The Role of a High-Fat, High-Fructose Diet on Letrozole-Induced Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome in Prepubertal Mice.

This study aims to investigate the effects of a high-fat, high-fructose (HF/HFr) diet on metabolic/endocrine dysregulations associated with letrozole (LET)-induced Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS) in prepubertal female mice. Thirty-two prepubertal C57BL/6 mice were randomly divided into four groups of eight and implanted with LET or a placebo, with simultaneous administration of an HF/HFr/standard diet for five weeks. After sacrifice, the liver and blood were collected for selected biochemical analyses. The ovaries were taken for histopathological examination. The LET+HF/HFr group gained significantly more weight than the LET-treated mice. Both the LET+HF/HFr and the placebo-treated mice on the HF/HFr diet developed polycystic ovaries. Moreover the LET+HF/HFr group had significantly elevated testosterone levels, worsened lipid profile and indices of insulin sensitivity. In turn, the HF/HFr diet alone led to similar changes in the LET-treated group, except for the indices of insulin sensitivity. Hepatic steatosis also occurred in both HF/HFr groups. The LET-treated group did not develop endocrine or metabolic abnormalities, but polycystic ovaries were seen. Since the HF/HFr diet can cause substantial metabolic and reproductive dysregulation in both LET-treated and placebo mice, food items rich in simple sugar-particularly fructose-and saturated fat, which have the potential to lead to PCOS progression, should be eliminated from the diet of young females.

Effect of nickel on red blood cell parameters and on serum vitamin B12, folate and homocysteine concentrations during pregnancy with and without anemia.

BACKGROUND: Research to date suggests that nickel affects not only the metabolism of vitamin B12 but also folates and thus may affect hematopoiesis processes. OBJECTIVE: The aim of the study was to examine the relationship of nickel (Ni) status to red blood cell (RBC) parameters and serum vitamin B12, folate and homocysteine concentrations in the course of normal pregnancy and in pregnant women with anemia. METHODS: The study included fifty-three pregnant women recruited to the study from the Lower Silesia region of Poland, 17 % of whom developed anemia. Nickel concentration was determined in urine, whole blood and food samples by atomic absorption spectrometry. At the same time as the food and urine samples were taken, blood was also collected for the determination of RBC parameters and serum vitamin B12, homocysteine and folate concentrations. RESULTS: The median reported Ni intake, and the urinary and whole blood nickel contents for the studied pregnant women for the first trimester were respectively - 162.46 µg/day, 3.98 µg/L and 3.32 µg/L; for the second trimester - 110.48 µg/day, 6.86 µg/L and 1.04 µg/L; and for the third trimester - 132.20 µg/day, 3.41 µg/L and 0.70 µg/L. With regard to Ni concentration in whole blood (p = 0.0204) and in urine (p = 0.0003), the differences in the values for individual trimesters were statistically significant. The whole blood Ni level was significantly higher (9.28 vs 3.62 µg/L, p = 0.0114), while the concentration of homosysteine was significantly lower (4.09 vs 5.04 µmol/L, p = 0.0165) in pregnant women with anemia compared to those without anemia. The whole blood Ni concentration was negatively correlated with almost all RBC parameters in non-anemic pregnant women. CONCLUSIONS: Ni status changes with the development of normal pregnancy, and in the case of anemia, an increase in Ni concentration in whole blood is observed. The demonstrated correlations between the Ni status in pregnant women and RBC parameters as well as serum vitamin B12 and folate concentrations suggest that nickel is associated with the methionine-folate cycle, iron homeostasis and bacterial synthesis of vitamin B12 in humans.

Association of Dietary Inflammatory Index with Serum IL-6, IL-10, and CRP Concentration during Pregnancy.

Background: The mother's diet has a direct impact on fetal development and pregnancy, and can also be important in the course of the body's inflammatory response. An anti-inflammatory diet can be a promising way to counter an excessive inflammatory response in pregnancy. Objective: The aim of the study was to examine the association between the dietary inflammatory index (DII) and the pregnant women's serum interleukin 6 (IL-6) and 10 (IL-10) and C-reactive protein (CRP) concentration in the course of normal and complicated pregnancy. Research Methods and Procedures: The study included 45 Polish pregnant women recruited to the study. The DII, a literature-based dietary index to assess the inflammatory properties of diet, was estimated based on a seven-day 24-h recall and an food frequency questionnaire (FFQ) in each trimester of pregnancy. At the same time as the nutritional interviews, blood samples were collected for the determination of IL-6, IL-10, and CRP concentrations. The studied group was divided into subgroups with normal and complicated pregnancy and depending on the DII median. Results: With the development of pregnancy, the DII score slightly decreased in subsequent trimesters: -1.78 in the first trimester, -2.43 in the second trimester, and -2.71 in the third trimester (p = 0.092). Independent of the trimester of pregnancy and the occurrence of pregnancy complications, the DII score did not affect the differences in the serum concentrations of IL-6, IL-10, and CRP, with the exception of CRP level in the second trimester in women with complicated pregnancy (subgroup with DII < median had a lower CRP level than subgroup with DII > median). In the first and third trimesters, there was a weak but significant positive correlation between the DII score and CRP concentration. During the second trimester, in the group with normal pregnancy and DII below the median, a significant negative correlation between the DII score and the serum IL-6 and IL-10 concentration was noted as well as in the third trimester for IL-6. Conclusion: The anti-inflammatory potential of a pregnant woman's diet increases slightly with pregnancy development; however, its value has no permanent significant association with the level of CRP, IL-6, and IL-10.

Is maternal dietary selenium intake related to antioxidant status and the occurrence of pregnancy complications?

Selenium (Se) is a trace element essential for the appropriate course of vital processes in the human body. It is also a constituent of the active center of glutathione peroxidase and other antioxidant compounds which play an important role in red-ox processes. Associations between lower blood selenium concentration and obstetric complications has been reported in many studies. The aim of this study was to determine the dietary selenium intake and serum selenium content in pregnant Polish women and relate this to antioxidant status as whole blood glutathione peroxidase (GPX) activity, serum uric acid (UA) content and serum total antioxidant status (TAS) and pregnancy complications occurrence. Ninety-four pregnant women at a mean age 30.6 ± 5.4 years from the Lower Silesia region of Poland were recruited to the study, 37% of studied group had pregnancy complications. The mean reported Se intake and serum selenium content for Polish pregnant women was in the first trimester - 53.99 µg/day and 44.36 µg/l, the second trimester - 58.93 µg/day and 43.16 µg/l and the third trimester - 62.89 µg/day and 40.97 µg/l, respectively. Selenium intake below or above recommended value hadn't significant effect on GPX activity, TAS and UA levels. There were no statistical differences in selenium intake, serum selenium content, GPX activity and TAS and UA level between physiological and complicated pregnancy, but a positive correlation between Se intake and serum selenium content was observed during all period of gestation as well as in the second trimester of pregnancy between Se intake and GPX activity in group with physiological pregnancy where selenium intake was below the recommended level. Selenium intake above the recommended level was positively correlated also with serum UA level in first and second trimester of pregnancy. Despite weak, positive correlations in the first two trimesters of pregnancy between selenium supply and GPX activity and UA concentration we concluded that selenium intake does not significantly affect during pregnancy, both: markers of the antioxidant status of pregnant women and the occurrence of pregnancy complications.

Occurrence of dietary risk factors in inflammatory bowel disease: Influence on the nutritional status of patients in clinical remission.

BACKGROUND: Among the complex factors that may favor the occurrence of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), genetic, immunological and environmental initiators, including nutritional factors, are listed. So far, there have been no previous studies on the type and frequency of dietary risk factors for IBD in Poland and their effect on the nutritional status of patients. OBJECTIVES: The aim of the study was to assess the influence of the frequency and type of dietary risk factors for IBD on the nutritional status of patients with ulcerative colitis (UC) and Crohn's disease (CD). MATERIAL AND METHODS: In the study, the dietary habits and nutritional status of patients were assessed using the cross-check dietary history method and the Mini Nutritional Assessment (MNA) questionnaire. The study group consisted of 162 IBD patients: 61 individuals with CD and 101 with UC. The data was compared to the results of a control group (129 healthy volunteers). RESULTS: The results obtained showed that IBD patients during a period of remission disclosed such dietary risk factors as inadequate consumption of fiber and excessive consumption of red meat and meat products, animal fats, and sugars in comparison to the control group. Only low fiber intake was associated with a worse nutritional status of patients with UC. No consistent influence of the number of IBD dietary risk factors on the nutritional status of patients was found. CONCLUSIONS: The nutritional status of IBD patients in remission was related to the type of dietary risk factors, but did not depend on the number of them.

Do celiac disease and non-celiac gluten sensitivity have the same effects on reproductive disorders?

OBJECTIVES: The wide spectrum of clinical symptoms of celiac disease (CD) is partly due to the malnourished state caused by the malabsorption of micro- and macronutrients. It has been suggested that fertility problems and obstetric complications may be a consequence of the endocrine disorders caused by selective nutrient deficiencies. The same selective nutrient deficiencies as in CD could be a reason for fertility problems in non-celiac gluten sensitivity (NCGS). The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of nutrient deficiencies in CD and NCGS on fertility problems. METHOD: A literature review of fertility problems in men and women and nutrient deficiencies associated with CD and NCGS, was performed up to May 2017. RESULTS: The same selective nutrient deficiencies (folate, iron, vitamin B12, and vitamin D) in CD and NCGS could be a reason for fertility problems. CONCLUSIONS: CD is postulated to be considered in the preconceptional screening of patients with reproductive disorders, but for non-celiac gluten sensitivity, the effect on fertility is not yet proven.

The role of selenium in human conception and pregnancy.

Selenium (Se) is a trace element essential for the appropriate course of vital processes in the human body. It is also a constituent of the active center of glutathione peroxidase that protects cellular membranes against the adverse effects of H2O2 lipid peroxides. Epidemiological surveys have demonstrated that selenium deficiency in the body may contribute to an increased risk for certain neoplasmic diseases (including colonic carcinoma, gastric carcinoma, pulmonary carcinoma and prostate carcinoma), as well as diseases of the cardiovascular, osseous and nervous systems. Apart from its cancer prevention and antioxidative activities, selenium protects the body against detrimental effects of heavy metals and determines the proper functioning of the immunological system. Furthermore, selenium plays a significant role in the undisturbed functioning of the reproductive system. Many studies have addressed correlations between its intake and fertility as well as disorders of procreation processes. Selenium deficiencies may lead to gestational complications, miscarriages and the damaging of the nervous and immune systems of the fetus. A low concentration of selenium in blood serum in the early stage of pregnancy has been proved to be a predictor of low birth weight of a newborn. A deficiency of this element may also cause infertility in men by causing a deterioration in the quality of semen and in sperm motility. For this reason, supplementation in the case of selenium deficiencies in the procreation period of both women and men is of utmost significance.

Dietary habits of lung cancer patients from the Lower Silesia region of Poland.

AIM OF THE STUDY: Assessment of lung cancer patients' dietary habits before treatment enable medical staff to provide more individual, precise and complex care to patients, taking into consideration their nutritional status. The aim of this study was, therefore, to evaluate dietary habits related to lung cancer risk of lung cancer patients in comparison with controls from the Lower Silesia region of Poland. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Assessments of dietary habits, based on a validated questionnaire related to lung cancer risk were performed on 92 lung cancer patients and compared with the results obtained in 157 controls. Dietary patterns were evaluated concerning on eating frequency of high- and low- glycemic index products, vegetables and fruits, vegetable and fruit juices, green tea, liquid dairy products, meat and fried products over the previous year. Alcohol consumption was assessed on a dichotomous scale (yes or no). RESULTS: Majority of patients had inappropriate dietary habits, such as low consumption of low GI cereal products, vegetables, fruit and green tea, and a high consumption frequency of fried products. CONCLUSIONS: Reported dietary mistakes indicate the need for dietary education among people at lung cancer risk and with newly diagnosed disease, to enhance their nutritional status.

The effect of cultivation intensity on mineral content in grain, flakes and bran of winter wheat (Triticum aestivum L.)--preliminary study.

The aim of the study was to assess the effect of cultivation intensity on the Ca, Mg, Zn and Fe contents in winter wheat grain, flakes and bran. The initial material for the study comprised grain, flakes and bran of two winter wheat cultivars Kobiera and Bogatka. These cultivars were from two strain testing stations located in Lower Silesia, Zybiszów and Tomaszów Boleslawiecki in the years 2007-2008. The cultivation was conducted on two intensity levels: lower and higher The mineral content was determined by the flame atomic absorption spectrometry (FAAS). The investigation showed that the level of cultivation had no significant effect on the content of all minerals analyzed in grain, flakes and bran. The Ca content in wheat grain, flakes and bran was stable, regardless of varieties, weather conditions, tillage intensity and cultivation place, furthermore soil conditions significantly affect Fe content in wheat grain, flakes and bran.

[Assessment of sociodemographic and nutritional status of lung cancer patients]. / Ocena statusu socjodemograficznego i stanu odzywienia chorych z rakiem pluca.

Low sociodemographic status positively correlates with the risk of lung cancer. Nutritional status assessed during diagnosis of cancer may be a useful predictive factor for response to therapy and influences the quality of life and life expectancy after oncological therapy. The aim of this study was to assess the sociodemographic and nutritional status of patients. Lower Silesian Centre of Lung Diseases, diagnosed with lung cancer. 81 cases and 125 subjects formed the control group were included in this study. The questionnaire about sociodemographic status was performed among all respondents as well as MNA questionnaire and anthropometric measurements for evaluating nutritional status. Lower level of education, lower employment status and more frequent tobacco addiction was found in patient group then in control individuals. Nutritional status of patients was worse than the control group, which has been demonstrated mainly through a MNA questionnaire and arm circumference measurements. The risk of malnutrition or diagnosed malnutrition found in most patients assessed by MNA test may increase the likelihood of complications during treatment.

[Assessment of energy and macronutrients supply in daily food rations of people exposed to hand transmitted vibrations]. / Ocena podazy energii i skladników pozywienia w calodziennych racjach pokarmowych osób narazonych na miejscowe drgania mechaniczne.

BACKGROUND: Occupational exposure of workers to mechanical hand transmitted vibrations may result in the development of nonspecific lesions. Balanced diet is one of factors that protect human organism against abnormalities resulting from occupational exposure. The aim of this study was to assess the supply of energy and macronutrients in daily food rations (DFR) of people exposed to hand transmitted vibration. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Eighty workers, including 37 men (mean age 44.6 years) and 43 women (mean age 44 years) exposed to hand transmitted vibrations were recruited in this study. Of those, 72 people worked in crystal glassworks as glass cutters, 5 people were physiotherapists and 3 were woodcutters. For all workers, there was measured exposure to hand transmitted vibration. Nutritional status was assessed using 24-hour dietary recall; the procedure was repeated 3 times. The results of the nutritional assessment were compared with recommended daily allowances (RDA) for energy, protein, minerals and vitamins, total carbohydrates, total fat, saturated fatty acids (SFA), monounsaturated fatty acids (MUFA), polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA), cholesterol and dietary fibre. RESULTS: The average intake of energy in daily food rations of the women was too low while men received the appropriate amount of energy. Average protein intake by men and women was higher than the relevant RDA. The average amount of carbohydrates received by the surveyed women and men were too low, just as the consumption of PUFA, dietary fibre, potassium and calcium. We also found an excessive, average supply of total fat, MUFA, SFA, cholesterol and most of the vitamins with the DFR of the women and men. CONCLUSIONS: The nutrition in the group of workers exposed to hand transmitted vibration was found to be imbalanced due to excessive intakes of total fat, saturated fatty acids and cholesterol combined with insufficient consumption of carbohydrates, dietary fibres, potassium and calcium. The co-occurrence of vibration and imbalanced diet may increase the susceptibility of the subjects to cardiovascular and bone diseases.

Assessment of dietary intake of patients with irritable bowel syndrome.

The dietary intake of patients with irritable bowel syndrome was assessed using 24-h dietary recall. The energy value and nutrient contents in the daily food rations were calculated by Nutritionist IV computer program with the Polish database. Differentiations in the Polish RDA coverage for energy and nutrients were observed in the studied group. Fat, saturated fatty acid, phosphorus and also vitamin A, E and C contents were above the RDA in the patients' daily food ration. The majority of IBS individuals did not meet recommendations for carbohydrate intake. Calcium and cooper intake was below the Polish RDA. The insufficient vitamin B2 intake and excessive Fe supply have been shown in the male patients.

Dietary carbohydrate content influences boron's effect on lipid and protein indices in rats.

The aim of the study was to establish whether an excess or deficiency of dietary carbohydrates would influence the effect of boron (B) on lipid, protein, and glucose metabolism in laboratory rats. Sixty male Buffalo rats were used in the study, divided into six groups fed a control diet or a lower high-carbohydrate diet with or without a B supplement (3 mg B/kg fodder). The hemoglobin concentration and hematocrit were assessed in whole-blood samples, and the total protein, albumin, creatine, glucose, total lipid, and high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol contents in the serum were established. The total cholesterol and triacylglycerol contents in liver lipid extracts were also measured. A low carbohydrate content in a B-supplemented diet led to an increase in the total protein and albumin contents in the serum of the rats compared to the levels for the rats on the control and high-carbohydrate B supplemented diets. Under conditions of an excess or deficiency of carbohydrates in the diet, B did not significantly influence the cholesterol and total lipid contents in the serum. Boron's influence on the other metabolic indexes (glucose, HDL cholesterol, and triacylglycerol contents in the serum; cholesterol and triacylglycerol contents in the liver) was unaffected by the carbohydrate content in the diet.