Anaemia and iron deficiency associate with polymorphism TMPRSS6 rs855791 in Brazilian children attending day care centres.

Fe-deficiency anaemia is a major public health concern in children under 5 years of age. TMPRSS6 gene, encoding matriptase-2 protein, is implicated in Fe homoeostasis and has been associated with anaemia and Fe status in various populations. The aim of this cross-sectional study was to investigate the associations between the single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) TMPRSS6 rs855791 and biomarkers of anaemia and Fe deficiency in Brazilian children attending day care centres. A total of 163 children aged 6-42 months were evaluated. Socio-economic, demographic, biochemical, haematological, immunological and genotype data were collected. Multiple logistic and linear regressions with hierarchical selection were used to assess the effects of independent variables on categorised outcomes and blood marker concentrations. Minor allele (T) frequency of rs855791 was 0·399. Each copy of the T allele was associated with a 4·49-fold increased risk of developing anaemia (P = 0·005) and a 4·23-fold increased risk of Fe deficiency assessed by serum soluble transferrin receptor (sTfR) (P < 0·001). The dose of the T allele was associated with an increase of 0·18 mg/l in sTfR concentrations and reductions of 1·41 fl and 0·52 pg in mean corpuscular volume (MCV) and mean corpuscular haemoglobin (MCH), respectively. In conclusion, the T allele of SNP TMPRSS6 rs855791 was significantly associated with anaemia and Fe deficiency assessed by sTfR in Brazilian children attending day care centres. The effect was dose dependent, with each copy of the T allele being associated with lower MCV and MCH and higher concentrations of sTfR.

Bone mineral density and normal-weight obesity syndrome: beyond body weight and body mass index.

INTRODUCTION: This study aimed to evaluate, for the first time, the bone profile of adult women and men with and without normal-weight obesity (NWO) syndrome and its association with bone health-related nutrient intake, anthropometry, and body composition. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This was a cross-sectional study of adults aged between 20 and 59 years with normal body weight, separated according to body fat (BF) percentage into NWO and non-NWO syndrome groups. BF > 30% and > 19% were considered high for women and men, respectively. Socioeconomic, physical activity, food consumption, anthropometric, and body composition data were evaluated. Student's t-test or Mann-Whitney test and Pearson's χ2 or Fisher's exact tests were applied for comparisons. Multiple linear regression models were developed, with bone parameters as the dependent variables and anthropometric, body composition, and food consumption data as the main independent variables. RESULTS: The sample consisted of 224 adults (69.2% women) with a median (interquartile range) age of 23 (21-25) years, 71% of whom had NWO syndrome. Compared with women, a higher percentage of men had a lower-than-expected spinal bone mineral density (BMD) Z-score for age (10%; p = 0.0214). Bone parameters were similar between groups. Spinal BMD was negatively associated with male sex and positively associated with body weight. The femoral BMD was negatively associated with BF percentage and positively associated with body mass index. CONCLUSION: The negative association of BMD with BF percentage may suggest a higher risk of bone alterations in individuals with NWO syndrome and should be monitored over time.

Dietary Intake is Associated with miR-31 and miR-375 Expression in Patients with Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma.

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are important epigenetic regulators in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC), with miR-31 being considered an oncomir and miR-375, a tumor suppressor miR, which are up- and down-regulated in HNSCC, respectively. Nutrients are known to influence miRNA expression; however, this association is poorly explored in HNSCC. This work aimed to identify associations between dietary intake and the expression of miR-31 and miR-375 in patients newly diagnosed with HNSCC. The expression of miR-31 was positively associated with the consumption of iron (ß = 16.65) and vitamin C (ß = 0.37), and inversely associated with total sugar (ß = -0.88), cholesterol (ß= -0.23), vitamin B9 (ß= -0.37) and zinc (ß = -5.66) intake. The expression of miR-375 was positively associated with the consumption of selenium (ß = 1.52), vitamin C (ß = 0.17) and vitamin D (ß = 13.01), and inversely associated with the consumption of added sugar (ß = -0.49), phosphorus (ß= -0.27) and vitamin B12 (ß = -10.80). Our findings showed important associations between dietary intake and miR-31 and miR-375 expression in HNSCC, offering possible directions for further studies investigating how nutrients interfere with carcinogenesis.Supplemental data for this article is available online at https://doi.org/10.1080/01635581.2021.1990972 .

Polymorphism PLIN1 11482 G>A interacts with dietary intake to modulate anthropometric measures and lipid profile in adults with normal-weight obesity syndrome.

Evidence shows that genetic polymorphisms in perilipin 1 gene (PLIN1) are associated with excessive accumulation of body fat and disturbances in cardiometabolic markers. Therefore, the aim of this study was to verify whether the SNP PLIN1 11482 G>A (rs894160) interacts with nutrient intake, anthropometric, body composition and cardiometabolic markers in adults with normal-weight obesity (NWO) syndrome. A cross-sectional study was carried out with 116 individuals aged 20-59 years, with normal BMI and high percentage of body fat. Anthropometric and body composition measures, glycaemic control and serum lipid markers, SNP PLIN1 11482 G>A and nutrient intake were evaluated. Interactions between nutrient intake and the SNP were determined by regression models and adjusted for potential confounders. The SNP frequency was 56·0 % GG, 38·8 % GA and 5·2 % AA. Anthropometric measures and biochemical markers were not different according to genotype, except for total cholesterol (TC), LDL-cholesterol and non-HDL-cholesterol concentrations. However, important interactions between the SNP and dietary intake were observed. Carbohydrate intake interacted with the SNP PLIN1 11482 G>A to modulate waist circumference (WC) and the homeostatic model assessment of insulin resistance index. Interaction of lipid intake and the SNP modulated TC and LDL-cholesterol concentrations, and the interaction between protein intake and the SNP tended to modulate weight, WC and BMI. The SNP PLIN1 11482 G>A seems to modulate responses in anthropometric and lipid profile biomarkers of subjects with NWO depending on the dietary macronutrient composition, which may have long-term impact on cardiometabolic markers.

Associations between Normal-Weight Obesity and Disturbances in the Lipid Profile of Young Adults. / Associações entre Obesidade Eutrófica e Alterações no Perfil Lipídico de Adultos Jovens.

BACKGROUND: Normal-weight obesity (NWO) is characterized by normal body mass index (BMI) but high body fat percentage (%BF) that increases the risks of cardiometabolic comorbidities. Accurate assessment and interpretation of body composition data are necessary to reduce these risks. OBJECTIVES: To compare the cardiometabolic profile of individuals with NWO and normal %BF and evaluate the associated risk factors. METHODS: A cross-sectional study was conducted with 222 Brazilian adults from a university community, of whom 157 had NWO and 65 had normal BMI and %BF (non-NWO). All participants reported being asymptomatic and without underlying health conditions. Socioeconomic, lifestyle, food intake, anthropometry, body composition measures (using dual-energy radiological absorptiometry), and lipid and glycemic profiles were evaluated. A p < 0.05 was established as significant. RESULTS: The median age of the participants was 23 years (interquartile range: 21 to 25), and most were female (67.1%). No significant differences were found in blood pressure, age, or physical activity levels between the NWO and non-NWO groups. However, the frequency of lipid profile disturbances was higher in the NWO group (54%) compared to the non-NWO group (34%) (p < 0.006). Neck circumference, %BF, and lipid profile disturbances were positively associated with NWO. CONCLUSION: Individuals with NWO have a worse cardiometabolic profile than those without NWO, and this condition is associated with important biomarkers. Addressing these outcomes is important for preventing long-term cardiometabolic complications. Accurate assessment and interpretation of body composition data, regardless of BMI, are crucial in this scenario.

FUNDAMENTO: A obesidade eutrófica (OE) é caracterizada por índice de massa corporal (IMC) normal, mas com alto percentual de gordura corporal (%GC), o que aumenta os riscos de comorbidades cardiometabólicas. A avaliação e interpretação precisas dos dados de composição corporal são necessárias para reduzir esses riscos. OBJETIVOS: Comparar o perfil cardiometabólico de indivíduos com OE e %GC normal e avaliar os fatores de risco associados. MÉTODOS: Foi realizado estudo transversal com 222 adultos brasileiros de uma comunidade universitária, dos quais 157 tinham OE e 65 tinham IMC e %GC normais (grupo sem OE). Todos os participantes relataram ser assintomáticos e sem problemas de saúde subjacentes. Foram avaliadas características socioeconômicas, estilo de vida, consumo alimentar, antropometria, medidas de composição corporal (por meio de absorciometria radiológica de dupla energia) e perfis lipídico e glicêmico. Valor de p < 0,05 foi estabelecido como significativo. RESULTADOS: A mediana de idade dos participantes foi de 23 anos (intervalo interquartil: 21 a 25), sendo a maioria do sexo feminino (67,1%). Não foram encontradas diferenças significativas na pressão arterial, idade ou nível de atividade física entre os grupos com e sem OE. No entanto, a frequência de distúrbios do perfil lipídico foi maior no grupo com OE (54%) em comparação com o grupo sem OE (34%) (p < 0,006). Circunferência do pescoço, %GC e distúrbios do perfil lipídico foram positivamente associados com a OE. CONCLUSÃO: Indivíduos com OE apresentam pior perfil cardiometabólico do que aqueles sem OE, e essa condição está associada a importantes biomarcadores. Torna-se importante abordar esses resultados para prevenir complicações cardiometabólicas de longo prazo. A avaliação e a interpretação precisas dos dados da composição corporal, independentemente do IMC, são cruciais nesse cenário.

Consumption of ultra- and non-ultra-processed foods of individuals with normal-weight obesity.

The normal-weight obesity (NWO) is highly associated with an increased risk for chronic non-communicable diseases and intricately linked to diet quality. Therefore, we assessed the consumption of ultra-processed and non-ultraprocessed foods of 224 Brazilian adults with NWO (n 159) and without NWO (n 65, non-NWO) in a cross-sectional study. For that, three dietary recalls were applied and categorised according to the NOVA classification. Individuals with NWO showed lower energy intake from the 'fresh or minimally processed food' group, specifically for rice (P = 0⋅037), beans (P = 0⋅002) and fruits (P = 0⋅026), as well as lower consumption of dietary fibre (P < 0⋅05) compared with non-NWO subjects. Total consumption of ultra-processed foods did not differ between groups; however, individuals with NWO had a higher energy intake from processed meats compared with the non-NWO group (54⋅1 ± 73⋅5 × 32⋅5 ± 50⋅8 kcal; P = 0⋅023). Energy and added sugar from ultra-processed foods (OR 1⋅02, CI 95 % 1⋅00-1⋅04, P = 0⋅0100) and total fat from non-ultra-processed foods (OR 1⋅09, CI 95 % 1⋅01-1⋅18; P = 0⋅0100) were associated with the presence of NWO. In conclusion, non-NWO individuals consumed more non-ultra-processed foods compared with the NWO group. Overall, there were no differences in the consumption of ultra-processed foods between the two groups. Important associations between food compounds and the presence of NWO were observed, emphasising the importance of fresh and minimally processed foods as the basis of the diet.

Impact of a Powdered Meal Replacement on Metabolism and Gut Microbiota (PREMIUM) in individuals with excessive body weight: a study protocol for a randomised controlled trial.

INTRODUCTION: Excess body weight is associated with a state of low-grade chronic inflammation and alterations of the gut microbiome. Powdered meal replacements (PMR) have been shown to be an effective strategy for weight management; however, their effect on inflammation and the gut microbiome remains unclear. The aim of this 12-week randomised control clinical trial is to investigate the effects of PMR consumption, here given as a soy-yoghurt-honey formula, on inflammation, gut microbiome and overall metabolism in individuals with excessive body weight. METHODS AND ANALYSIS: Healthy adults with excess body weight (n=88) are being recruited and randomly assigned to one of the following groups: (1) Control group (CON): maintaining usual diet for 12 weeks, or (2) PMR group: replacing morning and afternoon snacks daily with a PMR for 12 weeks. Participants are asked to maintain body weight throughout the study and fill out a journal with information about PMR consumption, body weight, food intake, appetite sensations and medications. Three study visits are required: baseline, week 6 and week 12. Outcome measures include systemic inflammatory biomarkers, gut microbiome composition, metabolic blood markers, host energy metabolism, body composition, appetite sensations and host gene expression profile. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION: This research protocol was approved by the University of Alberta Ethics Board (Pro00070712) and adheres to the Canadian Tri-Council Policy statement on the use of human participants in research. Procedures and potential risks are fully discussed with participants. Study findings will be disseminated in peer-reviewed journals, conference presentations and social media. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER: NCT03235804.

Lack of sufficient evidence to support a positive role of selenium status in depression: a systematic review.

CONTEXT: Globally, depression affects more than 322 million people. Studies exploring the relationship between diet and depression have revealed the benefits of certain dietary patterns and micronutrients in attenuating the symptoms of this disorder. Among these micronutrients, selenium stands out because of its multifaceted role in the brain. OBJECTIVE: To assess the impact of selenium intake and status on symptoms of depression. DATA SOURCES: A systematic search was performed in databases, including PubMed, Web of Science, EMBASE, PsycINFO, Scopus, and gray literature (on April 6, 2021, updated on January 28, 2022), without restrictions of date, language, or study type. DATA EXTRACTION: Studies of adults (18-60 y of age) with depression or depressive symptoms were included. Data on selenium biomarkers and/or intake were included. The risk of bias was assessed using the Joanna Briggs Institute checklists. DATA ANALYSIS: Of the 10 studies included, 2 were cohorts (n = 13 983 and 3735), 3 were cross-sectional (n = 736, 7725, and 200), 1 was case-control (n = 495), and 4 were randomized controlled trials (n = 30, 11, 38, and 63). Several studies have indicated that low selenium intake or concentration may be associated with symptoms of depression. However, this association was inconsistent across the studies included in this systematic review; due to the high heterogeneity, it was not possible to perform meta-analyses. The main contributing factors to the high heterogeneity include the different methodological designs, methods for diagnosing depression, selenium assessment, and clinical conditions. CONCLUSION: Overall, there is insufficient evidence to support a positive role of selenium status in depression. Studies with more accurate methods and adequate assessment of selenium status are needed to better understand the role of this nutrient in depression. SYSTEMATIC REVIEW REGISTRATION: PROSPERO registration no. CRD42021220683.

Selenium Intake and Glycemic Control in Young Adults With Normal-Weight Obesity Syndrome.

Numerous endogenous functions related to antioxidant processes, reproduction, and thyroid metabolism, as well as actions related to glycemic control, have been attributed to selenium. This study aimed to evaluate whether dietary selenium consumption is associated with variables of glycemic control in a sample of young Brazilian adults with Normal-Weight Obesity (NWO) syndrome. This was a cross-sectional study that evaluated 270 individuals with adequate body weight and excess body fat, who had their body composition assessed by dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry. Socioeconomic, health, and lifestyle questionnaires and three 24-h food records were applied. Glycemic control markers were also evaluated. The prevalence of inadequate selenium intake was analyzed by the Estimated Average Requirement (EAR) cut-point method. The prevalence of disturbances in glycemic control markers according to selenium consumption was compared by either the chi-square or the Fisher's exact test, with individuals classified according to the EAR values for selenium. The associations were evaluated by multiple linear regressions, using the backward strategy. The mean ± standard deviation (SD) age was 23.7 ± 3.3 years, and the mean ± SD daily selenium intake was 59.2 ± 26.4 µg. The overall prevalence of inadequate selenium intake was 59.2%. Individuals with selenium intakes below the EAR (≤45 µg/day) showed higher concentrations of glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) (P = 0.002) and a higher prevalence of disturbances in HbA1c than those with selenium intakes above the EAR (>45 µg/day) (P = 0.001). Dietary selenium intake was directly associated with female sex (ß = 19.95, 95% CI 5.00 to 34.89; P = 0.001) and weight (ß = 6.69, 95% CI 0.56 to 12.81; P = 0.010), and inversely associated with the percentage of total body fat (ß = -0.80, 95% CI -1.56 to -0,04; P = 0.010) and HbA1c (ß = -7.41, 95% CI -13.06 to -1.75; P = 0.010). Considering the noticeable young age of the individuals evaluated and the high frequency of disturbances in HbA1c concentrations in those with selenium consumption below the recommendation, it is suggested that adequate dietary intake or supplementation of this micronutrient should be guaranteed to prevent future possible complications associated with glycemic control disturbances.

Determination of genetic scores to estimate disturbances in circulating lipid profile biomarkers of adolescents: A preliminary report.

OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to develop genetic scores based on single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) related to lipid metabolism and evaluate whether they used to estimate disturbances in the circulating lipid profile biomarkers of adolescents. METHODS: In a preliminary cross-sectional approach, 113 Brazilian adolescents (10-19 y of age) with cardiovascular disease risk factors were evaluated. Genetic scores from 20 SNPs related to lipid metabolism were calculated by codifying each of them as the rescaled sum of risk allele frequencies. All scores were distributed in classes between 0 (absence of risk alleles) and 10 (presence of all risk alleles) to evaluate the additive effect of risk alleles on the lipid profile outcomes in the same interval. Multiple linear regression analyses were performed to evaluate the association between each score and blood lipid profile biomarkers. RESULTS: Significant associations between genetic scores and unfavorable outcomes in all evaluated lipid profile biomarkers were found. The mean ± SD of the genetic scores for the circulating lipid profile biomarkers in the 0 to 10 scale were 4.4 ± 2 for triacylglycerol, 5.3 ± 1.5 for total cholesterol, 5.6 ± 1.2 for high-density lipoprotein cholesterol, 4.9 ± 1.6 for low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, and 3.6 ± 1.9 for minimally modified low-density lipoprotein cholesterol. For each point obtained in each genetic score, a mean increase ± SE of 15.8 ± 4.2 mg/dL in triacylglycerol (P = 0.0001), 5.3 ± 1.7 mg/dL in total cholesterol (P = 0.0032), 4.8 ± 1.3 mg/dL in low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (P = 0.0003), and 1.1 ± 0.3 U/L in minimally modified low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (P = 0.0020) and a mean decrease of 3.7 ± 0.7 mg/dL in high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (P < 0.0001) concentrations were obtained. CONCLUSION: The calculated genetic scores could be used to estimate disturbances in circulating lipid profile biomarkers of adolescents and be applied in clinical practice to better target interventions to reduce cardiovascular disease risk throughout life.

APOE genotype associates with food consumption and body composition to predict dyslipidaemia in Brazilian adults with normal-weight obesity syndrome.

BACKGROUND & AIM: Normal-Weight Obesity Syndrome has been characterized by a normal body mass index and high percentage of body fat. It is associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular disease development. This study aimed to evaluate whether apolipoprotein E (APOE) genotypes and food consumption are related to the lipid profiles of adults with Normal-Weight Obesity Syndrome. METHODS: Analytical cross-sectional study, including adults with Normal-Weight Obesity Syndrome. Socioeconomic, health and lifestyle questionnaires were administered. Anthropometric variables, body composition and blood pressure were evaluated. Dietary intake, lipid profile and genotyping of polymorphisms rs7412 and rs429358 in the APOE gene were evaluated. RESULTS: Only 6.0% of women and none of the men had increased waist circumference (≥80 cm for women and ≥94 cm for men). No women and 6.2% of men had altered blood pressure (systolic blood pressure ≥130 mmHg and/or diastolic blood pressure ≥85 mmHg). When the traditional lipid profile was assessed, 52.5% of individuals presented dyslipidaemia. When the levels of apolipoproteins A1 and B were included, the prevalence was 73.0%. Regression analysis showed a positive relationship between the presence of allele ε2 and apolipoprotein A1 levels (95% CI = 4.2 to 38.3; p = 0.015) and between the ε4 allele and apolipoprotein B (ε4 versus ε2: 95% CI = 0.08 to 29.5; p = 0.049 and ε4 versus ε3: 95% CI = 0.6 to 17.6; p = 0.036). Carriers of the ε2 allele had a 75.0% lower probability of presenting dyslipidaemia compared with ε3ε3 individuals (95% CI = 0.04 to 0.8; p = 0.027). Relationships between body fat, food consumption and lipid profile were observed and differed among genotypes. CONCLUSIONS: APOE genotype and food consumption were associated with lipid profile. This was the first study to evaluate the APOE genotype and to analyze relationships between genetic profile, food intake and lipid profile of subjects with Normal-Weight Obesity Syndrome.

Associações entre Obesidade Eutrófica e Alterações no Perfil Lipídico de Adultos Jovens / Associations between Normal-Weight Obesity and Disturbances in the Lipid Profile of Young Adults

Resumo Fundamento A obesidade eutrófica (OE) é caracterizada por índice de massa corporal (IMC) normal, mas com alto percentual de gordura corporal (%GC), o que aumenta os riscos de comorbidades cardiometabólicas. A avaliação e interpretação precisas dos dados de composição corporal são necessárias para reduzir esses riscos. Objetivos Comparar o perfil cardiometabólico de indivíduos com OE e %GC normal e avaliar os fatores de risco associados. Métodos Foi realizado estudo transversal com 222 adultos brasileiros de uma comunidade universitária, dos quais 157 tinham OE e 65 tinham IMC e %GC normais (grupo sem OE). Todos os participantes relataram ser assintomáticos e sem problemas de saúde subjacentes. Foram avaliadas características socioeconômicas, estilo de vida, consumo alimentar, antropometria, medidas de composição corporal (por meio de absorciometria radiológica de dupla energia) e perfis lipídico e glicêmico. Valor de p < 0,05 foi estabelecido como significativo. Resultados A mediana de idade dos participantes foi de 23 anos (intervalo interquartil: 21 a 25), sendo a maioria do sexo feminino (67,1%). Não foram encontradas diferenças significativas na pressão arterial, idade ou nível de atividade física entre os grupos com e sem OE. No entanto, a frequência de distúrbios do perfil lipídico foi maior no grupo com OE (54%) em comparação com o grupo sem OE (34%) (p < 0,006). Circunferência do pescoço, %GC e distúrbios do perfil lipídico foram positivamente associados com a OE. Conclusão Indivíduos com OE apresentam pior perfil cardiometabólico do que aqueles sem OE, e essa condição está associada a importantes biomarcadores. Torna-se importante abordar esses resultados para prevenir complicações cardiometabólicas de longo prazo. A avaliação e a interpretação precisas dos dados da composição corporal, independentemente do IMC, são cruciais nesse cenário.

Abstract Background Normal-weight obesity (NWO) is characterized by normal body mass index (BMI) but high body fat percentage (%BF) that increases the risks of cardiometabolic comorbidities. Accurate assessment and interpretation of body composition data are necessary to reduce these risks. Objectives To compare the cardiometabolic profile of individuals with NWO and normal %BF and evaluate the associated risk factors. Methods A cross-sectional study was conducted with 222 Brazilian adults from a university community, of whom 157 had NWO and 65 had normal BMI and %BF (non-NWO). All participants reported being asymptomatic and without underlying health conditions. Socioeconomic, lifestyle, food intake, anthropometry, body composition measures (using dual-energy radiological absorptiometry), and lipid and glycemic profiles were evaluated. A p < 0.05 was established as significant. Results The median age of the participants was 23 years (interquartile range: 21 to 25), and most were female (67.1%). No significant differences were found in blood pressure, age, or physical activity levels between the NWO and non-NWO groups. However, the frequency of lipid profile disturbances was higher in the NWO group (54%) compared to the non-NWO group (34%) (p < 0.006). Neck circumference, %BF, and lipid profile disturbances were positively associated with NWO. Conclusion Individuals with NWO have a worse cardiometabolic profile than those without NWO, and this condition is associated with important biomarkers. Addressing these outcomes is important for preventing long-term cardiometabolic complications. Accurate assessment and interpretation of body composition data, regardless of BMI, are crucial in this scenario.

The redox balance of healthy Brazilian adults is associated with GPX1 Pro198Leu and -602A/G polymorphisms, selenium status, and anthropometric and lifestyle parameters.

PURPOSE: Considering that oxidative stress is implicated in the pathogenesis and progression of different health conditions, we aimed to evaluate whether the redox balance of a healthy Brazilian population is associated with GPX1 polymorphisms, selenium status, lipid profile, and anthropometric and lifestyle parameters. METHODS: 343 healthy adults were assessed for redox balance markers [glutathione peroxidase (GPx) and superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity; malondialdehyde (MDA) and oxygen radical absorption capacity (ORAC)]; genotyped for the polymorphisms GPX1 Pro198Leu (rs1050450), -602A/G (rs3811699) and Arg5Pro (rs8179169); evaluated for selenium biomarkers (plasma, erythrocyte, and urine) and intake; and assessed for lipid profile. Anthropometric (BMI) and lifestyle data (physical activity, current smoking habit and alcohol consumption) were collected. Multivariable regression models were applied to investigate the possible associations. RESULTS: Although there were no differences in GPx activity according to GPX1 Pro198Leu and -602A/G polymorphisms, this redox balance marker was positively associated with erythrocyte selenium and negatively associated with the presence of a minor allele of Pro198Leu. SOD activity was positively associated with the presence of a minor allele for these polymorphisms. ORAC showed the same pattern among Leu and G carriers and was positively associated with Leu allele presence, BMI and alcohol intake. MDA was only associated negatively with the male sex and plasma selenium. CONCLUSIONS: Our findings suggest that the redox balance of a Brazilian healthy population is associated with GPX1 polymorphisms (Pro198Leu and -602A/G), selenium status, BMI, sex, smoking habit and alcohol consumption.

Poor Trunk Flexibility is Associated with Cardiovascular Risk Factors

Abstract Background: Poor flexibility is a predictor of reduced physical activity. The association between trunk flexibility and cardiovascular risk factors (CVRFs) is not well understood. Objective: To identify the prevalence of CVRFs and their association with trunk flexibility in individuals participating in a community-based health education program. Methods: Volunteers (51 men, 48 women) aged 20-85 years old, participants in a community-based health education program in the city of Santo Antônio de Goiás, Brazil, were selected for this study. Anthropometric measures including body mass, height, body mass index (BMI), waist circumference (WC) and waist/height ratio (WHtR) were evaluated. Physical activity level was evaluated based on leisure activity participation, and trunk flexibility was evaluated by the sit and reach test. Data distribution was assessed using the Shapiro-Wilk test; Pearson's chi-square or Fisher's exact and Student t tests were performed for comparisons. To analyze the association between trunk flexibility and concomitant CVRFs, Spearman's correlation test and linear regression were employed. Statistical significance was defined as p < 0.05. Results: 7.2% of the volunteers had no CVRF, 10.3% had only one CVRF and 82.5% had two or more CVRFs, with no differences between sexes. Increased abdominal adiposity, as assessed by WHtR (p = 0.0097), and systemic arterial hypertension (p = 0.0003) were the most prevalent CVRFs, with differences between age groups. A strong negative correlation was found between mean trunk flexibility and the number of concomitant CVRFs (r = -0.96, p < 0.0028). Conclusion: The strong negative correlation between trunk flexibility and concomitant CVRF indicates an increased risk for cardiovascular events. Therefore, trunk flexibility measurement may be an additional tool for health promotion and prevention of cardiovascular and associated diseases in community health programs.

Zinc nutritional status of morbidly obese patients before and after Roux-en-Y gastric bypass: a preliminary report.

BACKGROUND: Previous researchers have found that the nutritional zinc status in obese and diabetic subjects is altered: low zinc concentrations in plasma and erythrocytes with high urinary zinc excretion were observed. This study assessed the influence of the Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGBP) on the plasma, erythrocyte and urinary zinc concentrations before the beginning of the mineral supplementation. METHODS: 24 morbidly obese patients were studied before and 2 months after RYGBP (the period in which the patients were still not ingesting mineral supplements). Fast blood sample, 24-hour urine, and 3-day food records were collected in the pre- and postoperative phases. Zinc concentration in the samples was analyzed by flame atomic absorption spectrophotometry, and dietary analysis of the food records were performed using the software Virtual Nutri with the inclusion of zinc concentration in the database for regional foods. RESULTS: Pre- and postoperative results were respectively: plasma 68.0 and 66.3 microg/dL; erythrocytes 36.6 and 43.8 microg/g Hb; urine 884.7 microg/24h and 385.9 microg/24h; and zinc intake 10.5 and 6.7 mg/day. CONCLUSION: These results suggest that RYGBP changed mainly the zinc erythrocyte and urinary concentrations. As expected, the zinc intake was lower in the postoperative phase, which in the medium and long term, could cause problems for the patients.

Normal-weight obesity syndrome: diagnosis, prevalence, and clinical implications.

The growing concern about the impact of overweight on health has led to studies that shed light on types of obesity other than the classic model based on body mass index. Normal-weight obesity syndrome is characterized by excess body fat in individuals with adequate body mass index (18.5-24.9 kg/m(2)). This condition increases the risk of cardiovascular morbidity and mortality and other conditions associated with chronic diseases, such as insulin resistance, hypertension, and dyslipidemia. The aims of this review are to define the diagnostic criteria for normal-weight obesity syndrome and to examine the risks associated with this condition in order to promote preventive measures and early treatment for affected individuals.

Cardiovascular risk factors and food consumption of cadets from the Brazilian Air Force Academy.

This article aims to investigate the prevalence of cardiovascular risk factors and food intake inadequacies in cadets from the Brazilian Air Force Academy and the association with sex and year of graduation. Cross-sectional study with 166 adult cadets from the Air Force Academy, placed in Pirassununga - SP, from June to December 2013. Anthropometric measures, biochemical and clinical parameters, physical activity level, smoking habit and food intake were evaluated. Pearson's Chi-square and Fisher's exact tests were used. Overweight prevalence (BMI > 25.0 kg/m2) was 29.7% in men and 16.7% in women. Hypertension was observed in 15.2% of men. Hypercholesterolemia was detected in 50.7% of the cadets; 24.3% presented high levels of low-density lipoprotein and 11.2%, low levels of high-density lipoprotein. There was association between the time spent in the Academy and low levels of high-density lipoprotein. High intake of saturated fat (87.2%) and cholesterol (42.7%) were observed. Inadequate intake of fibers was verified in 92.7% of the sample. There was considerable prevalence of cardiovascular risk factors among the cadets, especially hypercholesterolemia and inadequate food intake.

Pro198Leu polymorphism affects the selenium status and GPx activity in response to Brazil nut intake.

Selenoproteins play important roles in antioxidant mechanisms, and are thus hypothesised to have some involvement in the pathology of certain types of dementia. Mild cognitive impairment (MCI) and Alzheimer's disease (AD) are both thought to involve impaired biological activity of certain selenoproteins. Previously, supplementation with a selenium-rich Brazil nut (Bertholletia excelsa) has shown potential in reducing cognitive decline in MCI patients, and could prove to be a safe and effective nutritional approach early in the disease process to slow decline. Here, we have conducted a pilot study that examined the effects of a range of single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in genes encoding the selenoproteins glutathione peroxidase (GPX1) and selenoprotein P (SEPP) in response to selenium supplementation via dietary Brazil nuts, including selenium status, oxidative stress parameters and GPX1 and SEPP gene expression. Our data suggest that GPX1 Pro198Leu rs1050450 genotypes may differentially affect the selenium status and GPx activity. Moreover, rs7579 and rs3877899 SNPs in SEPP gene, as well as GPX1 rs1050450 genotypes can influence the expression of GPX1 and SEPP mRNA in response to Brazil nuts intake. This small study gives cause for larger investigations into the role of these SNPs in both the selenium status and response to selenium dietary intake, especially in chronic degenerative conditions like MCI and AD.

The MTHFR C677T Polymorphism Is Related to Plasma Concentration of Oxidized Low-Density Lipoprotein in Adolescents with Cardiovascular Risk Factors.

AIM: The aim of this study was to investigate possible relationships among the A1298C (rs1801131) and C677T (rs1801133) polymorphisms in the methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR) gene and levels of homocysteine, vitamins B6, B12, folic acid and lipid profile, including oxidized low-density lipoprotein (ox-LDL), of adolescents at cardiovascular risk. METHODS: We recruited 115 adolescents (10-19 years old), 58.3% (n = 67) female, from a public school in Brazil who underwent anthropometric, biochemical and genetic tests as well as food consumption evaluation. RESULTS: An important prevalence of hyperhomocysteinemia (19.1%) and alterations in triacylglycerol (17.4%), total cholesterol (26.9%) and high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol (48.0%) concentrations were observed, as well as low vitamin B6 concentrations (23.5%). The categorization of homocysteine concentrations into tertiles revealed significant differences in serum concentrations of folate, vitamin B12 and HDL, waist circumference and intake of total and saturated fat among the tertiles. The presence of variant alleles regarding the MTHFR C677T polymorphism interfered with vitamin B6 and ox-LDL cholesterol concentrations. There was a trend for higher waist circumference values in T carriers (C677T), but not in C carriers (A1298C). CONCLUSIONS: The MTHFR C677T allele was associated with higher plasma vitamin B6 and ox-LDL compared to the CC genotype.