the acute physiology and chronic health evaluation (APACHE) score, sequential organ failure assessment (SOFA) score, and 28-day mortality were also recorded. RESULTS: Fifty-one critically ill patients completed the study. l-Carnitine supplementation significantly reduced the levels of CRP (mean change ± SE: -34.9 ± 6.5) and IL-6 (mean change ± SE: -10.64 ± 2.16) compared to the baseline, which is both statistically significant compared with the control group (p < 0.05). The SOFA and APACHE scores were significantly reduced in the l-Carnitine group compared with the placebo group (p = 0.02 and p < 0.001, respectively). CONCLUSIONS: l-Carnitine supplementation showed beneficial effects on inflammatory and clinical outcomes of critically ill patients. TRIAL REGISTRATION DETAILS: Trial registration: IRCT, Registered 30 May 2018, https://www.irct.ir/trial/30748.
Carnitine , Critical Illness , Biomarkers , C-Reactive Protein , Carnitine/therapeutic use , Critical Illness/therapy , Dietary Supplements , Humans , Interleukin-6
The prevalence of chronic diseases has increased significantly with the rising trend of sedentary lifestyles, reduced physical activity, and dietary modifications in recent decades. Inflammation and oxidative stress play a key role in the pathophysiology of several chronic diseases, such as type II diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, and hepatic conditions. Therefore, reducing inflammation and oxidative stress may be beneficial in the prevention and treatment of various chronic disorders. Since chronic diseases are not completely curable, various methods have been proposed for their control. Complementary therapies and the use of natural antioxidant and antiinflammatory compounds are among these novel approaches. Pycnogenol (PYC) is a natural compound that could control inflammation and oxidative stress. Furthermore, some previous studies have shown that PYC could effectively reduce inflammation through signaling the downstream of insulin receptors, inhibiting the phosphorylation of the serine residues of insulin receptor substrate-1, reducing pro-inflammatory cytokines and oxidative stress indices through the stimulation of antioxidant pathways, increasing free radical scavenging activities, preventing lipid peroxidation, and protecting the erythrocytes in glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase-deficient individuals, although these effects have not been fully proved. The present study aimed to comprehensively review the evidence concerning the positive physiological and pharmacological properties of PYC, with an emphasis on the therapeutic potential of this natural component for enhancing human health.
Antioxidants , Diabetes Mellitus, Type 2 , Antioxidants/pharmacology , Antioxidants/therapeutic use , Chronic Disease , Flavonoids/chemistry , Flavonoids/pharmacology , Flavonoids/therapeutic use , Humans , Inflammation/drug therapy , Inflammation/prevention & control , Oxidative Stress , Plant Extracts/pharmacology , Plant Extracts/therapeutic use
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic autoimmune disease in which inflammation and oxidative stress play a key role in its pathophysiology. Complementary therapies along with medications may be effective in the control of RA. Propolis is a natural substance extracted from beehives, which have confirmed anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. The present study aimed to review the possible effects of propolis on inflammation, oxidative stress, and lipid profile in patients with RA. English articles in online databases such as PubMedMedline, AMED, Google Scholar, EMBASE, Scopus, and Web of Science databases were searched. Pieces of evidence show that supplementation with propolis may have therapeutic effects on RA patients. Due to increased inflammation and oxidative stress in the affected joints of RA patients, propolis could inhibit the inflammatory cascades by inhibiting the nuclear factor kappa B pathway and reducing reactive oxygen species, malondialdehyde, and interleukin-17 by increasing some antioxidants. Therefore, inflammation and pain reduce, helping improve and control RA in patients. Further investigations are required with larger sample sizes and different doses of propolis to demonstrate the definite effects of propolis on various aspects of RA.
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE: The present study aimed to investigate the effects of propolis and melatonin supplementation on inflammation, clinical outcomes, and oxidative stress markers in patients with primary pneumosepsis. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This pilot randomized controlled trial was conducted on 55 patients with primary pneumosepsis who were randomly assigned to the intervention and control groups. In the three intervention groups, the patients received propolis alone (1,000 mg/day), propolis (1,000 mg/day) plus melatonin (20 mg/day), and melatonin alone (20 mg/day). The control group received placebo. The inflammatory and oxidative stress markers as well as clinical outcomes were evaluated before and after the intervention, and the 28-day survival rate was also recorded. RESULTS: After the intervention, the combination of propolis and melatonin significantly reduced interleukin-6 (-55.282 pg/mL) and C-reactive protein (-21.656 mg/L) levels, while increasing gavage intake (326.680 mL/day) and improving some clinical outcomes (APACHE II, SOFA, and NUTRIC scores) compared to the control group. However, no significant difference was observed between the groups in terms of oxidative stress and hematological indices. In addition, there was no significant difference in the 28-day survival rate between the groups (p = 0.07). CONCLUSION: Supplementation with propolis and melatonin may improve clinical outcomes by reducing inflammation. Further investigations are required to confirm these findings.
Melatonin , Propolis , Biomarkers , Dietary Supplements , Double-Blind Method , Humans , Inflammation/chemically induced , Inflammation/drug therapy , Melatonin/pharmacology , Melatonin/therapeutic use , Oxidative Stress , Propolis/pharmacology , Propolis/therapeutic use
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE: Non-invasive body contouring devices have fewer side effects and are the new techniques for the treatment of obesity. The present study aimed to evaluate the effects of microwave technology on the abdominal obesity and anthropometric indices of overweight adults. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This clinical trial was conducted on 53 overweight adults aged 18-65 years who referred to Behbood Clinic in Tehran, Iran. The participants were exposed to microwave technology (radiofrequency: 2.5 GHz) based on a standard treatment protocol at three intervals (0, 20, and 40 days). Abdominal obesity, body mass index, waist-to-hip ratio, body fat mass, and fat thickness were measured at the beginning and 20, 40, and 60 days after the study. In addition, three-day dietary records were collected at intervals. RESULTS: In total, 77.6% of the subjects were female and 22.4% were male. The mean calorie intake of the participants was 2245.14 ± 1981.16 kcal/day. Microwave shock significantly reduced fat thickness in four abdominal areas (p < 0.001). Moreover, waist circumference (p < 0.001) and total fat thickness of the abdomen decreased (p = 0.003 and p = 0.002, respectively). CONCLUSION: According to the results, microwave technology and radiofrequency could effectively reduce anthropometric indices. In general, the reduction of these indicators and weight may be more significant in men compared to women.
Microwaves , Overweight , Abdomen , Abdominal Fat/diagnostic imaging , Adolescent , Adult , Aged , Anthropometry , Body Mass Index , Female , Humans , Iran , Male , Microwaves/therapeutic use , Middle Aged , Overweight/therapy , Young Adult
