Dietary polyphenol intake in Europe: the European Prospective Investigation into Cancer and Nutrition (EPIC) study

Health-Promoting Properties of Proanthocyanidins for Intestinal Dysfunction

The intestinal barrier is constantly exposed to potentially harmful environmental factors, including food components and bacterial endotoxins. When intestinal barrier function and immune homeostasis are compromised (intestinal dysfunction), inflammatory conditions may develop and impact overall health. Evidence from experimental animal and cell culture studies suggests that exposure of intestinal mucosa to proanthocyanidin (PAC)-rich plant products, such as grape seeds, may contribute to maintaining the barrier function and to ameliorating the pathological inflammation present in diet-induced obesity and inflammatory bowel disease. In this review, we aim to update the current knowledge on the bioactivity of PACs in experimental models of intestinal dysfunction and in humans, and to provide insights into the underlying biochemical and molecular mechanisms.

Pedro Ximenez sun-dried grape must: a dietary supplement for a healthy longevity

Sun-dried Pedro Ximénez white grapes must (PXM) is a potent antioxidant that regularizes apoptosis, proliferation, and regeneration of the structure and the function of aged mice liver. PXM consumption contributes to a healthy aging process.

Adherence to UK dietary guidelines is associated with higher dietary intake of total and specific polyphenols compared with a traditional UK diet: further analysis of data from the Cardiovascular risk REduction Study: Supported by an Integrated Dietary Approach (CRESSIDA) randomised controlled trial

Adherence to dietary guidelines (DG) may result in higher intake of polyphenols via increased consumption of fruits, vegetables and whole grains. We compared polyphenol dietary intake and urinary excretion between two intervention groups in the Cardiovascular risk REduction Study: Supported by an Integrated Dietary Approach study: a 12-week parallel-arm, randomised controlled trial (n 161; sixty-four males, ninety-seven females; aged 40-70 years). One group adhered to UK DG, whereas the other group consumed a representative UK diet (control). We estimated polyphenol dietary intake, using a 4-d food diary (4-DFD) and FFQ, and analysed 24-h polyphenol urinary excretion by liquid chromatography-tandem MS on a subset of participants (n 46 control; n 45 DG). A polyphenol food composition database for 4-DFD analysis was generated using Phenol-Explorer and USDA databases. Total polyphenol intake by 4-DFD at endpoint (geometric means with 95 % CI, adjusted for baseline and sex) was significantly higher in the DG group (1279 mg/d per 10 MJ; 1158, 1412) compared with the control group (1084 mg/d per 10 MJ; 980, 1197). The greater total polyphenol intake in the DG group was attributed to higher intake of anthocyanins, proanthocyanidins and hydroxycinnamic acids, with the primary food sources being fruits, cereal products, nuts and seeds. FFQ estimates of flavonoid intake also detected greater intake in DG compared with the control group. 24-h urinary excretion showed consistency with 4-DFD in their ability to discriminate between dietary intervention groups for six out of ten selected, individual polyphenols. In conclusion, following UK DG increased total polyphenol intake by approximately 20 %, but not all polyphenol subclasses corresponded with this finding.

Quercetin, Epigallocatechin Gallate, Curcumin, and Resveratrol: From Dietary Sources to Human MicroRNA Modulation

Epidemiologic studies suggest that dietary polyphenol intake is associated with a lower incidence of several non-communicable diseases. Although several foods contain complex mixtures of polyphenols, numerous factors can affect their content. Besides the well-known capability of these molecules to act as antioxidants, they are able to interact with cell-signaling pathways, modulating gene expression, influencing the activity of transcription factors, and modulating microRNAs. Here we deeply describe four polyphenols used as nutritional supplements: quercetin, resveratrol, epigallocatechin gallate (ECGC), and curcumin, summarizing the current knowledge about them, spanning from dietary sources to the epigenetic capabilities of these compounds on microRNA modulation.

Phenyl-γ-valerolactones and phenylvaleric acids, the main colonic metabolites of flavan-3-ols: synthesis, analysis, bioavailability, and bioactivity

Covering: 1958 to June 2018 Phenyl-γ-valerolactones (PVLs) and their related phenylvaleric acids (PVAs) are the main metabolites of flavan-3-ols, the major class of flavonoids in the human diet. Despite their presumed importance, these gut microbiota-derived compounds have, to date, in terms of biological activity, been considered subordinate to their parent dietary compounds, the flavan-3-ol monomers and proanthocyanidins. In this review, the role and prospects of PVLs and PVAs as key metabolites in the understanding of the health features of flavan-3-ols have been critically assessed. Among the topics covered, are proposals for a standardised nomenclature for PVLs and PVAs. The formation, bioavailability and pharmacokinetics of PVLs and PVAs from different types of flavan-3-ols are discussed, taking into account in vitro and animal studies, as well as inter-individual differences and the existence of putative flavan-3-ol metabotypes. Synthetic strategies used for the preparation of PVLs are considered and the methodologies for their identification and quantification assessed. Metabolomic approaches unravelling the role of PVLs and PVAs as biomarkers of intake are also described. Finally, the biological activity of these microbial catabolites in different experimental models is summarised. Knowledge gaps and future research are considered in this key area of dietary (poly)phenol research.

Quantitative Analysis of the Biologically Active Compounds Present in Leaves of Mexican Sweet Potato Accessions: Phenols, Flavonoids, Anthocyanins, 3,4,5-Tri-Caffeoylquinic Acid and 4-Feruloyl-5-Caffeoylquinic Acid

Sweet potato is one of the oldest crops cultivated in Mexico, and Mesoamerica is considered as a region with the greatest diversity of this species. Therefore, the present study focused on the evaluation of biologically active compounds, such as caffeoylquinic acid derivatives and flavonoid compounds, in sweet potato leaves of 200 accessions of the main producing regions of Mexico. The analysis of total phenol content (TPC) showed a great variability of concentrations among the examined accessions (54.41 to 284.64 mgTPC/g DW). Likewise, total flavonoid content (TFC) was determined and ranged from 10.01 to 40.17 mgTFC /g DW. Finally, total anthocyanin content (TAC) was evaluated and concentrations obtained varied from 0.05 to 0.98 mgTAC/g DW. Additionally, HPLC analysis of all 200 accessions demonstrated the presence of caffeic acid (CA), 5-caffeoylquinic acid (5-CQA), three isomers of di-caffeoylquinic acid (di-CCA) and 4-feruloyl-5-caffeoylquinic acid (4F-5CQA) in all test samples. Only 21 accessions tested showed the quantitative amount of 3,4,5-tri-caffeoylquinic acid (3,4,5-tri-CQA) with concentrations ranging from 44.73 to 193.22 mg/100 g DW and high content of 4F-5CQA (139.46 to 419.99 mg/100 g DW). The gathered data indicate that leaves of Mexican sweet potatoes are a promising source of phenolic compounds with remarkable nutraceutical potential.

Coffee and tea drinking in relation to the risk of differentiated thyroid carcinoma: results from the European Prospective Investigation into Cancer and Nutrition (EPIC) study

PURPOSE

Coffee and tea constituents have shown several anti-carcinogenic activities in cellular and animal studies, including against thyroid cancer (TC). However, epidemiological evidence is still limited and inconsistent. Therefore, we aimed to investigate this association in a large prospective study.

METHODS

The study was conducted in the EPIC (European Prospective Investigation into Cancer and Nutrition) cohort, which included 476,108 adult men and women. Coffee and tea intakes were assessed through validated country-specific dietary questionnaires.

RESULTS

During a mean follow-up of 14 years, 748 first incident differentiated TC cases (including 601 papillary and 109 follicular TC) were identified. Coffee consumption (per 100 mL/day) was not associated either with total differentiated TC risk (HRcalibrated 1.00, 95% CI 0.97-1.04) or with the risk of TC subtypes. Tea consumption (per 100 mL/day) was not associated with the risk of total differentiated TC (HRcalibrated 0.98, 95% CI 0.95-1.02) and papillary tumor (HRcalibrated 0.99, 95% CI 0.95-1.03), whereas an inverse association was found with follicular tumor risk (HRcalibrated 0.90, 95% CI 0.81-0.99), but this association was based on a sub-analysis with a small number of cancer cases.

CONCLUSIONS

In this large prospective study, coffee and tea consumptions were not associated with TC risk.

Poor Dietary Polyphenol Intake in Childhood Cancer Patients

Emerging research demonstrates polyphenol-rich diets like the Mediterranean diet may play a role in improving the outcomes of adult cancer therapy. To date, there are no trials assessing the intake or efficacy of polyphenol-rich diets in childhood cancer patients. In this study we collected dietary data on 59 childhood cancer patients on treatment using a three-pass 24-h dietary recall (24-HDR), which is based on a validated and structured three-part methodology. Polyphenol consumption was calculated by matching the food consumption data with polyphenol content extracted from the most updated Phenol-Explorer database. The mean total polyphenol intake was 173.31 ± 141.02 mg/day. The major food sources of polyphenols were fruits, beverages, and cereals. There were no significant associations with time since diagnosis, body mass index (BMI) z-score, types of cancer, treatment intensity, food-related symptoms, relapse, and total daily polyphenol intake. Further investigation with larger studies will facilitate the steps in assessing the value of polyphenol-rich dietary patterns in future nutritional interventions for childhood cancer patients.

Dietary intake of total polyphenols and the risk of all-cause and specific-cause mortality in Japanese adults: the Takayama study

Purpose

Several epidemiological studies have demonstrated the health benefits of polyphenols, but the associations between polyphenol intake and mortality including total and major causes of death remain unclear. We investigated the associations between subjects’ total polyphenol intake and their mortality from all causes, cardiovascular disease (CVD), cancer, and other causes of death in a population-based cohort study in Japan.

Methods

A total of 29,079 residents of Takayama City, Japan were analyzed. Their dietary intake was assessed using a validated semi-quantitative food-frequency questionnaire (FFQ) in 1992. Mortality was ascertained over the subsequent 16 years. The dietary polyphenol intake was calculated by matching the subjects’ food consumption data with our original polyphenol content database.

Results

A total of 5339 deaths occurred during the follow-up. After multivariable adjustment, the highest quartile of total polyphenol intake compared with the lowest quartile was significantly associated with a lower risk of all-cause mortality (HR: 0.93, 95% CI: 0.82–0.99, p trend = 0.003). The subjects in the highest quartile showed significantly lower CVD mortality compared to those in the lowest quartile, and among the types of CVD mortality, a strong inverse association was observed for stroke mortality. Inverse associations were also observed for mortality from other causes, specifically digestive disease. The total polyphenol intake was not significantly associated with the risk of cancer mortality.

Conclusions

The results of this prospective study indicate that dietary total polyphenol intake in Japanese is inversely associated with all-cause mortality and mortality from cardiovascular and digestive diseases.

The Polyphenols as Potential Agents in Prevention and Therapy of Prostate Diseases

In recent years, the progress of science and medicine greatly has influenced human life span and health. However, lifestyle habits, like physical activity, smoking cessation, moderate alcohol consumption, diet, and maintaining a normal body weight represent measures that greatly reduce the risk of various diseases. The type of diet is very important for disease development. Numerous epidemiological clinical data confirm that longevity is linked to predominantly plant-based diets and it is related to a long life; whereas the western diet, rich in red meat and fats, increases the risk of oxidative stress and thus the risk of developing various diseases and pre-aging. This review is focused on the bioavailability of polyphenols and the use of polyphenols for the prevention of prostate diseases. Special focus in this paper is placed on the isoflavonoids and flavan-3-ols, subgroups of polyphenols, and their protective effects against the development of prostate diseases.

Associations between habitual flavonoid intake and hospital admissions for atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease: a prospective cohort study

BACKGROUND

Flavonoids, compounds found in plant-based foods and beverages, might ameliorate vascular damage and atherosclerosis. Therefore, our aim was to assess the association between flavonoid intake and hospital admissions due to atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease.

METHODS

In this prospective cohort study, participants from the Danish Diet, Cancer, and Health Study were cross-linked with Danish nationwide registries. Eligible participants were aged 50-65 years, had no previous history of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease, and had completed a food-frequency questionnaire at baseline. We examined associations between flavonoid intake (calculated from food-frequency questionnaires with use of the Phenol-Explorer database) and hospital admissions for atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease, ischaemic heart disease, ischaemic stroke, or peripheral arterial disease. We obtained hazard ratios (HRs) using restricted cubic splines based on Cox proportional hazards models.

FINDINGS

Of the participants recruited to the Danish Diet, Cancer, and Health study between 1993 and 1997, our study population was comprised of 53 552 participants, with a median follow-up of 21 years (IQR 15-22). During follow-up, 8773 participants were admitted to hospital for atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease. We observed non-linear associations between flavonoid intake and hospital admissions, plateauing at total flavonoid intakes of approximately 1000 mg per day. Compared with an intake of 175 mg per day, an intake of 1000 mg per day was associated with a 14% lower risk of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (HR 0·86, 95% CI 0·81-0·91). For disease subtypes, we observed a 9% lower risk of ischaemic heart disease (0·91, 0·85-0·98), a non-significant 9% lower risk of ischaemic stroke (0·91, 0·82-1·01), and a 32% lower risk of peripheral artery disease (0·68, 0·60-0·78). The overall associations were stronger in smokers than in non-smokers, as well as stronger in consumers of high (>20 g per day) quantities of alcohol than in those consuming low-to-moderate (≤20 g per day) quantities.

INTERPRETATION

Our results suggest that ensuring an adequate consumption of flavonoid-rich foods, particularly in subpopulations at risk of atherosclerosis such as smokers and consumers of high quantities of alcohol might mitigate some of the risk of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease. More studies are needed to support and validate these data.

FUNDING

Danish Cancer Society.

Plant-Based Dietary Patterns, Plant Foods, and Age-Related Cognitive Decline

The aging population is expanding, as is the prevalence of age-related cognitive decline (ARCD). Of the several risk factors that predict the onset and progression of ARCD, 2 important modifiable risk factors are diet and physical activity. Dietary patterns that emphasize plant foods can exert neuroprotective effects. In this comprehensive review, we examine studies in humans of plant-based dietary patterns and polyphenol-rich plant foods and their role in either preventing ARCD and/or improving cognitive function. As yet, there is no direct evidence to support the benefits of a vegetarian diet in preventing cognitive decline. However, there is emerging evidence for brain-health-promoting effects of several plant foods rich in polyphenols, anti-inflammatory dietary patterns, and plant-based dietary patterns such as the Mediterranean diet that include a variety of fruits, vegetables, legumes, nuts, and whole grains. The bioactive compounds present in these dietary patterns include antioxidant vitamins, polyphenols, other phytochemicals, and unsaturated fatty acids. In animal models these nutrients and non-nutrients have been shown to enhance neurogenesis, synaptic plasticity, and neuronal survival by reducing oxidative stress and neuroinflammation. In this review, we summarize the mounting evidence in favor of plant-centered dietary patterns, inclusive of polyphenol-rich foods for cognitive well-being. Randomized clinical trials support the role of plant foods (citrus fruits, grapes, berries, cocoa, nuts, green tea, and coffee) in improving specific domains of cognition, most notably frontal executive function. We also identify knowledge gaps and recommend future studies to identify whether plant-exclusive diets have an added cognitive advantage compared with plant-centered diets with fish and/or small amounts of animal foods.

The pharmacokinetics of flavanones

The intake of flavanones, the predominant flavonoid in the Citrus genus in human diets is variable but considerable. It is thus unsurprising that they have attracted interest for their claimed positive effects on health. However, to substantiate any purported impact on health and decipher the underlying mechanism(s), knowledge of pharmacokinetics is crucial. The aim of this article is to review currently known aspects of the fate of flavanones in the organism including absorption, metabolism, distribution, and excretion as well as possible kinetic interactions with clinically used drugs. There are three principal keynotes: (1) The level of parent flavanones in plasma is negligible. The major reason for this is that although flavanones are absorbed into enterocytes after oral intake, they are rapidly metabolized, in particular, into conjugates, sulfates and glucuronides, which are the major forms circulating in plasma. (2) A large fraction reaches the colon where it is efficiently metabolized into small absorbable phenolics. (3) The form (aglycone vs. glycoside) and species (e.g. human vs. rat) have important impact. In conclusion, knowledge of the pharmacokinetics of flavanones, in particular of metabolites, their achievable plasma concentration and half-lives, should be borne in mind when their biological effects are investigated.

Sorghum Grain: From Genotype, Nutrition, and Phenolic Profile to Its Health Benefits and Food Applications

Globally, sorghum is one of the most important but least utilized staple crops. Sorghum grain is a rich source of nutrients and health-beneficial phenolic compounds. The phenolic profile of sorghum is exceptionally unique and more abundant and diverse than other common cereal grains. The phenolic compounds in sorghum are mainly composed of phenolic acids, 3-deoxyanthocyanidins, and condensed tannins. Studies have shown that sorghum phenolic compounds have potent antioxidant activity in vitro, and consumption of sorghum whole grain may improve gut health and reduce the risks of chronic diseases. Recently, sorghum grain has been used to develop functional foods and beverages, and as an ingredient incorporated into other foods. Moreover, the phenolic compounds, 3-deoxyanthocyanidins, and condensed tannins can be isolated and used as promising natural multifunctional additives in broad food applications. The objective of this review is to provide a comprehensive understanding of nutrition and phenolic compounds derived from sorghum and their related health effects, and demonstrate the potential for incorporation of sorghum in food systems as a functional component and food additive to improve food quality, safety, and health functions.

Relation of Fruits and Vegetables with Major Cardiometabolic Risk Factors, Markers of Oxidation, and Inflammation

Noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) are considered to be the leading cause of death worldwide. Inadequate fruit and vegetable intake have been recognized as a risk factor for almost all NCDs (type 2 diabetes mellitus, cancer, and cardiovascular and neurodegenerative diseases). The main aim of this review is to examine the possible protective effect that fruit and vegetable consumption or their bioactive compounds may have on the development of NCDs such as atherosclerosis. The accumulated evidence on the protective effects of adequate consumption of fruits and vegetables in some cases, or the lack of evidence in others, are summarized in the present review. The main conclusion of this review is that well-designed, large-scale, long-term studies are needed to truly understand the role fruit and vegetable consumption or their bioactive compounds have in atherosclerosis.

Catechin and Procyanidin B2 Modulate the Expression of Tight Junction Proteins but Do Not Protect from Inflammation-Induced Changes in Permeability in Human Intestinal Cell Monolayers

The possibility of counteracting inflammation-related barrier defects with dietary compounds such as (poly)phenols has raised much interest, but information is still scarce. We have investigated here if (+)-catechin (CAT) and procyanidin B₂ (PB₂), two main dietary polyphenols, protect the barrier function of intestinal cells undergoing inflammatory stress. The cell model adopted consisted of co-cultured Caco-2 and HT29-MTX cells, while inflammatory conditions were mimicked through the incubation of epithelial cells with the conditioned medium of activated macrophages (MCM). The epithelial barrier function was monitored through trans-epithelial electrical resistance (TEER), and ROS production was assessed with dichlorofluorescein, while the expression of tight-junctional proteins and signal transduction pathways were evaluated with Western blot. The results indicated that MCM produced significant oxidative stress, the activation of NF-κB and MAPK pathways, a decrease in occludin and ZO-1 expression, and an increase in claudin-7 (CL-7) expression, while TEER was markedly lowered. Neither CAT nor PB₂ prevented oxidative stress, transduction pathways activation, ZO-1 suppression, or TEER decrease. However, PB₂ prevented the decrease in occludin expression and both polyphenols produced a huge increase in CL-7 abundance. It is concluded that, under the conditions adopted, CAT and PB₂ do not prevent inflammation-dependent impairment of the epithelial barrier function of intestinal cell monolayers. However, the two compounds modify the expression of tight-junctional proteins and, in particular, markedly increase the expression of CL-7. These insights add to a better understanding of the potential biological activity of these major dietary flavan-3-ols at intestinal level.

Intake of Nutrient and Non-Nutrient Dietary Antioxidants. Contribution of Macromolecular Antioxidant Polyphenols in an Elderly Mediterranean Population

The intake of antioxidants in the diet is a useful parameter to estimate the potential of diet to prevent chronic diseases associated with oxidative stress and ageing. The objective was to estimate the intake of nutrient and non-nutrient antioxidants associated with the dietary fiber matrix in a healthy and functionally independent population aged over 80, estimating the intake of antioxidant nutrients and including soluble low molecular weight and macromolecular polyphenols in the non-nutrient antioxidant group. Specific nutrients related to oxidative stress (copper, zinc, selenium, manganese, vitamins A, C and E) were ingested in optimal quantities according to reference values. Total intake of non-nutrient antioxidants was 2196 mg/person/day, and macromolecular polyphenols were found to be the main dietary antioxidants, contributing 71% to the total intake of phenolic compounds. The intake, metabolism and physiological effects of all nutrient and non-nutrient dietary antioxidants must therefore be taken into account when evaluating their health benefits.

Protective effects of raspberry on the oxidative damage in HepG2 cells through Keap1/Nrf2-dependent signaling pathway

The aim of the present study was to explore the protective effects of raspberry and its bioactive compound cyanidin 3-O-glucoside against H₂O₂-induced oxidative stress in HepG2 cells. We established a model of oxidative stress in HepG2 cells induced by H₂O₂ and examined the protein expression of Keap1/Nrf2. The antioxidant activity of raspberry extract was carried out measuring the level of reactive oxygen species (ROS), and the changes of phase II detoxification elements such as GSH level and CAT activity. Also the expression of proteins related to the Keap1/Nrf2 signaling was tested. The results revealed that raspberry extract significantly reduced the ROS levels in oxidative injured cells, increased GSH content and CAT activity, and activated the expression of proteins Keap1, Nrf2, HO-1, NQO1, and γ-GCS. These results taken together indicated that raspberry treatment could ameliorate H₂O₂-induced oxidative stress in HepG2 cells via Keap1/Nrf2 pathway.

Dietary flavonoids: Nano delivery and nanoparticles for cancer therapy

Application of nanotechnologies to cancer therapy might increase solubility and/or bioavailability of bioactive compounds of natural or synthetic origin and offers other potential benefits in cancer therapy, including selective targeting. In the present review we aim to evaluate in vivo studies on the anticancer activity of nanoparticles (NPs) obtained from food-derived flavonoids. From a systematic search a total of 60 studies were identified. Most of the studies involved the flavanol epigallocatechin-3-O-gallate and the flavonol quercetin, in both delivery and co-delivery (with anti-cancer drugs) systems. Moreover, some studies investigated the effects of other flavonoids, such as anthocyanins aglycones anthocyanidins, flavanones, flavones and isoflavonoids. NPs inhibited tumor growth in both xenograft and chemical-induced animal models of cancerogenesis. Encapsulation improved bioavailability and/or reduced toxicity of both flavonoids and/or co-delivered drugs, such as doxorubicin, docetaxel, paclitaxel, honokiol and vincristine. Moreover, flavonoids have been successfully applied in molecular targeted nanosystems. Selectivity for cancer cells involves pH- and/or reactive oxygen species-mediated mechanisms. Furthermore, flavonoids are good candidates as drug delivery for anticancer drugs in green synthesis systems. In conclusion, although human studies are needed, NPs obtained from food-derived flavonoids have promising anticancer effects in vivo.

Flavonoid intake is associated with lower mortality in the Danish Diet Cancer and Health Cohort

Flavonoids, plant-derived polyphenolic compounds, have been linked with health benefits. However, evidence from observational studies is incomplete; studies on cancer mortality are scarce and moderating effects of lifestyle risk factors for early mortality are unknown. In this prospective cohort study including 56,048 participants of the Danish Diet, Cancer, and Health cohort crosslinked with Danish nationwide registries and followed for 23 years, there are 14,083 deaths. A moderate habitual intake of flavonoids is inversely associated with all-cause, cardiovascular- and cancer-related mortality. This strong association plateaus at intakes of approximately 500 mg/day. Furthermore, the inverse associations between total flavonoid intake and mortality outcomes are stronger and more linear in smokers than in non-smokers, as well as in heavy (>20 g/d) vs. low-moderate (<20 g/d) alcohol consumers. These findings highlight the potential to reduce mortality through recommendations to increase intakes of flavonoid-rich foods, particularly in smokers and high alcohol consumers.

Composition and content of phenolic acids and avenanthramides in commercial oat products: Are oats an important polyphenol source for consumers?

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Commercial oat products contained ten phenolic acids and three avenanthramides.

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Commercial oats provide 15.79–25.05 mg total phenolic acids in a 40 g serving of oats.

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The concentrations and compositions in the products were broadly similar.

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Major component was ferulic acid (58–78.1%) in all products.

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Oatbran concentrate has the highest levels of phenolic acids and avenanthramides.

Oats contain a range of phenolic acids and avenanthramides which may have health benefits. Analysis of 22 commercial oat products (oat bran concentrate, oat bran, flaked oats, rolled oats and oatcakes) using HPLC-DAD detected eleven bound and thirteen free + conjugated phenolic acids and avenanthramides. The oat products (excluding concentrate) provided between 15.79 and 25.05 mg total phenolic acids (9.9–19.33 mg bound, 4.96–5.72 mg free + conjugated) and between 1.1 and 2 mg of avenanthramides in a 40 g portion while an 11 g portion of oat concentrate provided 16.7 mg of total phenolic acids (15.17 mg bound, 1.53 mg free + conjugated) and 1.2 mg of avenanthramides. The compositions and concentrations of the components in the different products were broadly similar, with the major component being ferulic acid (58–78.1%). The results show that commercial oat products are a source of phenolic acids and avenanthramides for consumers.

Intake of Anthocyanins and Gastric Cancer Risk: A Comprehensive Meta-Analysis on Cohort and Case-Control Studies

This meta-analysis aimed to explore the association between anthocyanins intake and the risk of gastric cancer. All the relative articles have been searched in the online databases, including PubMed, EMBASE, Web of Science, and the Cochrane Library until June 11th, 2018. Risk ratios (RRs) or odds ratio (ORs) and their 95% confidence intervals were calculated and pooled through the STATA 12.0. A total of 6 studies were finally selected in the meta-analysis. No significant association was found between total anthocyanins consumption and gastric cancer risk (RR=0.92, 95%CI: 0.81-1.04). Likewise, there was also no significant evidence of the relationship between anthocyanins intake and gastric cancer in tumor site (cardia: RR=0.90, 95%CI: 0.62-1.31; noncardia: RR=0.86, 95%CI: 0.69-1.07) and gender (men: RR=1.02, 95%CI: 0.73-1.40; women: RR=0.80, 95%CI: 0.52-1.23). The dose-response relationship was also not found in this meta-analysis. The Grades of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation (GRADE) quality in our study was very low. The results of our meta-analysis suggested the intake of anthocyanins had no association with the risk of gastric cancer and further studies are needed.

Systematic Review on Polyphenol Intake and Health Outcomes: Is there Sufficient Evidence to Define a Health-Promoting Polyphenol-Rich Dietary Pattern?

Growing evidence support association between polyphenol intake and reduced risk for chronic diseases, even if there is a broad debate about the effective amount of polyphenols able to exert such protective effect. The present systematic review provides an overview of the last 10-year literature on the evaluation of polyphenol intake and its association with specific disease markers and/or endpoints. An estimation of the mean total polyphenol intake has been performed despite the large heterogeneity of data reviewed. In addition, the contribution of dietary sources was considered, suggesting tea, coffee, red wine, fruit and vegetables as the main products providing polyphenols. Total flavonoids and specific subclasses, but not total polyphenols, have been apparently associated with a low risk of diabetes, cardiovascular events and all-cause mortality. However, large variability in terms of methods for the evaluation and quantification of polyphenol intake, markers and endpoints considered, makes it still difficult to establish an evidence-based reference intake for the whole class and subclass of compounds. Nevertheless, the critical mass of data available seem to strongly suggest the protective effect of a polyphenol-rich dietary pattern even if further well targeted and methodologically sound research should be encouraged in order to define specific recommendations.

Botanical Sources, Chemistry, Analysis, and Biological Activity of Furanocoumarins of Pharmaceutical Interest

The aim of this work is to provide a critical review of plant furanocoumarins from different points of view, including their chemistry and biosynthetic pathways to their extraction, analysis, and synthesis, to the main biological activities found for these active compounds, in order to highlight their potential within pharmaceutical science. The limits and the possible improvements needed for research involving these molecules are also highlighted and discussed.

Inter-individual variability in the production of flavan-3-ol colonic metabolites: preliminary elucidation of urinary metabotypes

PURPOSE

There is much information on the bioavailability of (poly)phenolic compounds following acute intake of various foods. However, there are only limited data on the effects of repeated and combined exposure to specific (poly)phenol food sources and the inter-individual variability in their bioavailability. This study evaluated the combined urinary excretion of (poly)phenols from green tea and coffee following daily consumption by healthy subjects in free-living conditions. The inter-individual variability in the production of phenolic metabolites was also investigated.

METHODS

Eleven participants consumed both tablets of green tea and green coffee bean extracts daily for 8 weeks and 24-h urine was collected on five different occasions. The urinary profile of phenolic metabolites and a set of multivariate statistical tests were used to investigate the putative existence of characteristic metabotypes in the production of flavan-3-ol microbial metabolites.

RESULTS

(Poly)phenolic compounds in the green tea and green coffee bean extracts were absorbed and excreted after simultaneous consumption, with green tea resulting in more inter-individual variability in urinary excretion of phenolic metabolites. Three metabotypes in the production of flavan-3-ol microbial metabolites were tentatively defined, characterized by the excretion of different amounts of trihydroxyphenyl-γ-valerolactones, dihydroxyphenyl-γ-valerolactones, and hydroxyphenylpropionic acids.

CONCLUSIONS

The selective production of microbiota-derived metabolites from flavan-3-ols and the putative existence of characteristic metabotypes in their production represent an important development in the study of the bioavailability of plant bioactives. These observations will contribute to better understand the health effects and individual differences associated with consumption of flavan-3-ols, arguably the main class of flavonoids in the human diet.

Structure characteristics of flavonoids for cyclooxygenase-2 mRNA inhibition in lipopolysaccharide-induced inflammatory macrophages

Flavonoids are natural active components. They distribute widely in edible plants with high activity of anti-inflammation. Inhibition of cyclooxygenase-2(COX-2) was determined by real-time fluorescent quantitative olymerase chain reaction (RTFQ-PCR). And structure characteristics of flavonoids for COX-2 inhibition were mainly analyzed by a quantitative structure activity relationship (QSAR) model. Descriptors such as SMR_VSA5, vsurf_DD12, reactive were the top three important independent variables to COX-2 mRNA inhibiton in RAW264.7. Low SMR_VSA5 value meant a lower molecular refractivity resulting in a lower COX-2 mRNA inhibition. High vsurf_DD12 value related to poor molecular balance and showed profound adverse to COX-2 mRNA inhibition. Reactive group in this paper referred to C2-C3 double bond contributed negatively to COX-2 mRNA inhibition. Glycosidic and C3-OH substitutions may lower SMR_VSA5 value. It indicated that flavanones such as hesperetin, naringenin, liquiritigenin were efficient to repress COX-2 mRNA and they were potential anti-inflammatory natural products. Further, substitution with a glucopyranosyl at C-6 resulted in a poorer molecule balance than that at C-8 and a lower COX-2 mRNA inhibiton accordingly. This may expain why orientin and vitexin exhibited better anti-inflammatory activity than their isomers homoorientin and isovitexin. Also, methoxyl groups at C-4' may also be a favorable flavonoid structural characteristic for COX-2 mRNA inhibiton. These results provide valuable information on understanding the high anti-inflammatory activity of flavonoids.

Flavonoids and the Risk of Gastric Cancer: An Exploratory Case-Control Study in the MCC-Spain Study

Several epidemiological studies have investigated the association between the dietary flavonoid intake and gastric cancer (GC) risk; however, the results remain inconclusive. Investigating the relationship between the different classes of flavonoids and the histological types and origin of GC can be of interest to the research community. We used data from a population-based multi-case control study (MCC-Spain) obtained from 12 different regions of Spain. 2700 controls and 329 GC cases were included in this study. Odds ratios (ORs) were calculated using the mixed effects logistic regression considering quartiles of flavonoid intakes and log2. Flavonoid intake was associated with a lower GC risk (ORlog2 = 0.76; 95% CI = 0.65-0.89; ORq4vsq1 = 0.60; 95%CI = 0.40-0.89; ptrend = 0.007). Inverse and statistically significant associations were observed with anthocyanidins, chalcones, dihydroflavonols and flavan-3-ols. The isoflavanoid intake was positively associated with higher cancer risk, but without reaching a statistical significance. In general, no differences were observed in the GC risk according to the location and histological type. The flavonoid intake seems to be a protective factor against GC within the MCC-study. This effect may vary depending on the flavonoid class but not by the histological type and location of the tumor. Broader studies with larger sample size and greater geographical variability are necessary.

Dietary intake of polyphenols and risk of colorectal cancer and adenoma-A case-control study from Iran

OBJECTIVES

The aim of this study is to examine the relationship between dietary polyphenols' classes and individual polyphenol subclasses and also the risk of Colorectal cancer (CRC) and colorectal adenomas (CRA).

DESIGN

A hospital-based case-control study on the association between CRC and CRA and dietary polyphenols was conducted.

SETTING

Overall, 129 colorectal cancers, 130 colorectal adenoma cases and 240 healthy controls were studied in three major general hospitals in Tehran province, Iran.

RESULTS

In a multivariate-adjusted model for potential confounders, higher consumption of stilbenes (OR 0.49 for the highest vs. the lowest quartile; 95% CI = 0.24-0.99; p for trend = 0.013) was associated with the decreased risk of CRA. Moreover, an inverse association between the risk of CRC and the intake of total polyphenols (OR 0.05 for the highest vs. the lowest quartile; 95% CI = 0.01-0.19; p for trend=<0.001), total flavonoids (OR 0.36 for the highest vs. the lowest quartile; 95% CI = 0.16-0.79; p for trend = 0.005), total phenolic acids (OR 0.24 for the highest vs. the lowest quartile; 95% CI = 0.10-0.56; p for trend = 0.002), anthocyanin (OR 0.21 for the highest vs. the lowest quartile; 95% CI = 0.08-0.55; p for trend = 0.001) and flavanols (OR 0.38 for the highest vs. the lowest quartile; 95% CI = 0.17-0.85; p for trend = 0.001) was observed.

CONCLUSION

The present study showed that a higher intake of total polyphenols, total flavonoids, total phenolic acids anthocyanin and flavanols was related to the decreased risk of CRC. The higher consumption of stilbenes was also inversely associated with the risk of CRA.

Phytochemical Characterization of Five Edible Purple-Reddish Vegetables: Anthocyanins, Flavonoids, and Phenolic Acid Derivatives

Vegetables comprise a significant portion of our daily diet with their high content in nutrients including fiber, vitamins, minerals, as well as phenolic compounds. Vegetable consumption has been shown to be positively associated with the prevention of several degenerative diseases thanks to their bioactive compounds. Accordingly, five selected vegetables, namely, red chicory, red onion, eggplant, purple sweet potato, and black carrot were thoroughly assessed for their phenolic content in this study. For this purpose, the total phenolic and flavonoid content of these five vegetables and their antioxidant activities that are based on three common methods ABTS radical cation decolorization assay (ABTS), Cupric Ion Reducing Antioxidant Capacity (CUPRAC), and DPPH scavenging activity assay were determined. Additionally, HPLC-PDA/Electrospray ionization coupled with mass spectrometry (HPLC-PDA/-ESI⁺-MS)-based identification and quantification of the members belonging to polyphenols present in each vegetable were determined. Statistical correlations between antioxidant activities and the specific type of phenolic compounds, such as anthocyanins, flavonoids, anthocyanins, and phenolic acids were further elucidated. Phenolic acids (chlorogenic and syringic acids) were found to be the most abundant compounds that are present in all samples. Among the anthocyanins, cyaniding derivatives were present in all vegetables. In terms of their antioxidant activities, the analyzed vegetables were ranked as red chicory > purple sweet potato > black carrot > eggplant > red onion, in descending order. Superior antioxidant activities exhibited by red chicory and purple sweet potato were attributed to the high content of phenolic compounds, especially flavonols (quercetin-3,4-O-diglucoside) in red chicory and anthocyanins (peonidin-3-caffeoyl p-hydroxybenzoylsophoroside-5-glucoside) in purple sweet potato.

An in vitro exploratory study of dietary strategies based on polyphenol-rich beverages, fruit juices and oils to control trimethylamine production in the colon

Trimethylamine-N-oxide (TMAO) has been described as a new biomarker of cardiovascular disease (CVD), derived from gut microbial biotransformation of dietary choline and l-carnitine into trimethylamine (TMA) and subsequent hepatic oxidation. (Poly)phenols are among the dietary factors able to interfere with microbial enzymatic activity, possibly modulating TMA biotransformation at the gut level. The aim of this work was to investigate the in vitro biotransformation of choline and carnitine using faecal starters obtained from omnivorous and vegetarian subjects and the effect of (poly)phenol-rich foods on TMA production. Choline and l-carnitine were fermented with vegetarian or omnivorous faecal slurries, alone or in combination with 10 (poly)phenol-rich food items. TMA production from carnitine, but not from choline, was significantly lower when vegetarian faecal starters were used and, among the tested food items, blonde orange juice significantly reduced TMA formation during faecal biotransformation. Consequently, the main compounds of orange juice, namely phenolic compounds, terpenes, limonoids, organic acids and sugars, were tested individually. Sugars exerted the highest inhibitory effect on TMA production. Despite some limitations deriving from the applied in vitro model, this is the first work describing a possible role of some (poly)phenol-rich dietary products on the modulation of TMA colonic production. Free sugars were the main factor responsible for TMA inhibition, suggesting a potential beneficial role of colonic fermentation of carbohydrates in reducing TMA formation from its precursor molecules. This work opens new research directions to evaluate the effect of dietary fermentable fibre on TMA production and, potentially, on circulating TMAO levels.

Factors Explaining Interpersonal Variation in Plasma Enterolactone Concentrations in Humans

Lignans are diphenolic plant compounds with potential health modulating properties that are absorbed to the circulation and metabolized to the enterolignans enterodiol (END) and enterolactone (ENL) by gut microbiota. Epidemiological studies have inconsistently shown that a high lignan intake and circulating ENL are associated with reduced risk of breast‐, prostate‐, and colorectal cancer as well as cardiovascular disease and total and cause‐specific mortality. Inconsistencies can be due to interpersonal variation of ENL formation or responses. The aim of this review is to identify and evaluate the impact of factors influencing variability in plasma concentrations of the main enterolignan, ENL. The main determinants of plasma ENL concentrations are intake of lignan and lignan‐rich foods, composition and activity of intestinal microflora, antimicrobial use, nutrient intake, BMI, smoking, sex, and age. Composition and activity of the intestinal microbiota appear to be the most critical factor governing interpersonal variability in plasma ENL concentration followed by the use of antibiotics. Future studies with combined data from gut microbiota and metabolomics with food intake and life style data can be used to estimate the relative contribution of the different factors to ENL concentration in quantitative terms.

Plant phenolics as functional food ingredients

Phenolic compounds have attracted much attention in recent times as their dietary intake has been associated with the prevention of some chronic and degenerative diseases that constitute major causes of death and incapacity in developed countries, such as cardiovascular diseases, type II diabetes, some types of cancers or neurodegenerative disorders like Alzheimer's and Parkinson's diseases. Nowadays it is considered that these compounds contribute, at least in part, for the protective effects of fruit and vegetable-rich diets, so that the study of their role in human nutrition has become a central issue in food research. This chapter reviews the current knowledge on the phenolic compounds as food components, namely their occurrence in the diet, bioavailability and metabolism, biological activities and mechanisms of action. Besides, the approaches for their extraction from plant matrices and technological improvements regarding their preparation, stability and bioavailability in order to be used as functional food ingredients are also reviewed, as well as their legal situation regarding the possibility of making "health claims" based on their presence in food and beverages.

Bioavailability and In Vivo Antioxidant Activity of a Standardized Polyphenol Mixture Extracted from Brown Propolis

Several lines of evidence demonstrate the antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial activities of propolis, mostly ascribed to its polyphenol content. However, little is known regarding the bioavailability of propolis in acute and prolonged settings of oral administration. In this study, we first determined the content of the main polyphenols in a brown propolis extract obtained using a patented extraction method (Multi Dinamic Extraction—M.E.D.) by RP-HPLC-UV-PDA-MSn analysis, followed by the bioavailability of galangin and chrysin, the most abundant polyphenols in the mixture (7.8% and 7.5% respectively), following acute (single bolus of 500 mg/kg containing about 3.65 mg of the polyphenol mixture) and prolonged (100, 250 and 500 mg/kg body for 30 days) oral administration in 30 male 8 weeks old C57BL/6 wild-type mice. In the acute setting, blood was taken at 30 s and 5, 10, 15, 20, 25, 30, 45, 60 and 120 min following the oral bolus. In the prolonged setting, blood samples were obtained after 10, 20 or 30 days of administration. At the end of treatment, expression of antioxidant enzymes (superoxyde dismutase, SOD-1; catalase, CAT; glutathione peroxidase, GSS) was evaluated in liver tissue. Following both acute and prolonged administration, neither galangin nor chrysin were detectable in the plasma of mice, whereas the glucuronide metabolite of galangine was detectable 5 min after acute administration. At the end of the prolonged treatment SOD-1 was found to have increased significantly, unlike CAT and GSS. Overall, these data suggest that oral administration of whole brown propolis extract is followed by rapid absorption and metabolization of galangin followed by adaptations of the antioxidant first line defense system.

Flavonoid Mixture Inhibits Mycobacterium tuberculosis Survival and Infectivity

BACKGROUND

Flavonoids have been shown to exert anti-pathogenic potential, but few studies have investigated their effects on Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb) infectivity. We hypothesized that a flavonoid mixture would have a favorable influence on cell death and the resolution of Mtb infection in THP-1 macrophages and in granulomas derived from both healthy participants and those with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM).

METHODS

THP-1 macrophages, and in vitro granulomas from healthy participants (N = 8) and individuals with T2DM (N = 5) were infected with Mtb. A mixed flavonoid supplement (MFS) at a concentration of 0.69 mg per ml was added as treatment to Mtb infected THP-1 macrophages and granulomas for 8 to 15 days.

RESULTS

MFS treatment significantly reduced the intracellular Mtb survival, increased cell density, aggregation, and granuloma formation, and increased glutathione (GSH) levels. IL-12 and IFN-γ levels tended to be higher and IL-10 lower when Mtb infected THP-1 macrophages and granulomas obtained from healthy subjects were treated with MFS compared to control.

CONCLUSIONS

MFS treatment exerted a strong influence against Mtb infectivity in THP-1 macrophages and in granulomas including antimycobacterial effects, GSH enrichment, cytokine regulation, and augmented granuloma formation. Our data support the strategy of increased flavonoid intake for managing tuberculosis.

Green Coffee Extract Improves Cardiometabolic Parameters and Modulates Gut Microbiota in High-Fat-Diet-Fed ApoE-/- Mice

Chlorogenic acids (CGA) are the most abundant phenolic compounds in green coffee beans and in the human diet and have been suggested to mitigate several cardiometabolic risk factors. Here, we aimed to evaluate the effect of a water-based standardized green coffee extract (GCE) on cardiometabolic parameters in ApoE-/- mice and to explore the potential underlying mechanisms. Mice were fed an atherogenic diet without (vehicle) or with GCE by gavage (equivalent to 220 mg/kg of CGA) for 14 weeks. We assessed several metabolic, pathological, and inflammatory parameters and inferred gut microbiota composition, diversity, and functional potential. Although GCE did not reduce atherosclerotic lesion progression or plasma lipid levels, it induced important favorable changes. Specifically, improved metabolic parameters, including fasting glucose, insulin resistance, serum leptin, urinary catecholamines, and liver triglycerides, were observed. These changes were accompanied by reduced weight gain, decreased adiposity, lower inflammatory infiltrate in adipose tissue, and protection against liver damage. Interestingly, GCE also modulated hepatic IL-6 and total serum IgM and induced shifts in gut microbiota. Altogether, our results reveal the cooccurrence of these beneficial cardiometabolic effects in response to GCE in the same experimental model and suggest potential mediators and pathways involved.

Total polyphenol intake and breast cancer risk in the Seguimiento Universidad de Navarra (SUN) cohort

Polyphenols are a wide family of phytochemicals present in diverse foods. They might play a role in cancer development and progression.In vivoandin vitrostudies have suggested beneficial properties and potential mechanisms. We aimed to evaluate the association between total and main classes of polyphenol intake and breast cancer (BC) risk in the Seguimiento Universidad de Navarra project – a prospective Mediterranean cohort study. We included 10 713 middle-aged, Spanish female university graduates. Polyphenol intake was derived from a semi-quantitative FFQ and matching food consumption data from the Phenol-Explorer database. Women with self-reported BC were asked to return a copy of their medical report for confirmation purposes; death certificates were used for fatal cases. Cox models were fitted to estimate multivariable-adjusted hazard ratios (HR) and 95 % CI for the association between tertiles (T) of polyphenol intake and BC. After 10·3 years of median follow-up, 168 probable incident BC cases were identified, out of which 100 were confirmed. We found no association between polyphenol intake and the overall BC risk. Nevertheless, we observed a significant inverse association between total polyphenol intake and BC risk for postmenopausal women, either for probable or only for confirmed cases (HRT3v.T10·31 (95 % CI 0·13, 0·77;Ptrend=0·010)). Also, phenolic acid intake was inversely associated with postmenopausal BC. In summary, we observed no significant association between total polyphenol intake and BC risk. Despite a low number of incident BC cases in our cohort, higher total polyphenol intake was associated with a lower risk of postmenopausal BC.

Anthocyanin Consumption and Risk of Colorectal Cancer: A Meta-Analysis of Observational Studies

This meta-analysis aimed to summarize the association between anthocyanin consumption and the risk of colorectal cancer. All relative articles were located on online databases, including PubMed, Embase, and the Cochrane Library as of June 11, 2018. Risk ratios (RRs) or odds ratio and their 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated through the STATA 12.0 software package. A total of seven studies were included in the meta-analysis. A significant inverse association was found between total anthocyanin consumption and colorectal cancer risk (RR = 0.78; 95% CI, 0.64-0.95). Likewise, there was significant evidence of a relationship between anthocyanin intake and colorectal cancer in the colon site (RR = 0.81; 95% CI, 0.71-0.92); men (RR = 0.88; 95% CI, 0.81-0.95), and case-control studies (RR = 0.69; 95% CI, 0.60-0.78). A dose-response relationship was not found in this meta-analysis. The Grades of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation quality in our study was very low. This meta-analysis indicates that anthocyanin consumption is inversely associated with the risk of colorectal cancer. Anthocyanins may play an active role in the prevention of colorectal cancer. Key teaching points: Some epidemiological studies found an inverse correlation between the high consumption of anthocyanins and low risk of colorectal cancer. Because of this structure, anthocyanins/anthocyanidins have a powerful capability of donating electrons, which can be characterized as antioxidant properties. Anthocyanins can also inhibit colon cancer by interfering in the cell cycle and inducing the effect of anti-proliferation and apoptosis. The formation of cytoplasmic vacuoles in cells also indicates that anthocyanins may induce autophagy. From the findings of nonrandomized controlled trials, anthocyanins may play an active role in the prevention of colorectal cancer.

Niacin, alkaloids and (poly)phenolic compounds in the most widespread Italian capsule-brewed coffees

Coffee is one of the most popular beverages worldwide and, nowadays, one of the most practical way for its preparation is by prepacked capsules. The aim of this study was comparing the content in caffeine, trigonelline, N-methylpyridinium (NMP), niacin, and chlorogenic acids of 65 different capsule-brewed coffees, commercialised by 5 of the most representative brands in Italy. Coffees were prepared from capsules following manufacturer’s instructions and analysed with an optimized UHPLC-MS/MS method able to assess all these phytochemicals in one single run. Inter-lot and capsule variability were also studied for a subset of coffee capsules. Except for decaffeinated coffees, caffeine amount accounted between 54 and 208 mg/serving. Regular espresso coffees showed higher trigonelline, NMP, and niacin concentrations than large (lungo) and decaffeinated samples, with average serving amounts of 17.96, 1.78, and 0.66 mg, respectively. Regarding chlorogenic acids, caffeoylquinic acids were the most relevant ones (20–117 mg/serving). Feruloylquinic acids were quantified between 8 and 50 mg/serving. Coumaroylquinic acids, hydroxycinnamate dimers, caffeoylshikimic acids, and caffeoylquinic lactones were also present at lower concentrations. Multivariate analysis provided comprehensive information on the phytochemical profile of the different types of coffee, showing a great variability among coffees with some brand-related insights. This study supports the need for accurately characterizing espresso coffees while investigating the beneficial effects of coffee on human health.

Insights about urinary hippuric and citric acid as biomarkers of fruit and vegetable intake in patients with kidney stones: The role of age and sex

OBJECTIVES

Urinary hippuric acid (HA) and citrate can represent useful biomarkers of fruit and vegetable (FAV) intake in nephrolithiasis. However, their clinical significance across the life span has been poorly investigated. The aim of this study was to investigate the association between the two biomarkers with FAV intake across different age groups and sexes in a large group of stone formers (SFs).

METHODS

SFs undergoing baseline 24-h urinary collection for metabolic profile of lithogenic risk at our institution were consecutively enrolled for a 6-y time span (N = 1185; 625 men). HA and citrate excretions were determined by ion chromatography and ultraviolet method, respectively. SFs completed a food frequency questionnaire on the intake of FAV. Stepwise logistic regression was applied to investigate factors associated with very low FAV (≤1 servings/d) and analysis of covariance to compare citrate and HA excretion across age groups and sexes.

RESULTS

Very low FAV intake prevalence declined with age (P_trend < 0.001), and was inversely associated with HA and citrate excretion (P < 0.001) in a stepwise logistic regression model. A significant increasing trend was verified for both biomarkers across age groups until the age of 65 for HA (P < 0.001) and 55 for citrate (P < 0.001). Citrate excretion significantly declined after the age of 65, and was higher in women than men in adult age groups, regardless of FAV intake.

CONCLUSIONS

Both urinary citrate and HA were positively associated with FAV intake in SFs. However, unlike HA, citrate excretion was significantly influenced by the female sex and by older age.

Dietary intake of (poly)phenols in children and adults: cross-sectional analysis of UK National Diet and Nutrition Survey Rolling Programme (2008-2014)

PURPOSE

Current evidence accounts for the role of (poly)phenolic compounds in the prevention of non-communicable diseases. Detailed information on population-level intakes is required to translate these findings into recommendations. This work aimed to estimate (poly)phenol intake in the UK population using data from a nationally representative survey.

METHODS

Data from 9374 participants (4636 children aged 1.5-18 years and 4738 adults aged 19 years and over) from the National Diet and Nutrition Survey Rolling Programme (NDNS RP) 2008-2014 was used. (Poly)phenol content of foods consumed in the NDNS RP was identified using Phenol-Explorer and through literature searches. Data on flavonoids, phenolic acids, and stilbenes were collected. Total (poly)phenol content was also assessed.

RESULTS

Mean total (poly)phenol intake ranged from 266.6 ± 166.1 mg/day in children aged 1.5-3 years to 1035.1 ± 544.3 mg/day in adults aged 65 years and over, with flavan-3-ols and hydroxycinnamic acids being the most consumed (poly)phenols across all age groups. (Poly)phenol intake was higher in males in all age groups except for adults aged 19-34 and 50-64 years, where intakes were marginally higher in females. Energy-adjusted intakes accounted for the pattern of increasing (poly)phenol intakes with age and a higher intake was observed in females across all age groups, with the exception of children aged 1.5-3 years. The main food sources were non-alcoholic beverages and fruits, being the main compounds flavan-3-ols and caffeoylquinic acids.

CONCLUSIONS

This analysis provides estimates of (poly)phenol intake from a representative sample of the UK general population, which can help inform the health implications of (poly)phenol intake.

Dietary intake of total polyphenol and polyphenol classes and the risk of colorectal cancer in the European Prospective Investigation into Cancer and Nutrition (EPIC) cohort

Polyphenols may play a chemopreventive role in colorectal cancer (CRC); however, epidemiological evidence supporting a role for intake of individual polyphenol classes, other than flavonoids is insufficient. We evaluated the association between dietary intakes of total and individual classes and subclasses of polyphenols and CRC risk and its main subsites, colon and rectum, within the European Prospective Investigation into Cancer and Nutrition (EPIC) study. The cohort included 476,160 men and women from 10 European countries. During a mean follow-up of 14 years, there were 5991 incident CRC cases, of which 3897 were in the colon and 2094 were in the rectum. Polyphenol intake was estimated using validated centre/country specific dietary questionnaires and the Phenol-Explorer database. In multivariable-adjusted Cox regression models, a doubling in total dietary polyphenol intake was not associated with CRC risk in women (HRlog2 = 1.06, 95% CI 0.99-1.14) or in men (HRlog2 = 0.97, 95% CI 0.90-1.05), respectively. Phenolic acid intake, highly correlated with coffee consumption, was inversely associated with colon cancer in men (HRlog2 = 0.91, 95% CI 0.85-0.97) and positively associated with rectal cancer in women (HRlog2 = 1.10, 95% CI 1.02-1.19); although associations did not exceed the Bonferroni threshold for significance. Intake of other polyphenol classes was not related to colorectal, colon or rectal cancer risks. Our study suggests a possible inverse association between phenolic acid intake and colon cancer risk in men and positive with rectal cancer risk in women.

Prospective Association between Total and Specific Dietary Polyphenol Intakes and Cardiovascular Disease Risk in the Nutrinet-Santé French Cohort

BACKGROUND

Epidemiological and experimental evidence support a protective effect of dietary polyphenols on chronic diseases, but high quality longitudinal data are needed, including details on categories of polyphenols. Our objective was to investigate the prospective association between total and individual classes and subclasses of dietary polyphenols and the risk of major cardiovascular disease in the NutriNet-Santé cohort.

METHODS

A total of 84,158 participants, who completed at least three 24 h dietary records, were included between May 2009 and June 2017. Individual polyphenols intakes were obtained by matching food consumption data from the 24 h dietary records with the Phenol-Explorer polyphenol composition database. Multivariable Cox proportional hazards models were used to characterize the associations between dietary polyphenols and the incidence of cardiovascular diseases, comparing tertile T3 vs. T1 of classes and subclasses of polyphenols.

RESULTS

Over a median of 4.9 years of follow-up, 602 major cardiovascular events were diagnosed. Intakes of anthocyanins, catechins, and flavonols were strongly inversely associated with cardiovascular disease risk (anthocyanins: Hazard Ratio (HR)for a 1-point increment of 10 mg/day = 0.98 (0.96⁻0.99, p = 0.03, HRT3vs.T1 = 0.66 (0.52⁻0.83), ptrend = 0.0003; catechins: HRfor a 1-point increment of 10 mg/day = 0.98 (0.96⁻0.99), p = 0.02, HRT3vs.T1 = 0.74 (0.60⁻0.91), ptrend = 0.004; flavonols: HRfor a 1-point increment of 10 mg/day = 0.94 (0.90⁻0.99), p = 0.02, HRT3vs.T1 = 0.75 (0.61⁻0.94), ptrend = 0.006). Intakes of dihydrochalcones, proanthocyaninidins, dihydroflavonols, hydroxybenzoic acids, and stilbenes were also associated with a decrease (13%, 19%, 24%, 24%, and 27%, respectively) in cardiovascular disease risk, when comparing tertile T3 to T1.

CONCLUSIONS

Higher intakes of polyphenols, especially of anthocyanins, catechins, and flavonols, were associated with a statistically significant decreased cardiovascular disease risk.

Relationship between Mediterranean Dietary Polyphenol Intake and Obesity

Obesity is a multifactorial and complex disease defined by excess of adipose mass and constitutes a serious health problem. Adipose tissue acts as an endocrine organ secreting a wide range of inflammatory adipocytokines, which leads to systemic inflammation, insulin resistance, and metabolic disorders. The traditional Mediterranean diet is characterized by a high phenolic-rich foods intake, including extra-virgin olive oil, nuts, red wine, vegetables, fruits, legumes, and whole-grain cereals. Evidence for polyphenols’ effect on obesity and weight control in humans is inconsistent and the health effects of polyphenols depend on the amount consumed and their bioavailability. The mechanisms involved in weight loss in which polyphenols may have a role are: activating β-oxidation; a prebiotic effect for gut microbiota; inducing satiety; stimulating energy expenditure by inducing thermogenesis in brown adipose tissue; modulating adipose tissue inhibiting adipocyte differentiation; promoting adipocyte apoptosis and increasing lipolysis. Even though the intake of some specific polyphenols has been associated with body weight changes, there is still no evidence for the effects of total polyphenols or some polyphenol subclasses in humans on adiposity.

Impact of a (poly)phenol-rich extract from the brown algae Ascophyllum nodosum on DNA damage and antioxidant activity in an overweight or obese population: a randomized controlled trial

Background

Epidemiologic evidence suggests that a diet rich in (poly)phenols has beneficial effects on many chronic diseases. Brown seaweed is a rich source of (poly)phenols.

Objective

The aim of this study was to investigate the bioavailability and effect of a brown seaweed (Ascophyllum nodosum) (poly)phenol extract on DNA damage, oxidative stress, and inflammation in vivo.

Design

A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled crossover trial was conducted in 80 participants aged 30-65 y with a body mass index (in kg/m2) ≥25. The participants consumed either a 400-mg capsule containing 100 mg seaweed (poly)phenol and 300 mg maltodextrin or a 400-mg maltodextrin placebo control capsule daily for an 8-wk period. Bioactivity was assessed with a panel of blood-based markers including lymphocyte DNA damage, plasma oxidant capacity, C-reactive protein (CRP), and inflammatory cytokines. To explore the bioavailability of seaweed phenolics, an untargeted metabolomics analysis of urine and plasma samples after seaweed consumption was determined by ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography-high-resolution mass spectrometry.

Results

Consumption of the seaweed (poly)phenols resulted in a modest decrease in DNA damage but only in a subset of the total population who were obese. There were no significant changes in CRP, antioxidant status, or inflammatory cytokines. We identified phlorotannin metabolites that are considered potential biomarkers of seaweed consumption including pyrogallol/phloroglucinol-sulfate, hydroxytrifurahol A-glucuronide, dioxinodehydroeckol-glucuronide, diphlorethol sulfates, C-O-C dimer of phloroglucinol sulfate, and C-O-C dimer of phloroglucinol.

Conclusions

To the best of our knowledge, this work represents the first comprehensive study investigating the bioactivity and bioavailability of seaweed (poly)phenolics in human participants. We identified several potential biomarkers of seaweed consumption. Intriguingly, the modest improvements in DNA damage were observed only in the obese subset of the total population. The subgroup analysis should be considered exploratory because it was not preplanned; therefore, it was not powered adequately. Elucidation of the biology underpinning this observation will require participant stratification according to weight in future studies. This trial was registered at clinicaltrials.gov as NCT02295878.

Review of polyphenol-rich products as potential protective and therapeutic factors against cadmium hepatotoxicity

Recently, the growing attention of the scientific community has been focused on the threat to health created by environmental pollutants, including toxic metals such as cadmium (Cd), and on the need of finding effective ways to prevent and treat the unfavorable health effects of exposure to them. Particularly promising for Cd, and thus arousing the greatest interest, is the possibility of using various ingredients present in plants, including mainly polyphenolic compounds. As the liver is one of the target organs for this toxic metal and disturbances in the proper functioning of this organ have serious consequences for health, the aim of the present review was to discuss the possibility of using polyphenol-rich food products (e.g., chokeberry, black and green tea, blueberry, olive oil, rosemary and ginger) as the strategy in protection from this xenobiotic hepatotoxicity and treatment of this heavy metal-induced liver damage. Owing to the ability of polyphenols to bind ions of Cd and the strong antioxidative potential of these compounds, as well as their abundance in dietary products, it seems to be of high importance to consider the possibility of using polyphenols as potential preventive and therapeutic agents against Cd hepatotoxicity, determined by its strong pro-oxidative properties. Although most of the data on the effectiveness of polyphenols comes from studies in animals, the fact that some of them are derived from experimental models that reflect human exposure to this metal allows us to assume that some polyphenol-rich food products may be promising protective agents against Cd hepatotoxicity in humans.

A new food-composition database for 437 polyphenols in 19,899 raw and prepared foods used to estimate polyphenol intakes in adults from 10 European countries

BACKGROUND

Accurate assessment of polyphenol intakes is needed in epidemiologic research in order to study their health effects, and this can be particularly challenging in international study settings.

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of this work is to describe the procedures to prepare a comprehensive polyphenol food-composition database that was used to calculate standardized polyphenol intakes from 24-h diet recalls (24HDRs) and dietary questionnaires (DQs) in the European Prospective Investigation into Cancer and Nutrition (EPIC).

Design

With the use of the comparable food classification and facet-descriptor system of the computerized 24HDR program EPIC-Soft (renamed GloboDiet), foods reported in the 24HDR (n = 74,626) were first aggregated following a stepwise process. Multi-ingredient and generic foods were broken down into ingredients or more-specific foods with consideration of regional consumption habits before matching to foods in the Phenol-Explorer database. Food-composition data were adjusted by using selected retention factors curated in Phenol-Explorer. DQ foods (n = 13,946) were matched to a generated EPIC 24HDR polyphenol-composition database before calculation of daily intakes from the 24HDR and DQ.

RESULTS

Food matching yielded 2.0% and 2.7% of foods with missing polyphenol content in the 24HDR and DQ food data sets, respectively. Process-specific retention factors for 42 different polyphenol compounds were applied to adjust the polyphenol content in 35 prioritized Phenol-Explorer foods, thereby adjusting the polyphenol content in 70% of all of the prepared 24 food occurrences. A detailed food-composition database was finally generated for 437 polyphenols in 19,899 aggregated raw and prepared foods reported by 10 EPIC countries in the 24HDR.

Conclusions

An efficient procedure was developed to build the most-comprehensive food-composition database for polyphenols, thereby standardizing the calculations of dietary polyphenol intakes obtained from different dietary assessment methods and European populations. The whole database is accessible online. This procedure could equally be used for other food constituents and in other cohorts.