HIGH-FIBER DIET PROMOTES METABOLIC, HORMONAL, AND SATIETY EFFECTS IN OBESE WOMEN ON A SHORT-TERM CALORIC RESTRICTION.

•Body weight and BMI decrease in both the EG and CG groups during the period of caloric restriction. •For both the EG and CG groups, fat-free mass decreases during food restriction. •Subjects on a high-fiber diet have reduced fasting glucose and basal insulin as well as improved insulin resistance, as attested by the lower HOMA-IR index. •Obese women on a high-fiber diet have suppressed postprandial (after 60 min) acylated ghrelin, confirming that the diet composition influences ghrelin levels from the first day. •In the present study, it was possible to verify that fasting leptin concentration diminishes in obese women on a high-fiber diet. Background - Several mechanisms, including excessive hunger, account for patients' difficulties in maintaining weight loss and dietary changes after caloric restriction. Objective - To evaluate the effect of short-term high-fiber calorie-restricted diet in appetite-regulating hormones, and hunger and satiety sensations in women with obesity. In a randomized controlled trial study, thirty women with body mass index (BMI) higher than 30 kg/m2, and aged from 20 to 50 years were hospitalized following a calorie-restricted diet (1000 kcal/day) for three days. The experimental group (n=15) received high-fiber diet and the control group (n=15), conventional diet. Results - Body weight, BMI, resting energy expenditure (REE), acylated and total ghrelin, leptin, insulin and glucose, and hunger and satiety sensations were evaluated. Linear regression models with mixed effects (fixed and random effects) helped to assess the variables between the two groups and within the groups. Body weight and BMI decreased in both the experimental and control groups (P<0.001). After the high-fiber diet, postprandial acylated ghrelin (P=0.04), glucose (P<0.001), insulin (P=0.04), and leptin (P=0.03) levels as well as the HOMA-IR index (P=0.01) decreased, whereas satiety improved (P=0.02). Obese women that followed the conventional diet had increased body fat percentage (P=0.04) and lower REE (P=0.02). The two diets did not differ in terms of hunger sensation. Conclusion - A short-term high-fiber diet improves satiety sensations and metabolic parameters while suppressing postprandial acylated ghrelin (60 minutes) and maintaining the resting energy expenditure.

Dieta rica em fibra promove efeitos metabólicos, hormonais e de saciedade em mulheres obesas com restrição calórica de curto prazo / High-fiber diet promotes metabolic, hormonal, and satiety effects in obese women on a short-term caloric restriction

ABSTRACT Background: Several mechanisms, including excessive hunger, account for patients' difficulties in maintaining weight loss and dietary changes after caloric restriction. Objective: To evaluate the effect of short-term high-fiber calorie-restricted diet in appetite-regulating hormones, and hunger and satiety sensations in women with obesity. Methds: In a randomized controlled trial study, thirty women with body mass index (BMI) higher than 30 kg/m2, and aged from 20 to 50 years were hospitalized following a calorie-restricted diet (1000 kcal/day) for three days. The experimental group (n=15) received high-fiber diet and the control group (n=15), conventional diet. Body weight, BMI, resting energy expenditure (REE), acylated and total ghrelin, leptin, insulin and glucose, and hunger and satiety sensations were evaluated. Linear regression models with mixed effects (fixed and random effects) helped to assess the variables between the two groups and within the groups. Results: Body weight and BMI decreased in both the experimental and control groups (P<0.001). After the high-fiber diet, postprandial acylated ghrelin (P=0.04), glucose (P<0.001), insulin (P=0.04), and leptin (P=0.03) levels as well as the HOMA-IR index (P=0.01) decreased, whereas satiety improved (P=0.02). Obese women that followed the conventional diet had increased body fat percentage (P=0.04) and lower REE (P=0.02). The two diets did not differ in terms of hunger sensation. Conclusion: A short-term high-fiber diet improves satiety sensations and metabolic parameters while suppressing postprandial acylated ghrelin (60 minutes) and maintaining the resting energy expenditure.

RESUMO Contexto: Vários mecanismos, incluindo a fome excessiva, são responsáveis pelas dificuldades dos pacientes em manter a perda de peso e mudanças na dieta após a restrição calórica. Objetivo: Avaliar o efeito da dieta de curta duração rica em fibras e com restrição calórica nos hormônios reguladores do apetite e nas sensações de fome e saciedade em mulheres com obesidade. Métodos: Em um estudo randomizado controlado, 30 mulheres com índice de massa corporal (IMC) superior a 30 kg/m2 e com idade entre 20 e 50 anos foram hospitalizadas seguindo dieta com restrição calórica (1000 kcal/dia) por 3 dias. O grupo experimental (n=15) recebeu dieta rica em fibras e o grupo controle (n=15), dieta convencional. Foram avaliados peso corporal, IMC, gasto energético de repouso (GER), grelina acilada e total, leptina, insulina e glicose e sensações de fome e saciedade. Modelos de regressão linear com efeitos mistos (efeitos fixos e aleatórios) ajudaram a avaliar as variáveis entre os dois grupos e dentro dos grupos. Resultados: O peso corporal e o IMC diminuíram tanto no grupo experimental quanto no controle (P<0,001). Após a dieta rica em fibras, os níveis de grelina acilada pós-prandial (P=0,04), glicose (P<0,001), insulina (P=0,04) e leptina (P=0,03), bem como o índice HOMA-IR (P=0,01) diminuiu, enquanto a saciedade melhorou (P=0,02). Mulheres obesas que seguiram a dieta convencional apresentaram aumento do percentual de gordura corporal (P=0,04) e menor GER (P=0,02). As duas dietas não diferiram em termos de sensação de fome. Conclusão: Uma dieta rica em fibras de curto prazo melhora as sensações de saciedade e os parâmetros metabólicos, suprimindo a grelina acilada pós-prandial (60 minutos) e mantendo o gasto energético de repouso.

Effects of Different Vegetable Oils on the Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease in C57/BL Mice.

Background: Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is the most common hepatic disorder, affecting 22-28% of the adult population and more than 50% of obese people all over the world. Modulation of the fatty acids in diet as a means of prevention against nonalcoholic fatty liver disease in animal models (NAFLD) remains unclear. The treatment of NAFLD has not been described in specific guidelines so far. Thus, the justification for the study is to check modifications in macronutrients composition, fatty acids, in particular, play a significant role in the treatment of NAFLD regardless of weight loss. Aim: To investigate different vegetable oils in prevention and progression of NAFLD in animal models. Methods: For the experiment were used fifty C57BL/6J mice male fed with high fat and fructose diet (HFD) to induce the NAFLD status and they received different commercial vegetable oils for 16 weeks to prevent steatosis. Liver steatosis and oxidative stress parameters were analyzed using biochemical and histological methods. Fatty acids profile in the oils and in the liver samples was obtained. Results: The high fat and fructose diet led to obesity and the vegetable oils offered were effective in maintaining body weight similar to the control group. At the end of the experiment (16 weeks), the HFHFr group had a greater body weight compared to control and treated groups (HFHFr: 44.20 ± 2.34 g/animal vs. control: 34.80 ± 3.45 g/animal; p < 0.001; HFHFr/OL: 35.40 ± 4.19 g/animal; HFHFr/C: 36.10 ± 3.92 g/animal; HFHFr/S: 36.25 ± 5.70 g/animal; p < 0.01). Furthermore, the HFD diet has caused an increase in total liver fat compared to control (p < 0.01). Among the treated groups, the animals receiving canola oil showed a reduction of hepatic and retroperitoneal fat (p < 0.05). These biochemical levels were positively correlated with the hepatic histology findings. Hepatic levels of omega-3 decreased in the olive oil and high fat diet groups compared to the control group, whereas these levels increased in the groups receiving canola and soybean oil compared to control and the high fat groups. Conclusion: In conclusion, the commercial vegetable oils either contributed to the prevention or reduction of induced nonalcoholic fatty liver with high fat and fructose diet, especially canola oil.

The Impact of Controlled Ovarian Stimulation on Serum Oxidative Stress Markers in Infertile Women with Endometriosis Undergoing ICSI.

Endometriosis-related infertility is associated with oxidative stress (OS). The present study aims to compare serum OS markers of infertile women with endometriosis and controls during the follicular phase of the natural cycle (D1), after pituitary downregulation using a GnRH agonist (D2), after controlled ovarian stimulation (COS) on the day of human chorionic gonadotropin administration (D3), and on the day of oocyte retrieval (D4). One hundred and eight serum samples (58 controls and 35 early and 18 advanced endometriosis cases) were collected at these four timepoints. OS markers were compared among the groups and timepoints using a linear regression model with mixed effects and a post-test using orthogonal contrasts. The significance was set at 5%. We observed altered OS markers in the endometriosis patients during the D1, D2, D3, and D4 timepoints compared to the controls. The evidence of systemic OS in infertile patients with endometriosis during COS suggests the mobilization of potent antioxidants in an attempt to protect the oocyte from oxidative damage, especially on the day of oocyte retrieval.

Vitamin A deficiency and association between serum retinol and IGF-1 concentrations in Brazilian children with Down syndrome.

OBJECTIVE: To determine the prevalence of vitamin A deficiency (VAD) and serum concentrations of retinol, correlating them with IGF-1 concentrations in preschoolers with DS. METHODS: Cross-sectional study was conducted on 47 children with DS aged 24 to 72 months, in Ribeirão Preto, Brazil. VAD was determined by the relative dose-response (RDR) test. Retinol serum concentration ≤ 0.70 µmol/L and IGF-1 serum concentration below the 3rd percentile for sex and age were considered to represent deficiency. C-reactive protein (CRP) was determined at the beginning of the study. Weight, height, and information about fever and/or diarrhea were obtained at the beginning of the study. RESULTS: VAD prevalence was 25.5% (12/47), and 74.5% (35/47) of the children had deficient retinol before the intervention. CRP was not associated with VAD. Mean IGF-1 were 103.5 ng/mL (SD = 913) for the group with VAD and 116.3 ng/mL (SD = 54.9) for the group with no VAD (p-value = 0.85); 8.5% (4/47) of the children showed deficient IGF-1, but without VAD. No association was observed between VAD and IGF-1 deficiency. A moderate positive correlation was observed between pre-intervention retinol and IGF-1 (ρ = 0.37; p-value = 0.01). CONCLUSION: a high prevalence of VAD and deficient retinol was observed and there was a positive correlation between serum retinol and IGF-1.

Obesity-Induced Dysbiosis Exacerbates IFN-γ Production and Pulmonary Inflammation in the Mycobacterium tuberculosis Infection.

The microbiota of the gut-lung axis affects local and far-reaching immune responses and might also trigger chronic and inflammatory diseases. We hypothesized that gut dysbiosis induced by obesity, which coexists in countries with a high tuberculosis burden, aggravates the host susceptibility and the pulmonary damage tolerance. To assess our hypothesis, we used a model of high-fat diet (HFD)-induced obesity, followed by infection of C57BL/6 mice with Mycobacterium tuberculosis. We showed that obesity increased the susceptibility, the pulmonary inflammation and IFN-γ levels in M. tuberculosis-infected mice. During the comorbidity obesity and tuberculosis, there is an increase of Bacteroidetes and Firmicutes in the lungs, and an increase of Firmicutes and butyrate in the feces. Depletion of gut microbiota by antibiotic treatment in the obese infected mice reduced the frequencies of CD4+IFN-γ+IL-17- cells and IFN-γ levels in the lungs, associated with an increase of Lactobacillus. Our findings reinforce the role of the gut-lung axis in chronic infections and suggest that the gut microbiota modulation may be a potential host-directed therapy as an adjuvant to treat TB in the context of IFN-γ-mediated immunopathology.

Analysis of the profile of cardiovascular risk in Brazilian schoolchildren: metabolic and behavioral indicators.

OBJECTIVE: There is evidence demonstrating that cardiovascular diseases (CVD) manifesting during adulthood result from an intense interaction among risk factors that may have originated during childhood and adolescence. To compare the prevalence and clustering of cardiovascular risk factors in Brazilian schoolchildren with a 15-year interval between samples. METHODS: A cross-sectional analysis based on the scores for cardiovascular risk factors was used to investigate 1,232 Brazilian schoolchildren of both sexes aged 12 to 18 years. The data of 596 schoolchildren of the 2000 sample were compared to those of 636 schoolchildren of the 2015 sample. RESULTS: The prevalence of physical inactivity and abdominal obesity increased exponentially in both sexes from 2000 to 2015. The score for the clustering of cardiovascular risk factors showed that in 2000 the adolescents were exposed to 1 cardiovascular risk factor (31.7%), while in 2015 the greatest percentage was assigned to the category of 3 or more cardiovascular risk factors (34.9%), p < 0.001. CONCLUSION: The present results demonstrate a high prevalence of exposure to health risk behaviors of the adolescents studied over time. Considering the presence of modifiable risk factors, preventive measures regarding life style are essential.

Plasma amino acids profile in first-episode psychosis, unaffected siblings and community-based controls.

Investigations of plasma amino acids in early psychosis and their unaffected siblings are rare. We measured plasma amino acids involved in the co-activation of dopaminergic, GABAergic, glutamatergic, and serotoninergic neurotransmitters in first-episode psychosis (FEP) patients (n = 166), unaffected siblings (n = 76), and community-based controls (n = 166) included in a cross-sectional study. Plasma levels of glutamic acid (GLU), glutamine, glycine, proline (PRO), tryptophan (TRP), tyrosine, serine and GABA were quantified by gas-chromatography-mass spectrometry. We used the generalized linear model adjusted by sex, age, and body mass index for group comparison and paired t-test for FEP-Sibling pairs. FEP had reduced GABA plasma levels compared to siblings and controls (p < 0.05 for both). Siblings had lower GLU, Glx and PRO (p < 0.05 for all) but increased TRP compared to patients and controls (p < 0.05 for both). FEP patients with longer duration of pharmacological treatment and medicated only with antipsychotics had increased GLU compared to FEP with shorter periods, or with those treated with a combination of medications (p < 0.05 for both). Finally, FEP patients treated only with antipsychotics presented higher Glx compared to those with mixed medications (p = 0.026). Our study suggests that FEP have low a GABA plasma profile. Unaffected siblings may be a possible risk group for metabolic abnormalities.

Vitamin E deficiency and associated factors among Brazilian school children / Deficiência de vitamina E e fatores associados entre crianças escolares brasileiras

ABSTRACT: Objective: Brazilian national data show a significant deficiency in pediatric vitamin E consumption, but there are very few studies evaluating laboratory-proven nutritional deficiency. The present study aimed to settle the prevalence of vitamin E deficiency (VED) and factors associated among school-aged children attended at a primary health unit in Ribeirão Preto (SP). Methods: A cross-sectional study that included 94 children between 6 and 11 years old. All sub-jects were submitted to vitamin E status analysis. To investigate the presence of factors associated with VED, socio-economic and anthropometric evaluation, determination of serum hemoglobin and zinc levels, and parasitological stool exam were performed. The associations were performed using Fisher's exact test. Results: VED (α-tocopherol concentrations <7 µmol/L) was observed in seven subjects (7.4%). None of them had zinc deficiency. Of the total of children, three (3.2%) were malnourished, 12 (12.7%) were anemic, and 11 (13.5%) presented some pathogenic intestinal parasite. These possible risk factors, in addition to maternal-work, maternal educational level, and monthly income, were not associated with VED. Conclusions: The prevalence of VED among school-aged children attended at a primary health unit was low. Zinc deficiency, malnutrition, anemia, pathogenic intestinal parasite, maternal-work, maternal educational level, and monthly income were not a risk factor for VED. (AU)

RESUMO: Objetivo: Determinar a prevalência da deficiência de vitamina E (DVE) e os fatores associados a essa deficiência em escolares atendidos em uma unidade básica de saúde de Ribeirão Preto (SP). Métodos: Estudo transversal que incluiu 94 crianças entre 6 e 11 anos de idade, atendidas em uma unidade básica de saúde. Todos os indivíduos foram submetidos à análise do status de vitamina E. Para investigar a presença de fatores associados à DVE, foi realizada avaliação socio-econômica e antropométrica, determinação dos níveis séricos de hemoglobina e zinco, e exame parasitológico de fezes. As associações foram realizadas por meio do teste exato de Fisher. Resultados: A DVE (concentrações de α-tocoferol <7 µmol/l) foi observada em sete indivíduos (7,4%). Nenhum sujeito apresentou deficiência sérica de zinco. Do total de crianças, três (3,2%) eram desnutridas, 12 (12,7%) anêmicas e 11 (13,5%) apresentavam algum parasita intestinal patogênico. Estes possíveis fatores de risco, além do trabalho materno, escolaridade materna e renda mensal, não foram associados à DVE (p>0,05). Conclusão: A prevalência de DVE em escolares atendidos em uma unidade básica de saúde foi baixa. Desnutrição, anemia, parasitose intestinal, renda mensal e trabalho e nível educacional maternos não se apre-sentaram como fatores de risco para a DVE. (AU)

Hepatic ballooning degeneration: a new feature of the refeeding syndrome in rats.

AIM OF THE STUDY: Hepatic changes have been described during the refeeding syndrome due to increase in enzymes and hepatomegaly; however, they have not been properly described. Thus, the objective of this study was to investigate the hepatic histological characteristics and biochemical markers of hepatic steatosis in Wistar rats with refeeding syndrome. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Thirty male Wistar rats were allocated to one of three groups: C, F or R. The animals from group C received an AIN-93 diet for 96 hours, and were then sacrificed. Animals allocated to group F were fasted for 48 hours and sacrificed. Animals from group R were also fasted for 48 hours, but were refed for another 48 hours, with AIN-93. The liver, blood and epididymal and retroperitoneal fats were collected. RESULTS: Data obtained in groups F and R show the changes observed in refeeding syndrome, during starvation and refeeding. The serum glucose, magnesium, potassium and phosphorus, in group F, decreased. There was no evidence of hepatic steatosis. Hypophosphatemia, hypomagnesemia and hypokalemia were also observed in group R, confirming refeeding syndrome. The main histological characteristic, in this group, was the extensive presence of ballooning degeneration. This is the first article that has detected such change in liver structure, due to refeeding syndrome. The possible causes are: retention of sodium, causing whole body edema; and/or dysfunction of the sodium/potassium pump of the hepatocytes, as a result of hypophosphatemia. CONCLUSIONS: This is the first description of an animal model of hepatic severe ballooning degeneration induced due to refeeding syndrome.

Cafeteria diet during lactation and/or post-lactation altered lipid profile/lipid peroxidation and increased anxiety-like behavior in male rat offspring.

Objective: Evaluate the impact of the cafeteria diet during lactation and/or post-lactation on physiological parameters and anxiety in the offspring of Wistar rats. Methods: Male offspring of Wistar rats (n = 60) were randomized into four groups: Control (C), Lactation Cafeteria (LC), Post-lactation Cafeteria (PC) and Total Cafeteria (TC). Later in adult life the animals were submitted to the behavioral (elevated plus-maze and open field) and biological (body weight, consumption and food preference, glycemia, total cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, HDL cholesterol, VLDL cholesterol, triglycerides, total proteins, urea, creatinine, bilirubin, serum glutamic oxaloacetic transaminase, serum glutamic pyruvic transaminase, serum protein, and oxidative stress) evaluations. The data were submitted to ANOVA, followed by the Newman-Keuls test (p < 0.05). Results: Animals treated with the cafeteria diet presented greater weight measurements compared to the control group. Triglyceride levels were higher in the PC group than in the other groups. MDA levels were higher in the PC and TC group than CL and C. The animals of the PC and TC groups presented higher levels of anxiety compared to the C and LC groups. No significant differences due to diet were observed in the locomotor and exploratory behaviors. Conclusions: The cafeteria diet ingestion was capable of triggering biological and behavioral alterations in rats.

Antioxidant vitamin supplementation prevents oxidative stress but does not enhance performance in young football athletes.

OBJECTIVES: The aim of this study was to verify the effects of supplementation with antioxidants (vitamins C and E) on oxidative stress, delayed-onset muscle soreness (DOMS), and performance in football players during a recovery period after an exercise-induced oxidative stress protocol. METHODS: Twenty-one football athletes were randomly assigned to two groups: placebo and antioxidant-supplemented. Supplementation was performed in a double-blind, controlled manner using vitamin C (500 mg/d) and E (400 UI/d) for 15 d. After 7 d of supplementation, athletes were submitted to an exercise-induced oxidative stress protocol consisting of plyometric jumping and strength resistance sets to exhaustion. Blood samples, performance tests, and DOMS were determined before and 24, 48, and 72 h after exercise. RESULTS: Antioxidant supplementation was continued during the recuperation week and for a total of 15 d. Antioxidant supplementation caused a significant increase in plasma vitamins C and E. The antioxidant supplementation could inhibit oxidative stress characterized by elevated lipid peroxidation markers malondialdehyde and total lipid peroxidation as well as reduced ratio of glutathione to oxidized glutathione promoted by exercise. Antioxidant supplementation, however, did not significantly reduce the plasma creatine kinesis concentration or DOMS during the recovery days. Likewise, supplementation with vitamin C and E did not improve lower body power, agility, or anaerobic power, nor did it provide any indication of faster muscle recovery. CONCLUSION: Antioxidant supplementation does not attenuate elevated markers of muscle damage or muscle soreness promoted by acute exercise and do not exert any ergogenic effect on football performance of young athletes, although it reduced oxidative stress.

Quantificação de compostos antioxidantes em frutos in natura e polpa congelada / Quantification of antioxidant compounds in fresh and frozen fruits pulp

Objetivo ­ O presente estudo teve como objetivo a dosagem de vitamina C, fenólicos totais e antocianinas, em frutas, para a verificação e possíveis perdas em frutas in-natura e polpa congelada. A ingestão diária de frutos e frutas assegura uma dieta rica em compostos bioativos, no entanto, as concentrações destes alimentos podem apresentar-se diferentes depois do processamento, no caso o congelamento, comparando-o com o fruto in natura. Métodos ­ Frutas obtidas no comercio local, nas variedades: ameixa, caqui, goiaba, maçã, pêra, uvas verde e vermelha foram utilizadas para as dosagens in natura e depois de 8 semanas de congelamento. Foram dosadas vitamina C, fenólicos totais, e antocianinas, sendo que foram feitas em triplicata. Os dados foram analisados por teste t considerando significativo p<0,05. Resultados ­ Foi observada diminuição significativa em quantidades de vitamina C, compostos fenólicos e antocianinas em todas as frutas analisadas. A pêra mostrou-se a fruta mais afetada pelo processo de congelamento, apresentando a maior perda em todas as dosagens dos antioxidantes, diminuindo 50,9% em vitamina C, 96,2% em antocianinas e 60,2% em fenólicos totais. Já a goiaba foi a fruta que se mostrou mais resistente ao congelamento, apresentando a menor diminuição em todas as dosagens de antioxidantes, com perda de 9,5% de vitamina C, 9,7 de fenólicos totais, e 25,7% de antocianinas. Em concentrações de vitamina C, maçã teve diminuição de 36,6%, ameixa de 42,9%, caqui 26,9%, uva verde 22,6%, uva vermelha 47% e sementes de goiaba 27,6%. Já nas concentrações de fenólicos totais maçã teve diminuição de 11,2%, ameixa de 24,7%, caqui 26,9%, uva verde 48,5%, uva vermelha 46,6%% e sementes de goiaba 30,1%. Quanto as antocianinas maçã apresentou diminuição de 91,9%, ameixa de 81,1%, caqui 35,8%, uva verde 51,4%, uva vermelha 57,1%% e sementes de goiaba 32,4%. Conclusões ­ Desta maneira fica evidente a perda, diferenciada entre as frutas, de compostos antioxidantes com o processamento

Objetivo ­ O presente estudo teve como objetivo a dosagem de vitamina C, fenólicos totais e antocianinas, em frutas, para a verificação e possíveis perdas em frutas in-natura e polpa congelada. A ingestão diária de frutos e frutas assegura uma dieta rica em compostos bioativos, no entanto, as concentrações destes alimentos podem apresentar-se diferentes depois do processamento, no caso o congelamento, comparando-o com o fruto in natura. Métodos ­ Frutas obtidas no comercio local, nas variedades: ameixa, caqui, goiaba, maçã, pêra, uvas verde e vermelha foram utilizadas para as dosagens in natura e depois de 8 semanas de congelamento. Foram dosadas vitamina C, fenólicos totais, e antocianinas, sendo que foram feitas em triplicata. Os dados foram analisados por teste t considerando significativo p<0,05. Resultados ­ Foi observada diminuição significativa em quantidades de vitamina C, compostos fenólicos e antocianinas em todas as frutas analisadas. A pêra mostrou-se a fruta mais afetada pelo processo de congelamento, apresentando a maior perda em todas as dosagens dos antioxidantes, diminuindo 50,9% em vitamina C, 96,2% em antocianinas e 60,2% em fenólicos totais. Já a goiaba foi a fruta que se mostrou mais resistente ao congelamento, apresentando a menor diminuição em todas as dosagens de antioxidantes, com perda de 9,5% de vitamina C, 9,7 de fenólicos totais, e 25,7% de antocianinas. Em concentrações de vitamina C, maçã teve diminuição de 36,6%, ameixa de 42,9%, caqui 26,9%, uva verde 22,6%, uva vermelha 47% e sementes de goiaba 27,6%. Já nas concentrações de fenólicos totais maçã teve diminuição de 11,2%, ameixa de 24,7%, caqui 26,9%, uva verde 48,5%, uva vermelha 46,6%% e sementes de goiaba 30,1%. Quanto as antocianinas maçã apresentou diminuição de 91,9%, ameixa de 81,1%, caqui 35,8%, uva verde 51,4%, uva vermelha 57,1%% e sementes de goiaba 32,4%. Conclusões ­ Desta maneira fica evidente a perda, diferenciada entre as frutas, de compostos antioxidantes com o processamento

Objective ­ The present study had the objective of the dosage of vitamin C, total phenolics and anthocyanins, in fruits, for the verification and possible losses in in natura fruits and frozen pulp. The daily intake of fruits and fruits ensures a diet rich in elements that contribute to the antioxidant capacity. However, the concentrations of these foods may be different after processing, in this case the freezing, comparing it with the in natura fruit. Methods ­ Fruits obtained in the local commerce, in the varieties: plum, kaki, guava, apple, pear, green and red grapes were used for the in natura dosages and after 8 weeks of freezing. The laboratorial determinations were Vitamin C, total phenolics and anthocyanins. All dosages were standardized in triplicate. Data were analyzed by t-test considering significant p <0.05. Results ­ Significant decrease was observed in amounts of vitamin C, phenolic compounds and anthocyanins in all fruits analyzed. The pear was the fruit most affected by the freezing process, presenting the highest loss in all antioxidant dosages, decreasing 50.9% in vitamin C, 96.2% in anthocyanins and 60.2% in total phenolics. The guava fruit was the most resistant to freezing, presenting the lowest decrease in all antioxidant dosages, with loss of 9.5% of vitamin C, 9.7 of total phenolics, and 25.7% of anthocyanins. In vitamin C concentrations, apple had a decrease of 36.6%, plum of 42.9%, persimmon 26.9%, green grape 22.6%, red grape 47% and guava seeds 27.6%. In the total phenolic concentrations, apple had a decrease of 11.2%, plum of 24.7%, persimmon 26.9%, green grape 48.5%, red grape 46.6 %% and guava seeds 30.1%. As for the anthocyanins apple showed a decrease of 91.9%, plum of 81.1%, persimmon 35.8%, green grape 51.4%, red grape 57.1 %% and guava seeds 32.4%. Conclusions ­ In this way the loss, differentiated between fruits, of antioxidant compounds with the processing

Vitamin A intake of Brazilian mothers and retinol concentrations in maternal blood, human milk, and the umbilical cord.

Objectives To analyse intake of vitamin A (VA) and retinol concentrations in maternal blood, breast milk (BM), and the umbilical cord (UC) of newborns, and to determine the associations among these variables. Methods We performed a cross-sectional, epidemiological study of 180 mother-newborn dyads. Maternal and UC blood samples and BM were collected. VA intake by the mother over 30 days was assessed using a questionnaire. Results Mean retinol concentrations in maternal serum, the UC, and BM were 0.65 ± 0.27, 0.36 ± 0.18, and 2.95 ± 2.70 µmol/L, respectively. Retinol concentrations <0.70 µmol/L were found in 57.2% of maternal blood samples and in 94.9% of UC samples. A total of 27.9% of BM samples showed retinol concentrations <1.05 µmol/L. Mean VA intake by the mothers was 1041.33 ± 1187.86 µg retinol activity equivalents/day and was inadequate (<550 µg retinol activity equivalents/day) in 44.7%. Conclusions High proportions of insufficient retinol concentrations were observed in the UC, maternal blood, and BM. A high percentage of pregnant women had inadequate VA intake. Mothers with insufficient serum retinol concentrations had newborns with lower retinol concentrations in the UC. Higher retinol concentrations were observed in maternal blood and the UC with a higher VA intake.

High Dose of A Conjugated Linoleic Acid Mixture Increases Insulin Resistance in Rats Fed Either A Low Fat or A High Fat Diet.

Obesity and related diseases are becoming more prevalent. Conjugated linoleic acid (CLA) might be a useful coadjutant treatment helping to decrease fat mass. However, the precise impact of CLA is unclear because the decreased body fat mass is followed by an increase in insulin resistance. This study aimed to evaluate some of the consequences of a high dose of CLA in rats fed a normal low fat or a high fat diet for 30 days. Male Wistar rats were separated into 4 groups (each n = 10): Control group receiving 7% fat (soybean oil); CLA group receiving 4% soybean oil and 3% CLA mixture; animal fat (AF) group, receiving 45% fat (lard); and animal fat plus CLA (AF+CLA) group, receiving 42% lard and 3% CLA mixture. The CLA mixture contained 39.32 mole% c9,t11-CLA and 40.50 mole% t10,c12-CLA. After 30 days, both CLA groups (CLA and AF+CLA groups) developed insulin resistance, with an increase in glucose in the fasting state and in an insulin tolerance test. The CLA group had increased liver weight and percentage of saturated fatty acids in liver and adipose tissue. Feeding the high fat diet resulted in increased hepatic triacylglycerol accumulation and this was exacerbated by dietary CLA. It is concluded that a high dose of CLA mixture increases insulin resistance and exacerbates hepatic steatosis when combined with a high fat diet.

Acute exercise alters homocysteine plasma concentration in an intensity-dependent manner due increased methyl flux in liver of rats.

PURPOSE: We aimed to determine the effects of different intensities of acute exercise on Hcy plasma levels, and the exercise-induced changes in Hcy liver metabolism. METHOD: First, thirty-two Wistar rats were randomly submitted to an acute bout of swimming exercise carrying a load of 2% (n=8), 4% (n=8) and 6% (n=8) of their total body weight attached in their tail. Control rats remained rested (n=8). Blood samples were taken from tail vein for plasma S-containing amino acids determination before (Rest) and post, 1, 2, 3, 4, 6, and 10h after acute swimming exercise. Second, 56 exercised rats (4% loads) were euthanized before (Rest) and1, 2, 3, 4, 6, and 10h after acute swimming exercise. Blood and liver samples were collected for amino acids and keys genes involved in the Hcy metabolism assay. RESULTS: Acute exercise increases (P<0.05) plasma Hcy concentration in an intensity-dependent manner (rest 7.7±0.8; 6% load 13.8±3.6; 4% load 12.2±2.9±and 2% load 10.1±2.6, µmol/L); this increase is transient and does not promote hyperhomocysteinemia (<15µmol/L).Exercise-induced increased plasma Hcywas accompanied by the decreased liver S-adenosylmethionine/S-adenosylhomocysteine ratio and elevated MAT1a mRNA content. Acute exercise also caused elevated mRNA of key enzymes of transsulfuration (CBS) and remethylation (BHMT and the MTRR). CONCLUSION: Our data provided evidence that acute exercise increases plasma Hcy concentration due to the augmented requirement for methylated compounds that increases liver SAM consumption. Also, Hcy remethylation and transsulfuration are coordinately regulated to maintain methyl balance.

Homocysteine, folate, hs-C-reactive protein, tumor necrosis factor alpha and inflammatory proteins: are these biomarkers related to nutritional status and cardiovascular risk in childhood-onset systemic lupus erythematosus?

BACKGROUND: Childhood-onset systemic lupus erythematosus (c-SLE) is a chronic autoimmune disease which increases cardiovascular risk factors (CRF) such as elevated homocysteine, TNF-α, and hs-C reactive protein. METHODS: We evaluated BMI, waist circumference (WC), 24-h recalls, SLEDAI-2 K, SLICC/ACR-DI, serum levels of homocysteine, folate, TNF-α, hs-C reactive protein, lipid profile, proteomic data, and duration of corticosteroid therapy in 19 c-SLE and 38 healthy volunteers. Physiological and anthropometric variables of c-SLE and healthy controls were compared by ANCOVA. k-cluster was used to separate c-SLE into two different groups with the best and the worst metabolic profile according to previous analysis showing some metabolites that were statistically different from controls, such as homocysteine, TNF-α, hs-CRP and folate levels. These two clusters were again compared with the control group regarding nutritional parameters, lipid profile and also proteomic data. RESULTS: Individuals with c-SLE presented higher BMI, WC, homocysteine, triglycerides, TNF-α, hs-CRP and lower folate levels when compared to controls. We found 10 proteins whose relative abundances were statistically different between control group and lupus clusters with the best (LCBMP) and the worst metabolic profile (LCWMP). A significant positive correlation was found between TNF-α and triglycerides and between hs-CRP and duration of corticosteroid therapy. CONCLUSION: Cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk parameters were worse in c-SLE. A less protective CVD proteomic profile was found in LCWMP.

Application of adiposity indices to a sample of physically active individuals living in the city of Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo, Brazil / Aplicação de índices de adiposidade em uma amostra de indivíduos físicamente ativos residentes na cidade de ribeirão preto, são paulo, brasil

OBJECTIVE: To compare adiposity indexes in physical activity individuals to evaluate behavior, diagnostic ability and to determine which parameter best reflects and diagnoses body fatness. METHODS: A cross-sectional study was performed on 100 physically active individuals (59% female). The participants were submitted to anthropometric and body composition evaluation; we measured weight, height, circumferences, blood pressure and bioelectrical impedance analysis. A physical activity questionnaire (IPAQ, short version) was applied, as well as a questionnaire about the possible use of nutritional supplementation. The data were statistically analyzed, with significance level set at p <0.05. RESULTS: Mean age, height, weight and BMI were 24.2 ± 6.65 years, 169.5 ± 8.94 cm, 69.1 ± 14.83 kg and 23.9 ± 4.19 kg/m2, respectively, with a significant difference between the genders, except for age. Most of the subjects were in the normal weight range, with a BMI of 18.5 to 24.9 kg/m2, and were very active. BMIfat correlated better with body fat for males (r = 0.896) and females (r = 0.935), followed by BMI (0.689 and 0.767, respectively) and BAI (0.590 and 0.718). CONCLUSIONS: Adiposity indexes are viable alternatives for the diagnosis of obesity and should be more explored as fast, practical and low cost measures in clinical practice.

OBJETIVO: comparar os índices de adiposidade em indivíduos praticantes de atividade física para avaliar o comportamento, a capacidade diagnóstica e determinar qual parâmetro melhor reflete e diagnostica a adiposidade corporal. MÉTODOS: Um estudo transversal foi realizado em 100 indivíduos fisicamente ativos (59% mulheres). Os participantes foram submetidos à avaliação antropométrica e de composição corporal, sendo aferidos peso, estatura, circunferências, pressão arterial e análise de impedância bioelétrica. Foi aplicado um questionário de atividade física (IPAQ, versão curta), além de um questionário sobre o possível uso da suplementação nutricional. Os dados foram analisados ​​estatisticamente, com nível de significância estabelecido em p <0,05. RESULTADOS: as médias de idade, estatura, peso e IMC foram 24,2 ± 6,65 anos, 169,5 ± 8,94 cm, 69,1 ± 14,83 kg e 23,9 ± 4,19 kg/m2, respectivamente, com diferença significativa entre os gêneros, exceto para idade. A maioria dos sujeitos estava na faixa de peso normal, com um IMC de 18,5 a 24,9 kg/m2, e eram muito ativos. O BMIfat foi melhor correlacionado com a gordura corporal para homens (r = 0,896) e mulheres (r = 0,935), seguido pelo IMC (0,689 e 0,767, respectivamente) e BAI (0,590 e 0,718). CONCLUSÕES: Os índices de adiposidade são alternativas viáveis ​​para o diagnóstico da obesidade e devem ser mais explorados como medidas rápidas, práticas e de baixo custo na prática clínica.

Effect of Multicomponent Training on Blood Pressure, Nitric Oxide, Redox Status, and Physical Fitness in Older Adult Women: Influence of Endothelial Nitric Oxide Synthase (NOS3) Haplotypes.

The purpose of this study was to verify the influence of the genotype or haplotype (interaction) of the NOS3 polymorphisms [-786T>C, 894G>T (Glu298Asp), and intron 4b/a] on the response to multicomponent training (various capacities and motor skills) on blood pressure (BP), nitrite concentration, redox status, and physical fitness in older adult women. The sample consisted of 52 participants, who underwent body mass index and BP assessments. Physical fitness was evaluated by six-minute walk, elbow flexion, and sit and stand up tests. Plasma/blood samples were used to evaluate redox status, nitrite concentration, and genotyping. Associations were observed between isolated polymorphisms and the response of decreased systolic and diastolic BP and increased nitrite concentration and antioxidant activity. In the haplotype analysis, the group composed of ancestral alleles (H1) was the only one to present improvement in all variables studied (decrease in systolic and diastolic BP, improvement in nitrite concentration, redox status, and physical fitness), while the group composed of variant alleles (H8) only demonstrated improvement in some variables of redox status and physical fitness. These findings suggest that NOS3 polymorphisms and physical training are important interacting variables to consider in evaluating redox status, nitric oxide availability and production, and BP control.

Comparison of new adiposity indices for the prediction of body fat in hospitalized patients.

OBJECTIVE: To measure the accuracy of the body mass index (BMI), BMI adjusted for fat mass (BMIfat), body adiposity index (BAI), BAI for the Fels Longitudinal Study sample, Clínica Universidad de Navarra-Body Adiposity Estimator, and fat mass index and to compare the accuracy to that of bioelectrical impedance and dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry (DXA) in a sample of the Brazilian population. METHODS: A cross-sectional study conducted on 240 hospitalized patients, 43 (18%) male and 197 (83%) female. Mean patient ages were 53.0 ± 13.3 y for males and 53.49 ± 14.0 y for females. All subjects underwent anthropometric evaluation, bioelectrical impedance, and DXA, which permitted the calculation of the indices. The level of significance was set at P < 0.05 in the statistical analyses. RESULTS: Mean subject age (y), weight (kg), and height (cm) were 53.0 ± 13.3 and 53.4 ± 14.0; 72.8 ± 14.9 and 67.6 ± 14.0; and 171.0 ± 8.0 and 157.0 ± 7.0 for men and women, respectively. Excess weight was detected in 67.4% and 66% according to the BMI, in 30% and 69.5% according to the BMIfat, and in 51% and 38% according to the BAI for men and women, respectively. Pearson correlation revealed that BMIfat clearly showed a better correlation (r = 0.67) with DXA than the remaining tools. The Clínica Universidad de Navarra-Body Adiposity Estimator was the only body adiposity parameter that was significantly higher in men compared to women. CONCLUSION: The results suggest that BMIfat is the index best related to the prediction of body fat and that the BAI did not exceed the limits of the BMI. Further studies of this type are needed to strengthen the present findings.