Relation between food intake and visual analogue scale ratings of appetite and other sensations in healthy older and young subjects

Physical performance and protein-energy wasting in patients treated with nocturnal haemodialysis compared to conventional haemodialysis: protocol of the DiapriFIT study

BACKGROUND

Poor physical performance and protein-energy wasting (PEW) are health issues of major concern in haemodialysis patients. The conventional haemodialysis (CHD) regime, three times per week 3-5 h, is subject of discussion because of high morbidity and mortality rates. When patients switch from CHD to longer dialysis sessions, i.e. nocturnal haemodialysis (NHD), improvement in protein intake and increase in body weight is seen. However, it is unclear whether physical performance and more important aspects of PEW, such as body composition, improve as well. Therefore, the aim of this study is to investigate whether physical performance improves and PEW decreases, when patients switch from CHD to NHD. A second aim is to assess the influence of NHD on the biomarkers fibroblast growth factor-23 and sclerostin which are thought to be associated with malnutrition and mortality in patients on haemodialysis.

METHODS

This study is a prospective multicentre cohort study with an inclusion aim of 50 patients: 25 patients in a control group (three times per week, 3-5 h CHD) and 25 patients in a nocturnal group (three times per week, 7-9 h NHD). Primary outcome is change in physical performance, measured by the Short Physical Performance Battery. Additional measurements are a 6-min walk test, handgrip strength, a physical activity questionnaire and physical activity monitoring. The secondary outcome of the study is PEW, which will be evaluated by body weight, dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry, bio-electrical impedance spectroscopy, mid-upper arm muscle circumference, subjective global assessment, visual analogue scale for appetite and dietary records. Laboratory measurements including fibroblast growth factor-23 and sclerostin, and quality of life assessed with the Kidney Disease Quality of Life-Short Form are also studied. In every patient, four repeated measurements will be performed during one year of follow-up.

DISCUSSION

This study will investigate whether physical performance improves and PEW decreases when patients switch from CHD to NHD, compared to a control group who continue treatment with CHD. Strengths of this study are the comparison with a conventional haemodialysis cohort, and the broad variety of objective measurements combined with patient-reported outcomes of physical performance and PEW.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

NTR4715 , Netherlands Trial Register. Registered 30 July 2014.

The effects of Spirulina Platensis on anthropometric indices, appetite, lipid profile and serum vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) in obese individuals: a randomized double blinded placebo controlled trial

Background

In recent years, a great attention has been focused on Spirulina platensis as a source of potential valuable nutrients for prevention and treatment of chronic diseases. The objectives of the current study were to determine the effects of Spirulina platensis on anthropometric parameters, serum lipids, appetite and serum Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor (VEGF) in obese individuals.

Methods

In the current study sixty four obese individuals aged 20–50 years were enrolled and randomly allocated into two groups of intervention and placebo. Intervention group (n = 29) received each 500 mg of the Spirulina platensis a twice-daily dosage while the control group (n = 27) received two pills daily starch for 12 weeks. Anthropometric parameters and serum VEGF and lipid profile were measured in fasting blood samples at the beginning and end of the study period. Dietary intakes were assessed by a 24-h recall method and appetite was measured using standard visual analogue scale (VAS).

Results

Body weight and body mass index (BMI) were decreased in intervention and placebo treated groups although the mean reduction in Spirulina platensis-treated group was significantly higher (P < 0.05). Serum total cholesterol (TC) significantly reduced in intervention group (P < 0.05). Also, treatment with Spirulina platensis significantly reduced appetite (P = 0.008). Mean serum VEGF, low density lipoprotein-cholesterol, and triglycerides did not change significantly after intervention. Serum high density lipoprotein-cholesterol concentrations (HDL-c) significantly increased in both groups while no difference in mean difference of this change has been observed.

Conclusion

Spirulina supplementation at a dose of 1 g/d for 12 weeks is effective in modulating body weight and appetite and partly modifies serum lipids. This can further confirm the efficacy of this herbal supplement in control and prevention of obesity and obesity- related disorders.

Trial registration

Iranian registry of clinical trials (IRCT registration number: IRCT2015071219082N7; Date registered: September 12, 2015).

Comparison of consumption behavior and appetite sensations among patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus after bariatric surgery

BACKGROUND

The promising postsurgical weight loss and remission of type 2 diabetes (T2D) from bariatric surgery can be attributed to modified eating physiology after surgical procedures. We sought to investigate the changes in the parameters of consumption behaviors and appetite sensations induced by a mixed meal tolerance test, and to correlate these alterations with age, body mass index, C-peptide levels, and duration of T2D 1 year after bariatric surgery.

METHODS

A total of 16 obese patients with T2D who underwent mini-gastric bypass (GB) and 16 patients who underwent sleeve gastrectomy (SG) were enrolled in this study and evaluated using a mixed meal tolerance test one year after surgery. A visual analogue scale was used for scoring appetite sensation at different time points. The area under the curve (AUC) and the incremental or decremental AUC (ΔAUC) were compared between the two groups.

RESULTS

One year after surgery, a decreasing trend in the consumption time was observed in the GB group compared to the SG group, while the duration of T2D before surgery was negatively correlated with the post-operative consumed time in those after GB. Patients who underwent GB had significantly higher fasting scores for fullness and desire to eat, higher AUC_0'-180' of scores for desire to eat, as well as more effective post-meal suppression of hunger and desire to eat compared with those undergoing SG one year after surgery. Post-operative C-peptide levels were negatively correlated with ΔAUC_0'-180' for hunger and ΔAUC_0'-180' for desire to eat in the GB group, while negatively correlated with ΔAUC_0'-180' for fullness in the SG group.

DISCUSSION

Patients with T2D after either GB or SG exhibit distinct nutrient-induced consumption behaviors and appetite sensations post-operatively, which may account for the differential effects on weight loss and glycemic control after different surgery.

High-Protein and High-Dietary Fiber Breakfasts Result in Equal Feelings of Fullness and Better Diet Quality in Low-Income Preschoolers Compared with Their Usual Breakfast

Background: In the United States, 17% of children are currently obese. Increasing feelings of fullness may prevent excessive energy intake, lead to better diet quality, and promote long-term maintenance of healthy weight.Objective: The purpose of this study was to develop a fullness-rating tool (aim 1) and to determine whether a high-protein (HP), high-fiber (HF), and combined HP and HF (HPHF) breakfast increases preschoolers' feelings of fullness before (pre) and after (post) breakfast and pre-lunch, as well as their diet quality, as measured by using a composite diet quality assessment tool, the Revised Children's Diet Quality Index (aim 2).Methods: Children aged 4 and 5 y (n = 41; 22 girls and 19 boys) from local Head Start centers participated in this randomized intervention trial. Sixteen percent of boys and 32% of girls were overweight or obese. After the baseline week, children rotated through four 1-wk periods of consuming ad libitum HP (19-20 g protein), HF (10-11 g fiber), HPHF (19-21 g protein, 10-12 g fiber), or usual (control) breakfasts. Food intake at breakfast was estimated daily, and for breakfast, lunch, and snack on day 3 of each study week Student's t tests and ANOVA were used to determine statistical differences.Results: Children's post-breakfast and pre-lunch fullness ratings were ≥1 point higher than those of pre-breakfast (aim 1). Although children consumed, on average, 65 kcal less energy during the intervention breakfasts (P < 0.007) than during the control breakfast, fullness ratings did not differ (P = 0.76). Relative to the control breakfast, improved diet quality (12%) was calculated for the HP and HF breakfasts (P < 0.027) but not for the HPHF breakfast (aim 2).Conclusions: Post-breakfast fullness ratings were not affected by the intervention breakfasts relative to the control breakfast. HP and HF breakfasts resulted in higher diet quality. Serving HP or HF breakfasts may be valuable in improving diet quality without lowering feelings of satiation or satiety. This trial was registered at clinicaltrials.gov as NCT02122224.

The Effect of Exercise Intensity on Total PYY and GLP-1 in Healthy Females: A Pilot Study

We compared the acute response of anorexigenic signals (total PYY and GLP-1) in response to submaximal and supramaximal exercise. Nine females completed three sessions: (1) moderate-intensity continuous training (MICT; 30 min; 65%  VO_2max); (2) sprint interval training (SIT; 6 × 30 sec "all-out" cycling sprints with 4 min recovery); or (3) control (CTRL; no exercise). PYY and GLP-1 were measured via blood samples drawn before, immediately after, and 90 min after exercise. Perceptions of hunger were rated using a visual analogue scale at all blood sampling time points. There was a session × time interaction for GLP-1 (p = 0.004) where SIT and MICT (p < 0.015 and p < 0.001) were higher compared to CTRL both immediately and 90 min after exercise. There was a main effect of time for PYY where 90 min after exercise it was decreased versus before and immediately after exercise. There was a session × time interaction for hunger with lower ratings following SIT versus MICT (p = 0.027) and CTRL (p = 0.031) 90 min after exercise. These results suggest that though GLP-1 is elevated after exercise in women, it is not affected by exercise intensity though hunger was lower 90 min after exercise with SIT. As the sample size is small further study is needed to confirm these findings.

The Differential Role of Smell and Taste For Eating Behavior

Food choice and food intake are guided by both sensory and metabolic processes. The senses of taste and smell play a key role in the sensory effects on choice and intake. This article provides a comprehensive overview of, and will argue for, the differential role of smell and taste for eating behavior by focusing on appetite, choice, intake, and satiation. The sense of smell mainly plays a priming role in eating behavior. It has been demonstrated that (orthonasal) odor exposure induces appetite specifically for the cued food. However, the influence of odors on food choice and intake is less clear, and may also depend on awareness or intensity of the odors, or personality traits of the participants. Taste on the other hand, has a clear role as a (macro)nutrient sensing system, during consumption. Together with texture, taste is responsible for eating rate, and thus in determining the oral exposure duration of food in the mouth, thereby contributing to satiation. Results from these experimental studies should be taken to real-life situations, to assess longer-term effects on energy intake. With this knowledge, it will be possible to steer people's eating behavior, as well as food product development, toward a less obesogenic society.

Lipid stimulation of fatty acid sensors in the human duodenum: relationship with gastrointestinal hormones, BMI and diet

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

The small intestinal free fatty acid (FFA) sensors, FFA receptor 1 (FFAR1), FFAR4, G-protein receptor 119 (GPR119) and cluster of differentiation-36 (CD36), mediate the fat-induced release of gastrointestinal (GI) hormones. We investigated whether expression of duodenal FFA sensors in humans was (i) altered by intraduodenal (ID) lipid infusion, (ii) disordered in overweight or obese individuals, (iii) related to lipid-induced GI hormone secretion or (iv) affected by habitual dietary patterns.

METHODS

Endoscopic duodenal biopsies were collected from 20 lean (body mass index (BMI): 22±1 kg m^-2), 18 overweight (BMI: 27±1 kg m^-2) and 19 obese (BMI: 35±1 kg m^-2) participants at baseline, and following a 30 min ID Intralipid infusion (2 kcal min^-1); FFA sensor expression was quantified by reverse transcription-PCR. On a separate day, participants underwent ID Intralipid infusion (2 kcal min^-1) for 120 min, to assess GI hormone responses. Habitual diet was evaluated using food frequency questionnaires.

RESULTS

Baseline FFAR1 and FFAR4 expression were lower, and CD36 was higher, in obese participants compared with lean participants. ID lipid increased GPR119 and FFAR1 expression equally across study groups, but did not alter FFAR4 or CD36 expression. Increased FFAR1 expression correlated positively with glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP) secretion (r=0.3, P<0.05), whereas there was no relationship between habitual diet with the expression of FFA sensors.

CONCLUSIONS

Obesity is associated with altered duodenal expression of FFAR1, FFAR4 and CD36, suggesting altered capacity for the sensing, absorption and metabolism, of dietary lipids. GPR119 and FFAR1 are early transcriptional responders to the presence of ID lipid, whereas FFAR1 may be an important trigger for lipid-induced GIP release in humans.

Intragastric administration of leucine or isoleucine lowers the blood glucose response to a mixed-nutrient drink by different mechanisms in healthy, lean volunteers

BACKGROUND

The branched-chain amino acids leucine and isoleucine lower blood glucose after oral glucose ingestion, and the intraduodenal infusion of leucine decreases energy intake in healthy, lean men.

OBJECTIVE

We investigated the effects of the intragastric administration of leucine and isoleucine on the gastric emptying of, and blood glucose responses to, a physiologic mixed-macronutrient drink and subsequent energy intake.

DESIGN

In 2 separate studies, 12 healthy, lean subjects received on 3 separate occasions an intragastric infusion of 5 g leucine (leucine-5g) or an intragastric infusion of 10 g leucine (leucine-10g), an intragastric infusion of 5 g isoleucine (isoleucine-5g) or an intragastric infusion of 10 g isoleucine (isoleucine-10g), or a control. Fifteen minutes later, subjects consumed a mixed-nutrient drink (400 kcal, 56 g carbohydrates, 15 g protein, and 12 g fat), and gastric emptying (¹³C-acetate breath test) and blood glucose, plasma insulin, C-peptide, glucagon, glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1), glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP), and cholecystokinin (leucine study only) were measured for 60 min. Immediately afterward, energy intake from a cold, buffet-style meal was assessed.

RESULTS

Compared with the control, leucine-10g decreased the blood glucose area under the curve (AUC) (P < 0.05) and tended to reduce peak blood glucose (P = 0.07), whereas effects of leucine-5g were NS. Leucine-10g, but not leucine-5g, increased plasma insulin and C-peptide AUCs (P < 0.01 for both), but neither dose affected glucagon, GLP-1, GIP, cholecystokinin, gastric emptying, or energy intake. Compared with the control, isoleucine-10g reduced the blood glucose AUC and peak blood glucose (P < 0.01), whereas effects of isoleucine-5g were NS. Neither load affected insulin, C-peptide, glucagon, GLP-1, or GIP. Isoleucine-10g, but not isoleucine-5g, slowed gastric emptying (P < 0.05), but gastric emptying was not correlated with the blood glucose AUC. Isoleucine did not affect energy intake.

CONCLUSIONS

In healthy subjects, both leucine and isoleucine reduced blood glucose in response to a mixed-nutrient drink but did not affect subsequent energy intake. The mechanisms underlying glucose lowering appear to differ; leucine stimulated insulin, whereas isoleucine acted insulin independently. These trials were registered at www.anzctr.org.au as 12613000899741 and 12614000837628.

The amount and types of fatty acids acutely affect insulin, glycemic and gastrointestinal peptide responses but not satiety in metabolic syndrome subjects

PURPOSE

Limited clinical evidence is available on the effects of amount and types of dietary fats on postprandial insulinemic and gastrointestinal peptide responses in metabolic syndrome subjects. We hypothesized that meals enriched with designated: (1) amount of fats (50 vs 20 g), (2) fats with differing fatty acid composition (saturated, SFA; monounsaturated, MUFA or n-6 polyunsaturated fatty acids, PUFA) would affect insulinemic and gastrointestinal peptide releases in metabolic syndrome subjects.

METHODS

Using a randomized, crossover and double-blinded design, 15 men and 15 women with metabolic syndrome consumed high-fat meals enriched with SFA, MUFA or n-6 PUFA, or a low-fat/high-sucrose (SUCR) meal. C-peptide, insulin, glucose, gastrointestinal peptides and satiety were measured up to 6 h.

RESULTS

As expected, SUCR meal induced higher C-peptide (45 %), insulin (45 %) and glucose (49 %) responses compared with high-fat meals regardless of types of fatty acids (P < 0.001). Interestingly, incremental area under the curve (AUC_0-120min) for glucagon-like peptide-1 was higher after SUCR meal compared with MUFA (27 %) and n-6 PUFA meals (23 %) (P = 0.01). AUC_0-120min for glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide was higher after SFA meal compared with MUFA (23 %) and n-6 PUFA meals (20 %) (P = 0.004). Significant meal x time interaction (P = 0.007) was observed for ghrelin, but not cholecystokinin and satiety.

CONCLUSIONS

The amount of fat regardless of the types of fatty acids affects insulin and glycemic responses. Both the amount and types of fatty acids acutely affect the gastrointestinal peptide release in metabolic syndrome subjects, but not satiety.

Contributions of upper gut hormones and motility to the energy intake-suppressant effects of intraduodenal nutrients in healthy, lean men - a pooled-data analysis

We have previously identified pyloric pressures and plasma cholecystokinin (CCK) concentrations as independent determinants of energy intake following administration of intraduodenal lipid and intravenous CCK. We evaluated in healthy men whether these parameters also determine energy intake in response to intraduodenal protein, and whether, across the nutrients, any predominant gastrointestinal (GI) factors exist, or many factors make small contributions. Data from nine published studies, in which antropyloroduodenal pressures, GI hormones, and GI /appetite perceptions were measured during intraduodenal lipid or protein infusions, were pooled. In all studies energy intake was quantified immediately after the infusions. Specific variables for inclusion in a mixed-effects multivariable model for determination of independent predictors of energy intake were chosen following assessment for collinearity, and within-subject correlations between energy intake and these variables were determined using bivariate analyses adjusted for repeated measures. In models based on all studies, or lipid studies, there were significant effects for amplitude of antral pressure waves, premeal glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) and time-to-peak GLP-1 concentrations, GLP-1 AUC and bloating scores (P < 0.05), and trends for basal pyloric pressure (BPP), amplitude of duodenal pressure waves, peak CCK concentrations, and hunger and nausea scores (0.05 < P ≤ 0.094), to be independent determinants of subsequent energy intake. In the model including the protein studies, only BPP was identified as an independent determinant of energy intake (P < 0.05). No single parameter was identified across all models, and effects of the variables identified were relatively small. Taken together, while GI mechanisms contribute to the regulation of acute energy intake by lipid and protein, their contribution to the latter is much less. Moreover, the effects are likely to reflect small, cumulative contributions from a range of interrelated factors.

School meal provision, health, and cognitive function in a Nordic setting - the ProMeal-study: description of methodology and the Nordic context

BACKGROUND

School meals, if both nutritious and attractive, provide a unique opportunity to improve health equality and public health.

OBJECTIVE

To describe the study rationale, data collection, and background of participants in the study 'Prospects for promoting health and performance by school meals in Nordic countries' (ProMeal). The general aim was to determine whether overall healthiness of the diet and learning conditions in children can be improved by school lunches, and to capture the main concerns regarding school lunches among children in a Nordic context.

DESIGN

A cross-sectional, multidisciplinary study was performed in Finland, Iceland, Norway, and Sweden on pupils (n=837) born in 2003.

RESULTS

In total 3,928 pictures of school lunches were taken to capture pupils' school lunch intake. A mean of 85% of all parents responded to a questionnaire about socioeconomic background, dietary intake, and habitual physical activity at home. Cognitive function was measured on one occasion on 93% of the pupils during optimal conditions with a Stroop and a Child Operation Span test. A mean of 169 pupils also did an Integrated Visual and Auditory Continuous Performance Test after lunch over 3 days. In total, 37,413 10-sec observations of classroom learning behavior were performed. In addition, 753 empathy-based stories were written and 78 focus groups were conducted. The pupils had high socioeconomic status.

CONCLUSIONS

This study will give new insights into which future interventions are needed to improve pupils' school lunch intake and learning. The study will provide valuable information for policy making, not least in countries where the history of school meals is shorter than in some of the Nordic countries.

Feed-forward neural network model for hunger and satiety related VAS score prediction

BACKGROUND

An artificial neural network approach was chosen to model the outcome of the complex signaling pathways in the gastro-intestinal tract and other peripheral organs that eventually produce the satiety feeling in the brain upon feeding.

METHODS

A multilayer feed-forward neural network was trained with sets of experimental data relating concentration-time courses of plasma satiety hormones to Visual Analog Scales (VAS) scores. The network successfully predicted VAS responses from sets of satiety hormone data obtained in experiments using different food compositions.

RESULTS

The correlation coefficients for the predicted VAS responses for test sets having i) a full set of three satiety hormones, ii) a set of only two satiety hormones, and iii) a set of only one satiety hormone were 0.96, 0.96, and 0.89, respectively. The predicted VAS responses discriminated the satiety effects of high satiating food types from less satiating food types both in orally fed and ileal infused forms.

CONCLUSIONS

From this application of artificial neural networks, one may conclude that neural network models are very suitable to describe situations where behavior is complex and incompletely understood. However, training data sets that fit the experimental conditions need to be available.

Effects of intraduodenal hydroxycitrate on glucose absorption, incretin release, and glycemia in response to intraduodenal glucose infusion in health and type 2 diabetes: A randomised controlled trial

OBJECTIVE

Hydroxycitric acid (HCA), derived from the fruit Garcinia cambogia, reduces the rate of glucose absorption and lowers postprandial glycemia in rodents, but its effect in humans is unknown. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of small intestinal perfusion with HCA on glucose absorption, as well as the incretin and glycemic responses to a subsequent intraduodenal glucose infusion, in both healthy individuals and patients with type 2 diabetes.

METHODS

Twelve healthy participants and 8 patients with type 2 diabetes received an intraduodenal infusion of HCA (2800 mg in water) or control (water) over 60 min, followed by an intraduodenal infusion of 60 g glucose over 120 min, in a double-blind, randomized crossover design. In healthy individuals, 5 g 3-O-methylglucose (3-OMG) was co-infused with glucose as a marker of glucose absorption. Blood was sampled frequently.

RESULTS

In healthy individuals, blood glucose was lower with HCA than control, both before and during the intraduodenal glucose infusion (P < 0.05 for each). Plasma glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP; P = 0.01) and glucagon (P = 0.06) were higher with HCA, but there were no differences in plasma glucagon-like peptide (GLP)-1, insulin, or serum 3-OMG concentrations. In patients with type 2 diabetes, blood glucose, and plasma GIP, GLP-1, and insulin did not differ between HCA and control either before or after intraduodenal glucose, but during glucose infusion, plasma glucagon was higher with HCA (P = 0.04).

CONCLUSION

In healthy individuals, small intestinal exposure to HCA resulted in a modest reduction in glycemia and stimulation of plasma GIP and glucagon, but no effect on plasma GLP-1 or insulin, or on glucose absorption. HCA had no effect on glycemia in patients with type 2 diabetes.

Ageing Is Associated with Decreases in Appetite and Energy Intake--A Meta-Analysis in Healthy Adults

It is not well recognized that in the elderly weight loss is more common than weight gain. The aim of this analysis was to determine the effect of ageing on appetite (hunger/fullness) and energy intake, after overnight fasting and in a postprandial state, by meta-analyses of trials that included at least two age groups (>18 years). We hypothesized that appetite and energy intake would be less in healthy older compared with younger adults. Following a PubMed-database systematic search up to 30 June 2015, 59 studies were included in the random-effects-model meta-analyses. Energy intake was 16%-20% lower in older (n = 3574/~70 years/~71 kg/~25 kg/m²) than younger (n = 4111/~26 years/~69 kg/~23 kg/m²) adults (standardized mean difference: -0.77 (95% confidence interval -0.90 to -0.64)). Hunger was 25% (after overnight fasting; weighted mean difference (WMD): -17 (-22 to -13) mm) to 39% (in a postprandial state; WMD: -14 (-19 to -9) mm) lower, and fullness 37% (after overnight fasting; WMD: 6 mm (95% CI: 1 to 11 mm)) greater in older than younger adults. In conclusion, appetite and energy intake are less in healthy older than younger adults, suggesting that ageing per se affects food intake.

The Glucagon-Like Peptide 1 Receptor Agonist Exenatide Inhibits Small Intestinal Motility, Flow, Transit, and Absorption of Glucose in Healthy Subjects and Patients With Type 2 Diabetes: A Randomized Controlled Trial

The short-acting glucagon-like peptide 1 receptor agonist exenatide reduces postprandial glycemia, partly by slowing gastric emptying, although its impact on small intestinal function is unknown. In this study, 10 healthy subjects and 10 patients with type 2 diabetes received intravenous exenatide (7.5 μg) or saline (-30 to 240 min) in a double-blind randomized crossover design. Glucose (45 g), together with 5 g 3-O-methylglucose (3-OMG) and 20 MBq (99m)Tc-sulfur colloid (total volume 200 mL), was given intraduodenally (t = 0-60 min; 3 kcal/min). Duodenal motility and flow were measured using a combined manometry-impedance catheter and small intestinal transit using scintigraphy. In both groups, duodenal pressure waves and antegrade flow events were fewer, and transit was slower with exenatide, as were the areas under the curves for serum 3-OMG and blood glucose concentrations. Insulin concentrations were initially lower with exenatide than with saline and subsequently higher. Nausea was greater in both groups with exenatide, but suppression of small intestinal motility and flow was observed even in subjects with little or no nausea. The inhibition of small intestinal motor function represents a novel mechanism by which exenatide can attenuate postprandial glycemia.

High-protein breakfast promotes weight loss by suppressing subsequent food intake and regulating appetite hormones in obese Chinese adolescents

OBJECTIVE

A high-protein diet may decrease food intake through regulating satiety and appetite hormones and can be an effective strategy for weight loss. Few studies exist on obese Chinese adolescents.

METHODS AND MATERIALS

156 obese Chinese adolescents were enrolled and randomly assigned to one of two isoenergetic breakfasts, either with egg or steamed bread. Subsequent lunchtime food intake was recorded 4 h later. Appetite was assessed with a visual analog scale. Anorexigenic hormones peptide YY (PYY), glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) and orexigenic hormone ghrelin were determined with radioimmunoassay at 0, 30, and 180 min. Body weight was recorded. The tests were repeated 3 months later. Analysis was performed between two tests and then two groups. Pearson's correlation was used for association analysis.

RESULTS

Subsequent lunchtime food intake and body weight were decreased while satiety was increased in subjects on an egg breakfast, which is associated with an increase of serum PYY and GLP-1 (p < 0.001, respectively). There were strong correlations between weight loss, appetite, subsequent food intake and changes of appetite hormones.

CONCLUSION

A high-protein breakfast promotes weight loss in obese Chinese adolescents, possibly through its regulation of satiety, subsequent food intake and appetite hormones.

Ghrelin, GLP-1, and leptin responses during exposure to moderate hypoxia

Severe hypoxia has been indicated to cause acute changes in appetite-related hormones, which attenuate perceived appetite. However, the effects of moderate hypoxia on appetite-related hormonal regulation and perceived appetite have not been elucidated. Therefore, we examined the effects of moderate hypoxia on appetite-related hormonal regulation and perceived appetite. Eight healthy males (21.0 ± 0.6 years; 173 ± 2.3 cm; 70.6 ± 5.0 kg; 23.4 ± 1.1 kg/m(2)) completed two experimental trials on separate days: a rest trial in normoxia (FiO2 = 20.9%) and a rest trial in hypoxia (FiO2 = 15.0%). The experimental trials were performed over 7 h in an environmental chamber. Blood samples and scores of subjective appetite were collected over 7 h. Standard meals were provided 1 h (745 kcal) and 4 h (731 kcal) after initiating exposure to hypoxia or normoxia within the chamber. Although each meal significantly reduced plasma active ghrelin concentrations (P < 0.05), the response did not differ significantly between the trials over 7 h. No significant differences in the area under the curves for plasma active ghrelin concentrations over 7 h were observed between the two trials. No significant differences were observed in glucagon-like peptide 1 or leptin concentrations over 7 h between the trials. The subjective feeling of hunger and fullness acutely changed in response to meal ingestions. However, these responses were not affected by exposure to moderate hypoxia. In conclusion, 7 h of exposure to moderate hypoxia did not change appetite-related hormonal responses or perceived appetite in healthy males.

Acute load-dependent effects of oral whey protein on gastric emptying, gut hormone release, glycemia, appetite, and energy intake in healthy men

BACKGROUND

In healthy individuals, intraduodenal whey protein load-dependently modulates gastrointestinal motor and hormonal functions and suppresses energy intake. The effect of oral whey, particularly the impact of load, has not been evaluated.

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of this study was to quantify gastric emptying of 30 and 70 g of oral whey protein loads and their relation to gastrointestinal hormone, glycemic, and appetitive responses.

DESIGN

On 3 separate occasions in a randomized, double-blind order, 18 lean men [mean ± SEM age: 24.8 ± 1.4 y; body mass index (in kg/m(2)): 21.6 ± 0.5] received iso-osmolar, equally palatable drinks (∼450 mL) containing 30 g pure whey protein isolate (L), 70 g pure whey protein isolate (H), or saline (control). Gastric emptying (with the use of 3-dimensional ultrasound), plasma cholecystokinin, glucagon-like peptide 1, glucose-dependent insulinotropic peptide, insulin, glucagon, total amino acids, and blood glucose were measured for 180 min after consumption of the drinks, and energy intake at a buffet-style lunch was quantified.

RESULTS

Gastric emptying of the L and H drinks was comparable when expressed in kilocalories per minute (L: 2.6 ± 0.2 kcal/min; H: 2.9 ± 0.3 kcal/min) and related between individuals (r = 0.54, P < 0.01). Gastrointestinal hormone, insulin, and glucagon responses to the L and H drinks were comparable until ∼45-60 min after ingestion, after which time the responses became more differentiated. Blood glucose was modestly reduced after the H drink between t = 45 and 150 min when compared with the L drink (all P < 0.05). Energy intake was suppressed by both L and H drinks compared with control (P < 0.05) (control: 1174 ± 91 kcal; L: 1027 ± 81 kcal; and H: 997 ± 71 kcal).

CONCLUSION

These findings indicate that, in healthy lean men, the rate of gastric emptying of whey protein is independent of load and determines the initial gastrointestinal hormone response. This study was registered at www.anzctr.org.au as 12611000706976.

Comparative effects of intraduodenal whey protein hydrolysate on antropyloroduodenal motility, gut hormones, glycemia, appetite, and energy intake in lean and obese men

BACKGROUND

In lean individuals, intraduodenal protein and lipid modulate gastrointestinal motor and hormone functions and reduce energy intake in a load-dependent manner; protein also stimulates insulin, with modest effects on reducing blood glucose. The effect of intraduodenal lipid on gastrointestinal motor and hormone responses is diminished in obesity; whether the effects of protein are also attenuated remains unclear.

OBJECTIVES

The objectives of this study were to characterize the load-dependent effects of intraduodenal whey protein hydrolysate on antropyloroduodenal pressures, gut hormones, glycemia, appetite, and energy intake in obese subjects and to compare the responses to the higher protein load with those in lean subjects.

DESIGN

We measured antropyloroduodenal pressures, plasma cholecystokinin (CCK), glucagon-like peptide 1 (GLP-1), glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP), glucagon, insulin, blood glucose, appetite, and energy intake in 12 nondiabetic obese men on 3 separate occasions, in a double-blind, randomized order, during 60-min intraduodenal infusions of hydrolyzed whey protein at either 0 (saline control), 1.5, or 3 kcal/min. Twelve age-matched lean individuals received a 3-kcal/min infusion only. Immediately after the infusions, energy intake from a buffet lunch was quantified.

RESULTS

In obese subjects, protein suppressed antral and duodenal pressures; stimulated plasma CCK, GLP-1, GIP, insulin, and glucagon (all r > 0.57, P < 0.01); and tended to reduce energy intake (r = -10.38, P = 0.057) in a dose-dependent manner. In response to the 3-kcal/min protein load, antropyloroduodenal pressures, CCK, GLP-1, and glucagon did not differ between lean and obese subjects. Insulin release was greater, and GIP release less, in obese than in lean subjects (both P < 0.05), whereas the reduction in glucose was comparable. Energy intake tended to be higher in obese subjects (P = 0.08).

CONCLUSIONS

The gastrointestinal effects of hydrolyzed whey protein remain relatively intact in obesity; however, the observed changes in insulin and GIP suggest early disturbances in the insulin-incretin axis. This study was registered at www.anzctr.org.au as ACTRN 12612000203853.

Effect of Antibiotics on Gut Microbiota, Gut Hormones and Glucose Metabolism

Objective

The gut microbiota has been designated as an active regulator of glucose metabolism and metabolic phenotype in a number of animal and human observational studies. We evaluated the effect of removing as many bacteria as possible by antibiotics on postprandial physiology in healthy humans.

Methods

Meal tests with measurements of postprandial glucose tolerance and postprandial release of insulin and gut hormones were performed before, immediately after and 6 weeks after a 4-day, broad-spectrum, per oral antibiotic cocktail (vancomycin 500 mg, gentamycin 40 mg and meropenem 500 mg once-daily) in a group of 12 lean and glucose tolerant males. Faecal samples were collected for culture-based assessment of changes in gut microbiota composition.

Results

Acute and dramatic reductions in the abundance of a representative set of gut bacteria was seen immediately following the antibiotic course, but no changes in postprandial glucose tolerance, insulin secretion or plasma lipid concentrations were found. Apart from an acute and reversible increase in peptide YY secretion, no changes were observed in postprandial gut hormone release.

Conclusion

As evaluated by selective cultivation of gut bacteria, a broad-spectrum 4-day antibiotics course with vancomycin, gentamycin and meropenem induced shifts in gut microbiota composition that had no clinically relevant short or long-term effects on metabolic variables in healthy glucose-tolerant males.

Trial Registration

clinicaltrials.gov NCT01633762

Lesser suppression of energy intake by orally ingested whey protein in healthy older men compared with young controls

Protein-rich supplements are used widely for the management of malnutrition in young and older people. Protein is the most satiating of the macronutrients in young. It is not known how the effects of oral protein ingestion on energy intake, appetite, and gastric emptying are modified by age. The aim of the study was to determine the suppression of energy intake by protein compared with control and underlying gastric-emptying and appetite responses of oral whey protein drinks in eight healthy older men (69-80 yr) compared with eight young male controls (18-34 yr). Subjects were studied on three occasions to determine the effects of protein loads of 30 g/120 kcal and 70 g/280 kcal compared with a flavored water control-drink (0 g whey protein) on energy intake (ad libitum buffet-style meal), and gastric emptying (three-dimensional-ultrasonography) and appetite (0-180 min) in a randomized, double-blind, cross-over design. Energy intake was suppressed by the protein compared with control (P = 0.034). Suppression of energy intake by protein was less in older men (1 ± 5%) than in young controls (15 ± 2%; P = 0.008). Cumulative energy intake (meal+drink) on the protein drink days compared with the control day increased more in older (18 ± 6%) men than young (1 ± 3%) controls (P = 0.008). Gastric emptying of all three drinks was slower in older men (50% gastric-emptying time: 68 ± 5 min) than young controls (36 ± 5 min; P = 0.007). Appetite decreased in young, while it increased in older (P < 0.05). In summary, despite having slower gastric emptying, elderly men exhibited blunted protein-induced suppression of energy intake by whey protein compared with young controls, so that in the elderly men, protein ingestion increased overall energy intake more than in the young men.

Effects of intraduodenal infusion of the branched-chain amino acid leucine on ad libitum eating, gut motor and hormone functions, and glycemia in healthy men

BACKGROUND

Branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs), particularly leucine, act as nutrient signals regulating protein synthesis and degradation as well as glucose metabolism. In addition, leucine has been demonstrated in animal experiments to modulate eating and energy homeostasis.

OBJECTIVE

We aimed to characterize the effects of physiologic and supraphysiologic loads of intraduodenal leucine on eating, gut hormone and motor functions, and blood glucose in humans.

DESIGN

Twelve lean men were studied on 3 occasions in a randomized, double-blind order. Antropyloroduodenal motility, plasma ghrelin, cholecystokinin, glucagon-like peptide 1, peptide YY, insulin, glucagon, blood glucose, appetite perceptions, and gastrointestinal symptoms were measured during 90-min intraduodenal infusions of leucine at 0.15 kcal/min (total 3.3 g, 13.5 kcal), 0.45 kcal/min (total 9.9 g, 40.5 kcal), or saline (control). Ad libitum eating from a buffet lunch was quantified immediately after the infusions.

RESULTS

Leucine at 0.45 kcal/min inhibited eating (energy intake by ∼13%, P < 0.05), increased plasma cholecystokinin, slightly reduced blood glucose and increased plasma insulin, and decreased antral pressures (all P < 0.05). Leucine at 0.15 kcal/min had no effect on food intake, blood glucose, or antral pressures but also slightly increased plasma cholecystokinin (P < 0.05). Neither dose affected plasma ghrelin, glucagon, glucagon-like peptide 1 and peptide YY, or pyloric and duodenal pressures. Plasma leucine concentrations were related to the dose of intraduodenal leucine, with substantial increases during both 0.15 and 0.45 kcal/min.

CONCLUSIONS

The effects of intraduodenal infusions of free leucine on eating are probably not primarily mediated by changes in gut motor and hormone functions, with perhaps the exception of cholecystokinin. Instead, increased plasma leucine concentrations may be a potential signal mediating the eating-inhibitory effect of leucine. The study was registered as a clinical trial with the Australia and New Zealand Clinical Trial Registry (www.anzctr.org.au) as ACTRN12613000899741.

Intraduodenal infusion of a combination of tastants decreases food intake in humans

BACKGROUND

Taste receptors are expressed not only in taste buds but also in the gastrointestinal tract. It has been hypothesized that these receptors may play a role in satiety and food intake.

OBJECTIVE

This study investigated the effect of intraduodenal tastant infusions (bitter, sweet, and umami) on food intake, hunger and fullness, gastrointestinal symptoms, and gastrointestinal peptide release.

DESIGN

Fifteen healthy volunteers [6 male; mean ± SEM age: 23.9 ± 2.0 y; mean ± SEM body mass index (in kg/m(2)): 22.4 ± 0.3] received 5 treatments in a double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled crossover design. Test days started with the insertion of a nasoduodenal catheter followed by a standardized liquid breakfast. Participants received an intraduodenal infusion 150 min after breakfast, containing quinine (bitter), rebaudioside A (sweet), monosodium glutamate (umami), a combination of the 3 tastants, or placebo (tap water) over a period of 60 min. Food intake was measured during an ad libitum meal, and visual analog scales were used to monitor gastrointestinal complaints and hunger and fullness scores. Blood samples were drawn at regular intervals for cholecystokinin, glucagon-like peptide 1 (GLP-1), and peptide YY (PYY) analysis.

RESULTS

Infusion of the combination of tastants substantially decreased food intake (422 ± 97 compared with 486 ± 104 kcal for placebo, P < 0.05), whereas both a combination of tastants and umami decreased hunger scores compared with placebo. No change in cholecystokinin, GLP-1, or PYY concentrations was observed during the infusions. Intraduodenal infusions of the tastants did not result in gastrointestinal symptoms.

CONCLUSIONS

Intraduodenal infusion of umami and a combination of tastants inhibits feelings of hunger, but only the latter also reduces food intake. However, these alterations were not accompanied by changes in the plasma concentrations of the gut-derived peptides cholecystokinin, GLP-1, or PYY. This trial was registered at clinicaltrials.gov as NCT01956838.

A cluster randomised feasibility trial evaluating nutritional interventions in the treatment of malnutrition in care home adult residents

Background

Protein energy malnutrition (PEM) predisposes individuals to disease, delays recovery from illness and reduces quality of life. Care home residents in the United Kingdom are especially vulnerable, with an estimated 30 to 42 % at risk. Evidence for nutritional interventions to address PEM in the care home setting is lacking. Widely used techniques include food-based intervention and/or the use of prescribed oral nutritional supplements. To define outcomes and optimise the design for an adequately powered definitive trial to compare the efficacy of established nutritional interventions in this setting, a cluster randomised feasibility trial with a 6-month intervention was undertaken.

Methods

Care home residents with or at risk of malnutrition were identified across six UK care home sites from September to December 2013. Homes were cluster randomised to standard care (SC), food-based intervention (FB) or oral nutritional supplement intervention (ONS), for 6 months. Key outcomes were trial feasibility and the acceptability of design, allocated interventions and outcome assessments. Anthropometry, dietary intake, healthcare resource usage and participant-reported outcome measures were assessed at baseline and at 3 and 6 months.

Results

All six care homes approached were recruited and retained. Of the 110 residents at risk of malnutrition, 85 % entered the trial, and 68 % completed the 6-month intervention. Pre-specified success criteria for feasibility were met for recruitment and retention, intervention acceptability (resident compliance ≥60 %) and measurement of weight, body mass index (BMI), mid-upper arm circumference and dietary intake (data completeness >80 %). Measurement of handgrip strength and triceps skinfold thickness was not found to be feasible in this population. The 95 % confidence interval (CI) data suggested sensitivity to change in dietary intake for weight, BMI and energy intake between baseline and 3 months when each intervention (FB and ONS) was compared with SC.

Conclusions

A definitive trial comparing the efficacy of nutritional support interventions in increasing weight and BMI in malnourished care home residents can be conducted. However, whilst the design was feasible, this trial has highlighted the lack of clinically and patient-relevant outcome measures that are appropriate for use in this setting for both research and clinical practice. In particular, this trial identified a need for a more simple measure of functional status, which considers the limitations of functional tests in the care home population.

Trial registration

Current Controlled Trials ISRCTN38047922, Date assigned: 22 April 2014.

Electronic supplementary material

The online version of this article (doi:10.1186/s13063-015-0952-2) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.

Postprandial effects of consuming a staggered meal on gut peptide and glycemic responses in obese women and men

Eating slowly by staggering a meal may reduce energy intake. Our aim was to examine the effect of eating a portion of beans 15min before the rest of the meal, on gastrointestinal (GI) peptides, glucose and insulin concentrations and subsequent energy intake in obese adults. This was a randomised crossover design study with 28 obese subjects. Participants consumed a standardised breakfast on test days followed by test meals: (1) control meal containing 86g (0.5 cup) of beans, and (2) staggered meal in which 86g (0.5 cup) of beans were consumed 15min before the rest of the meal. Blood obtained prior to and at 30, 60, and 120min following the meals was analysed for acylated ghrelin, unacylated ghrelin, glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1), peptide YY, oxyntomodulin, glucose and insulin. Feelings of hunger and satiety were assessed using analog visual scales. Energy intake following the test meal was obtained by computer assisted dietary recalls. Mixed model statistical analysis of data showed time effects for unacylated ghrelin, GLP-1, glucose, insulin, hunger and fullness, however, meal effects were not shown for any of the parameters. GLP-1 area under the curve from baseline to 120min (AUC0-120) decreased by 19% (P=0.024) and that of glucose increased by 7% (P=0.046) following the staggered compared to the control bean meal. Energy intake subsequent to the test meals did not differ between treatments. In conclusion, lengthening meal times by staggering eating did not benefit hormonal, metabolic or appetite control in obese individuals.

The assessment of anorexia in patients with cancer: cut-off values for the FAACT-A/CS and the VAS for appetite

PURPOSE

Anorexia is a frequently observed symptom in patients with cancer and is associated with limited food intake and decreased quality of life. Diagnostic instruments such as the Anorexia/Cachexia Subscale (A/CS) of the Functional Assessment of Anorexia/Cachexia Therapy (FAACT) questionnaire and the visual analog scale (VAS) for appetite have been recommended in the assessment of anorexia, but validated cut-off values are lacking. This study aimed to obtain cut-off values of these instruments for the assessment of anorexia in patients with cancer.

METHODS

The FAACT-A/CS and the VAS for appetite were administered to patients with cancer before start of chemotherapy. As reference standard for anorexia, two external criteria were used: (1) a cut-off value of ≥2 on the anorexia symptom scale of the EORTC QLQ C-30 and (2) the question "Do you experience a decreased appetite?" (yes/no). ROC curves were used to examine the optimal cut-off values for the FAACT-A/CS and VAS.

RESULTS

A total of 273 patients (58 % male; 64.0 ± 10.6 years) were included. The median score on the FAACT-A/CS was 38 (IQR 32-42) points and 77 (IQR 47-93) points on the VAS. Considering both external criteria, the optimal cut-off value for the FAACT-A/CS was ≤37 (sensitivity (se) 80 %, specificity (sp) 81 %, positive predictive value (PV(+)) 79 %, negative predictive value (PV(-)) 82 %) and for the VAS was ≤70 (se 76 %, sp 83 %, PV(+) 80 %, PV(-) 79 %).

CONCLUSIONS

For the assessment of anorexia in patients with cancer, our study suggests cut-off values of ≤37 for the FAACT-A/CS and ≤70 for the VAS. Future studies should confirm our findings in other patient samples.

Craving for Food in Virtual Reality Scenarios in Non-Clinical Sample: Analysis of its Relationship with Body Mass Index and Eating Disorder Symptoms

Virtual reality (VR) technology has been successfully used to study the influence of specific and contextual food-related cues on emotional, cognitive and behavioural responses in patients with eating disorders (ED) and healthy controls. Following this research line, the present study assesses the effect on reported food craving of the type of food (low calorie versus high calorie) and the presence or absence of other people (private versus social context) in VR environments. Relationships between craving and body mass index (BMI) and ED symptoms are also explored. Eighty-seven female students were exposed to four VR scenarios presented in random order: a low-calorie kitchen, a high-calorie kitchen, a low-calorie restaurant and a high-calorie restaurant. After 2 minutes of exposure to each virtual scenario, food craving was assessed. Repeated measures analyses of covariance were conducted to assess changes in food craving following exposure to the different VR environments. Time elapsed since the last meal was introduced as a covariate to control for responses produced by food deprivation. Correlation and hierarchical multiple regression analyses were also conducted to assess the relationship between reported food craving and BMI and ED symptoms. Participants experienced higher levels of food craving after exposure to high-calorie foods (in both the kitchen and restaurant environments) than after exposure to low-calorie foods. Being alone in the kitchen or with friends in the restaurant had no effect on reported craving. Overall, neither BMI nor ED symptoms were related with reported food craving; only in the restaurant with low-calorie food was a significant negative correlation found between BMI and food craving. The results suggest that cue exposure in virtual environments is an effective procedure for inducing food craving in healthy controls and may be useful as a research and therapeutic tool in clinical populations.

The role of protein in weight loss and maintenance

Over the past 20 y, higher-protein diets have been touted as a successful strategy to prevent or treat obesity through improvements in body weight management. These improvements are thought to be due, in part, to modulations in energy metabolism, appetite, and energy intake. Recent evidence also supports higher-protein diets for improvements in cardiometabolic risk factors. This article provides an overview of the literature that explores the mechanisms of action after acute protein consumption and the clinical health outcomes after consumption of long-term, higher-protein diets. Several meta-analyses of shorter-term, tightly controlled feeding studies showed greater weight loss, fat mass loss, and preservation of lean mass after higher-protein energy-restriction diets than after lower-protein energy-restriction diets. Reductions in triglycerides, blood pressure, and waist circumference were also reported. In addition, a review of the acute feeding trials confirms a modest satiety effect, including greater perceived fullness and elevated satiety hormones after higher-protein meals but does not support an effect on energy intake at the next eating occasion. Although shorter-term, tightly controlled feeding studies consistently identified benefits with increased protein consumption, longer-term studies produced limited and conflicting findings; nevertheless, a recent meta-analysis showed persistent benefits of a higher-protein weight-loss diet on body weight and fat mass. Dietary compliance appears to be the primary contributor to the discrepant findings because improvements in weight management were detected in those who adhered to the prescribed higher-protein regimen, whereas those who did not adhere to the diet had no marked improvements. Collectively, these data suggest that higher-protein diets that contain between 1.2 and 1.6 g protein · kg^-1 · d^-1 and potentially include meal-specific protein quantities of at least ∼25-30 g protein/meal provide improvements in appetite, body weight management, cardiometabolic risk factors, or all of these health outcomes; however, further strategies to increase dietary compliance with long-term dietary interventions are warranted.

Genotype status of the dopamine-related catechol-O-methyltransferase (COMT) gene corresponds with desirability of "unhealthy" foods

The role of dopamine is extensively documented in weight regulation and food intake in both animal models and humans. Yet the role of dopamine has not been well studied in individual differences for food desirability. Genotype status of the dopamine-related catechol-O-methyltransferase (COMT) gene has been shown to influence dopamine levels, with greater COMT enzymatic activity in val/val individuals corresponding to greater degradation of dopamine. Decreased dopamine has been associated with poorer cognitive control and diminished goal-directed behavior in various behavioral paradigms. Additionally, dopaminergic-rich regions such as the frontal cortex and dorsal striatum have been shown to be important for supporting food-related decision-making. However, the role of dopamine, as assessed by COMT genotype status, in food desirability has not been fully explored. Therefore, we utilized an individual's COMT genotype status (n = 61) and investigated food desirability based on self-rated "healthy" and "unhealthy" food perceptions. Here we found val/val individuals (n = 19) have greater desirability for self-rated "unhealthy" food items, but not self-rated "healthy" food items, as compared to val/met (n = 24) and met/met (n = 18) individuals (p < 0.005). Utilizing an objective health measure for the food items, we also found val/val and val/met individuals have greater desirability for objectively defined "unhealthy" food items, as compared to met/met individuals (p < 0.01). This work further substantiates the role of dopamine in food-related behaviors and more specifically in relationship to food desirability for "unhealthy" food items.

Post-meal perceivable satiety and subsequent energy intake with intake of partially hydrolysed guar gum

Partially hydrolysed guar gum (PHGG), a soluble dietary fibre, has been shown to provide many health benefits. Previous studies had suggested that the combination of PHGG with protein provided a significant satiation effect on visual analogue scales (VAS). What was lacking was only the effect of administration of small doses of PHGG on post-meal satiation and subsequent energy intake. The objectives of the present investigations were to find the subjective perception of post-meal satiety with acute and long term administration of small amounts of PHGG alone with food, its effects on subsequent energy intake and the comparative effects among different types of soluble fibres. The following three separate studies were conducted: in study 1, healthy subjects (n 12) consumed PHGG along with breakfast, lunch and an evening snack; in study 2, healthy subjects (n 24) consumed 2 g of PHGG or dextrin along with yogurt as breakfast for 2 weeks; in study 3, healthy subjects (n 6) took 6 g each of either PHGG or indigestible dextrin or inulin along with lunch. In all the studies, various satiety parameters were measured on VAS before and after consumption of PHGG. The addition of PHGG showed significant (P < 0.05) acute (studies 1 and 3) and long-term (studies 1 and 2) satiety effects compared to the control and/or an equal amount of carbohydrate or other types of soluble fibre. Study 2 also indicated that the prolonged consumption of PHGG may significantly (P < 0.05) reduce energy intake from whole-day snacking. PHGG could be an ideal natural soluble fibre for delivering acute and long term satiety effects for comfortable appetite control.

Attentional bias to food cues in youth with loss of control eating

Emerging data indicate that adults with binge eating may exhibit an attentional bias toward highly palatable foods, which may promote obesogenic eating patterns and excess weight gain. However, it is unknown to what extent youth with loss of control (LOC) eating display a similar bias. We therefore studied 76 youth (14.5 ± 2.3 years; 86.8% female; BMI-z 1.7 ± .73) with (n = 47) and without (n = 29) reported LOC eating. Following a breakfast to reduce hunger, youth participated in a computerized visual probe task of sustained attention that assessed reaction time to pairs of pictures consisting of high palatable foods, low palatable foods, and neutral household objects. Although sustained attentional bias did not differ by LOC eating presence and was unrelated to body weight, a two-way interaction between BMI-z and LOC eating was observed (p = .01), such that only among youth with LOC eating, attentional bias toward high palatable foods versus neutral objects was positively associated with BMI-z. These findings suggest that LOC eating and body weight interact in their association with attentional bias to highly palatable foods cues, and may partially explain the mixed literature linking attentional bias to food cues with excess body weight.

Self-regulatory theory and weight-loss maintenance

We examined the relationships between promotion and prevention focus and caloric consumption in reaction to a dietary lapse scenario among weight loss maintainers. Participants were 65 adult females who had attained and maintained a weight loss of 10 % or more for at least 1 month. After engaging in a dietary lapse in a feeding laboratory, participants completed a "bogus" taste test, during which they could consume as much food as they liked. It was hypothesized that promotion and prevention focus would predict caloric consumption, mediated by depressive and anxious affect. Prevention focus, but not promotion focus, was positively associated with proportion of daily calories consumed. Affect was not a mediator. Prevention focus may be deleterious for dietary maintenance following dietary lapses. Theoretical and clinical implications are discussed in light of prior research. Limitations of the study and recommendations for future research also are presented.

Gender Differences in the Appetite Response to a Satiating Diet

We examined gender differences in appetite sensations when exposed to Mediterranean diet (MedDiet) meals and determined whether there are gender differences in the change in the satiating properties of the MedDiet over time. Thirty-eight men and 32 premenopausal women consumed a 4-week isoenergetic MedDiet under controlled conditions. Visual analogue scales were used to measure perceived appetite sensations before and immediately after each meal consumed over the course of one day (Wednesday) of the first and the fourth week of intervention. Women reported greater decreases for desire to eat, hunger, and appetite score than men in response to the consumption of the MedDiet meals (gender-by-meal interactions, resp., P = 0.04, P = 0.048, and P = 0.03). Fullness and prospective food consumption responses did not significantly differ between men and women. Between the first and the fourth week of intervention, premeal prospective food consumption increased with time in men (P = 0.0007) but not in women (P = 0.84; P for gender-by-time interaction = 0.04). These results indicate gender differences in appetite sensations when exposed to the MedDiet. These results may be useful in order to have a better understanding of gender issues for body weight management.

L-carnitine ameliorated fasting-induced fatigue, hunger, and metabolic abnormalities in patients with metabolic syndrome: a randomized controlled study

Background

The present study aimed to determine that whether L-carnitine infusion could ameliorate fasting-induced adverse effects and improve outcomes.

Method

In this 7-day, randomized, single-blind, placebo-controlled, pilot study, 15 metabolic syndrome (MetS) patients (11/4 F/M; age 46.9 ± 9.14 years; body mass index [BMI] 28.2 ± 1.8 kg/m²) were in the L-carnitine group (LC) and 15 (10/5 F/M; age 46.8 ± 10.9 years; BMI 27.1 ± 2.3 kg/m²) were in the control group (CT). All participants underwent a 5-day modified fasting therapy introduced with 2-day moderate calorie restriction. Patients in the LC group received 4 g/day of intravenous L-carnitine, while patients in the CT group were injected with saline. Blood pressure (BP), anthropometric characteristics, markers of liver function, metabolic indices (plasma glucose, lipid profiles, uric acid, free fatty acid and insulin) and hypersensitivity C-reactive protein were measured. Perceived hunger was recorded daily by self-rating visual analogue scales. Fatigue was evaluated by Wessely and Powell scores.

Results

In contrast to the CT group, total cholesterol, alanine aminotransferase, systolic and diastolic BP did not change significantly in the LC group after prolonged fasting. There were significant differences in weight loss (LC −4.6 ± 0.9 vs. CT −3.2 ± 1.1 kg, P = 0.03), and waist circumference (LC −5.0 ± 2.2 vs. CT −1.7 ± 1.16 cm, P < 0.001), waist hip ratio (LC −0.023 ± 0.017 vs. CT 0.012 ± 0.01, P < 0.001), insulin concentration (LC −9.9 ± 3.58 vs. CT −6.32 ± 3.44 µU/mL, P = 0.046), and γ-glutamyltransferase concentration (LC −7.07 ± 6.82 vs. CT −2.07 ± 4.18, P = 0.024). Perceived hunger scores were significantly increased (P < 0.05) in the CT group during starvation, which was alleviated with L-carnitine administration in the LC group. Physical fatigue (LC −3.2 ± 3.17 vs. CT 1.8 ± 2.04, P < 0.001) and fatigue severity (LC −11.6 ± 8.38 vs. CT 8.18 ± 7.32, P < 0.001) were significantly reduced in the LC group but were aggravated in the CT group.

Conclusion

Intravenous L-carnitine can ameliorate fasting-induced hunger, fatigue, cholesterol abnormalities and hepatic metabolic changes and facilitate fasting-induced weight loss in MetS patients.

Trial registration

ChiCTR-TNRC-12002835.

Effects of dipeptidyl peptidase IV inhibition on glycemic, gut hormone, triglyceride, energy expenditure, and energy intake responses to fat in healthy males

Fat is the most potent stimulus for glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) secretion. The aims of this study were to determine whether dipeptidyl peptidase IV (DPP-IV) inhibition would enhance plasma active incretin [glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP), GLP-1] concentrations and modulate the glycemic, gut hormone, triglyceride, energy expenditure, and energy intake responses to intraduodenal fat infusion. In a double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled crossover design, 16 healthy lean males received 50 mg vildagliptin (V), or matched placebo (P), before intraduodenal fat infusion (2 kcal/min, 120 min). Blood glucose, plasma insulin, glucagon, active GLP-1, and GIP and peptide YY (PYY)-(3-36) concentrations; resting energy expenditure; and energy intake at a subsequent buffet meal (time = 120-150 min) were quantified. Data are presented as areas under the curve (0-120 min, means ± SE). Vildagliptin decreased glycemia (P: 598 ± 8 vs. V: 573 ± 9 mmol·l⁻¹·min⁻¹, P < 0.05) during intraduodenal lipid. This was associated with increased insulin (P: 15,964 ± 1,193 vs. V: 18,243 ± 1,257 pmol·l⁻¹·min⁻¹, P < 0.05), reduced glucagon (P: 1,008 ± 52 vs. V: 902 ± 46 pmol·l⁻¹·min⁻¹, P < 0.05), enhanced active GLP-1 (P: 294 ± 40 vs. V: 694 ± 78 pmol·l⁻¹·min⁻¹) and GIP (P: 2,748 ± 77 vs. V: 4,256 ± 157 pmol·l⁻¹·min⁻¹), and reduced PYY-(3-36) (P: 9,527 ± 754 vs. V: 4,469 ± 431 pM/min) concentrations compared with placebo (P < 0.05, for all). Vildagliptin increased resting energy expenditure (P: 1,821 ± 54 vs. V: 1,896 ± 65 kcal/day, P < 0.05) without effecting energy intake. Vildagliptin 1) modulates the effects of intraduodenal fat to enhance active GLP-1 and GIP, stimulate insulin, and suppress glucagon, thereby reducing glycemia and 2) increases energy expenditure. These observations suggest that the fat content of a meal, by enhancing GLP-1 and GIP secretion, may contribute to the response to DPP-IV inhibition.

Antipsychotic induced metabolic changes & treatment response: a prospective study

BACKGROUND

Metabolic side effects of antipsychotics contribute to morbidity and non-compliance in treatment of psychosis. Multiple studies suggest that metabolic side effects correlate with response to antipsychotic treatment. However, few studies have systematically looked at this. We conducted an exploratory, naturalistic, prospective, trans-diagnostic study to examine this association.

METHODS

100 patients with psychosis, initiated on antipsychotic treatment alone, were assessed on Brief Psychiatric Rating Scale (BPRS), visual analog scale for appetite, anthropometric measurements (weight, waist circumference, body mass index), and fasting serum lipid and glucose profiles at baseline, 2-4 weeks (n=71) and 8-12 weeks (n=39).

RESULTS

Subjects who dropped out at first/second follow-ups did not differ from those who followed-up, in age, sex, illness duration and BPRS scores. On forward stepwise multiple linear regression analysis, early (2-4 weeks) increase in appetite and triglyceride levels (R(2)=0.257; p=0.003) together predicted 26% variance in treatment response (BPRS score reduction) at first follow-up. At second follow-up 16% of variance in treatment response was predicted by early (2-4 weeks) increase in triglyceride levels (R(2)=0.169; p=0.009).

CONCLUSIONS

Early appetite and triglyceride changes predicted antipsychotic treatment response. Involvement of dopaminergic, serotonergic and histaminergic neural pathways could explain the association between appetite and treatment response. Insulin signaling pathways have been implicated in lipid changes with antipsychotics. Study findings suggest metabolic side effects may be early predictors of antipsychotic response. These findings warrant further examination to elucidate the interaction between metabolic pathways and psychotic illnesses, and possibly mechanism of action of antipsychotics beyond dopamine blockade.

Effects of intraduodenal infusion of L-tryptophan on ad libitum eating, antropyloroduodenal motility, glycemia, insulinemia, and gut peptide secretion in healthy men

CONTEXT

Changes in gut motor and hormonal function contribute to the eating-inhibitory and glucose-lowering effects of protein. The effect of amino acids, the digestive products of protein, on gastrointestinal function, eating, and glycemia has not been investigated comprehensively.

OBJECTIVE

We tested the hypothesis that L-tryptophan (L-Trp) stimulates gastrointestinal motor and hormonal functions, inhibits eating, and modulates glycemia. Design, Settings, Participants, and Intervention: Ten healthy, normal-weight men were studied in randomized, double-blind fashion, each receiving a 90-minute intraduodenal infusion of L-Trp at 0.075 (total 6.75 kcal) or 0.15 (total 13.5 kcal) kcal/min or saline (control).

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Antropyloroduodenal motility, plasma ghrelin, cholecystokinin, glucagon-like peptide-1, peptide tyrosine tyrosine, insulin, glucagon, blood glucose, and appetite perceptions were measured. Food intake was quantified from a buffet meal after the infusion.

RESULTS

Intraduodenal L-Trp suppressed antral pressures (P < .05) and stimulated pyloric pressures (P < .01) and markedly increased cholecystokinin and glucagon (both P < .001). Glucagon-like peptide-1 and peptide tyrosine tyrosine increased modestly (both P < .001), but there was no effect on total ghrelin. Insulin increased slightly (P < .05) without affecting blood glucose. Plasma L-Trp increased substantially (P < .001). All effects were dose-related and associated with increased fullness and substantially decreased energy intake (P < .001). There was a strong inverse correlation between energy intake and plasma L-Trp (r = -0.70; P < .001).

CONCLUSIONS

Low caloric intraduodenal loads of L-Trp affect gut motor and hormonal function and markedly reduce energy intake. A strong inverse correlation between energy intake and plasma L-Trp suggests that, beyond gut mechanisms, direct effects of circulating L-Trp mediate its eating-inhibitory effect.

Ileal brake activation: macronutrient-specific effects on eating behavior?

BACKGROUND

Activation of the ileal brake, by infusing lipid directly into the distal part of the small intestine, alters gastrointestinal (GI) motility and inhibits food intake. The ileal brake effect on eating behavior of the other macronutrients is currently unknown.

OBJECTIVE

The objective of this study was to investigate the effects of ileal infusion of sucrose and casein on food intake, release of GI peptides, gastric emptying rate and small-bowel transit time with safflower oil as positive control.

DESIGN

This randomized, single-blind, crossover study was performed in 13 healthy subjects (6 male; mean age 26.4±2.9 years; mean body mass index 22.8±0.4 kg m(-2)) who were intubated with a naso-ileal catheter. Thirty minutes after the intake of a standardized breakfast, participants received an ileal infusion, containing control ((C) saline), safflower oil ((HL) 51.7 kcal), low-dose casein ((LP) 17.2 kcal) or high-dose casein ((HP) 51.7 kcal), low-dose sucrose ((LC) 17.2 kcal) and high-dose sucrose ((HC) 51.7 kcal), over a period of 90 min. Food intake was determined during an ad libitum meal. Visual analogue score questionnaires for hunger and satiety and blood samples were collected at regular intervals.

RESULTS

Ileal infusion of lipid, protein and carbohydrate resulted in a significant reduction in food intake compared with control (HL: 464.3±90.7 kcal, P<0.001; HP: 458.0±78.6 kcal, P<0.005; HC: 399.0±57.0 kcal, P<0.0001 vs control: 586.7±70.2 kcal, P<0.001, respectively). A reduction in energy intake was still apparent when the caloric amount of infused nutrients was added to the amount eaten during the ad libitum meal.Secretion of cholecystokinin and peptide YY but not of glucagon-like peptide-1 (7-36) was increased during ileal perfusion of fat, carbohydrates and protein. During ileal perfusion of all macronutrients, a delay in gastric emptying and intestinal transit was observed, but differences were not significant compared with control.

CONCLUSION

Apart from lipids, also sucrose and casein reduce food intake on ileal infusion, thereby activating the ileal brake. In addition to food intake, also satiety and GI peptide secretion were affected.

Dorsal striatal dopamine, food preference and health perception in humans

To date, few studies have explored the neurochemical mechanisms supporting individual differences in food preference in humans. Here we investigate how dorsal striatal dopamine, as measured by the positron emission tomography (PET) tracer [¹⁸F]fluorometatyrosine (FMT), correlates with food-related decision-making, as well as body mass index (BMI) in 16 healthy-weight to moderately obese individuals. We find that lower PET FMT dopamine synthesis binding potential correlates with higher BMI, greater preference for perceived “healthy” foods, but also greater healthiness ratings for food items. These findings further substantiate the role of dorsal striatal dopamine in food-related behaviors and shed light on the complexity of individual differences in food preference.

A novel tool to predict food intake: the Visual Meal Creator

Subjective appetite is commonly measured using an abstract visual analogue scale (VAS) technique, that provides no direct information about desired portion size or food choice. The purpose of this investigation was to develop and validate a user-friendly tool - the Visual Meal Creator (VIMEC) - that would allow for independent, repeated measures of subjective appetite and provide a prediction of food intake. Twelve participants experienced dietary control over a 5-hour period to manipulate hunger state on three occasions (small breakfast (SB) vs. large breakfast (LB) vs. large breakfast + snacks (LB+S)). Appetite measures were obtained every 60 minutes using the VIMEC and VAS. At 4.5 hours, participants were presented with an ad libitum test meal, from which energy intake (EI) was measured. The efficacy of the VIMEC was assessed by its ability to detect expected patterns of appetite and its strength as a predictor of energy intake. Day-to-day reproducibility and test-retest repeatability were assessed. Between- and within-condition differences in VAS and VIMEC scores (represented as mm and kcal of the "created" meal, respectively) were significantly correlated with one another throughout. Between- and within-condition changes in appetite scores obtained with the VIMEC exhibited a stronger correlation with EI at the test meal than those obtained with VAS. Pearson correlation coefficients for within-condition comparisons were 0.951, 0.914 and 0.875 (all p < 0.001) for SB, LB and LB+S respectively. Correlation coefficients for between-condition differences in VIMEC and EI were 0.273, 0.940 (p < 0.001) and 0.525 (p < 0.05) for SB - LB+S, SB - LB and LB - LB+S respectively. The VIMEC exhibited a similar degree of reproducibility to VAS. These findings suggest that the VIMEC appears to be a stronger predictor of energy intake than VAS.