Dietary Flaxseed as a Strategy for Improving Human Health

Flaxseed-derived peptides ameliorate hepatic cholesterol metabolism in Sprague-Dawley rats fed a high-cholesterol and high-fat diet

BACKGROUND

Plant peptides have been reported to have cholesterol-lowering activities. Previous research has found that ≤1 kDa flaxseed peptide (FP₅ ) reduces cholesterol absorption and synthesis in vitro. In this research, we investigated the cholesterol-lowering activity of FP₅ in Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats fed a high-cholesterol and high-fat diet. In addition, amino acid sequences of FP₅ were determined by high-performance liquid chromatography-electrospray ionization-Orbitrap mass spectrometry.

RESULTS

FP₅ supplement significantly decreased the serum and hepatic cholesterol levels and modulated the hepatic gene and protein expression of cholesterol metabolism-related enzymes or regulators (3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl coenzyme A reductase, Low-Density Lipoprotein Receptor (LDLR), Cholesterol 7 α-hydroxylase, Niemann-Pick C1-like 1, ATP-binding cassette transporters G5 and G8). Eleven peptides were identified from FP₅ . These peptides were characterized as hydrophobic amino acids such as leucine (L), proline (P), glycine (G), isoleucine (I) and continuous sequences, including LP, LL, LG and II, with low molecular weights.

CONCLUSION

FP₅ has a certain cholesterol-lowering activity in SD rats fed a high-cholesterol and high-fat diet. The possible mechanism for ameliorating hepatic cholesterol metabolism of FP₅ includes inhibiting hepatic cholesterol de novo synthesis, promoting the synthesis and excretion of bile acids, and inhibiting the reabsorption of bile acids during enterohepatic circulation. © 2022 Society of Chemical Industry.

Nutrition and mental health: A review of current knowledge about the impact of diet on mental health

Applied psychopharmacotherapy and psychotherapy do not always bring the expected results in the treatment of mental disorders. As a result, other interventions are receiving increasing attention. In recent years, there has been a surge in research on the effects of nutrition on mental status, which may be an important aspect of the prevention of many mental disorders and, at the same time, may lead to a reduction in the proportion of people with mental disorders. This review aims to answer whether and to what extent lifestyle and related nutrition affect mental health and whether there is scientific evidence supporting a link between diet and mental health. A review of the scientific evidence was conducted based on the available literature by typing in phrases related to nutrition and mental health using the methodological tool of the PubMed database. The literature search yielded 3,473 records, from which 356 sources directly related to the topic of the study were selected, and then those with the highest scientific value were selected according to bibliometric impact factors. In the context of current changes, urbanization, globalization, including the food industry, and changes in people’s lifestyles and eating habits, the correlations between these phenomena and their impact on mental state become important. Knowledge of these correlations creates potential opportunities to implement new effective dietary, pharmacological, therapeutic, and above all preventive interventions. The highest therapeutic potential is seen in the rational diet, physical activity, use of psychobiotics, and consumption of antioxidants. Research also shows that there are nutritional interventions that have psychoprotective potential.

Beneficial Effects of Flaxseed and/or Mulberry Extracts Supplementation in Ovariectomized Wistar Rats

Low endogenous estrogen action causes several injuries. Medicinal plants, such as flaxseed and mulberry, contain substances that have been shown to be effective to the organism. The aim was to verify the effects of flaxseed and/or mulberry extracts on ovariectomized Wistar rats. The animals received supplements of extracts and estrogen or saline by gavage for 60 days and were weighed weekly. Vaginal wash, blood, pituitary, uterus, liver, and kidneys were collected. Phenolic compounds and the antioxidant activity of the extracts, lipid profile, uric acid, liver enzymes, and pituitary weight were measured. Histomorphometric for uterine wall and histopathological analyses for liver and kidney were performed. Flaxseed and mulberry extracts showed great antioxidant activity and large amounts of phenolic compounds. The treatment with extracts had less weight gain, increased pituitary weight, the predominance of vaginal epithelial cells, and reduced TC, LDL-c and lipase activity, similar to estrogen animals. Estrogen or flaxseed + mulberry animals reduced VLDL-c and TAG. HDL-c, uric acid, and liver enzymes did not differ. Estrogen or extracts demonstrated trophic action on the endometrial thickness and have not shown hepatotoxicity or nephrotoxicity. We suggested the beneficial effects of flaxseed and mulberry extract as an alternative to reduce and/or prevent the negative effects caused by low estrogenic action.

Structural Characterization and Functional Properties of Flaxseed Hydrocolloids and Their Application

Flaxseed is an excellent source of valuable nutrients and is also considered a functional food. There are two types of hydrocolloids in flaxseed: flaxseed gum and proteins. Flaxseed gum exhibits emulsifying and foaming activities or can be used as a thickening and gelling agent. Due to its form of soluble fiber, flaxseed gum is related to many health benefits. Flaxseed proteins have various functional properties based on their physicochemical properties. While albumins possess the emulsion-forming ability, globulins better serve as foaming agents. Flaxseed proteins may also serve as a source of functional peptides with interesting biological and health-related activities. Functional properties and health-related benefits predetermine the application of these hydrocolloids, mainly in the food industry or medicine. Although these properties of flaxseed hydrocolloids have been recently and extensively studied, they are still not widely used on the industrial scale compared to other popular plant gums and proteins. The aim of this review was to present, discuss and highlight the recent discoveries in the structural characteristics and functional and biological properties of these versatile hydrocolloids with respect to factors affecting their characteristics and offer new insights into their potential applications as comparable alternatives to the other natural hydrocolloids or as the sources of novel functional products.

The Mediterranean Diet: An Update of the Clinical Trials

The Mediterranean Diet (MedDiet) is a term used to identify a dietary pattern originating from the unique multi-millennial interplay between natural food resources and the eating practices of people living in the Mediterranean basin. Scientific evidence has described the healthy properties of the MedDiet and its beneficial role in several pathological conditions. Nevertheless, current socio-economic trends have moved people away from this healthy lifestyle. Thus, clinical and biological evidence supporting the benefits of the MedDiet is needed to overcome these limitations. Clinical nutrition research examines the effects of dietary interventions on biological or health-related outcomes in a determined study population. The evidence produced by these studies is useful for dietary guidance and public health messaging. We provided an update of the clinical trials registered on the database clinicaltrials.gov evaluating the effects of the MedDiet on health and specific diseases. Our findings revealed an increased number of clinical trials in the last decade and found that most disease-related studies focused on cardiovascular diseases, metabolic diseases, and cancer. The majority of MedDiet’s beneficial effects could be primarily related to its anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant properties as well as the effectiveness of this dietary pattern in controlling waist circumference and obesity. Moreover, strict and long-lasting adherence to the MedDiet as well as the beneficial effects of specific components (e.g., olive oil or its polyphenols) seem to emerge as useful insights for interventional improvements. These findings present further insights into the MedDiet’s resources and how it could strengthen overall public health.

A comprehensive review of flaxseed (Linum usitatissimum L.): health-affecting compounds, mechanism of toxicity, detoxification, anticancer and potential risk

Flaxseed consumption (Linum usitatissimum L.) has increased due to its potential health benefits, such as protection against inflammation, diabetes, cancer, and cardiovascular diseases. However, flaxseeds also contains various anti-nutritive and toxic compounds such as cyanogenic glycosides, and phytic acids etc. In this case, the long-term consumption of flaxseed may pose health risks due to these non-nutritional substances, which may be life threatening if consumed in high doses, although if appropriately utilized these may prevent/treat various diseases by preventing/inhibiting and or reversing the toxicity induced by other compounds. Therefore, it is necessary to remove or suppress the harmful and anti-nutritive effects of flaxseeds before these are utilized for large-scale as food for human consumption. Interestingly, the toxic compounds of flaxseed also undergoes biochemical detoxification in the body, transforming into less toxic or inactive forms like α-ketoglutarate cyanohydrin etc. However, such detoxification is also a challenge for the development, scalability, and real-time quantification of these bioactive substances. This review focuses on the health affecting composition of flaxseed, along with health benefits and potential toxicity of its components, detoxification methods and mechanisms with evidence supported by animal and human studies.

Beneficial Effects of Linseed Supplementation on Gut Mucosa-Associated Microbiota in a Physically Active Mouse Model of Crohn's Disease

The Western diet, rich in lipids and in n-6 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs), favors gut dysbiosis observed in Crohn's disease (CD). The aim of this study was to assess the effects of rebalancing the n-6/n-3 PUFA ratio in CEABAC10 transgenic mice that mimic CD. Mice in individual cages with running wheels were randomized in three diet groups for 12 weeks: high-fat diet (HFD), HFD + linseed oil (HFD-LS-O) and HFD + extruded linseed (HFD-LS-E). Then, they were orally challenged once with the Adherent-Invasive Escherichia coli (AIEC) LF82 pathobiont. After 12 weeks of diet, total energy intake, body composition, and intestinal permeability were not different between groups. After the AIEC-induced intestinal inflammation, fecal lipocalin-2 concentration was lower at day 6 in n-3 PUFAs supplementation groups (HFD-LS-O and HFD-LS-E) compared to HFD. Analysis of the mucosa-associated microbiota showed that the abundance of Prevotella, Paraprevotella, Ruminococcus, and Clostridiales was higher in the HFD-LS-E group. Butyrate levels were higher in the HFD-LS-E group and correlated with the Firmicutes/Proteobacteria ratio. This study demonstrates that extruded linseed supplementation had a beneficial health effect in a physically active mouse model of CD susceptibility. Additional studies are required to better decipher the matrix influence in the linseed supplementation effect.

Amelioratory Effect of Resistant Starch on Non-alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease via the Gut-Liver Axis

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a hepatic manifestation of metabolic syndrome with a global prevalence. Impaired gut barrier function caused by an unhealthy diet plays a key role in disrupting the immune-metabolic homeostasis of the gut-liver axis (GLA), leading to NAFLD. Therefore, dietary interventions have been studied as feasible alternative therapeutic approaches to ameliorate NAFLD. Resistant starches (RSs) are prebiotics that reduce systemic inflammation in patients with metabolic syndrome. The present review aimed to elucidate the mechanisms of the GLA in alleviating NAFLD and provide insights into how dietary RSs counteract diet-induced inflammation in the GLA. Emerging evidence suggests that RS intake alters gut microbiota structure, enhances mucosal immune tolerance, and promotes the production of microbial metabolites such as short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) and secondary bile acids. These metabolites directly stimulate the growth of intestinal epithelial cells and elicit GPR41/GPR43, FXR, and TGR5 signaling cascades to sustain immune-metabolic homeostasis in the GLA. The literature also revealed the dietary-immune-metabolic interplay by which RSs exert their regulatory effect on the immune-metabolic crosstalk of the GLA and the related molecular basis, suggesting that dietary intervention with RSs may be a promising alternative therapeutic strategy against diet-induced dysfunction of the GLA and, ultimately, the risk of developing NAFLD.

Flaxseed Ethanol Extracts’ Antitumor, Antioxidant, and Anti-Inflammatory Potential

The antitumoral, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory effects of flaxseed ethanol extract was screened. Phytochemical analysis was performed by measuring the total phenolic content and by HPLC-DAD-ESI MS. In vitro antiproliferative activity was appreciated by MMT test of four adenocarcinomas and two normal cell lines. In vitro, antioxidant activity was evaluated by DPPH, FRAP, H₂O₂, and NO scavenging tests. The in vivo growth inhibitory activity against Ehrlich ascites carcinoma (EAC) in female BALB/c mice was determined using the trypan blue test. In EAC mice serum and ascites total oxidative status, total antioxidant reactivity, oxidative stress index, malondialdehyde, total thiols, total nitrites, 3-nitrotyrosine, and NFkB were measured. The phytochemical analysis found an significant content of phenols, with lignans having the highest concentration. The extract had an significant in vitro antioxidant effect and different inhibitory effects on different cell lines. After treatment of EAC mice with flaxseeds extract, body weight, ascites volume and viable tumour cell count, serum and ascites oxidative stress, and inflammatory markers decreased significantly. The ethanol flaxseeds extract has potential antiproliferative activity against some ovary and endometrial malignant cells and EAC. This effect can be attributed to the phenols content, and its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activity.

Fruit economic characteristics and yields of 40 superior Camellia oleifera Abel plants in the low-hot valley area of Guizhou Province, China

In this study, we assessed 26 economic characteristics and yields of the mature fruit of 40 superior Camellia oleifera Abel plants grown at the C. oleifera germplasm resource nursery in the low-hot valley area of Southwest Zuizhou, China, using principal component analysis (PCA). Correlations among the characteristics and the variability of the plants in these characteristics were also analyzed. Out of the 26 characteristics, 16 primary economic characteristics were selected for comprehensive assessment, based on the results of which the plants were ordered to obtain excellent C. oleifera germplasms. The data were subjected to PCA, and the 16 characteristics were integrated into 6 independent comprehensive indices, which included PV1 (single-fruit weight), PV2 (pericarp thickness), PV3 (seed rate), PV4 (total unsaturated fatty acids), PV5 (iodine value) and PV6 (dry seed rate). Then, the sum of the products of the contribution rates of the components and components scores was taken as the comprehensive score of each superior plant. In C. oleifera grown in the low-hot valley area, the oil yield exhibited very significant positive correlations with the dry seed rate and kernel rate but a very significant negative correlation with the 100-seed weight. The dry seed rate exhibited very significant negative correlations with the fruit diameter and fresh seed rate. Among the 26 characteristics, the variations of the acid value, peroxide value, number of fertile seeds, 100-seed weight and single-fruit weight were great; those of the fruit diameter, fruit height, kernel yield, oleic acid and total unsaturated fatty acid were small, showing strong genetic stability. According to the obtained comprehensive scores, the top 10 plants were ordered as follows: CY-6 > CY-13 > CY-31 > CY-11 > CY-16 > CY-22 > CY-28 > CY-23 > CY-24 > CY-29. This result was basically consistent with the ranking result according to the average yield per unit crown width within five years. In the low-hot valley area of Guizhou, C. oleifera exhibits excellent performance in single-fruit weight, total unsaturated fatty acids and kernel rate, 6 characteristics, i.e., acid value, peroxide value, single-fruit weight, the number of fertile seeds, 100-seed weight and α-linolenic acid possess high breeding potentials.

Nutritional and Therapeutic Potential of Sesame Seeds

The major issue of the current era is an unbalanced and poor diet like unhealthy fast foods, the main cause of various diseases. Most nutraceutical and pharma industries formulating the medicines from artificial sources are expensive and have several side effects. However, scientists are making efforts to find out the natural sources of medicines for the betterment of human health and treatment of diseases. Simultaneously, the worldwide preferences have shifted from artificial to natural resources and unconventional crops (i.e., oilseeds as protein source) and foods are becoming part of regular diet in most of the community, nutraceutical, and pharma industries. Sesame (SesamumindicumL.) is one of the unconventional crops providing multiple benefits due to its special bioactive components, such as sesamin, sesaminol, and gamma-tocopherol, and fatty acids composition like unsaturated fatty acids (i.e., oleic acid, linoleic acid, stearidonic acid, palmitoleic acid, and traces of linolenic acid). Sesame seed oil supplementation not only improves the quality of snack frying oils but also plays a key role in the formation of good quality healthy snack foods. Moreover, its seeds and oil play imperative role in the formulation of medicines utilized for different ailments. The current review highlights the importance and utilization of sesame seed and oil in pharmaceuticals, nutraceuticals, and food (especially snacks) industries.

Comparing Flaxseed and Perindopril in the Prevention of Doxorubicin and Trastuzumab-Induced Cardiotoxicity in C57Bl/6 Mice

Background: Two anti-cancer agents, doxorubicin (DOX) and trastuzumab (TRZ), are commonly used in the management of breast cancer in women. Despite their efficacy in reducing the morbidity and mortality of individuals with breast cancer, the use of these agents is limited by adverse cardiotoxic side effects. Both the nutraceutical agent flaxseed (FLX) and the pharmaceutical drug perindopril (PER) have been studied individually in the prevention of chemotherapy-mediated cardiac dysfunction. The objective of this study was to determine whether the prophylactic administration of FLX is comparable and/or synergistic with PER in preventing DOX + TRZ-induced cardiotoxicity. Methods: Over a six-week period, 81 wild-type C57Bl/6 female mice (8–12 weeks old) were randomized to receive regular chow (RC) or 10% FLX-supplemented diets with or without PER (3 mg/kg/week; oral gavage). Starting at week 4, mice were randomized to receive a weekly injection of saline or DOX (8 mg/kg) + TRZ (3 mg/kg). Serial echocardiography was conducted weekly and histological and biochemical analyses were performed at the end of the study. Results: In mice treated with RC + DOX + TRZ, left ventricular ejection (LVEF) decreased from 75 ± 2% at baseline to 37 ± 3% at week 6. However, prophylactic treatment with either FLX, PER, or FLX + PER partially preserved left ventricular systolic function with LVEF values of 61 ± 2%, 62 ± 2%, and 64 ± 2%, respectively. The administration of FLX, PER, or FLX + PER was also partially cardioprotective in preserving cardiomyocyte integrity and attenuating the expression of the inflammatory biomarker NF-κB due to DOX + TRZ administration. Conclusion: FLX was equivalent to PER at preventing DOX + TRZ-induced cardiotoxicity in a chronic in vivo murine model.

Novel Gluten-Free Cinnamon Rolls by Substituting Wheat Flour with Resistant Starch, Lupine and Flaxseed Flour

Celiac disease (CD) is an immunological mediated disorder that occurs to genetically susceptible individuals who suffer from gluten consumption. Therefore, the most effective treatment of CD is a life-long gluten-free diet. This study aimed to produce a nutritious gluten-free cinnamon roll, where resistant starch and lupine flour were used instead of wheat flour, in addition to 10% flaxseed flour and a fixed amount of hydrocolloid (1% xanthan gum). Eight different gluten-free cinnamon roll treatments (T1–T8) were produced with different ratios of resistant starch and lupine flour according to the following percentages (85:5, 80:10, 75:15, 70:20, 65:25, 60:30, 55:35 and 50:40, respectively). The proximate analysis, physical properties, color measurements and sensory evaluation of all cinnamon roll treatments and flours were determined. It was found that lupine and flaxseed flours in all different treatments had significantly (p ≤ 0.05) higher levels of ash, protein, lipid and crude fiber compared to wheat flour treatment (control treatment). However, carbohydrate levels were significantly (p ≤ 0.05) higher in control treatment compared with treatments 3–8. Gluten-free cinnamon rolls had significantly (p ≤ 0.05) higher levels of unsaturated fatty acids (oleic acid, linoleic acid and linolenic acid) than control. Further, there were significant differences in lightness (L*), redness (a*) and yellowness (b*) color values between the gluten-free and control treatments. The control cinnamon roll significantly (p ≤ 0.05) had the highest level of lightness and the lowest level of redness. The sensory evaluation obtained by consumer evaluation indicated that control cinnamon rolls significantly (p ≤ 0.05) received the highest score in overall impression, overall flavor, hardness and aftertaste. However, treatment 5 significantly (p ≤ 0.05) received the highest score in all the sensory scores in comparison with other gluten-free treatments. It is possible to develop a quality gluten-free cinnamon roll with respect to nutritional value manifested in higher levels of protein, fibers, unsaturated acids and prebiotics with acceptable sensory attributes.

The effect of camelina oil on vascular function in essential hypertensive patients with metabolic syndrome: a randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blind study

BACKGROUND

The effects of a dietary supplementation with the vegetable ω-3 α-linolenic acid (ALA) on cardiovascular homeostasis are unclear. In this context, it would be interesting to assess the effects of camelina oil.

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to assess the cardiovascular and metabolic effects of camelina oil in hypertensive patients with metabolic syndrome.

METHODS

In a double-blind, placebo-controlled randomized study, treated essential hypertensive patients with metabolic syndrome received, during 6 mo, either cyclodextrin-complexed camelina oil containing ≈ 1.5 g ALA/d (n = 40) or an isocaloric placebo (n = 41), consisting of the same quantity of cyclodextrins and wheat starch. Anthropometric data, plasma lipids, glycemia, insulinemia, creatininemia, TBARs, high-sensitivity C-reactive protein, and n-3, n-6, and n-9 fatty acids in erythrocyte membranes were measured. Peripheral and central blood pressures, arterial stiffness, carotid intima-media thickness, and brachial artery endothelium-dependent flow-mediated dilatation (FMD) and endothelium-independent dilatation were assessed.

RESULTS

Compared with placebo, camelina oil increased ALA (mean ± SD: 0 ± 0.04 compared with 0.08 ± 0.06%, P <0.001), its elongation product EPA (0 ± 0.5 compared with 0.16 ± 0.65%, P <0.05), and the n-9 gondoic acid (GA; 0 ± 0.04 compared with 0.08 ± 0.04%, P <0.001). No between-group difference was observed for cardiovascular parameters. However, changes in FMD were associated with the magnitude of changes in EPA (r = 0.26, P = 0.03). Compared with placebo, camelina oil increased fasting glycemia (-0.2 ± 0.6 compared with 0.3 ± 0.5 mmol/L, P <0.001) and HOMA-IR index (-0.8 ± 2.5 compared with 0.5 ± 0.9, P <0.01), without affecting plasma lipids, or inflammatory and oxidative stress markers. Changes in HOMA-IR index were correlated with the magnitude of changes in GA (r = 0.32, P <0.01). Nutritional intake remained similar between groups.

CONCLUSION

ALA supplementation with camelina oil did not improve vascular function but adversely affected glucose metabolism in hypertensive patients with metabolic syndrome. Whether this adverse effect on insulin sensitivity is related to GA enrichment, remains to be elucidated.

Effect of ultrasonic pretreatment for lignan accumulation in flax sprouts (Linum usitatissimum L.)

This study evaluated different ultrasonic treatments for lignan biosynthesis in two varieties of flax sprouts. Results showed that lignans in flax sprouts significantly raised with ultrasonic pretreatment. Secoisolariciresinol diglucoside dramatically increased by about 6-fold at the flax sprouts. Ultrasonic pretreatment could also affect the accumulation of caffeic acid and p-coumaric acid in flax sprouts. Moreover, it is suggested that fiber flax sprout was more sensitive to ultrasonic pretreatment. The expression levels of genes involved in the biosynthesis of lignan were analyzed and the results could partly explain the accumulation of these compounds. The contents of secoisolariciresinol diglucoside were clustered with ferulic acid, which indicated that the accumulation of ferulic acid might be the key factor during flax sprout maturation for lignan accumulation. Present study could be useful guidance for ultrasonic pretreatment in the promotion of lignan accumulation and the fortification of nutritional values in flax sprouts as a functional vegetable.

Comparative structural and techno-functional elucidation of full-fat and defatted flaxseed extracts: implication of atmospheric pressure plasma jet

BACKGROUND

The relatively inferior techno-functionality of flaxseed protein/polysaccharide complexes, especially regarding emulsifying and antioxidant activities, has partially limited their implication in the health food system. The present study aimed to investigate the effects of an atmospheric pressure plasma jet (APPJ) on the physicochemical, structural and selected techno-functional properties of flaxseed extracts.

RESULTS

The results obtained showed that the full-fat and defatted flaxseed extract solutions (5 mg mL^-1 ) displayed a sustainable decline in pH (-54.06%, -48.80%, P < 0.05) and zeta potential values (-29.42%, -44.28%, P < 0.05), but a gradual increase in particle sizes, as visualised by an optical microscope, during 0-120 s of APPJ treatment. Moreover, the APPJ led to initial decrease but subsequent increase in protein carbonyls and secondary lipid oxidation products, and concurrently changed the spatial conformation and microstructure of flaxseed extracts, as indicated by endogenous fluorescence properties and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Additionally, the protein subunit remodeling and gum polysaccharides depolymerization were different for full-fat and defatted flaxseed extracts after 30 s of APPJ exposure. Importantly, the emulsifying and antioxidant activities of defatted flaxseed extract were particularly improved, as assessed by cyro-SEM and 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl radical scavenging activity following 15-30 s of APPJ treatment, as a result of the changing interactions between protein and gum polysaccharides, as well as the release of specific phenolic compounds.

CONCLUSION

APPJ could serve as a promising strategy for tailoring the specific techno-functionality of flaxseed extracts based on mild structural modification. © 2021 Society of Chemical Industry.

Influences of microwave exposure to flaxseed on the physicochemical stability of oil bodies: Implication of interface remodeling

This study aimed to investigate the influences of microwave (MV) exposure to flaxseed on the physicochemical stability of oil bodies (OBs) focused on the interface remodeling. The results showed that the intracellular OBs subjected to absolute rupture and then partial dispersion by protein bodies visualized by TEM following MV exposure (1-5 min; 700 W). After aqueous extraction, native flax OBs manifested excellent spherical particles with completely intact surface and wide particle size distribution (0.5-3.0 μm) examined by cryo-SEM. Upon 1-5 min of MV exposure, the defective interface integrity and beaded morphology were successively observed for flax OBs, accompanied by the impaired physical stability and rheological behavior due to the newly assembled phospholipid/protein interface. Notably, the profitable migration of phenolic compounds effectively suppressed the lipid peroxidation and protein carbonylation in flax OBs. Thus, MV exposure (1-5 min; 700 W) was unfavorable for improving the physical stability of flax OBs.

Flaxseed Mucilage (IQP-LU-104) Reduces Body Weight in Overweight and Moderately Obese Individuals in a 12-week, Three-Arm, Double-Blind, Randomized, and Placebo-Controlled Clinical Study

INTRODUCTION

The aim of this study was to evaluate the benefit and tolerability of two dosages of a proprietary flaxseed mucilage (IQP-LU-104) in reducing body weight in overweight and moderately obese individuals.

METHODS

In a double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled, bi-center trial, 108 participants (body mass index [BMI] 25-<35 kg/m2) were randomly allocated to receive either IQP-LU-104 high dose (104HD), IQP-LU-104 low dose (104LD), or placebo. Participants were instructed to consume 1 sachet of the investigational product (containing IQP-LU-104 or matching placebo) before or with main meals twice daily and to follow a balanced but hypocaloric diet (20% reduction of individual's daily energy requirements) for 12 weeks. At week 0 (baseline), and weeks 4, 8, and 12 of the intervention periods, the participants' body weight, BMI, body fat composition, and waist and hip circumferences were measured. Blood samples were collected for safety assessment at screening visit (week -2) and at the end of the study. Adverse events were assessed by the investigators through interviewing the participants and were recorded at every visit post screening.

RESULTS

At the end of the 12-week study, body weight reduction was greater in the 104HD group (4.96 ± 1.89 kg, p < 0.001 vs. placebo) and 104LD group (3.70 ± 2.57 kg, p < 0.001 vs. placebo) compared to the placebo group (1.33 ± 2.05 kg). 68% and 46% of participants in the 104HD group (p < 0.001 vs. placebo) and 104LD group (p = 0.002 vs. placebo), respectively, experienced at least 5% weight loss, compared to 9% of participants in the placebo group. Significant decreases in waist and hip circumferences were observed in both the 104HD and 104LD groups compared to the placebo group (each p < 0.001). 104HD group had significantly higher reduction in body fat mass (4.25 ± 5.86 kg) than the placebo group (1.06 ± 3.20 kg) (p = 0.002). Respiratory tract infections and gastrointestinal symptoms were the main adverse events reported and none of the adverse events were related to the intake of IQP-LU-104.

CONCLUSION

Results demonstrated IQP-LU-104 is safe and efficacious in body weight reduction at both dosages in overweight and moderately obese individuals.

Hemp Seeds, Flaxseed, and Açaí Berries: Health Benefits and Nutritional Importance with Emphasis on the Lipid Content

Abstract:

Some plant seeds and berries have gained increased recognition due to their wide variety of bioactive compounds. Many of these foods are rich in lipids with high nutritional value, of which n-3 and n-6 essential fatty acids stand out. However, knowledge of the chemical composition and biological activity of these compounds and their value as a source of healthy lipids is far from being fully explored. The benefits of the intake of hemp seeds, flaxseed, and açaí berries, considered functional foods, have been compiled in this review. Likewise, their general chemical composition will be described to evaluate their relevance in a healthy diet, highlighting their lipid components and health lipid indices. The fibres and essential fatty acids of hemp seeds and flaxseed and the antioxidant properties of açaí berries provide them protective roles against several chronic non-communicable diseases and represent significant beneficial effects that add value to these healthy natural products. More research is needed to deepen the knowledge on their lipids’ molecular composition and bioactivity.

The quality and antioxidant elucidation of germinated flaxseed treated with acidic electrolyzed water

The endogenous fortification of antioxidant lipid concomitants in flaxseed was imperative to improve the oxidative stability of α-linolenic acid (ALA) in flaxseed and flaxseed oil upon processing, storage and gastrointestinal digestion. The comparative effects of acidic electrolyzed water (ACEW) and tap water (TW) on the triglyceride configuration, typical lipid concomitants, and antioxidant properties of flaxseed were conducted during 0-5 days of germination. The results showed that ACEW enhanced the germination rate of flaxseed by 18.25% and simultaneously suppressed the dynamic depletion of ALA by 5.32% when compared with TW (p < .05). The total phenolic acids, lignans, and flavonoids were effectively accumulated in flaxseed following ACEW-mediated germination with the further increase by 4.82%, 15.48%, and 8.22% in comparison with those induced by TW (p < .05). The total contents of cyclolinopeptides in flaxseed progressively dropped following either ACEW or TW treatment, a slighter decrease by 5.59% for flaxseed treated by ACEW than that by TW. Notably, the maximum accumulation of tocopherols and phytosterols had been early obtained for flaxseed treated with ACEW for 2-3 days due to the de novo synthesis or intermolecular conformational transition (p < .05). Most importantly, ACEW-mediated germination led to higher increment of the thermal oxidative stability and antioxidant properties of flaxseed and flaxseed oil in comparison to TW. In brief, the initial oxidation temperature increased by 7.09% and 3.06% (p < .05), and the antioxidant activities as evaluated by DPPH, ABTS, and FRAP values raised by 3.86%-28.07% and 4.21%-9.18% (p < .05), respectively. These findings clarify that the germination especailly mediated by ACEW could be an effective method to further optimize the nutritional and functional properties of flaxseed through reconstructing the endogenous antioxidant system.

Effect of flaxseed on systemic inflammation and oxidative stress in diabetic rats with or without chronic kidney disease

Background

Diabetes mellitus (DM) and chronic kidney disease (CKD) are common causes of morbidity and mortality. Flaxseed contains several bioactive compounds that have been shown to possess anti-inflammatory and antioxidative properties. The aim of the present study was to investigate the possible effect of flaxseed in diabetic rats with adenine–induced CKD.

Methods

Male Wister rats (n = 48) were randomly divided into seven equal groups and treated for 33 consecutive days as follows: G1: control. G2 adenine, G3: streptozotocin (STZ), G4: flaxseed, G5: adenine+flaxseed, G6: STZ+flaxseed, G7: adenine+STZ+flaxseed). DM or CKD were experimentally induced by a single intraperitoneal injection of streptozotocin (STZ) or by adenine via oral gavage, respectively.

Results

Rats fed adenine alone exhibited several changes including decreased body weight, increased food and water intake and urine output, increased urinary albumin/creatinine ratio. They also showed an increase in plasma urea and, creatinine, indoxyl sulfate, neutrophil gelatinase-associated lipocalin and cystatin C, and a decrease in renalase activity. These were associated with significant changes in inflammatory and oxidative biomarkers, e.g., increase in 8-isoprostane, 8 -hydroxy -2-deoxy guanosine and decrease in antioxidant enzymes, as well as increase in interleukins 1β and 6, and NF-κB, and a decrease in interlukin-10. Histopathologically, there was increased tubular necrosis and fibrosis. Concomitant administration of adenine and STZ further worsened the renal damage induced by adenine alone. Flaxseed significantly ameliorated the changes caused by adenine and STZ, given either singly or in combination.

Conclusion

These findings suggest that flaxseed is a potential therapeutic agent in attenuating the progression of CKD in diabetes.

Data on cecal and fecal microbiota and predicted metagenomes profiles of female mice receiving whole flaxseed or its oil and secoisolariciresinol diglucoside components

Dietary flaxseed (FS) and its components including FS oil (FSO), secoisolariciresinol diglucoside (SDG) and fiber, are processed by the gut microbiota. These data are in support of the article entitled “Discriminatory and cooperative effects within the mouse gut microbiota in response to flaxseed and its oil and lignan components”, Journal of Nutritional Biochemistry [1]. Here we describe data generated by 16S rRNA sequencing of DNA obtained from cecum contents and feces of C57BL/6 female mice fed either a basal diet (BD, AIN93G), or isocaloric diets containing 10% FS, or 10% FS-equivalent amounts of FSO or SDG for 21 days. These include bacterial community composition and inferred KEGG pathways; the raw data are publicly available at the NCBI SRA database (BioProject ID PRJNA683934). Furthermore, this work includes detailed experimentation procedures, total bacterial counts (qPCR) in the cecum content and feces, and correlation analysis between a selected bacterial genus, Bacteroides and a predicted metabolic pathway. FS is utilized worldwide, especially for the prevention and/or treatment of diseases including cardiovascular diseases, diabetes and cancer. These data will be valuable as a reference to study different FS cultivars and SDG- or FSO- enriched products on the gut microbiota, to study gut microbial responses to FS and its components in different mouse strains and mammalian hosts to elucidate individualized effects, and to understand the importance of the gut microbiota for FS benefits.

Pertinence of nutriments for a stalwart body

Nutrition plays a significant role in the prevention and treatment of common diseases. Some superb dietary choices such as functional foods and nutriments can surely help fight against certain diseases and provide various advantages to an individual's health. Plants have been regarded as a primary source of highly effective conventional drugs leading to the development of potential novel agents, which may boost the treatment. Growing demand for functional foods acts as an aid for the producers to expand in agriculture and pave the way for innovation and research by the nutraceutical industry. The given review highlights how various functional foods such as tomatoes, chocolates, garlic and flaxseed are currently being defined, their sources, benefit in treating various ailments and the challenges with their use.

Therapeutic Effect of Sunflower Seeds and Flax Seeds on Diabetes

Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a metabolic syndrome that is spreading like an epidemic throughout the world without any differentiation of races and ethnic groups and has become the cause of death worldwide. It is characterized by high levels of glucose in the blood and has different types classified on the basis of varying pathophysiology. Type 1 diabetes or insulin-dependent diabetes is characterized by insulin insufficiency due to autoimmune dysfunction. Type 2 diabetes or non-insulin-dependent diabetes results from the combination of resistance to insulin action or/and inadequate insulin secretion. Gestational diabetes (GDM) is defined as hyperglycemia due to insulin resistance during pregnancy. Other types include the monogenic type of DM such as neonatal diabetes mellitus (NDM), maturity-onset diabetes of young (MODY), and diabetes in metabolic syndrome. Diabetes is diagnosed by criteria given by American Diabetes Association (ADA) for different tests like fasting plasma glucose test and hemoglobin A1c test. It is characterized by polydipsia, polyphagia, hyperglycemia, and glucosuria. Diabetes mellitus is managed through medications but many studies have proven that consumption of particular foods leads to decreased glucose levels in diabetic patients. Seeds like sunflower and flax seeds have a role in the reduction of glucose levels and can be used to treat type 2 diabetes. The bioactive components in these seeds like chlorogenic acid in sunflower seeds and secoisolariciresinol diglucosoid are involved in the treatment of insulin resistance or insulin production. In different studies, different amounts of these seed extracts were consumed by rats and humans and it resulted in better glycemic control, which provides information that these seeds have anti-diabetic properties.

Effect of the Addition of Whole and Milled Flaxseed on the Quality Characteristics of Yogurt

The present study aimed to analyze the effect of the addition of whole and milled flaxseed on the quality characteristics of yogurt. In the first stage of the research, the optimal dose of flaxseed was determined. In the second stage of the research, it was assessed whether the selected qualities of yogurt were affected by the form of flaxseed (whole or milled) and the time of addition (before or after fermentation). The yogurts obtained were stored at 5 °C for 21 days, and the changes in active acidity, apparent viscosity, syneresis, and the number of yogurt bacteria were determined. The results of the second stage of the study were subjected to two-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) (p < 0.05). The study showed that the addition of milled flaxseed to yogurts in the amount of 1% was optimal. Time and form of flaxseed supplementation significantly influenced the changes in active acidity, apparent viscosity, and syneresis in the tested yogurts. The addition of flaxseed did not significantly change the content of yogurt bacteria. The results indicate that to achieve increased apparent viscosity and reduced syneresis, it is more advantageous to use milled flaxseed rather than whole flaxseed.

Heme-oxygenase and lipid mediators in obesity and associated cardiometabolic diseases: Therapeutic implications

Obesity-mediated metabolic syndrome remains the leading cause of death worldwide. Among many potential targets for pharmacological intervention, a promising strategy involves the heme oxygenase (HO) system, specifically its inducible form, HO-1. This review collects and updates much of the current knowledge relevant to pharmacology and clinical medicine concerning HO-1 in metabolic diseases and its effect on lipid metabolism. HO-1 has pleotropic effects that collectively reduce inflammation, while increasing vasodilation and insulin and leptin sensitivity. Recent reports indicate that HO-1 with its antioxidants via the effect of bilirubin increases formation of biologically active lipid metabolites such as epoxyeicosatrienoic acid (EET), omega-3 and other polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs). Similarly, HO-1and bilirubin are potential therapeutic targets in the treatment of fat-induced liver diseases. HO-1-mediated upregulation of EET is capable not only of reversing endothelial dysfunction and hypertension, but also of reversing cardiac remodeling, a hallmark of the metabolic syndrome. This process involves browning of white fat tissue (i.e. formation of healthy adipocytes) and reduced lipotoxicity, which otherwise will be toxic to the heart. More importantly, this review examines the activity of EET in biological systems and a series of pathways that explain its mechanism of action and discusses how these might be exploited for potential therapeutic use. We also discuss the link between cardiac ectopic fat deposition and cardiac function in humans, which is similar to that described in obese mice and is regulated by HO-1-EET-PGC1α signaling, a potent negative regulator of the inflammatory adipokine NOV.

Omega-3 Fatty Acid Fortification of Flax Through Nutri-Priming

Omega-3 (n-3) fatty acids (FA) play an essential role in human physiology and health. As a result, a variety of n-3 FA-fortified functional foods have become commercially available for human consumption. These fortified functional foods are created through various processes; however, nutri-priming, a potentially promising fortification approach, has not been utilized to develop plant-based n-3 fortified foods. We sought to determine whether nutri-priming is a viable option to enrich seeds and sprouts with n-3 FA. Additionally, we assessed whether n-3 FA nutri-priming would inhibit germination of the primed seeds. To address these goals, we nutri-primed brown flax in three priming solutions, control [0% fish oil (FO)], 10% FO and a 20% FO solution, and determined the FA content and profile of seeds and sprouts and germination percentage of primed seeds. n-3 FA nutri-priming with FO altered the FA profile in seeds and sprouts, with increases in the absolute content of 20:5 n-3, 22:6 n-3, 22:5 n3, 18:4 n-3, and 20:4 n-6. However, n-3 FA nutri-priming did not increase the absolute content of 18:2 n-6, 18:3 n-3, total saturated FA, total monounsaturated FA, total polyunsaturated FA, total n-6 FA, or total n-3 FA. Our results also showed that n-3 nutri-priming decreased the germination percentage of primed seeds, with 10 and 20% FO priming solution reducing germination by 4.3 and 6.2%, respectively. Collectively, n-3 nutri-priming modified the n-3 FA profile in flax; however, the process does not increase the total n-3 FA content and inhibits germination of primed seeds. Further research utilizing different seed types, oil types, and oil concentrations needs to be conducted to fully determine if n-3 nutri-priming is a commercially viable approach for n-3 fortification of seeds and sprouts.

An overview on plants cannabinoids endorsed with cardiovascular effects

Nowadays cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) are the major causes for the reduction of the quality of life. The endocannabinoid system is an attractive therapeutic target for the treatment of cardiovascular disorders due to its involvement in vasomotor control, cardiac contractility, blood pressure and vascular inflammation. Alteration in cannabinoid signalling can be often related to cardiotoxicity, circulatory shock, hypertension, and atherosclerosis. Plants have been the major sources of medicines until modern eras in which researchers are experiencing a rediscovery of natural compounds as novel therapeutics. One of the most versatile plant is Cannabis sativa L., containing phytocannabinoids that may play a role in the treatment of CVDs. The aim of this review is to collect and investigate several less studied plants rich in cannabinoid-like active compounds able to interact with cannabinoid system; these plants may play a pivotal role in the treatment of disorders related to the cardiovascular system.

Discriminatory and cooperative effects within the mouse gut microbiota in response to flaxseed and its oil and lignan components

Gut microbial processing of dietary flaxseed (FS) contributes to its health benefits, but the relative effects of its bioactive components (lignans, omega-3 fatty acids, fiber) on the microbiota are unclear. We investigated the gut microbial compositional and functional responses to whole FS and its isolated components, FS oil (FSO) and secoisolariciresinol diglucoside (SDG) (precursor to microbial-derived enterolignans) to help understand their contribution to whole FS benefits. Cecum content and fecal samples were collected from C57BL/6 female mice fed a basal diet (AIN93G) or isocaloric diets containing 10% FS or 10% FS-equivalent amounts of FSO or SDG for 21 days. Cecal and fecal microbiota composition and predicted genomic functions, and their relationship with serum enterolignans were evaluated. Only FS modified the community structure. Shared- and diet-specific enriched taxa and functions were identified. Carbohydrate and protein processing functions were enriched in FS mice, and there was a positive correlation between select enriched taxa, encompassing fiber degraders and SDG metabolizers, and serum enterolignans. This was not observed in mice receiving isolated FSO and SDG, suggesting that FS fiber supports SDG microbial metabolism. In conclusion, the cooperative activities of a diverse microbiota are necessary to process FS components and, when administered at the amount present in FS, these components may act together to affect SDG-derived enterolignans production. This has implications for the use of FS, FSO and SDG in clinical practice.

Do Bioactive Food Compound with Avena sativa L., Linum usitatissimum L. and Glycine max L. Supplementation with Moringa oleifera Lam. Have a Role against Nutritional Disorders? An Overview of the In Vitro and In Vivo Evidence

Functional clinical nutrition is an integrative science; it uses dietary strategies, functional foods and medicinal plants, as well as combinations thereof. Both functional foods and medicinal plants, whether associated or not, form nutraceuticals, which can bring benefits to health, in addition to being included in the prevention and treatment of diseases. Some functional food effects from Avena sativa L. (oats), Linum usitatissimum L. (brown flaxseed), Glycine max L. (soya) and Moringa oleifera have been proposed for nutritional disorders through in vitro and in vivo tests. A formulation called a bioactive food compound (BFC) showed efficiency in the association of oats, flaxseed and soy for dyslipidemia and obesity. In this review, we discuss the effects of BFC in other nutritional disorders, as well as the beneficial effects of M. oleifera in obesity, cardiovascular disease, diabetes mellitus type 2, metabolic syndrome, intestinal inflammatory diseases/colorectal carcinogenesis and malnutrition. In addition, we hypothesized that a BFC enriched with M. oleifera could present a synergistic effect and play a potential benefit in nutritional disorders. The traditional consumption of M. oleifera preparations can allow associations with other formulations, such as BFC. These nutraceutical formulations can be easily accepted and can be used in sweet preparations (fruit and/or vegetable juices, fruit and/or vegetable vitamins, porridges, yogurt, cream, mousses or fruit salads, cakes and cookies) or savory (vegetable purees, soups, broths and various sauces), cooked or not. These formulations can be low-cost and easy-to-use. The association of bioactive food substances in dietary formulations can facilitate adherence to consumption and, thus, contribute to the planning of future nutritional interventions for the prevention and adjuvant treatment of the clinical conditions presented in this study. This can be extended to the general population. However, an investigation through clinical studies is needed to prove applicability in humans.

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome in Insulin-Resistant Adolescents with Obesity: The Role of Nutrition Therapy and Food Supplements as a Strategy to Protect Fertility

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is the most common endocrine disorder in young reproductive-aged women. PCOS is often associated with obesity and impairs reproductive health. Even though several theories have been proposed to explain the pathogenic mechanism of PCOS, the role of insulin resistance (IR) as a key etiological component, independently of (but amplified by) obesity, is well recognized. The consequent hyperinsulinemia activates excessive ovarian androgen production, leading to PCOS. Additionally, the state of chronic inflammation related to obesity impacts ovarian physiology due to insulin sensitivity impairment. The first-line treatment for adolescents with obesity and PCOS includes lifestyle changes; personalized dietary interventions; and, when needed, weight loss. Medical nutrition therapy (MNT) and the use of specific food supplements in these patients aim at improving symptoms and signs, including insulin resistance and metabolic and reproductive functions. The purpose of this narrative review is to present and discuss PCOS in adolescents with obesity, its relationship with IR and the role of MNT and food supplements in treatment. Appropriate early dietary intervention for the management of adolescents with obesity and PCOS should be considered as the recommended approach to restore ovulation and to protect fertility.

Nutritional, Sensory, Texture Properties and Volatile Compounds Profile of Biscuits with Roasted Flaxseed Flour Partially Substituting for Wheat Flour

The study aimed at assessing effects of partial replacement (0–40%) of wheat flour with roasted flaxseed flour (RFSF) on the quality attributes of biscuits. Nutritional, antioxidative, volatile and sensory properties, as well as texture analysis and the contents of macroelements and microelement were studied. Increasing RFSF content in biscuits resulted in a significant increase (p < 0.05) in protein (from 8.35% to 10.77%), fat (from 15.19% to 28.34%) and ash (from 1.23% to 2.60%) while the hardness and spread factor of the biscuits decreased with the increased level of roasted flaxseed flour. Moreover, the addition of 40% RFSF registered a positive influence on the fibre content of the final baked biscuits, increasing its value about 6.7-fold than in the control sample. Total phenolic content, antioxidant activity and biscuits’ aroma volatile profile increased their amounts with RFSF addition. The nutritional, textural and sensorial results of the present study demonstrated that 25% RFSF could be added in the biscuits manufacturing without affecting the biscuits aftertaste, offering promising healthy and nutritious alternative to consumers.

The Influence of Diet and Sex on the Gut Microbiota of Lean and Obese JCR:LA-cp Rats

There is an increased interest in the gut microbiota as it relates to health and obesity. The impact of diet and sex on the gut microbiota in conjunction with obesity also demands extensive systemic investigation. Thus, the influence of sex, diet, and flaxseed supplementation on the gut microbiota was examined in the JCR:LA-cp rat model of genetic obesity. Male and female obese rats were randomized into four groups (n = 8) to receive, for 12 weeks, either (a) control diet (Con), (b) control diet supplemented with 10% ground flaxseed (CFlax), (c) a high-fat, high sucrose (HFHS) diet, or (d) HFHS supplemented with 10% ground flaxseed (HFlax). Male and female JCR:LA-cp lean rats served as genetic controls and received similar dietary interventions. Illumine MiSeq sequencing revealed a richer microbiota in rats fed control diets rather than HFHS diets. Obese female rats had lower alpha-diversity than lean female; however, both sexes of obese and lean JCR rats differed significantly in β-diversity, as their gut microbiota was composed of different abundances of bacterial types. The feeding of an HFHS diet affected the diversity by increasing the phylum Bacteroidetes and reducing bacterial species from phylum Firmicutes. Fecal short-chain fatty acids such as acetate, propionate, and butyrate-producing bacterial species were correspondingly impacted by the HFHS diet. Flax supplementation improved the gut microbiota by decreasing the abundance of Blautia and Eubacterium dolichum. Collectively, our data show that an HFHS diet results in gut microbiota dysbiosis in a sex-dependent manner. Flaxseed supplementation to the diet had a significant impact on gut microbiota diversity under both flax control and HFHS dietary conditions.

Consumption of Sourdough Breads Improves Postprandial Glucose Response and Produces Sourdough-Specific Effects on Biochemical and Inflammatory Parameters and Mineral Absorption

To evaluate responses to different sourdough breads, six groups of rats were fed a conventional refined wheat bread with no sourdough content (C_WhB); a leavened spelt bread baked with Rebola sourdough (Re_SpB); a durum wheat bread with Rebola sourdough (Re_DuB); or a multigrain bread leavened with Rebola (Re_MGB), Carla (Ca_MGB), or San Francisco sourdough (SF_MGB). Compared to C_WhB-fed rats, Re_SpB-, Re_DuB-, and Re_MGB-fed animals showed lower postprandial blood glucose levels, whereas SF_MGB-fed rats displayed a decreased postprandial blood insulin response and glucose and insulin products. The 3 week intake of Ca_MGB decreased blood triacylglycerols and the relative apparent absorption (RAA) of Fe²⁺, Cu²⁺, and Zn²⁺, whereas Re_MGB-fed animals showed lower serum levels of the MCP-1 inflammatory marker and decreased the Fe RAA. The 3 week consumption of the multigrain bread produced sourdough-specific effects. Thus, Re_MGB-fed animals displayed higher insulin concentrations than Ca_MGB- and SF_MGB-fed rats and decreased blood MCP-1 levels compared to those of Ca_MGB-fed animals. In addition, Ca_MGB-fed rats showed lower serum triacylglycerol concentrations than those of Re_MGB- and SF_MGB-fed animals, whereas SF_MGB-fed rats displayed higher RAA values of Ca²⁺, Cu²⁺, Fe²⁺, Mg²⁺, and Zn²⁺ than their Re_MGB and Ca_MGB counterparts. These sourdough-specific effects could be related to changes in the contents of sugars and organic acids, acidity, microbial composition, and proteolytic activity among sourdoughs. Hence, the consumption of sourdough breads improved postprandial blood glucose and insulin responses and produced sourdough-specific effects on RAA and serum insulin and triacylglycerol and MCP-1 levels in rats, showing that SF_MGB has the most promising beneficial effects.

Fortification of biscuit with sidr leaf and flaxseed mitigates immunosuppression and nephrotoxicity induced by cyclosporine A

The focus of consumers in healthy food turned to the possible health benefits of particular foods and food ingredients. This study aimed to evaluate the newly fortified biscuits supplemented with sidr leaves and flaxseed and to highlight their nutritional quality and health benefits against cyclosporine A-induced dexterous effects. Sidr leaves (SL), and flaxseed (FS) were used in the preparation of fortified biscuits. Proximate analysis and sensory evaluation were carried out on the biscuits. In in vivo study, 15 male albino mice were used for each group. Groups were divided into control, CsA, SL, FS, and SL+FS-treated groups. Hematological analysis, kidney function tests, oxidative stress, and anti-oxidant status were estimated. Flow cytometry was utilized to detect apoptosis and autophagy levels. The enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) was used for detection of interleukin-2 (IL-2), interferon-γ (IFN-γ), and transforming growth factor β1 (TGF-β1) levels. The composition of biscuits complemented by SL and FS demonstrated significant improvement in the nutritional value represented by the increase in overall protein, crude fat, crude fiber, ash, and carbohydrate contents. Treatment with SL and FS restored the disturbance in hematological, kidney function, oxidative, and antioxidant biomarkers. CsA-induced apoptotic and autophagic renal cell death was suppressed. Cytokines and pro-inflammatory markers were ameliorated. The use of SL and FS in dietary products can be recommended as a functional food. Moreover, they showed renal-protective, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and immune-enhancing activities. PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS: Sidr leaves (SL) and flaxseed (FS) were used in the preparation of fortified biscuits. The composition of biscuits complemented by SL and FS demonstrated a significant improvement in the nutritional values represented by the increase in overall protein, crude fat, crude fiber, ash, and carbohydrate contents. SL and FS showed a potential therapeutic activity in reversing CsA-induced dexterous side effects by acting as an antioxidant, antiapoptotic, antiautophagic, anti-inflammatory, renal-protective, and immune-enhancing agents. The use of sidr leaves and flaxseed in dietary products can be recommended as a functional food. Supplementation of SL and/or FS to the diet is recommended to ensure a good health. Moreover, introducing awareness for the patients utilizing CsA to use SL and FS in their diets.

Microencapsulation of Flaxseed Oil—State of Art

Microencapsulation is a well-known technology for the lipid delivery system. It prevents the oxidation of fatty acids and maintains the quality of lipid after extraction from oil seed and processing. In flaxseed oil, the amount of ω-3 and ω-6 polyunsaturated fatty acids are 39.90–60.42% and 12.25–17.44%, respectively. A comprehensive review article on the microencapsulation of flaxseed oil has not been published yet. Realizing the great advantages of flaxseed oil, information about different technologies related to the microencapsulation of flaxseed oil and their characteristics are discussed in a comprehensive way, in this review article. To prepare the microcapsule of flaxseed oil, an emulsion of oil-water is performed along with a wall material (matrix), followed by drying with a spray-dryer or freeze-dryer. Different matrices, such as plant and animal-based proteins, maltodextrin, gum Arabic, and modified starch are used for the encapsulation of flaxseed oil. In some cases, emulsifiers, such as Tween 80 and soya lecithin are used to prepare flaxseed oil microcapsules. Physico-chemical and bio-chemical characteristics of flaxseed oil microcapsules depend on process parameters, ratio of oil and matrix, and characteristics of the matrix. As an example, the size of the microcapsule, prepared with spray-drying and freeze-drying ranges between 10–400 and 20–5000 μm, respectively. It may be considered that the comprehensive information on the encapsulation of flaxseed oil will boost the development of functional foods and biopharmaceuticals.

Unexpected challenges for the translation of research on food interventions to applications in the food industry: using flaxseed research as an example

One of the primary purposes of the studies that life science researchers carry out is to translate their findings into demonstrable impacts in the lives of the general population. If we study the mechanism of heart disease, for example, it is our hope that new therapies or preventative strategies can be created from these mechanistic data. In the field of nutrition, it is the ultimate goal to translate research findings on the health benefits of functional foods and nutraceuticals into products consumed by the public that will benefit their health, improve quality of life, prevent disease, and prolong life. However, the pathway from research on the health benefits of specific foods or food products into industry applications is often a pathway with multiple, unexpected roadblocks for the unsuspecting scientist. The purpose of this article, therefore, is to identify these obstacles that have confronted industry translation in the past by using flaxseed research as an example. The ultimate goal of the review is to alert those in research and in the food industry of these translational hindrances to avoid them in the future and promote a more rapid and effective translation of food/health research into marketing success.

Fatty Acid Profile and Enterolactone Content of Early and Commercial Milk of Dairy Cows Supplemented with Flaked Flaxseed during the Dry Period

Various supplementations in animal feeding have been investigate in order to enrich food of animal origin with n-3 fatty acids. Although the effects of flaxseeds inclusion in diets for lactating dairy have already been assessed, few studies have focused on this n-3 source supplementation during the transition period. The aim of this work was to evaluate the effects of flacked flaxseed (200 g/head/day; 2.13% DM) dietary treatment during the dry period on milk yield and quality in the 30 days after calving. In addition, the enterolactone content in plasma (before and after calving) and in milk of cows fed diets supplemented or not with flaxseed was considered. The study demonstrated that the carry-over effect on the milk profile of C18:2, C18:3 n-3, and C20:5 n-3 was significantly higher in flaxseed diet than in the control one at 4th day of lactation. A significant increase of enterolactone on milk from flaxseed fed cows was observed only at 15 sampling day. The quick modification in fatty acid (FA) profile of the milk in the first few days of lactation suggests that the carry over effect from pre-calving flaxseed feeding at this concentration was very short lasting.

The Anti-Cancer Effect of Linusorb B3 from Flaxseed Oil through the Promotion of Apoptosis, Inhibition of Actin Polymerization, and Suppression of Src Activity in Glioblastoma Cells

Linusorbs (LOs) are natural peptides found in flaxseed oil that exert various biological activities. Of LOs, LOB3 ([1–9-NαC]-linusorb B3) was reported to have antioxidative and anti-inflammatory activities; however, its anti-cancer activity has been poorly understood. Therefore, this study investigated the anti-cancer effect of LOB3 and its underlying mechanism in glioblastoma cells. LOB3 induced apoptosis and suppressed the proliferation of C6 cells by inhibiting the expression of anti-apoptotic genes, B cell lymphoma 2 (Bcl-2) and p53, as well as promoting the activation of pro-apoptotic caspases, caspase-3 and -9. LOB3 also retarded the migration of C6 cells, which was achieved by suppressing the formation of the actin cytoskeleton critical for the progression, invasion, and metastasis of cancer. Moreover, LOB3 inhibited the activation of the proto-oncogene, Src, and the downstream effector, signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3), in C6 cells. Taken together, these results suggest that LOB3 plays an anti-cancer role by inducing apoptosis and inhibiting the migration of C6 cells through the regulation of apoptosis-related molecules, actin polymerization, and proto-oncogenes.

Lignans and Gut Microbiota: An Interplay Revealing Potential Health Implications

Plant polyphenols are a broad group of bioactive compounds characterized by different chemical and structural properties, low bioavailability, and several in vitro biological activities. Among these compounds, lignans (a non-flavonoid polyphenolic class found in plant foods for human nutrition) have been recently studied as potential modulators of the gut-brain axis. In particular, gut bacterial metabolism is able to convert dietary lignans into therapeutically relevant polyphenols (i.e., enterolignans), such as enterolactone and enterodiol. Enterolignans are characterized by various biologic activities, including tissue-specific estrogen receptor activation, together with anti-inflammatory and apoptotic effects. However, variation in enterolignans production by the gut microbiota is strictly related to both bioaccessibility and bioavailability of lignans through the entire gastrointestinal tract. Therefore, in this review, we summarized the most important dietary source of lignans, exploring the interesting interplay between gut metabolites, gut microbiota, and the so-called gut-brain axis.

Modulation of Paraoxonase-1 and Apoptotic Gene Expression Involves in the Cardioprotective Role of Flaxseed Following Gestational Exposure to Diesel Exhaust Particles and/or Fenitrothion Insecticide

The developmental exposure to a single chemical may elicit apoptosis in the different fetal organs, while the combined effects are restricted. We have examined the protective role of flaxseed (FS) against diesel exhaust particles (DEPs)- and/or fenitrothion (FNT)-induced fetal cardiac oxidative stress and apoptosis. A total of 48 timed pregnant rats were divided into eight groups (n = 6). The first group was saved as the control and the second fed on 20% FS diet. Animals in the third, fourth, and fifth groups were administered with DEPs (2.0 mg/kg), FNT (3.76 mg/kg), and their combination, respectively, while the sixth, seventh, and eighth groups were supplemented with 20% FS through intoxication with DEPs, FNT, and their combination, respectively. Our results revealed that DEPs and/or FNT significantly elevated the level of protein carbonyl and superoxide dismutase activity in the fetal cardiac tissues. However, the catalase activity and total thiol level were decreased; besides the histopathological alterations were remarked. Moreover, DEPs and/or FNT exhibited significant down-regulation in the anti-apoptotic (Bcl-2) and paraoxonase-1 gene expression, and up-regulation in the apoptotic (Bax and caspase-3) gene expression along with DNA fragmentation. Remarkably, FS supplementation significantly ameliorated the fetal cardiac oxidative injury, down-regulated the expression of the apoptotic genes, up-regulated the anti-apoptotic and paraoxonase-1 gene expression, reduced DNA fragmentation, and alleviated the myocardial cell architectures. These findings revealed that FS attenuates DEPs- and/or FNT-induced apoptotic cell death by repairing the disturbance in the anti-apoptotic/pro-apoptotic gene balance toward cell survival in the fetal myocardial cells.

Dietary Factors and Supplements Influencing Prostate Specific-Antigen (PSA) Concentrations in Men with Prostate Cancer and Increased Cancer Risk: An Evidence Analysis Review Based on Randomized Controlled Trials

The quest for dietary patterns and supplements efficient in down-regulating prostate-specific antigen (PSA) concentrations among men with prostate cancer (PCa) or increased PCa risk has been long. Several antioxidants, including lycopene, selenium, curcumin, coenzyme Q10, phytoestrogens (including isoflavones and flavonoids), green tea catechins, cernitin, vitamins (C, E, D) and multivitamins, medicinal mushrooms (Ganoderma lucidum), fruit extracts (saw palmetto, cranberries, pomegranate), walnuts and fatty acids, as well as combined supplementations of all, have been examined in randomized controlled trials (RCTs) in humans, on the primary, secondary, and tertiary PCa prevention level. Despite the plethora of trials and the variety of examined interventions, the evidence supporting the efficacy of most dietary factors appears inadequate to recommend their use.

Characterization of Flaxseed Oil Bimodal Emulsions Prepared with Flaxseed Oil Cake Extract Applied as a Natural Emulsifying Agent

Currently, a majority of oilseeds plants are converted into byproducts and waste materials during processing. Press cakes are rich in valuable biopolymers, such as proteins and polysaccharides (fiber, lignans, etc.). In this study flaxseed oil cake extract (FOCE) was used to stabilize flaxseed oil-in-water emulsions. The effect of FOCE with various flaxseed oil concentrations (10-50% v/v) on several physicochemical properties of emulsions, such as stability, rheology, color and particle size was investigated. The rheological parameters suggested that all samples were non-Newtonian fluids, whereas particle size measurements and calculation SPAN index provided information about the broadness of emulsions particle size distribution. FOCE was able to efficiently stabilize oil/water interfaces with a high oil content. Results obtained for FOCE were compared with effects for synthetic emulsifier (Tween 80) and separated FOCE compounds (flaxseed gum and flaxseed protein). FOCE emulsifying activity is a result of different water-holding and oil-binding capacities of flaxseed gum and protein. This result is an intriguing conclusion regarding the necessity for using pure emulsifiers, showing the possibility of using a bio-based extract containing biopolymers, which is part of the principles of circular economy and the idea of zero-waste. The results give the opportunity to use FOCE as an ingredient in efficient flaxseed oil emulsions stabilizer for food applications.