Zinc, iron and vitamins A, C and e are associated with obesity, inflammation, lipid profile and insulin resistance in Mexican school-aged children

Zinc supplementation improves body weight management, inflammatory biomarkers and insulin resistance in individuals with obesity: a randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blind trial

BACKGROUND

The present study was designed to determine whether zinc supplementation would increase the effects of restricted calorie diet (RCD) on obesity.

METHODS AND MATERIALS

A randomized, double-blind clinical trial was performed on 40 obese subjects who were randomly assigned to receive zinc supplements (30 mg/day) or placebo for a period of 15-weeks. Both groups were under a restricted calorie diet (~ 300 kcal lower than the estimated energy requirement). Anthropometric measurements, biochemical markers, appetite, and dietary intakes were determined during the study period.

RESULTS

The reductions of body weight, body mass index, waist circumference, and hip circumference were significantly higher in the zinc group compared to the placebo group (P = 0.032, 0.025, 0.003, and 0.0001, respectively). Lower levels of high sensitivity C-reactive protein, apelin, homeostatic model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA-IR), and appetite score were observed in the zinc group in comparison with the placebo group (P = 0.0001, 0.001, 0.031 and 0.001 respectively).

CONCLUSION

This study indicates that Zn supplementation with a restricted calorie diet has favorable effects in reducing anthropometric measurements, inflammatory markers, insulin resistance and appetite in individuals with obesity, and may play an effective role in the treatment of obesity.Trial registration This clinical trial was registered at clinicaltrials.gov at the U.S. National Library of Medicine (NCT02516475).

Association Between Cortisol, Insulin Resistance and Zinc in Obesity: a Mini-Review

Adipose tissue is considered an endocrine organ and its excess compromises the immune response and the metabolism of hormones and nutrients. Furthermore, visceral fat accumulation contributes to increased cortisol synthesis, which in turn induces metallothionein and Zip14 expression, which are proteins that contribute to reducing plasma zinc levels. Zinc plays a critical role in the secretion and signaling of insulin. Changes in the biochemical parameters of zinc, as observed in individuals who are obese, contribute to the manifestation of related disorders such as insulin resistance. Thus, the purpose of this review is to provide an update on the current information on the relationship between cortisol, zinc, and insulin resistance in obesity. The data in the literature provide evidence that cortisol affects zinc metabolism, and indicate possible repercussions on insulin signaling that might contribute to the development of resistance to the actions of insulin in obesity.

Biochemical, Hematological and Histopathological Indices of Wistar Rats Fed Vitamin and Mineral Deficient Diets Supplemented with Moringa oleifera Leaf Meal

Background:

Moringa oleifera is currently and rapidly gaining superfood status.

Objective:

This study evaluated the effect of Moringa oleifera leaves (MOLM) on haematological, biochemical and histopathology indices of rats fed with Vitamins and Minerals Deficient (VMD) diets.

Methods:

Twenty-five male Wistar rats (220-290g) were randomly assigned into 5 groups of 5 rats each. The control (normal rat chow), remaining four diets were VMD plus MOLM at 0, 3, 5 and 10%. Haematological, biochemical and histopathological statuses were evaluated after 28 days.

Results:

Non-significant increase in RBC was observed in rats fed with the MOLM diets compared to control. Rats on VMD diet had the lowest haemoglobin levels, whereas haemoglobin increased with MOLM. No significant differences were observed in haematocrit, MCH, MCHC, platelets, RDW and MPV in all the treatments and control group. However, VMD rats showed a decrease in haemoglobin, and an increase in WBC and platelets. Electrolytes and glucose for all the treatments and control were not significantly different, but, control and VMD10 diets rats showed significantly higher values for creatinine compared to MOLM diets; total protein and albumin increased with MOLM and were higher than in VMD and control rats. Serum activities of hepatic, cardiac and adrenal marker enzymes were observed to be significantly lower in MOLM rats compared to VMD and control. Mild congestion in VMD and VMD3 rats’ liver and diffused congestion in the kidney of VMD diet rats were observed.

Conclusion:

The significantly high increase in platelet count in the VMD treated rats, indicative of anemia and other physiological imbalances, highlights the effect of micronutrient (mineral and vitamins) deficiencies in the diet. There is also the possibility that the anti-nutrients factors present in Moringa oleifera prevented uptake and bioavailability of nutrients, since the MOLM did not undergo any processing that could have removed or reduced these antinutrients. Further studies are still needed on Moringa oleifera leaves to validate the bioavailability of nutrients from the plant.

Micronutrient Adequacy in Preschool Children Attending Family Child Care Homes

Limited data is available on the micronutrient intake and adequacy in preschool children enrolled in family child care homes (FCCH). The goal of this paper is to describe the micronutrient adequacy relative to age-specific recommendations of preschool-aged children (aged 2-5 years) attending FCCH in Rhode Island (RI). Dietary data among younger preschoolers (aged 2-3 years), n = 245) and older preschoolers (aged 4-5 years), n = 121) in 118 RI FCCH (N = 366 children) were analyzed. Nutrient adequacy was assessed as the amount of nutrient per 1000 kcal of the diet that would meet the Institute of Medicine nutrient requirements (critical nutrient density), and it was compared to the observed nutrient densities of the children. The sodium:potassium ratio was also calculated. For most micronutrients, the observed density met or exceeded the recommendation, meaning the children's intake was adequate. However, a high proportion of children had nutrient densities under the recommendation for vitamins D, E, K, and potassium (86.1%, 89.1%, 70.8%, and 99.2% of children, respectively). The mean vitamin B12, potassium, and zinc densities were statistically higher in younger vs. older preschoolers (p < 0.05 for all). Low densities in calcium and vitamins K and B5 were more frequent in older children vs. younger children (p < 0.05). In addition, older preschoolers had a higher sodium:potassium ratio than younger children (p < 0.05). The micronutrient intake density was adequate for most nutrients. However, intake of some nutrients was of concern. Further attention to training and compliance in FCCH may improve the diet quality of those cared for in these settings.

Adiposity, inflammation and fat-soluble vitamins in adolescents

OBJECTIVE

Evaluate the association between inflammatory process, adiposity, and vitamins A, D, and E in adolescents, according to gender.

METHODS

Cross-sectional study with adolescents aged 12-19 years old of both genders attending public schools in Recife. A questionnaire was used to collect data on socioeconomic level, lifestyle, and food intake of adolescents. Then, an anthropometric evaluation and a blood sampling were performed to analyze serum concentrations of α-1-acid glycoprotein, retinol, β-carotene, α-tocopherol, and 25-hydroxy-vitamin D.

RESULTS

The levels of α-1-acid glycoprotein were higher for abdominal obesity in both genders. Male adolescents with insufficient serum α-tocopherol levels had low levels of α-1-acid glycoprotein (p=0.03) and an increased risk of 25-hydroxy-vitamin D and β-carotene deficiency in relation to total and abdominal fat; female adolescents had an increased risk of insufficient β-carotene with abdominal obesity (PR: 1.33; 95% CI: 1.2-1.5).

CONCLUSION

Abdominal adiposity implies a higher risk of inflammation and causes different changes to the levels of fat-soluble vitamins according to gender.

Are there differences in nutrient intake of Brazilian adults according to weight status?

It was assessed the intake and prevalence of inadequate nutrient intake according to weight status among Brazilian adults from urban areas (n=16,198) evaluated in the Brazilian National Dietary Survey (NDS - 2008-2009), that obtained food records from two non-consecutive days. The prevalence of inadequate nutrient intake according to weight status was estimated based on Brazilian and international recommendations, in which usual intake was estimated applying the National Cancer Institute method. From 14 nutrients evaluated, six differed according to weight status in men, and only two among women. For men, the mean proportion of energy derived from lipids and saturated fat and mean intake of cholesterol, zinc, and vitamin B12 were greater among those with excess weight compared to those with normal weight; the inverse was observed for dietary fiber. Mean sodium intake was greater and proportion of energy from added sugar intake was lower among obese women compared to overweight ones. Strategies to encourage food consumption with high micronutrient density should be targeted to adult population regardless of their weight status.

Development of an intervention program to prevent childhood obesity targeted to Mexican mothers of school-aged children using intervention mapping and social cognitive theory

In Mexico, data from the last National Health and Nutrition Survey (2016) described the increase in the prevalence of overweight and obesity in school-aged children (33.2%). Obesity prevention strategies have not been effective, and currently, Mexico has one of the highest prevalence of childhood obesity. Thus, there is an urgent need to develop strategies that can prevent childhood obesity and also to avoid these children to remain overweight/obese through adulthood. The objective of this study was to provide a step-by-step description of the design, implementation and evaluation of an intervention plan for Mexican mothers of school aged children to promote healthy eating and to prevent childhood obesity. The program Niño Sano Adulto Sano was developed using the Intervention Mapping Approach and the Social Cognitive Theory frameworks to provide Mexican mothers with knowledge and skills to positively modify their children's food behavior, thus preventing future weight gain. The program was developed, piloted and delivered to the target population with positive results on the mothers' nutrition knowledge and children's BMI. Intervention Mapping and Social Cognitive Theory are useful models to design and deliver an intervention that provides a holistic approach to promote healthy eating.

Effect of nutrient intakes on anthropometric profiles among university students from a selected private University in Klang Valley, Malaysia

BACKGROUND

Dietary composition is the cornerstone of weight management. This study aimed to investigate the effect of nutrient intakes on anthropometric profiles among university students.

METHODS

This cross-sectional study was conducted among 411 students aged 18-29 years, purposive sampled from a selected private university in Klang Valley, Malaysia. Anthropometric profiles were measured. Nutrient intakes were assessed by 3-day 24-hour diet recalls.

RESULTS

Respondents on average had adequate macronutrient intakes, however, total consumption of dietary fiber and micronutrients were fell short of recommended levels. Significant negative associations were found between body mass index (BMI) and all the macronutrients, calcium, thiamine, riboflavin and niacin. Body fat percentage was significantly associated with all the macronutrients, calcium, zinc, thiamine and niacin. Significant inverse associations were also found between waist circumference and carbohydrate, fiber, thiamine, riboflavin and niacin. Visceral fat showed significant inverse associations with carbohydrate, fat, fiber, thiamine, riboflavin and niacin. Further, after adjusting for sex, gender and race, BMI was associated with niacin (β=-0.161, p=0.027). Body fat percentage was also found significantly associated with niacin (β=-0.180, p=0.002) and riboflavin (β=-0.132, p=0.014).

CONCLUSION

Micronutrients, especially B vitamins, are important in weight management among the young adults.

Monitoring Vitamin B12 in Women Treated with Metformin for Primary Prevention of Breast Cancer and Age-Related Chronic Diseases

Metformin (MET) is currently being used in several trials for cancer prevention or treatment in non-diabetics. However, long-term MET use in diabetics is associated with lower serum levels of total vitamin B₁₂. In a pilot randomized controlled trial of the Mediterranean diet (MedDiet) and MET, whose participants were characterized by different components of metabolic syndrome, we tested the effect of MET on serum levels of B₁₂, holo transcobalamin II (holo-TC-II), and methylmalonic acid (MMA). The study was conducted on 165 women receiving MET or placebo for three years. Results of the study indicate a significant overall reduction in both serum total B₁₂ and holo-TC-II levels according with MET-treatment. In particular, in the MET group 26 of 81 patients and 10 of the 84 placebo-treated subjects had B₁₂ below the normal threshold (<221 pmol/L) at the end of the study. Considering jointly all B₁₂, Holo-TC-II, and MMA, 13 of the 165 subjects (10 MET and 3 placebo-treated) had at least two deficits in the biochemical parameters at the end of the study, without reporting clinical signs. Although our results do not affect whether women remain in the trial, B₁₂ monitoring for MET-treated individuals should be implemented.

Influence of endurance and endurance-strength training on mineral status in women with abdominal obesity: a randomized trial

BACKGROUND

Obesity and exercise are associated with disturbances of mineral metabolism, which can lead to physical inefficiency. Our study aimed to compare the influence of endurance and endurance-strength training on mineral status in women with abdominal obesity.

METHODS

Thirty-eight abdominally obese women were randomized into groups A and B and underwent 3 months long training: group A-endurance training and group B-endurance-strength training. Anthropometric and body composition measurements were carried out and the Graded Exercise Test was performed. Blood, urine, and hair samples were collected for mineral content analysis.

RESULTS

Endurance training decreased serum Fe and Zn concentrations as well as hair Zn and Cu content, and increased urine Zn concentration. Endurance-strength training increased serum Mg and Cu concentrations, decreased serum Fe and Zn concentrations, decreased hair Ca and Mg content, and increased urine Ca and Zn concentrations. After training, serum and urine Fe concentration was higher in group A, while urine Ca concentration was higher in group B. A number of correlations was found.

CONCLUSIONS

Both endurance and endurance-strength training have a significant effect on mineral metabolism in obese women; the favorable effects of endurance-strength exercise predominate in iron, magnesium, zinc, and copper balance.

The Influence of Oral Multivitamins Supplementation on Selected Oxidative Stress Parameters and Lipid Profiles among Sudanese Patients with Type-2 Diabetes

AIM:

The objective of the current study was to assess the influence of oral multivitamins supplementation on some oxidative stress parameters (serum Vitamin A, C, E, Zinc, Malondialdehyde (MDA)) and lipid profile among Sudanese patients with type- 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM).

MATERIAL AND METHOD:

Three hundred Sudanese patients with T2DM and Hundred healthy subjects (control group) were enrolled in this cross-sectional study. Blood was collected after overnight fasting for 10-12 hrs. Fasting plasma glucose (FBG), lipid profiles, Glycosylated haemoglobin (HbA1c%), Serum zinc, Malondialdehyde (MDA), Vitamins A, E, and C levels were measured using standardised laboratory techniques. Data was collected with the help of a structured questionnaire and direct interview.

RESULTS:

Biochemical parameters of the study population were shown a highly significant difference (P value < 0.05), between the means of serum vitamin A, C, E, Zinc, MDA, HbA1c, triglycerides, HDL, FBG, total cholesterol and LDL. Significant differences in serum vitamin A, C, E, Zinc, MDA, triglycerides, HDL and FBG between people with diabetes who used multivitamins and diabetics who did not use it (P-value < 0.05).

CONCLUSION:

The study observed a significant increase in serum levels of vitamin A, C & E and other biomarkers parameters in patients with T2DM who take oral multivitamins supplements; such improvement may lead to minimising the diabetic complications. Further studies are needed to explore the possible therapeutic role of multivitamins supplements for T2DM patients.

Association of antioxidant status and inflammatory markers with metabolic syndrome in Thais

BACKGROUND

An oxidant/antioxidant disequilibrium has been suggested as having a role in the pathogenesis of some diseases. Metabolic syndrome (MS) is significantly associated with cardiovascular disease and type 2 diabetes. The pathogenesis of MS is complex and not well understood. The purposes of the present study were to compare enzymatic and non-enzyme antioxidants, anthropometric, hematological, and biochemical findings between subjects with MS and without MS and to evaluate the relationship between antioxidant status and hematological parameters with the components of MS.

METHODS

Metabolic syndrome was assessed by using the modified National Cholesterol Education Program, Adult Treatment Panel III criteria. Three hundred Thais, 124 with MS and 176 without MS, were included in the study. Each subject was tested for erythrocyte superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase, (GPX), catalase (CAT), albumin and vitamin C levels, and hematological findings.

RESULTS

Subjects with MS had lower SOD and CAT levels than those without MS (p < 0.01). Subjects with MS had lower vitamin C and albumin levels than those without MS (p < 0.05). The hematological findings were not significantly different between those with and without MS except the white blood cell (WBC) count which was significantly higher in those with MS. SOD and CAT levels were significantly positively associated with HDL-C levels and negatively associated with components of MS. After adjusting for potential covariates, we found lower SOD and vitamin C levels and higher WBC counts were significantly associated with MS (p < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

These findings suggest an alteration in antioxidant status and an increase in inflammatory markers are associated with MS and its components among Thais; subjects with MS may be more likely to have oxidative stress problems.

Prevalence of anemia and consumption of iron-rich food groups in Mexican children and adolescents: Ensanut MC 2016

OBJECTIVE

To describe the prevalence of anemia and con-sumption of iron rich groups among Mexican children and adolescents who participated in the Halfway National Health and Nutrition Survey, 2016.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Our study sample included children and adolescents who provided full capillary hemoglobin data. Anemia was defined accord-ing to WHO criteria. Logistic regression models were used to explore the association among consumption of iron-rich food groups, sociodemographic characteristics and anemia.

RESULTS

In 2016, the prevalence of anemia was 26.9% in children aged 1 to 4 years old, 12.5% in those aged 5 to 11, and 9.6% in adolescents aged 12 to 19 years. Rates were the highest among females who lived in the southern and central parts of Mexico, belonged to an indigenous ethnic group and fell within the first tercile of the Household Wealth Index. Consumption of beef by preschoolers and viscera by ado-lescents was associated with lower risk for anemia; higher risk was associated with consumption of Liconsa milk and non-heme iron by preschoolers.

CONCLUSIONS

Anemia is highly prevalent in Mexican children and adolescents, affect-ing mainly the poorest and youngest populations. Sources of heme iron are the principal dietary factor associated with low risk for anemia.

A possible etiological factor in obesity: element status in blood and tooth of overweight versus normal-weight children

We aimed to assess element status in whole blood and tooth dentin and identify their correlations in overweight or obese children without additional metabolic risk factors. In a case-control study, 40 overweight and 80 normal weight children aged 6-10 years were enrolled. Samples of blood and tooth were collected. While all studied elements were similar in groups in univariate analysis, after adjustment for confounding factors, tooth Mn levels were lower and blood Zn levels were higher in the overweight/obese group (p = 0.049 and p = 0.032, respectively). A significant correlation in blood and tooth dentin levels of Sr and Zn was detected in both groups. In both biological substances, the concentrations of elements did not differ significantly in overweight children without metabolic comorbidities compared to healthy children of normal weight. Presence of low Mn levels in tooth dentin and high Zn levels in blood samples should be explored in further studies.

Plasma Retinol Levels and High-Sensitivity C-Reactive Protein in Prepubertal Children

The relationship between C-reactive protein (CRP) levels and plasma antioxidants has been established in adults. However, the association has been rarely investigated in healthy children. Thus, we examined the cross-sectional association of high-sensitivity CRP (hs-CRP) levels with fat-soluble plasma antioxidant concentrations in a cohort of healthy prepubertal children. We determined hs-CRP levels in 543 healthy six⁻eight-year-old children using a high-sensitivity CRP enzyme-linked immuno sorbent assay (ELISA) kit. The plasma concentrations of lipids, apolipoproteins and lipid-soluble antioxidants (α-tocopherol, γ-tocopherol, lycopene, α-carotene, β-carotene and retinol) were determined using standardized methods. Pearson correlation analysis showed significant correlations between plasma hs-CRP and α-carotene and retinol concentrations. After adjusting by sex, body mass index (BMI) and lipid levels, only the association with retinol remains significant, with children in the highest hs-CRP tertile group (hs-CRP ≥ 0.60 mg/dL) showing significantly lower levels of retinol than those from the tertiles 1 and 2. A stepwise linear regression selected retinol, BMI, apo A-I and sex as predictors of hs-CRP levels, in a model explaining 19.2% of the variability of hs-CRP. In conclusion, in healthy prepubertal children, after adjusting by sex, BMI and lipid levels, hs-CRP concentrations were highly associated with plasma retinol, which is transported in blood bound to retinol-binding protein but were not associated with the lipoprotein-bound antioxidants.

Lower Protein Intake Supports Normal Growth of Full-Term Infants Fed Formula: A Randomized Controlled Trial

Infant formulas have been conventionally prepared with an excess of total protein in order to provide sufficient amounts of essential amino acids to the rapidly growing infant. However, this practice leads to higher than necessary protein intake during early infant development, inducing accelerated growth patterns correlated with the development of chronic diseases later in life. This study was aimed at assessing the safety of an infant formula enriched with bovine alpha-lactalbumin containing a total protein concentration very close to that of human milk, and determining its efficacy in the support of healthy infant growth from the first month to the fourth month of age. Healthy full-term infants ≤40 days of age were randomized in this controlled single blind trial to one of the following infant formulas: IF 1 (containing 1.0 g protein/dL; n = 30), IF 2 (containing 1.3 g protein/dL; n = 24), and IF 3 (containing 1.5 g protein/dL; n = 42). A control group consisting of exclusively breastfed infants (HM; n = 212) was included in the study. Anthropometric measurements and Z-scores were evaluated at baseline, at 1 month of age, and at 4 months of age. Weight gain (g/day) was similar in the IF 1 and the HM groups (p = 0.644), and it was significantly greater in the IF 2 and IF 3 groups than in the HM group. Growth patterns in both breastfed or IF-fed infants were in accordance with the World Health Organization (WHO) growth standards. At four months of age, the mean weight-for-age Z-score (WAZ) adjusted for initial value in the IF 1 group was similar to that of the HM group and significantly lower than that of the IF 2 and IF 3 groups (p = 0.031 and p = 0.014 for IF 2 and IF 3, respectively). Length-for-age (LAZ) adjusted for initial value was similar among all groups at four months of age. From 1 to 4 months of life, IF 1 containing 1.0 g protein/dL promotes growth and weight gain similar to those observed in exclusively breastfed infants. As this is a first approach to studying an IF containing total protein in a level below that recommended by international committees on nutrition, further investigations are needed to support these findings evaluating infant’s metabolic profile and growth in the long term.

Effects of zinc, magnesium, and chromium supplementation on cardiometabolic risk in adults with metabolic syndrome: A double-blind, placebo-controlled randomised trial

The prevalence of metabolic syndrome (MetS) has been increasing rapidly worldwide. The activities of zinc, magnesium and chromium have a potential association with MetS; therefore, we investigated the effects of zinc, magnesium and chromium supplements on metabolic risk factors in adults with MetS. In this double-blind, placebo controlled randomised study, 32 adults with MetS were included in the zinc, magnesium, and chromium-administered group (n = 16) or the placebo group (n = 16) and received either 300 mg magnesium, 600 μg chromium and 36 mg zinc per day or placebo over a 24-week period. The primary endpoint was the change in the MetS components, including serum glucose, triglyceride and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels, blood pressure and waist circumference. Data were analysed using repeated-measures analysis of variance. The metabolic risk factors did not change post-intervention, but the serum C-reactive protein level decreased in the mineral-supplemented group compared with that in the placebo group. Further studies with stricter inclusion criteria are needed to better evaluate the potential for zinc, magnesium and chromium to improve metabolic risk in adults with MetS.

Effect of low energy diet for eight weeks to adults with overweight or obesity on folate, retinol, vitamin B12, D and E status and the degree of inflammation: a post hoc analysis of a randomized intervention trial

Background

Obesity is associated with vitamin insufficiency and low grade inflammation. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of weight loss on folate, retinol, vitamin B₁₂, D and E status and the degree of inflammation.

Methods

Out of 110, 85 individuals (75% women) aged 39 ± 11 years with a mean ± SD BMI of 33 ± 4 kg/m², completed an eight-week low energy diet (LED). Serum concentration of folate, retinol, B₁₂, D and E and C-reactive protein and homocysteine (Hcy) were measured at baseline and at end of the LED.

Results

At baseline, 8% of the participants were deficient in folate, 13% in vitamin B₁₂, 2% in retinol, 28% in vitamin D (72% were insufficient in vitamin D), and none were deficient in vitamin E. At baseline, BMI was inversely associated with retinol (P < 0.05) as was total and abdominal fat percentage with folate (P < 0.05); further BMI and measures of adiposity were positively associated with CRP (P < 0.01) and Hcy (P < 0.05). Homocysteine was inversely associated with all vitamins but retinol (P < 0.001). After the LED, the participants lost a mean [95% confidence intervals] of 12.3 [− 13.1,-11.6] kg. The serum concentration of folate, vitamin B₁₂ and D were increased (P < 0.001) after the LED whereas the concentration of retinol and vitamin E were reduced (P < 0.001).

Conclusion

Eight-weeks LED resulted in 13% weight loss and an increase in the serum concentrations of folate, vitamin B₁₂ and D. Baseline adiposity was inversely associated with folate and retinol, and positively associated with markers of inflammation.

Trial registration

Ethical Committee of Copenhagen as no. H-4-2013-135, NCT01561131.

Association between the consumption of antioxidant nutrients with lipid alterations and cardiometabolic risk in adolescents

ABSTRACT Objective This study aimed at validating the associations between the consumption of antioxidant nutrients as well as lipid alterations and cardiometabolic risks in adolescents. Methods This cross-sectional study included 327 adolescents aged 14-19 years. Sociodemographic and dietary information, anthropometric and blood pressure measurements, and biochemical data were obtained. Cardiometabolic risk was calculated by aggregating the risk factors, which were expressed as the sum of Z-scores. Poisson regression was performed to estimate the prevalence ratios. Results In boys, low intake of zinc was associated with elevated total cholesterol and triglyceride levels, whereas it was associated with low high-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels and high low-density lipoprotein cholesterol and total cholesterol levels in girls, thus indicating a cardiometabolic risk. Furthermore, low intake of copper was associated with high triglyceride levels and cardiometabolic risk in girls. The high prevalence ratios of high low-density lipoprotein cholesterol and total cholesterol levels and cardiometabolic risk were higher in those with low intake of vitamin A. Among girls, associations were also observed between lower intake of vitamin A and high triglyceride levels. Low intake of vitamin C among boys was associated with elevated high low-density lipoprotein cholesterol and triglyceride levels. Among girls, the intake of this vitamin was associated with lower low high-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels. In girls, low intake of vitamin E was associated with low low high-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels and high total cholesterol levels. Conclusion The associations between antioxidant micronutrients as well as lipid alterations and cardiometabolic risk emphasize the importance of encouraging the consumption of foods that are rich in these nutrients to modulate lipid alterations and cardiometabolic risk.

[Association between serum zinc level and hypercholesterolemia and insulin resistance in Brazilian children]

The objective of the study was to assess the association between serum zinc level and cardiometabolic factors in prepubertal Brazilian children. This was a cross-sectional study in a representative sample of schoolchildren 8 to 9 years of age in public and private urban schools in Viçosa, Minas Gerais State, Brazil. Body composition was assessed with dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry. The study measured serum glucose, insulin, total cholesterol, high and low density lipoprotein cholesterol, triglycerides, apolipoproteins A (Apo A) and B, uric acid, leptin, homocysteine, ultrasenstive C-reactive protein, and serum zinc. Arterial pressure was measured with automatic inflation equipment. Zinc deficiency was observed in 1.3% of the children. Girls showed the worst cardiometabolic profile, with higher prevalence of increased android fat, triglycerides, insulin resistance, leptin, zinc, and Apo A. In the first tertile of serum zinc concentration, prevalence of insulin resistance was 96% higher (PR = 1.96; 95%CI: 1.04-3.66) and hypercholesterolemia was 23% lower (PR = 0.77; 95%CI: 0.61-0.96) than in the reference category (grouped 2nd and 3rd tertiles of serum zinc concentration). Despite the low prevalence of zinc deficiency, insulin resistance was more prevalent in children in the lowest third of serum zinc concentration. It is important to prevent cardiometabolic alterations in childhood, especially insulin resistance, with an emphasis on serum zinc level.

Serum Antioxidant Associations with Metabolic Characteristics in Metabolically Healthy and Unhealthy Adolescents with Severe Obesity: An Observational Study

Considering the inadequacy of some antioxidant nutrients in severely obese adolescents, this study aimed to assess the relationship between antioxidant micronutrients status and metabolic syndrome components in metabolically healthy obesity (MHO) and unhealthy obesity (MUO). We performed an observational study in severely obese adolescents (body mass index > 99th percentile) and they were classified into MHO or MUO, according to the criteria adapted for adolescents. Anthropometric, biochemical, and clinical variables were analyzed to characterize the sample of adolescents. The serum antioxidant nutrients assessed were retinol, β-carotene, Vitamin E, Vitamin C, zinc and selenium. A total of 60 adolescents aged 17.31 ± 1.34 years were enrolled. MHO was identified in 23.3% of adolescents. The MHO group showed lower frequency of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (14.3% vs. 78.3%, p < 0.001) when compared to MUO. A correlation was found between retinol and β-carotene concentrations with glycemia (r = -0.372; p = 0.011 and r = -0.314; p = 0.034, respectively) and between Vitamin E with waist circumference (r = -0.306; p = 0.038) in the MUO group. The current study shows that some antioxidant nutrients status, specifically retinol, β-carotene, and Vitamin E, are negatively associated with metabolic alterations in MUO. Further studies are necessary to determine the existing differences in the serum antioxidant profile of metabolically healthy and unhealthy obese adolescents.

Vitamin A and E Nutritional Status in Relation to Leptin, Adiponectin, IGF-I and IGF-II in Early Life - a Birth Cohort Study

The metabolic health effects of vitamin A and E nutritional status in early life are largely unknown. We assessed whether vitamin A and vitamin E nutritional status may affect circulating leptin, adiponectin, insulin-like growth factor (IGF)-I and IGF-II levels in early life in humans. In a singleton birth cohort (n = 248), vitamin A and E nutritional status in fetuses/newborns were assessed by cord plasma concentrations of retinol, β-carotene, α- and γ-tocopherols. The primary outcomes were cord plasma leptin, adiponectin, IGF-I and IGF-II concentrations. Cord plasma retinol was significantly positively correlated to IGF-I in girls (r = 0.42, P < 0.0001) but not in boys (r = 0.14, P = 0.11). Adjusting for maternal and newborn's characteristics, one log unit increase in cord plasma retinol was associated with a 28.0% (95% CI: 11.1-47.5%) increase in IGF-I in girls (P < 0.001) but not in boys (P = 0.75). One log unit increment in cord plasma α-tocopherol was associated with a 6.6% (0.4-12.3%) decrease in adiponectin (P = 0.04), while one log unit increment in cord plasma γ-tocopherol was associated with a 21.2% (4.7-34.8%) decrease in leptin (P = 0.01). There may be a sex-specific association between retinol and IGF-I, a negative association between α-tocopherol and adiponectin, and a negative association between γ-tocopherol and leptin in early life in humans.

Heritability and Genome-Wide Association Study of Plasma Cholesterol in Chinese Adult Twins

Dyslipidemia represents a strong and independent risk factor for cardiovascular disease. Plasma cholesterol, such as total cholesterol (TC), low density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), and high density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C), is the common indicator of diagnosing dyslipidemia. Here based on 382 Chinese twin pairs, we explored the magnitude of genetic impact on TC, HDL-C, LDL-C variation and further searched for genetic susceptibility loci for them using genome-wide association study (GWAS). The ACE model was the best fit model with additive genetic parameter (A) accounting for 26.6%, common or shared environmental parameter (C) accounting for 47.8%, unique/non-shared environmental parameter (E) accounting for 25.6% for the variance in HDL-C. The AE model was the best fit model for TC (A: 61.4%; E: 38.6%) and LDL-C (A: 65.5%; E: 34.5%). While no SNPs reached the genome-wide significance level (P < 5 × 10^-8), 8, 14, 9 SNPs exceeded the suggestive significance level (P < 1 × 10^-5) for TC, HDL-C, LDL-C, respectively. The promising genetic regions for TC, HDL-C, LDL-C were on chromosome 11 around rs7107698, chromosome 5 around rs12518218, chromosome 2 around rs10490120, respectively. Gene-based analysis found 1038, 1033 and 1090 genes nominally associated with TC, HDL-C, LDL-C (P < 0.05), especially FAF1, KLKB1 for TC, KLKB1 for HDL-C, and NTRK1, FAF1, SNTB2 for LDL-C, respectively. The number of common related genes among TC, HDL-C and LDL-C was 71, including FAF1, KLKB1, etc. Pathway enrichment analysis discovered known related pathways-zinc transporters, metal ion SLC transporters for TC, cell adhesion molecules CAMs, IL-6 signaling for HDL, FC epsilon RI signaling pathway, NFAT pathway for LDL, respectively. In conclusion, the TC and LDL-C level is moderately heritable and the HDL-C level is lowly heritable in Chinese population. The genomic loci, functional genes and pathways are identified to account for the heritability of plasma cholesterol level. Our findings provide important insights into plasma cholesterol molecular physiology and expect future research to replicate and validate our results.

Relations between oxidized low-density lipoproteins and fat-soluble vitamin concentrations in obese children - preliminary study

INTRODUCTION

Although lipid peroxidation products are formed during normal cell metabolism, they appear mostly in pathological conditions via producing an excess of free radicals that can react with unsaturated fatty acids, in particular low-density lipoprotein (LDL). The aim of this study was to investigate the relations between oxidized LDL (oxLDL), the fat-soluble vitamin status and the anthropometric parameters in prepubertal obese children.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Thirty-two obese (SDS-BMI >2) and 25 non-obese children (SDS-BMI <-1+1>) were included in the study. The concentration of oxLDL was determined in the serum by the ELISA assay. Vitamin A and E were measured by the high-pressure liquid chromatography method. Total cholesterol, LDL- and HDL-cholesterol, and triglyceride levels were determined by enzymatic methods.

RESULTS

The concentrations of oxLDL and vitamin A were higher in obese children than in normalweight controls by about 50% (p=0.01) and 40% (p=0.001), respectively. In obese children the significant positive correlation was found between oxLDL and vitamin A concentrations (<0.05). In addition, oxLDL correlated positively with BMI values (<0.05) and the amount of fat mass (kg) (<0.02) in these patients. Concentrations of vitamins A and E correlated with the level of total cholesterol (<0.05; <0.01, respectively).Moreover, a positive correlation between vitamin E and LDL-cholesterol was observed (<0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

Our preliminary study shows that oxLDL starts early during the prepubertal period and may precede atherosclerotic lesions. We suggest there is an occurrence of relationships between vitamin A and oxidized LDL in prepubertal obese children. Vitamin A and E concentrations are also associated with dyslipidemia in these patients.

Zinc Supplementation Does Not Alter Indicators of Insulin Secretion and Sensitivity in Black and White Female Adolescents

Background: Zinc is a micronutrient involved in the production of, and peripheral sensitivity to, pancreatic β cell-derived insulin. To our knowledge, the effect of zinc supplementation on insulin outcomes, and potential risk of diabetes, in otherwise healthy children in the United States has not been investigated.Objective: The objective of this study was to determine the influence of zinc supplementation on insulin outcomes in black and white girls in the early stages of adolescence. A secondary objective was to determine relations between baseline zinc concentrations and insulin outcomes.Methods: Healthy black and white girls aged 9-11 y were randomly assigned to daily supplementation of zinc (9 mg elemental Zn/d; n = 75; blacks: n = 35) or placebo (n = 72; blacks: n = 32) for 4 wk. Fasting serum insulin, glucose, and C-peptide were assessed at baseline and at 4 wk. C-peptide and glucose values were used to calculate the computer model-derived homeostatic model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA2-IR). Changes in outcome measures were compared by using repeated-measures, mixed-model ANOVA.Results: Baseline plasma zinc was not correlated with C-peptide (r = -0.07), insulin (r = -0.06), or HOMA2-IR (r = -0.09) (all P > 0.05) after controlling for race and age. Treatment × time interactions for C-peptide and HOMA2-IR were not significant (both P > 0.05). Although the treatment × race × time interactions for C-peptide and HOMA2-IR were not significant (both P = 0.08), black girls who received the placebo experienced slight increases in C-peptide (15.7%) and HOMA2-IR (17.7%) (P = 0.06).Conclusions: Four weeks of zinc supplementation had no effect on insulin outcomes in healthy black and white early-adolescent girls, although C-peptide and HOMA2-IR tended to increase in black girls who received placebo. Additional trials that are appropriately powered should further explore the effect of zinc on markers of diabetes risk, and whether race affects this relation. This trial was registered at clinicaltrials.gov as NCT01892098.

The Effect of Zinc Supplementation on Insulin Resistance in Obese Subjects: a Systematic Review

Obesity is a chronic disease characterized by excessive accumulation of body fat and the presence of metabolic disorders such as insulin resistance. In this sense, zinc is an important nutrient that stimulates insulin secretion and increases sensitivity to insulin. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of zinc supplementation on insulin resistance in obese subjects through a systematic review of the available clinical trials. The search for articles was conducted using the PubMed, SciVerse Scopus, SciVerse ScienceDirect, and Cochrane databases, on May 25, 2016, by two authors independently. The recommendations of the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) were followed in the conduct of this review. The Cochrane Collaboration tool was used to assess the risk of bias of the trials included in this review. After screening of the articles, six clinical trials were included in this systematic review. The scientific evidence presented in this systematic review shows that zinc supplementation improves insulin resistance in obese individuals of both sexes.

How Trace Element Levels of Public Drinking Water Affect Body Composition in Turkey

Since waterborne minerals appear in ionic form and are readily absorbed by the gastrointestinal tract, drinking water could be a crucial source of mineral intake. However, no comprehensive research has yet determined how trace elements in drinking water relate to body composition. We aimed to assess the relationship between clinically important trace elements in public drinking water and body composition in average, overweight and obese individuals in Turkey. The study's population consisted of 423 participants: 143 overweight, 138 obese and 142 healthy control individuals, grouped according to clinical cutoff points of body mass index (BMI). We measured levels of lithium (Li), nickel (Ni), lead (Pb), silicon (Si), tin (Sn), strontium (Sr), boron (B), aluminium (Al), barium (Ba) and rubidium (Rb) in samples from wells of municipal water by using inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry. We gauged all the participants' body composition measurements with a BC-418 body composition analyser. In all the participants, body weight values showed significant positive correlations with Ni levels in drinking water, as did BMI values with Al levels and percentage of obesity with Ni, Si and B levels. In particular, Ni levels showed significant positive correlations with the basal metabolic rate, activity calories, and total activity of participants. Giving findings showing correlations between obesity-related parameters and Al, Si, B and Ni content in drinking water, we hope that these associations will be clarified with further studies including cellular, experimental and clinical studies. Hence, medical practitioners must be aware of trace element levels in drinking water for overweight and obese patients.

Children with moderate-high infection with Entamoeba coli have higher percentage of body and abdominal fat than non-infected children

BACKGROUND

Intestinal parasites, virus and bacterial infections are positively associated with obesity and adiposity in vitro and in animal models, but conclusive evidence of this relationship in humans is lacking. The aim of this cross-sectional study was to determine differences in adiposity between infected and non-infected children, with a high prevalence of intestinal parasitic infection and obesity.

SUBJECTS

A total of 296 school-aged children (8.0 ± 1.5 years) from a rural area in Querétaro, Mexico, participated in this study. Anthropometry (weight, height and waist circumference) and body fat (DXA) were measured in all children. A fresh stool sample was collected from each child and analysed for parasites. Questionnaires related to socioeconomic status and clinical history were completed by caretakers.

RESULTS

Approximately 11% of the children were obese, and 19% were overweight. The overall prevalence of infection was 61%. Ascaris lumbricoides was the most prevalent soil transmitted helminth (16%) followed by hookworm. Entamoeba coli was the predominant protozoa (20%) followed by Endolimax nana, Balantidium coli, Entamoeba histolytica/dispar, Iodamoeba bütschlii and Giardia lamblia. Children with moderate-heavy infection of E. coli had significantly higher waist circumference, waist-to-height ratio, body and abdominal fat than children not infected or with light-intensity infection (p < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

These findings raise the possibility that a moderate or heavy infection with E. coli may contribute to fat deposition and thereby have long-term consequences on human health. Further studies are needed to better understand if E. coli contributes directly to fat deposition and possible mechanisms.

Predictors of Inflammation in a Cohort of Bolivian Infants and Toddlers

Inflammation has been associated with cardiovascular disease and other health outcomes in children and adults, yet few longitudinal data are available on prevalence and predictors of inflammation in infants. We aimed to identify the prevalence of inflammation in a cohort of Bolivian infants and estimate its association with acute (recent illnesses) and chronic (overweight, stunting) morbidities and potential pathogen exposure (represented by water, sanitation, and hygiene [WASH] resources). We measured plasma concentrations of two acute phase proteins (C-reactive protein [CRP], marking acute inflammation, and alpha(1)-acid-glycoprotein [AGP], marking chronic inflammation) at three time points (target 2, 6-8, and 12-18 months). Of 451 singleton infants enrolled in the parent study, 272 had the first blood draw and complete data. Anthropometry and sociodemographic and recent illness data (2-week recall of cough, diarrhea, and fever) were collected at each visit. Inflammation was defined as CRP > 5 mg/L or AGP > 1 g/L. The prevalence of inflammation increased from early infancy (3% at first blood draw) to later infancy (15-22% at later blood draws). Recent cough, recent fever, and age in months were significantly associated with relative increases in CRP (7-44%) and AGP (5-23%), whereas recent diarrhea was only significantly associated with an increase in CRP (48%). Neither anthropometry nor WASH was significantly associated with inflammation. Results confirm the role of recent acute illness in inflammation in infants, and indicate that adiposity and WASH are not as important to inflammation in this age category.

Higher Dietary Choline and Betaine Intakes Are Associated with Better Body Composition in the Adult Population of Newfoundland, Canada

Background

Choline is an essential nutrient and betaine is an osmolyte and methyl donor. Both are important to maintain health including adequate lipid metabolism. Supplementation of dietary choline and betaine increase muscle mass and reduce body fat in animals. However, little data is available regarding the role of dietary choline and betaine on body composition in humans.

Objective

To investigate the association between dietary choline and betaine intakes with body composition in a large population based cross-sectional study.

Design

A total of 3214 subjects from the CODING (Complex Disease in Newfoundland population: Environment and Genetics) study were assessed. Dietary choline and betaine intakes were computed from the Willett Food Frequency questionnaire. Body composition was measured using dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry following a 12-hour fast. Major confounding factors including age, sex, total calorie intake and physical activity level were controlled in all analyses.

Result

Significantly inverse correlations were found between dietary choline and betaine intakes, with all obesity measurements: total percent body fat (%BF), percent trunk fat (%TF), percent android fat (%AF), percent gynoid fat (%GF) and anthropometrics: weight, body mass index, waist circumference, waist-to-hip ratio in both women and men (r range from -0.13 to -0.47 for choline and -0.09 to -0.26 for betaine, p<0.001 for all). Dietary choline intake had stronger association than betaine. Moreover, obese subjects had the lowest dietary choline and betaine intakes, with overweight subjects in the middle, and normal weight subjects consumed the highest dietary choline and betaine (p<0.001). Vice versa, when subjects were ranked according to dietary choline and betaine intakes, subjects with the highest intake of both had the lowest %TF, %AF, %GF, %BF and highest %LM among the groups in both sexes.

Conclusion

Our findings indicate that high dietary choline and betaine intakes are significantly associated with favorable body composition in humans.

The Role of Vitamins in the Pathogenesis of Non-alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease

The incidence of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is rising rapidly in parallel with obesity rates. The underlying pathogenesis of NAFLD remains an enigma but is largely influenced by individual lifestyle choices involving diet and exercise. Therefore, studies have highlighted the importance of calorie reduction and macronutrient composition (eg, carbohydrate and fat) in modifying disease outcomes. Micronutrients are also believed to play a role in disease progression. There are now an increasing number of studies linking vitamins with NAFLD, particularly vitamin E, and the supplementation of several different vitamins has been demonstrated as a promising therapeutic option in the treatment of NAFLD. This review provides a broad overview of the potential role of vitamins in NAFLD development and disease management.

Maternal vitamin C deficiency does not reduce hippocampal volume and β-tubulin III intensity in prenatal Guinea pigs

Marginal vitamin C (vitC) deficiency affects 5% to 10% of adults including subpopulations such as pregnant women and newborns. Animal studies link vitC deficiency to deleterious effects on the developing brain, but exactly how the brain adapts to vitC deficiency and the mechanisms behind the observed deficits remain largely unknown. We hypothesized that vitC deficiency in utero may lead to a decreased neuronal maturation and increased cellular death giving rise to alterations of the hippocampal morphology in a guinea pig model. Brains from prenatal guinea pig pups (n=9-10 in each group) subjected to either a sufficient (918mg vitC/kg feed) or deficient (100mg vitC/kg feed) maternal dietary regimen were assessed with regards to hippocampal volume and β-tubulin isotype III staining intensity at 2 gestational time points (45 and 56). We found a distinct differential regional growth pattern of the hippocampus with a clear effect of gestational age, whereas vitC status did not affect either investigated parameters. Within hippocampal subdivisions, the overall expansion of the hippocampus from gestational day 45 to 56 was found to reside in the dentate gyrus. In conclusion, the present study found that hippocampal volume and β-tubulin isotype III intensity in the prenatal guinea pig were influenced by gestational day but not by maternal vitC intake.

Reduced antioxidant capacity and increased subclinical inflammation markers in prepubescent obese children and their relationship with nutritional markers and metabolic parameters

OBJECTIVE

There are associations between some inflammatory and oxidative markers and obesity in adults, but whether prepubescent children of different weights also have such markers has not been studied. We investigated multiple inflammatory markers and levels of erythrocyte oxidant/antioxidant enzymes in prepubescent children of different weights.

METHODS

Children aged 2-11 years were divided into three groups: 80 were underweight, 90 were obese but otherwise healthy, and 80 were healthy age- and sex-matched children of normal-weight. We analyzed inflammatory markers and the total oxidant status, total antioxidant status (TAS), and total thiol level were also determined, and the oxidative stress index was calculated as an indicator of the degree of oxidative stress.

RESULTS

The obese group exhibited higher levels of fasting glucose, insulin, total cholesterol, triglycerides, the homeostatic model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA-IR), and the homeostatic model assessment of β-cell function (HOMA-β), C-reactive protein (CRP), neutrophils, and neutrophil/lymphocyte ratio (NLR), as well as lower TAS and total thiol levels than the other two groups (all P < 0.001). Moreover, TAS and total thiols were negatively correlated with age in the obese group (r = -0.212, P = 0.001; r = -0.231, P < 0.001, respectively). CRP levels in plasma were positively correlated with the body mass index (BMI), insulin and glucose levels, HOMA-IR, HOMA-β, WBC and neutrophil counts, and the NLR, and were negatively correlated with TAS and total thiol levels in the overall studied population.

DISCUSSION

The coexistence of increased obesity-related subclinical inflammation and decreased antioxidant capacity can be observed even in prepubescence, and may eventually increase the risk of long-term vascular damage.

A review of iron studies in overweight and obese children and adolescents: a double burden in the young?

INTRODUCTION

The connection between iron and excessive adiposity has received much research interest. Although children and adolescents have unique developmental phases and nutritional demands, to date, reviews of iron in the overweight (OW) and obese (OB) have combined studies of children and adults or have focussed on adults.

PURPOSE

The aim of this review was to critically evaluate studies of the relationship between iron and OW and obesity in children and adolescents, with emphasis on iron status, oral iron response, dietary intake and systemic inflammatory markers.

METHODS

A PubMed search was conducted to identify relevant articles published up to December 2015. Combinations of the following keywords were used: iron, OW, OB, children, adolescents, diet, hepcidin, inflammation, fortification, supplementation, weight loss, trace elements, obesity, iron deficiency (ID), minerals.

RESULTS AND CONCLUSION

A higher prevalence of ID, or risk of ID, among OW and OB children and adolescents has been consistently observed. Chronic inflammation caused by excessive adiposity offers a plausible explanation for this finding, rather than dietary factors. However, future studies must employ screening for the presence of both acute and chronic infections and inflammatory conditions and report other factors such as pubertal status. Intervention studies, although few, indicate that OW and OB children and adolescents have reduced response to oral iron. Further trials are needed to explore the connection between body fat mass, inflammatory proteins and iron absorption, together with the effect of weight loss on iron status in iron-deficient OW and OB children and adolescents.

Significant Beneficial Association of High Dietary Selenium Intake with Reduced Body Fat in the CODING Study

Selenium (Se) is a trace element which plays an important role in adipocyte hypertrophy and adipogenesis. Some studies suggest that variations in serum Se may be associated with obesity. However, there are few studies examining the relationship between dietary Se and obesity, and findings are inconsistent. We aimed to investigate the association between dietary Se intake and a panel of obesity measurements with systematic control of major confounding factors. A total of 3214 subjects participated in the study. Dietary Se intake was determined from the Willett food frequency questionnaire. Body composition was measured using dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry. Obese men and women had the lowest dietary Se intake, being 24% to 31% lower than corresponding normal weight men and women, classified by both BMI and body fat percentage. Moreover, subjects with the highest dietary Se intake had the lowest BMI, waist circumference, and trunk, android, gynoid and total body fat percentages, with a clear dose-dependent inverse relationship observed in both gender groups. Furthermore, significant negative associations discovered between dietary Se intake and obesity measurements were independent of age, total dietary calorie intake, physical activity, smoking, alcohol, medication, and menopausal status. Dietary Se intake alone may account for 9%–27% of the observed variations in body fat percentage. The findings from this study strongly suggest that high dietary Se intake is associated with a beneficial body composition profile.

Association of Vitamin A Status with Overnutrition in Children and Adolescents

This study was conducted to examine the possible association between vitamin A status and overnutrition in Chinese urban children and adolescents. Weight, height and serum retinol were assessed in total 3457 children (7–9.9 years of age) and adolescents (10–17 years of age), using urban region data from the China National Nutrition and Health Survey 2010–2013 (CHNNS2010-2013) which is a nationally representative cross-sectional study. Prevalence of low serum concentration of retinol was 26.8% and 12.24% for overweight. Retinol inadequacy was significantly higher in children (32.13%) than in adolescents (24.48%). The average of retinol was significantly higher in overnutrified 42.32 μg/dL versus non-overnutrified 41.05 μg/dL (p = 0.00) children and adolescents. Overnutrified children and adolescents presented a greater chance of an increase in serum concentration of retinol (odds ratio 1.34, 95% confidence interval 1.10–1.63, and 1.48, 95% confidence interval (1.26–1.74) when compared with non-overnutrified children. An important correspondence between vitamin A deficiency and overnutrition was found. Non-overnutrified children and adolescents may have a greater chance of presenting low concentrations of retinol. Future public health strategies focused on the overnutrified population and vitamin A supplements should consider the effect of retinol on urban children and adolescents in China.

Impact of diet on cardiometabolic health in children and adolescents

The manifestation of cardiovascular risk factors, such as hypertension, diabetes, and particularly obesity begins in children and adolescents, with deleterious effects for cardiometabolic health at adulthood. Although the impact of diet on cardiovascular risk factors has been studied extensively in adults, showing that their cardiometabolic health is strongly lifestyle-dependent, less is known about this impact in children and adolescents. In particular, little is known about the relationship between their dietary patterns, especially when derived a posteriori, and cardiovascular risk. An adverse association of cardiovascular health and increased intake of sodium, saturated fat, meat, fast food and soft drinks has been reported in this population. In contrast, vitamin D, fiber, mono-and poly-unsaturated fatty acids, dairy, fruits and vegetables were positively linked to cardiovascular health.

The aim of this review was to summarize current epidemiological and experimental evidence on the impact of nutrients, foods, and dietary pattern on cardiometabolic health in children and adolescents. A comprehensive review of the literature available in English and related to diet and cardiometabolic health in this population was undertaken via the electronic databases PubMed, Cochrane Library, and Medline.

The nutrigenetic influence of the interaction between dietary vitamin E and TXN and COMT gene polymorphisms on waist circumference: a case control study

Background

Abdominal obesity (AO) is a common modifiable risk factor for certain non-communicable diseases associated with enhanced oxidative stress (OS). The objective of this work was to investigate whether the interaction between antioxidant vitamin intake and OS-related polymorphisms modulates gene-associated anthropometry in a Spanish population.

Methods

A total of 246 subjects with AO, and 492 age and gender matched non-AO subjects were included in the study. Anthropometric, biochemical, and OS parameters, and antioxidant dietary intake data were assessed using validated procedures. DNA from white blood cells was isolated and the genotype of seven polymorphisms from genes involved in OS (pro-oxidant and antioxidant) were analyzed using the SNPlex system. The effects of the c.-793T > C polymorphism on promoter activity and thus thioredoxin (TXN) activity were examined using reporter assays.

Results

The AO group had higher 8-Oxo-2′-deoxyguanosine levels and took in less vitamin A and vitamin E compared to the non-AO group. Logistic regression analysis revealed that the rs2301241 polymorphism in TXN and rs740603 in catechol-O-methyltransferase (COMT) were associated with waist circumference (WC) and AO. Moreover, these polymorphisms were more strongly associated with variations in WC in subjects with low vitamin E intakes. A promoter assay revealed that the T to C conversion at c.-793 (rs2301241) induced a more than two fold increase in reporter gene expression.

Conclusions

WC is associated both with dietary vitamin E intake and genetic variants of TXN and COMT suggesting that existence of a complex nutrigenetic pathway that involves regulation of AO.

Electronic supplementary material

The online version of this article (doi:10.1186/s12967-015-0652-4) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.

Global perspectives on trace element requirements

Trace elements are inorganic constituents of the human body present in concentrations less than 50mg/kg body weight. An exception is iron that is found in slightly higher amounts, 60 mg/kg body weight, but it is classified within this category due to its physiological roles. Requirements of trace elements can vary according to age, gender, growth, body composition, genetics, pregnancy, lactation, wound healing and burns, alcohol abuse, infections, and diseases (anemia, coronary artery, Keshan, Kashin-Beck). Additionally, interactions may occur with dietary factors, such as other minerals (iron versus copper), phytates (zinc), oxalates (iron), fiber (manganese), and polyphenolic compounds (molybdenum). On a global basis, requirements can vary according to soil and geographical location, food preparation and processing, food accessibility, cultural practices (geophagia) and pollution. Furthermore, global differences exist in body composition, ethnicity, and age of menarche.

Dietary supplementation with tomato-juice in patients with metabolic syndrome: a suggestion to alleviate detrimental clinical factors

Lycopene, a carotenoid, is known for its antioxidant properties. Little is known, though, about the relationship of dietary tomato-juice intake and risks factors, like inflammation, insulin resistance and hyperlipidemia, implicated in metabolic syndrome. In the present study, we examined whether supplementation with tomato-juice has any implication on the risk status of patients with metabolic syndrome. A comparative study was conducted in 27 individuals diagnosed with metabolic syndrome. Fifteen of them were instructed to use commercially available tomato-juice as refreshment 4 times a week over a period of two months and twelve individuals served as the control group. Several parameters reflective of the metabolic syndrome were monitored both in the group supplemented with tomato juice and in the control group (ADMA for entdothelial function, TNF-α and IL-6 for inflammation, FIRI for insulin resistance). There was a significant improvement in the inflammation status and the endothelial dysfunction of the tomato-juice supplemented patients. At the same time, insulin resistance improved and a pronounced decrease in LDL was recorded, along with a slight increase in HDL. The results of the present study suggest an alleviating effect of tomato-juice with regard to risk factors associated with metabolic syndrome.