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Biswas A, Deo C, Sharma D, Matin A, Tiwari AK. Production performance, haematological parameters, serum biochemistry, and expression of HSP-70 in broiler chickens fed dietary ascorbic acid during heat stress. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF BIOMETEOROLOGY 2024; 68:33-43. [PMID: 37897559 DOI: 10.1007/s00484-023-02568-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/26/2022] [Revised: 09/11/2023] [Accepted: 10/13/2023] [Indexed: 10/30/2023]
Abstract
An experiment was carried out to assess the efficacy of supplemental ascorbic acid (AA) on broiler chicken production performance, blood haematological profile, biochemical profile, and carcass traits under heat stress conditions. A total of 192-day-old broiler chicks were divided into four groups, each with six replicates of eight each (4 × 6 × 8). Four corn-based dietary treatments were formulated: T1 (control diet), T2 (T1 + AA at 200 mg/kg), T3 (T1 + AA at 400 mg/kg), and T4 (T1 + AA at 600 mg/kg) for a period of 42 days. Despite the high temperature and humidity, the 600 mg AA supplemental groups (T4) gained significantly (P ≤ 0.05) more body weight and had a higher feed intake and better feed conversion ratio (FCR) than the control group (T1). After 28 days of feeding the three AA-supplemented diets, antibody titres (humoral immune response) were significantly higher (P ≤ 0.05). The response to intradermally injected phyto-haemagglutinin (PHA-P), an index of the in vivo cell-mediated immune response, was found to be increased (P ≤ 0.05) in the 400 and 600 mg AA-supplemented groups after 35 days. Higher levels of AA (T4) supplementation significantly (P ≤ 0.05) improved haematological values such as haemoglobin (Hb), total erythrocyte count (TEC), total leukocyte count (TLC), and differential leukocyte count (DLC), heterophil:lymphocyte (H:L) in comparison to the control group (T1). The supplemented group improved the serum biochemical profile of the birds, with an increase (P ≤ 0.05) in total serum protein, albumin, and globulin and a decrease in serum cholesterol and corticosterone levels in the T4 group compared to the control group. Heat shock protein-70 (HSP-70) was gradually elevated after increasing the ascorbic acid concentration (P ≤ 0.05) at 14 and 21 days. As a result, it can be concluded that supplementing ascorbic acid at 600 mg/kg is beneficial for improving the performance, immunity, and blood haematological biochemical profile and upregulating the HSP-70 gene of broiler chickens under heat stress conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Avishek Biswas
- Division of Nutrition and Feed Technology, ICAR-Central Avian Research Institute, Izatnagar, 243 122, India.
| | - Chandra Deo
- Division of Nutrition and Feed Technology, ICAR-Central Avian Research Institute, Izatnagar, 243 122, India
| | - Divya Sharma
- Division of Nutrition and Feed Technology, ICAR-Central Avian Research Institute, Izatnagar, 243 122, India
| | - Ansari Matin
- Division of Physiology and Reproduction, ICAR-Central Avian Research Institute, Izatnagar, 243 122, India
| | - Ashok Kumar Tiwari
- Division of Physiology and Reproduction, ICAR-Central Avian Research Institute, Izatnagar, 243 122, India
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Jagim AR, Harty PS, Tinsley GM, Kerksick CM, Gonzalez AM, Kreider RB, Arent SM, Jager R, Smith-Ryan AE, Stout JR, Campbell BI, VanDusseldorp T, Antonio J. International society of sports nutrition position stand: energy drinks and energy shots. J Int Soc Sports Nutr 2023; 20:2171314. [PMID: 36862943 PMCID: PMC9987737 DOI: 10.1080/15502783.2023.2171314] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2023] [Accepted: 01/18/2023] [Indexed: 03/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Position Statement: The International Society of Sports Nutrition (ISSN) bases the following position stand on a critical analysis of the literature regarding the effects of energy drink (ED) or energy shot (ES) consumption on acute exercise performance, metabolism, and cognition, along with synergistic exercise-related performance outcomes and training adaptations. The following 13 points constitute the consensus of the Society and have been approved by the Research Committee of the Society: Energy drinks (ED) commonly contain caffeine, taurine, ginseng, guarana, carnitine, choline, B vitamins (vitamins B1, B2, B3, B5, B6, B9, and B12), vitamin C, vitamin A (beta carotene), vitamin D, electrolytes (sodium, potassium, magnesium, and calcium), sugars (nutritive and non-nutritive sweeteners), tyrosine, and L-theanine, with prevalence for each ingredient ranging from 1.3 to 100%. Energy drinks can enhance acute aerobic exercise performance, largely influenced by the amount of caffeine (> 200 mg or >3 mg∙kg bodyweight [BW-1]) in the beverage. Although ED and ES contain several nutrients that are purported to affect mental and/or physical performance, the primary ergogenic nutrients in most ED and ES based on scientific evidence appear to be caffeine and/or the carbohydrate provision. The ergogenic value of caffeine on mental and physical performance has been well-established, but the potential additive benefits of other nutrients contained in ED and ES remains to be determined. Consuming ED and ES 10-60 minutes before exercise can improve mental focus, alertness, anaerobic performance, and/or endurance performance with doses >3 mg∙kg BW-1. Consuming ED and ES containing at least 3 mg∙kg BW-1 caffeine is most likely to benefit maximal lower-body power production. Consuming ED and ES can improve endurance, repeat sprint performance, and sport-specific tasks in the context of team sports. Many ED and ES contain numerous ingredients that either have not been studied or evaluated in combination with other nutrients contained in the ED or ES. For this reason, these products need to be studied to demonstrate efficacy of single- and multi-nutrient formulations for physical and cognitive performance as well as for safety. Limited evidence is available to suggest that consumption of low-calorie ED and ES during training and/or weight loss trials may provide ergogenic benefit and/or promote additional weight control, potentially through enhanced training capacity. However, ingestion of higher calorie ED may promote weight gain if the energy intake from consumption of ED is not carefully considered as part of the total daily energy intake. Individuals should consider the impact of regular coingestion of high glycemic index carbohydrates from ED and ES on metabolic health, blood glucose, and insulin levels. Adolescents (aged 12 through 18) should exercise caution and seek parental guidance when considering the consumption of ED and ES, particularly in excessive amounts (e.g. > 400 mg), as limited evidence is available regarding the safety of these products among this population. Additionally, ED and ES are not recommended for children (aged 2-12), those who are pregnant, trying to become pregnant, or breastfeeding and those who are sensitive to caffeine. Diabetics and individuals with preexisting cardiovascular, metabolic, hepatorenal, and/or neurologic disease who are taking medications that may be affected by high glycemic load foods, caffeine, and/or other stimulants should exercise caution and consult with their physician prior to consuming ED. The decision to consume ED or ES should be based upon the beverage's content of carbohydrate, caffeine, and other nutrients and a thorough understanding of the potential side effects. Indiscriminate use of ED or ES, especially if multiple servings per day are consumed or when consumed with other caffeinated beverages and/or foods, may lead to adverse effects. The purpose of this review is to provide an update to the position stand of the International Society of Sports Nutrition (ISSN) integrating current literature on ED and ES in exercise, sport, and medicine. The effects of consuming these beverages on acute exercise performance, metabolism, markers of clinical health, and cognition are addressed, as well as more chronic effects when evaluating ED/ES use with exercise-related training adaptions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew R. Jagim
- Sports Medicine, Mayo Clinic Health System, La Crosse, WI, USA
- Exercise & Sport Science, University of Wisconsin – La Crosse, La Crosse, WI, USA
| | - Patrick S. Harty
- Exercise & Performance Nutrition Laboratory, Lindenwood University, St. Charles, MO, USA
| | - Grant M. Tinsley
- Energy Balance and Body Composition Laboratory, Department of Kinesiology & Sport Management, Texas Tech University, Lubbock, TX, USA
| | - Chad M. Kerksick
- Sports Medicine, Mayo Clinic Health System, La Crosse, WI, USA
- Exercise & Performance Nutrition Laboratory, Lindenwood University, St. Charles, MO, USA
| | - Adam M. Gonzalez
- Department of Allied Health and Kinesiology, Hofstra University, Hempstead, NY, USA
| | - Richard B. Kreider
- Exercise & Sport Nutrition Lab, Department of Kinesiology and Sport Management, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, USA
| | - Shawn M Arent
- Department of Exercise Science, Arnold School of Public Health, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC, USA
| | | | - Abbie E. Smith-Ryan
- Applied Physiology Laboratory, Department of Exercise & Sport Science, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Jeffrey R. Stout
- School of Kinesiology and Rehabilitation Science, University of Central Florida, Orlando, FL, USA
| | - Bill I. Campbell
- Performance & Physique Enhancement Laboratory, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL, USA
| | - Trisha VanDusseldorp
- Bonafede Health, LLC, JDS Therapeutics, Harrison, NY, USA
- Department of Health and Exercise Sciences, Jacksonville University, Jacksonville, FL, USA
| | - Jose Antonio
- Department of Health and Human Performance, Nova Southeastern University, Davie, FL, USA
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Holdbrooke SJ, Afolabi BM, David NA, Kareem KO, Salako A, Aina OO. Perception, knowledge, and consumption pattern of dietary supplement used during COVID-19 pandemic among black Africans: Perspective of Nigerians. DIALOGUES IN HEALTH 2023; 2:100106. [PMID: 36744009 PMCID: PMC9889116 DOI: 10.1016/j.dialog.2023.100106] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2022] [Revised: 01/23/2023] [Accepted: 01/28/2023] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
The awareness of the health implication of Covid-19 pandemic marked an increase consumption of various dietary and herbal supplements (DHS) for the deterrence and/or prophylaxis against the novel emerging and infectious disease. However, there is little indication of the usefulness or otherwise of their use in alleviating symptoms of COVID-19. Objectives To investigate the pattern and determinants of DHS use among the Nigerian population for the prevention and treatment of COVID-19. Design Cross-sectional questionnaire survey. Setting: Older adolescents and adults residing in Nigeria. Participants Participants (n = 645) residing in the Nigeria were recruited from different geo-political zones and various ethnic groups. Primary and secondary outcomes Prevalence and determinants for the use of different DHS for the prevention and treatment of COVID-19 in Nigeria, and sources of information for DHS use. Results Most participants (425, 65.9%) believed that dietary supplements are necessary during infectious disease outbreak, but a fewer proportion believed that supplements can be used in conjunction with other drugs to treat Covid-19. Vitamin C was the most known (70.0%) and Vitamin A. The least known (0.3%) dietary supplement Approximately half (50.2%) of the study subjects, more than a third (37.8%) and less than a quarter (22.7%) were aware that Folic acid, vitamin D and vitamin E are DS. Herbal dietary supplements mentioned as known by the study participants included Garlic (46.5%), Ginger (44.7%), Tumeric (36.3%), Moringa (40.0%) and Ginseng (26.3%). Citrus fruit as a DS was recognized by fewer (6.5%) study participants and only 1.6% referred to herbal tea as DHS. In all, 571 (88.5%) of the study participants took DHS during the Covid-19 pandemic with males 1.5 times more likely to take DHS than females (χ2 = 3.09, P-value = 0.08, OR = 1.54, 95% CI = 0.95, 2.47) during the pandemic. Participants reported lesser consumption of Selenium (27, 4.2%), Iron (20,3.1%), Zinc (61, 9.5%) and calcium (101, 15.7%) to prevent/treat Covid-19. Majority (271, 42.0%) of the study participants mentioned "health worker" as source of information on DHS while 13% mentioned "Social media". The sociodemographic determinants of DHS practices used to prevent/treat COVID-19 during the pandemic included older age group of 61-70 years, widows, secondary level of education and not employed. Conclusions The findings showed widespread use of DHS for the prevention and treatment of COVID-19. The use of DHS in this study was mainly guided by health workers with a marginal role of social media and Mass media. These findings call for a more robust consolidative tactic towards DHS to ensure its proper and safe use.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Bamgboye M. Afolabi
- Nigerian Institute of Medical Research, 6 Edmond Crescent, Yaba, Lagos, Nigeria
- Health, Environment and Development Foundation, Yaba, Lagos, Nigeria
| | - Nkiru A. David
- Nigerian Institute of Medical Research, 6 Edmond Crescent, Yaba, Lagos, Nigeria
| | - Kafilat O. Kareem
- Nigerian Institute of Medical Research, 6 Edmond Crescent, Yaba, Lagos, Nigeria
| | - Abideen Salako
- Nigerian Institute of Medical Research, 6 Edmond Crescent, Yaba, Lagos, Nigeria
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Koparal M, Ege M. Dietary supplements used by otolaryngology patients in Turkey during the COVID-19 pandemic: A cross-sectional survey. Eur J Integr Med 2023; 60:102249. [PMID: 37163158 PMCID: PMC10077764 DOI: 10.1016/j.eujim.2023.102249] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2022] [Revised: 04/03/2023] [Accepted: 04/05/2023] [Indexed: 05/11/2023]
Abstract
Introduction This study investigated the characteristics of dietary supplement (DS) use of patients who attended the otolaryngology clinic at a university training and research hospital in Turkey during the pandemic, including patients who had experienced Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). Methods This cross-sectional study was conducted between March and September 2021. 277 literate patients aged ≥ 18 years who attended the otolaryngology clinic were enrolled. A questionnaire was used to collect sociodemographic data, as well as data on DS use during the pandemic. The questionnaire was administered in a face-to-face setting by a single researcher. Results Approximately half of the participants (50.18%) took DSs during the pandemic and 67.18% of those who experienced COVID-19 infection used DSs during their illness. The most commonly used supplements were vitamin C (43.16%) and D (33.09%), along with herbal supplements such as lemon (54.68%), garlic (46.76%), ginger (46.04%), and thyme (43.88%). In total, 85.23% of the patients primarily used DSs to enhance their immunity, while 32.95% used them to prevent cough, and 26.14% to improve breathing. The majority of the patients (85.23%) felt benefit from DSs. Typically, the patients obtained information about DSs from doctors (32.37%) or friends and relatives (29.49%), and most of them used the supplements without first consulting a doctor (63.64%). Conclusion DSs were commonly used by otolaryngology patients during the COVID-19 pandemic, particularly to enhance immunity. Although the majority of patients reportedly benefited from these products, most of them did not inform their physicians that they were using them and often obtained information from unofficial sources.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mehtap Koparal
- Department of Otolaryngology, Faculty of Medicine, Adiyaman University, Adiyaman, Turkey
| | - Miray Ege
- Department of Pharmacognosy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Adiyaman University, Adiyaman, Turkey
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Grudlewska-Buda K, Wiktorczyk-Kapischke N, Budzyńska A, Kwiecińska-Piróg J, Przekwas J, Kijewska A, Sabiniarz D, Gospodarek-Komkowska E, Skowron K. The Variable Nature of Vitamin C—Does It Help When Dealing with Coronavirus? Antioxidants (Basel) 2022; 11:antiox11071247. [PMID: 35883738 PMCID: PMC9312329 DOI: 10.3390/antiox11071247] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2022] [Revised: 06/21/2022] [Accepted: 06/22/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) is still spreading worldwide. For this reason, new treatment methods are constantly being researched. Consequently, new and already-known preparations are being investigated to potentially reduce the severe course of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). SARS-CoV-2 infection induces the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines and acute serum biomarkers in the host organism. In addition to antiviral drugs, there are other substances being used in the treatment of COVID-19, e.g., those with antioxidant properties, such as vitamin C (VC). Exciting aspects of the use of VC in antiviral therapy are its antioxidant and pro-oxidative abilities. In this review, we summarized both the positive effects of using VC in treating infections caused by SARS-CoV-2 in the light of the available research. We have tried to answer the question as to whether the use of high doses of VC brings the expected benefits in the treatment of COVID-19 and whether such treatment is the correct therapeutic choice. Each case requires individual assessment to determine whether the positives outweigh the negatives, especially in the light of populational studies concerning the genetic differentiation of genes encoding the solute carriers responsible forVC adsorption. Few data are available on the influence of VC on the course of SARS-CoV-2 infection. Deducing from already-published data, high-dose intravenous vitamin C (HDIVC) does not significantly lower the mortality or length of hospitalization. However, some data prove, among other things, its impact on the serum levels of inflammatory markers. Finally, the non-positive effect of VC administration is mainly neutral, but the negative effect is that it can result in urinary stones or nephropathies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katarzyna Grudlewska-Buda
- Department of Microbiology, Ludwik Rydygier Collegium Medicum, Nicolaus Copernicus University in Toruń, 85-094 Bydgoszcz, Poland; (K.G.-B.); (N.W.-K.); (A.B.); (J.K.-P.); (J.P.); (E.G.-K.)
| | - Natalia Wiktorczyk-Kapischke
- Department of Microbiology, Ludwik Rydygier Collegium Medicum, Nicolaus Copernicus University in Toruń, 85-094 Bydgoszcz, Poland; (K.G.-B.); (N.W.-K.); (A.B.); (J.K.-P.); (J.P.); (E.G.-K.)
| | - Anna Budzyńska
- Department of Microbiology, Ludwik Rydygier Collegium Medicum, Nicolaus Copernicus University in Toruń, 85-094 Bydgoszcz, Poland; (K.G.-B.); (N.W.-K.); (A.B.); (J.K.-P.); (J.P.); (E.G.-K.)
| | - Joanna Kwiecińska-Piróg
- Department of Microbiology, Ludwik Rydygier Collegium Medicum, Nicolaus Copernicus University in Toruń, 85-094 Bydgoszcz, Poland; (K.G.-B.); (N.W.-K.); (A.B.); (J.K.-P.); (J.P.); (E.G.-K.)
| | - Jana Przekwas
- Department of Microbiology, Ludwik Rydygier Collegium Medicum, Nicolaus Copernicus University in Toruń, 85-094 Bydgoszcz, Poland; (K.G.-B.); (N.W.-K.); (A.B.); (J.K.-P.); (J.P.); (E.G.-K.)
| | - Agnieszka Kijewska
- Department of Immunobiology and Environmental Biology, Institute of Maritime and Tropical Medicine, Medical University of Gdansk, 80-211 Gdansk, Poland;
| | | | - Eugenia Gospodarek-Komkowska
- Department of Microbiology, Ludwik Rydygier Collegium Medicum, Nicolaus Copernicus University in Toruń, 85-094 Bydgoszcz, Poland; (K.G.-B.); (N.W.-K.); (A.B.); (J.K.-P.); (J.P.); (E.G.-K.)
| | - Krzysztof Skowron
- Department of Microbiology, Ludwik Rydygier Collegium Medicum, Nicolaus Copernicus University in Toruń, 85-094 Bydgoszcz, Poland; (K.G.-B.); (N.W.-K.); (A.B.); (J.K.-P.); (J.P.); (E.G.-K.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +48-(52)-585-38-38
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Kang H, Hu H, Park SK. Serum antioxidant status and mortality from influenza and pneumonia in US adults. Public Health Nutr 2022; 25:1-10. [PMID: 35000647 PMCID: PMC9271125 DOI: 10.1017/s1368980022000027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2021] [Revised: 12/09/2021] [Accepted: 01/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE We examined the association between serum antioxidant status and mortality from influenza and pneumonia in US adults. DESIGN Serum concentrations of antioxidants included vitamin C, vitamin A, vitamin E, sum of α- and β-carotene, β-cryptoxanthin, lutein + zeaxanthin and lycopene. We computed total antioxidant capacity (TAC) as a measure of composite antioxidant status in serum. Survey-weighted Cox proportional hazard models were used to compute hazard ratios (HR) and 95 % CI comparing quartiles of each antioxidant and TAC. SETTING Data from the US National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES)-III. PARTICIPANTS A total of 7428 NHANES-III participants ≥45 years of age. RESULTS With a weighted-median follow-up of 16·8 years, 154 participants died from influenza/pneumonia. After adjustment for covariates, serum vitamin C, the sum of α- and β-carotene and TAC were nonlinearly associated with influenza/pneumonia mortality, with the statistically significant smallest HR at the third quartile v. the first quartile (HR = 0·38 (95 % CI: 0·19, 0·77), 0·29 (0·16, 0·51) and 0·30 (0·15, 0·59), respectively). HR comparing the fourth v. the first quartiles were weaker and nonsignificant: 0·57 (95 % CI: 0·27, 1·17), 0·70 (0·41, 1·19) and 0·65 (0·31, 1·35), respectively. Serum lycopene had a monotonic association with influenza/pneumonia mortality (HR = 0·43 (95 % CI: 0·23, 0·83) comparing the fourth v. the first quartile, Pfor trend = 0·01). CONCLUSIONS The current study suggests that antioxidant intake as reflected by serum concentrations may reduce mortality risk from influenza or pneumonia in the US general population. These findings warrant further confirmation in other populations with different settings (e.g. a shorter-term association with influenza infection).
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Affiliation(s)
- Habyeong Kang
- Department of Epidemiology, University of Michigan School of Public Health, Ann Arbor, MI48109, USA
| | - Howard Hu
- Department of Preventive Medicine, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, University of Michigan School of Public Health, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Sung Kyun Park
- Department of Epidemiology, University of Michigan School of Public Health, Ann Arbor, MI48109, USA
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, University of Michigan School of Public Health, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
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7
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Review and update of the importance of micronutrients in pediatric age: a holistic view. NUTR HOSP 2022; 39:21-25. [DOI: 10.20960/nh.04305] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/02/2022] Open
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The Micro-Immunotherapy Medicine 2LEID Exhibits an Immunostimulant Effect by Boosting Both Innate and Adaptive Immune Responses. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 23:ijms23010110. [PMID: 35008536 PMCID: PMC8744989 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23010110] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2021] [Revised: 12/20/2021] [Accepted: 12/21/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
This study aimed at evaluating the effects of the micro-immunotherapy medicine (MIM) 2LEID, both in vitro and in vivo, on several components of the innate and adaptive immune system. MIM increased the phagocytic activity of macrophages, and it augmented the expression of the activation markers CD69 and HLA-DR in NK cells and monocytes/macrophages, respectively. The effect of MIM was evaluated in a model of respiratory infection induced by influenza A virus administration to immunocompetent mice in which it was able to improve neutrophil recruitment within the lungs (p = 0.1051) and slightly increased the circulating levels of IgM (p = 0.1655). Furthermore, MIM stimulated the proliferation of CD3-primed T lymphocytes and decreased the secretion of the immunosuppressive cytokine IL-10 in CD14+-derived macrophages. Human umbilical vein endothelial cells were finally used to explore the effect of MIM on endothelial cells, in which it slightly increased the expression of immune-related markers such as HLA-I, CD137L, GITRL, PD-L1 and ICAM-1. In conclusion, the present study suggests that MIM might be a promising nonspecific (without antigen specificity) immunostimulant drug in preventing and early treating respiratory infections, but not only exclusively, as it would gently support several facets of the immune system and host defenses.
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Holford P, Carr AC, Zawari M, Vizcaychipi MP. Vitamin C Intervention for Critical COVID-19: A Pragmatic Review of the Current Level of Evidence. Life (Basel) 2021; 11:1166. [PMID: 34833042 PMCID: PMC8624950 DOI: 10.3390/life11111166] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2021] [Revised: 09/27/2021] [Accepted: 09/27/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Severe respiratory infections are characterized by elevated inflammation and generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) which may lead to a decrease in antioxidants such as vitamin C and a higher requirement for the vitamin. Administration of intravenous vitamin C to patients with pneumonia and sepsis appears to decrease the severity of the disease and potentially improve survival rate. Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection causes pneumonia, sepsis and acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) in severe cases, and is referred to as coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). Patients with COVID-19 infection also appear to have depleted vitamin C status and require additional supplementation of vitamin C during the acute phase of the disease. To date there have been 12 vitamin C and COVID-19 trials published, including five randomised controlled trials (RCTs) and seven retrospective cohort studies. The current level of evidence from the RCTs suggests that intravenous vitamin C intervention may improve oxygenation parameters, reduce inflammatory markers, decrease days in hospital and reduce mortality, particularly in the more severely ill patients. High doses of oral vitamin C supplementation may also improve the rate of recovery in less severe cases. No adverse events have been reported in published vitamin C clinical trials in COVID-19 patients. Upcoming findings from larger RCTs will provide additional evidence on vitamin supplementation in COVID-19 patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patrick Holford
- Founder of Institute for Optimum Nutrition, Ambassador House, Richmond TW9 1SQ, UK
| | - Anitra C. Carr
- Nutrition in Medicine Research Group, Department of Pathology & Biomedical Science, University of Otago, Christchurch 8140, New Zealand; (A.C.C.); (M.Z.)
| | - Masuma Zawari
- Nutrition in Medicine Research Group, Department of Pathology & Biomedical Science, University of Otago, Christchurch 8140, New Zealand; (A.C.C.); (M.Z.)
| | - Marcela P. Vizcaychipi
- Faculty of Medicine, Imperial College, London SW7 2AZ, UK;
- Intensive Care Medicine, Chelsea & Westminster Hospital, London SW10 9NH, UK
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Abdulateef DS, Rahman HS, Salih JM, Osman SM, Mahmood TA, Omer SHS, Ahmed RA. COVID-19 severity in relation to sociodemographics and vitamin D use. Open Med (Wars) 2021; 16:591-609. [PMID: 33869781 PMCID: PMC8034240 DOI: 10.1515/med-2021-0273] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2021] [Revised: 03/12/2021] [Accepted: 03/16/2021] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Most COVID-19 cases are treated as outpatients, while the majority of studies on COVID-19 focus on inpatients. Little is known about the self-reporting and self-rating of the disease's symptoms, and the associations of prophylactic use of dietary supplements with COVID-19 severity have not been addressed. The aims of this study are to evaluate COVID-19 severity and to relate them to sociodemographic characteristics and prophylactic dietary supplements. An observational patient-based study conducted through an online questionnaire on recovered COVID-19 patients. The patients were assessed for several severity parameters, sociodemographic parameters, and prophylactic dietary supplement use. A total of 428 patients were evaluated. Age and presence of comorbidities had positive associations with the severity parameters. The severe infection group had the highest proportion of patients stressed about COVID-19 (P < 0.05). Cigarette, but not hookah, smoking was significantly associated with less severe symptoms. Vitamin D negatively predicted disease severity (P < 0.05). In conclusion, stress, age, and presence of comorbidities were the most important positive predictors of COVID-19 severity, while prophylactic vitamin D use and smoking were significant negative predictors. The use of protective measures and other prophylactic dietary supplements was not significantly associated with symptom severity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Darya Saeed Abdulateef
- Department of Physiology, College of Medicine, University of Sulaimani, New–Street-27, Zone 209, P. O. Box: 334, Kurdistan Region, Sulaymaniyah, Iraq
| | - Heshu Sulaiman Rahman
- Department of Physiology, College of Medicine, University of Sulaimani, New–Street-27, Zone 209, P. O. Box: 334, Kurdistan Region, Sulaymaniyah, Iraq
| | - Jamal Mahmood Salih
- Department of Physiology, College of Medicine, University of Sulaimani, New–Street-27, Zone 209, P. O. Box: 334, Kurdistan Region, Sulaymaniyah, Iraq
| | - Sangar Mahmoud Osman
- Department of Physiology, College of Medicine, University of Sulaimani, New–Street-27, Zone 209, P. O. Box: 334, Kurdistan Region, Sulaymaniyah, Iraq
| | - Trifa Abdalla Mahmood
- Department of Physiology, College of Medicine, University of Sulaimani, New–Street-27, Zone 209, P. O. Box: 334, Kurdistan Region, Sulaymaniyah, Iraq
| | - Shirwan Hama Salih Omer
- Department of Physiology, College of Medicine, University of Sulaimani, New–Street-27, Zone 209, P. O. Box: 334, Kurdistan Region, Sulaymaniyah, Iraq
| | - Rana Adnan Ahmed
- Department of Physiology, College of Medicine, University of Sulaimani, New–Street-27, Zone 209, P. O. Box: 334, Kurdistan Region, Sulaymaniyah, Iraq
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11
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Bizot E, Bousquet A, Charpié M, Coquelin F, Lefevre S, Le Lorier J, Patin M, Sée P, Sarfati E, Walle S, Visseaux B, Basmaci R. Rhinovirus: A Narrative Review on Its Genetic Characteristics, Pediatric Clinical Presentations, and Pathogenesis. Front Pediatr 2021; 9:643219. [PMID: 33829004 PMCID: PMC8019700 DOI: 10.3389/fped.2021.643219] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2020] [Accepted: 02/03/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Human rhinoviruses (HRVs) are the leading cause of common colds. With the development of new molecular methods since the 2000s, HRVs have been increasingly involved among severe clinical infections. Recent knowledge of the HRV genetic characteristics has also improved the understanding of their pathogenesis. This narrative review aims to provide a current comprehensive knowledge about this virus in the pediatric community. HRVs represent a main cause of upper and lower respiratory tract infections in children. HRV is the second virus involved in bronchiolitis and pneumonia in children, and HRV bronchiolitis has a higher risk of recurrent wheezing episode or asthma. Some recent findings described HRVs in stools, blood, or cerebrospinal fluid, thanks to new molecular techniques such as polymerase chain reaction (PCR) by detecting HRVs with high sensibility. However, the high rate of asymptomatic carriage and the prolonged excretion in postsymptomatic patients complicate interpretation. No sufficient data exist to avoid antibiotic therapy in pediatric high-risk population with HRV detection. Severe clinical presentations due to HRVs can be more frequent in specific population with chronic pathology or genetic particularity. Inflammatory response is mediated by the nuclear factor (NF)-kappa B pathway and production of interferon (IFN)-beta and IFN-gamma, interleukin 8 (IL8), and IL1b. No specific treatment or antiviral therapy exists, although research is still ongoing. Nowadays, in addition to benign diseases, HRVs are recognized to be involved in some severe clinical presentations. Recent advances in genetic knowledge or specific inflammatory response may lead to specific treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Etienne Bizot
- Department of Microbiology, Robert Debré Hospital, APHP, Paris, France.,Departement of Emergency and Pediatrics, Louis-Mourier Hospital, APHP, Colombes, France
| | - Anais Bousquet
- Departement of Emergency and Pediatrics, Louis-Mourier Hospital, APHP, Colombes, France
| | - Maelle Charpié
- Departement of Emergency and Pediatrics, Louis-Mourier Hospital, APHP, Colombes, France
| | - Florence Coquelin
- Departement of Emergency and Pediatrics, Louis-Mourier Hospital, APHP, Colombes, France
| | - Servane Lefevre
- Departement of Emergency and Pediatrics, Louis-Mourier Hospital, APHP, Colombes, France
| | - Justin Le Lorier
- Departement of Emergency and Pediatrics, Louis-Mourier Hospital, APHP, Colombes, France
| | - Margaux Patin
- Departement of Emergency and Pediatrics, Louis-Mourier Hospital, APHP, Colombes, France
| | - Perrine Sée
- Departement of Emergency and Pediatrics, Louis-Mourier Hospital, APHP, Colombes, France
| | - Eytan Sarfati
- Departement of Emergency and Pediatrics, Louis-Mourier Hospital, APHP, Colombes, France
| | - Servane Walle
- Departement of Emergency and Pediatrics, Louis-Mourier Hospital, APHP, Colombes, France
| | - Benoit Visseaux
- Department of Virology, Bichat Hospital, APHP, Paris, France.,University of Paris, Inserm, IAME, UMR1137, Paris, France
| | - Romain Basmaci
- Departement of Emergency and Pediatrics, Louis-Mourier Hospital, APHP, Colombes, France.,University of Paris, Inserm, IAME, UMR1137, Paris, France
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12
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Opinions on the current pandemic of COVID-19: Use functional food to boost our immune functions. J Infect Public Health 2020; 13:1811-1817. [PMID: 32948484 PMCID: PMC7831995 DOI: 10.1016/j.jiph.2020.08.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2020] [Revised: 08/14/2020] [Accepted: 08/29/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
The pandemic of novel coronavirus caused COVID-19 had resulted in a high number of hospitalizations and deaths and caused a devastating toll on human and society health. The symptoms of the infected patients vary significantly, from life-threatening to mild or even asymptomatic. This clinical observation led to hypothesize on the critical role of host innate immunity in the disease development and progression. As the first defense barrier against microorganisms, the innate immune reaction determines not only the viral infection rate but also immune-mediated response. Therefore, promote healthy behaviors to enhance innate immunity with functional food and nutritional agents may be a rational strategy for minimizing damages caused by viruses to global health.
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13
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Feyaerts AF, Luyten W. Vitamin C as prophylaxis and adjunctive medical treatment for COVID-19? Nutrition 2020; 79-80:110948. [PMID: 32911430 PMCID: PMC7381407 DOI: 10.1016/j.nut.2020.110948] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2020] [Revised: 06/14/2020] [Accepted: 07/04/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 causes the potentially fatal coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). Already during the outbreak of the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 1, the use of vitamin C was suggested. Many patients with severe COVID-19 have elevated levels of the mediators interleukin-6 and endothelin-1. These mediators may explain the age dependence of COVID-19 pneumonia, the preponderance of male and obese or hypertensive patients, as well as of persons of color and smokers. There is clear evidence that vitamin C in high doses can reduce these mediators. Vitamin C is cheap and safe. Hence, using a relatively low dose of vitamin C as prophylaxis, and in cases of severe COVID-19, an (intravenous) high-dose regimen may be beneficial. Ongoing clinical trials are expected to provide more definitive evidence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adam F Feyaerts
- VIB Center for Microbiology, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium; Laboratory of Molecular Cell Biology, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium; Department of Technology, UCLL, Leuven, Belgium.
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14
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Cerullo G, Negro M, Parimbelli M, Pecoraro M, Perna S, Liguori G, Rondanelli M, Cena H, D’Antona G. The Long History of Vitamin C: From Prevention of the Common Cold to Potential Aid in the Treatment of COVID-19. Front Immunol 2020; 11:574029. [PMID: 33193359 PMCID: PMC7655735 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2020.574029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 67] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2020] [Accepted: 09/21/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
From Pauling's theories to the present, considerable understanding has been acquired of both the physiological role of vitamin C and of the impact of vitamin C supplementation on the health. Although it is well known that a balanced diet which satisfies the daily intake of vitamin C positively affects the immune system and reduces susceptibility to infections, available data do not support the theory that oral vitamin C supplements boost immunity. No current clinical recommendations support the possibility of significantly decreasing the risk of respiratory infections by using high-dose supplements of vitamin C in a well-nourished general population. Only in restricted subgroups (e.g., athletes or the military) and in subjects with a low plasma vitamin C concentration a supplementation may be justified. Furthermore, in categories at high risk of infection (i.e., the obese, diabetics, the elderly, etc.), a vitamin C supplementation can modulate inflammation, with potential positive effects on immune response to infections. The impact of an extra oral intake of vitamin C on the duration of a cold and the prevention or treatment of pneumonia is still questioned, while, based on critical illness studies, vitamin C infusion has recently been hypothesized as a treatment for COVID-19 hospitalized patients. In this review, we focused on the effects of vitamin C on immune function, summarizing the most relevant studies from the prevention and treatment of common respiratory diseases to the use of vitamin C in critical illness conditions, with the aim of clarifying its potential application during an acute SARS-CoV2 infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giuseppe Cerullo
- Department of Movement Sciences and Wellbeing, University of Naples Parthenope, Naples, Italy
| | - Massimo Negro
- Centro di Ricerca Interdipartimentale nelle Attività Motorie e Sportive (CRIAMS)—Sport Medicine Centre, University of Pavia, Voghera, Italy
| | - Mauro Parimbelli
- Centro di Ricerca Interdipartimentale nelle Attività Motorie e Sportive (CRIAMS)—Sport Medicine Centre, University of Pavia, Voghera, Italy
| | | | - Simone Perna
- Department of Biology, College of Science, University of Bahrain, Sakhir, Bahrain
| | - Giorgio Liguori
- Department of Movement Sciences and Wellbeing, University of Naples Parthenope, Naples, Italy
| | - Mariangela Rondanelli
- IRCCS Mondino Foundation, Pavia, Italy
- Department of Public Health, Experimental and Forensic Medicine, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - Hellas Cena
- Department of Public Health, Experimental and Forensic Medicine, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
- Clinical Nutrition and Dietetics Service, Unit of Internal Medicine and Endocrinology, ICS Maugeri IRCCS, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - Giuseppe D’Antona
- Centro di Ricerca Interdipartimentale nelle Attività Motorie e Sportive (CRIAMS)—Sport Medicine Centre, University of Pavia, Voghera, Italy
- Department of Public Health, Experimental and Forensic Medicine, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
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15
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Bellavite P, Donzelli A. Hesperidin and SARS-CoV-2: New Light on the Healthy Function of Citrus Fruits. Antioxidants (Basel) 2020; 9:E742. [PMID: 32823497 PMCID: PMC7465267 DOI: 10.3390/antiox9080742] [Citation(s) in RCA: 75] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2020] [Revised: 08/10/2020] [Accepted: 08/11/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Among the many approaches to Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) prevention, the possible role of nutrition has so far been rather underestimated. Foods are very rich in substances, with a potential beneficial effect on health, and some of these could have an antiviral action or be important in modulating the immune system and in defending cells from the oxidative stress associated with infection. This short review draws the attention on some components of citrus fruits, and especially of the orange (Citrus sinensis), well known for its vitamin and flavonoid content. Among the flavonoids, hesperidin has recently attracted the attention of researchers, because it binds to the key proteins of the Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). Several computational methods, independently applied by different researchers, showed that hesperidin has a low binding energy, both with the coronavirus "spike" protein, and with the main protease that transforms the early proteins of the virus (pp1a and ppa1b) into the complex responsible for viral replication. The binding energy of hesperidin to these important components is lower than that of lopinavir, ritonavir, and indinavir, suggesting that it could perform an effective antiviral action. Furthermore, both hesperidin and ascorbic acid counteract the cell damaging effects of the oxygen free radicals triggered by virus infection and inflammation. There is discussion about the preventive efficacy of vitamin C, at the dose achievable by the diet, but recent reviews suggest that this substance can be useful in the case of strong immune system burden caused by viral disease. Computational methods and laboratory studies support the need to undertake apposite preclinical, epidemiological, and experimental studies on the potential benefits of citrus fruit components for the prevention of infectious diseases, including COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paolo Bellavite
- Department of Medicine, Section of General Pathology, University of Verona Medical School, Strada Le Grazie 8, 37134 Verona, Italy
| | - Alberto Donzelli
- Medical Doctor, Scientific Committee of Fondazione Allineare Sanità e Salute, 20122 Milano, Italy;
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16
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Zabetakis I, Lordan R, Norton C, Tsoupras A. COVID-19: The Inflammation Link and the Role of Nutrition in Potential Mitigation. Nutrients 2020; 12:E1466. [PMID: 32438620 PMCID: PMC7284818 DOI: 10.3390/nu12051466] [Citation(s) in RCA: 293] [Impact Index Per Article: 73.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2020] [Revised: 05/11/2020] [Accepted: 05/17/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The novel coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) has engulfed the world, affecting more than 180 countries. As a result, there has been considerable economic distress globally and a significant loss of life. Sadly, the vulnerable and immunocompromised in our societies seem to be more susceptible to severe COVID-19 complications. Global public health bodies and governments have ignited strategies and issued advisories on various handwashing and hygiene guidelines, social distancing strategies, and, in the most extreme cases, some countries have adopted "stay in place" or lockdown protocols to prevent COVID-19 spread. Notably, there are several significant risk factors for severe COVID-19 infection. These include the presence of poor nutritional status and pre-existing noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) such as diabetes mellitus, chronic lung diseases, cardiovascular diseases (CVD), obesity, and various other diseases that render the patient immunocompromised. These diseases are characterized by systemic inflammation, which may be a common feature of these NCDs, affecting patient outcomes against COVID-19. In this review, we discuss some of the anti-inflammatory therapies that are currently under investigation intended to dampen the cytokine storm of severe COVID-19 infections. Furthermore, nutritional status and the role of diet and lifestyle is considered, as it is known to affect patient outcomes in other severe infections and may play a role in COVID-19 infection. This review speculates the importance of nutrition as a mitigation strategy to support immune function amid the COVID-19 pandemic, identifying food groups and key nutrients of importance that may affect the outcomes of respiratory infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ioannis Zabetakis
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Limerick, Limerick V94 T9PX, Ireland;
- Health Research Institute, University of Limerick, Limerick V94 T9PX, Ireland; (R.L.); (C.N.)
| | - Ronan Lordan
- Health Research Institute, University of Limerick, Limerick V94 T9PX, Ireland; (R.L.); (C.N.)
- Institute for Translational Medicine and Therapeutics, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104-5158, USA
| | - Catherine Norton
- Health Research Institute, University of Limerick, Limerick V94 T9PX, Ireland; (R.L.); (C.N.)
- Department of Physical Education and Sport Sciences, University of Limerick, Limerick V94 T9PX, Ireland
| | - Alexandros Tsoupras
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Limerick, Limerick V94 T9PX, Ireland;
- Health Research Institute, University of Limerick, Limerick V94 T9PX, Ireland; (R.L.); (C.N.)
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17
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Karbownik MS, Paul E, Nowicka M, Nowicka Z, Kowalczyk RP, Kowalczyk E, Pietras T. Knowledge about dietary supplements and trust in advertising them: Development and validation of the questionnaires and preliminary results of the association between the constructs. PLoS One 2019; 14:e0218398. [PMID: 31233516 PMCID: PMC6590799 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0218398] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2019] [Accepted: 06/01/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Despite offering little overall benefit and emerging concerns about their safety, dietary supplements have become increasingly popular. Trust in advertising them may contribute to high confidence in dietary supplements in public opinion. AIM To develop and validate a screening questionnaire intended for the general public regarding knowledge about dietary supplements and a questionnaire on trust in advertising dietary supplements, and to identify the association between these constructs. MATERIALS AND METHODS The development and validation of the measures was overseen by the panels of experts. The conceptual frameworks of the constructs were scientifically well grounded. A set of semi-structured interviews and anonymous web-based surveys was performed. The final questionnaire was applied to 220 non-medically educated people and 121 medically educated people. RESULTS A 17-item questionnaire on knowledge about dietary supplements and eight-item questionnaire on trust in advertising dietary supplements were developed. The measures presented satisfactory proof of validity, however, the psychometric properties of the questionnaire on knowledge were modest. Both the knowledge about dietary supplements in the study group and trust in advertising them were low. A significant negative relationship was found between knowledge about dietary supplements and trust in advertising them among the general public (Pearson's r = -0.42, 95%CI: -0.52 to -0.30, p<0.0001). This association was especially pronounced in people who reported not taking dietary supplements (Pearson's r = -0.61, 95%CI: -0.76 to -0.39, p<0.0001). CONCLUSIONS The extensive advertising of dietary supplements appears to be in conflict with promoting evidence-based knowledge about them, which raises substantial concerns for the public health. The results of the study are only preliminary and require further confirmation and exploration.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Maja Nowicka
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology, Medical University of Lodz, Łódź, Poland
| | - Zuzanna Nowicka
- Department of Biostatistics and Translational Medicine, Medical University of Lodz, Łódź, Poland
| | | | - Edward Kowalczyk
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Medical University of Lodz, Łódź, Poland
| | - Tadeusz Pietras
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology, Medical University of Lodz, Łódź, Poland
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18
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Shibata M, Iwane T, Higuchi R, Suwa K, Nakajima K. Potential common factors associated with predisposition to common cold in middle-aged and elderly Japanese: A community-based cross-sectional study. Medicine (Baltimore) 2018; 97:e10729. [PMID: 29768343 PMCID: PMC5976333 DOI: 10.1097/md.0000000000010729] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2017] [Accepted: 04/23/2018] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
People worldwide frequently catch a common cold, which occasionally develops into secondary severe conditions such as pneumonia. However, it is unclear whether predisposition to the common cold is associated with the individual's characteristics including age, body weight, lifestyles, diets, and intestinal functions, besides exposure to a responsible pathogen. We addressed this issue epidemiologically considering many relevant clinical factors.We reviewed data from a cross-sectional study consisting of 39,524 apparently healthy Japanese aged 40 to 79 years (26,975 men and 12,549 women) who underwent a checkup in 2007. Self-reported predisposition to common cold (SPCC) and relevant clinical conditions and parameters were considered.We observed no significant difference in most clinical parameters including age, body mass index (BMI), glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c), and prevalence of men and current smokers between subjects with and without SPCC. In univariate analysis, circulating white blood cell (WBC) count and serum alanine-aminotransferase (ALT) were significantly higher in subjects with SPCC than in those without, whereas serum high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) and duration of sleep were lower. In logistic regression analysis after full adjustment for relevant confounding factors, BMI categories except BMI of ≥27.0 kg/m were significantly associated with SPCC compared with BMI of 23.0 to 24.9 kg/m. Short duration of sleep (≤5 hours), occasional alcohol drinking, and no-exercise were significantly associated with SPCC compared with 7 hours sleep duration, no-drinking alcohol, and low frequent exercise (twice per month), respectively. All gastrointestinal disorders (gastric complaints, constipation, and diarrhea) were independently associated with SPCC. Imbalanced diet and taking a snack were also associated with SPCC in a degree dependent manner. Furthermore, WBC count, serum ALT, and HDL-C (as continuous variables) were associated with SPCC (HDL-C was inversely), whereas no significant association was observed between SPCC and age, smoking, HbA1c, and pharmacotherapy for diabetes, hypertension, and dyslipidemia.Our results demonstrated that multifactorial conditions and parameters might be simultaneously associated with the predisposition to common cold. Prospective studies including detailed common cold questionnaire and measurements are needed to confirm currently suspected causative and protective factors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michi Shibata
- School of Nutrition and Dietetics, Faculty of Health and Social Services, Kanagawa University of Human Services
- Department of Nutrition, St. Marianna University School of Medicine Hospital, Kawasaki, Kanagawa
| | - Taizo Iwane
- School of Nutrition and Dietetics, Faculty of Health and Social Services, Kanagawa University of Human Services
| | - Ryoko Higuchi
- School of Nutrition and Dietetics, Faculty of Health and Social Services, Kanagawa University of Human Services
| | - Kaname Suwa
- Saitama Health Promotion Corporation, Yoshimimachi, Hikigun
| | - Kei Nakajima
- School of Nutrition and Dietetics, Faculty of Health and Social Services, Kanagawa University of Human Services
- Department of Endocrinology and Diabetes, Saitama Medical Center, Saitama Medical University, Kawagoe, Saitama, Japan
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19
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20
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Intake of vitamin C, vitamin E, selenium, zinc and polyunsaturated fatty acids and upper respiratory tract infection-a prospective cohort study. Eur J Clin Nutr 2017; 71:450-457. [PMID: 28074891 DOI: 10.1038/ejcn.2016.261] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2015] [Revised: 10/06/2016] [Accepted: 11/21/2016] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVES Antioxidants and polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) have a role in the human immune defense and may affect the susceptibility to upper respiratory tract infection (URTI). To examine dietary intake of vitamin C, vitamin E, selenium, zinc and PUFAs in relation to URTI incidence in a prospective cohort study. SUBJECTS/METHODS A total of 1533 Swedish women and men aged 25-64 years were followed for nine months during 2011-2012. Information on dietary intake was assessed through a web-based food frequency questionnaire, and events of URTI were self-reported prospectively as they occurred. Cox proportional hazards regression was applied to obtain incidence rate ratios with 95% confidence intervals. RESULTS The mean number of URTI events was 0.9 among all participants, 1.0 among women and 0.7 among men. In women, the incidence rate ratios (95% confidence interval) for high compared with low intake were 0.69 (0.55-0.88) for vitamin C, 0.77 (0.62-0.96) for vitamin E, 0.57 (0.39-0.83) for docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and 0.80 (0.65-0.99) for arachidonic acid (AA). No association was found for selenium or zinc among women. In men, an increased URTI incidence was seen with medium vitamin E intake (1.42 (1.09-1.85)) and high zinc intake (1.50 (1.04-2.16)). No association was found for vitamin C, selenium or PUFAs among men. CONCLUSIONS We found an inverse association of URTI incidence among women for vitamin C, vitamin E, DHA and AA intake and a positive association among men for vitamin E and zinc intake. The observed gender differences warrant further investigation.
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21
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Hamishehkar H, Ranjdoost F, Asgharian P, Mahmoodpoor A, Sanaie S. Vitamins, Are They Safe? Adv Pharm Bull 2016; 6:467-477. [PMID: 28101454 DOI: 10.15171/apb.2016.061] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2015] [Revised: 10/09/2016] [Accepted: 10/15/2016] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
The consumption of a daily multivitamin among people all over the world is dramatically increasing in recent years. Most of the people believe that if vitamins are not effective, at least they are safe. However, the long term health consequences of vitamins consumption are unknown. This study aimed to assess the side effects and possible harmful and detrimental properties of vitamins and to discuss whether vitamins can be used as safe health products or dietary supplements. We performed a MEDLINE/PubMed, EMBASE, Scopus and Google Scholar search and assessed reference lists of the included studies which were published from 1993 through 2015. The studies, with an emphasis on RCTs (randomized controlled clinical trials), were reviewed. As some vitamins such as fat-soluble vitamins (vitamin A, vitamin D, vitamin E), and also some of the water-soluble vitamins like folic acid may cause adverse events and some like vitamin C is widely taken assuming that it has so many benefits and no harm, we included relevant studies with negative or undesired results regarding the effect of these vitamins on health. Our recommendation is that taking high-dose supplements of vitamins A, E, D, C, and folic acid is not always effective for prevention of disease, and it can even be harmful to the health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hadi Hamishehkar
- Drug Applied Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Farhad Ranjdoost
- Iranian Evidence Based Medicine Center of Excellence, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Parina Asgharian
- Student Research Committee, Faculty of Pharmacy, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Ata Mahmoodpoor
- Department of Anesthesiology and Intensive Care, Faculty of Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Sarvin Sanaie
- Tuberculosis & Lung Disease Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
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22
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Padayatty SJ, Levine M. Vitamin C: the known and the unknown and Goldilocks. Oral Dis 2016; 22:463-93. [PMID: 26808119 DOI: 10.1111/odi.12446] [Citation(s) in RCA: 376] [Impact Index Per Article: 47.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2016] [Accepted: 01/08/2016] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Vitamin C (Ascorbic Acid), the antiscorbutic vitamin, cannot be synthesized by humans and other primates, and has to be obtained from diet. Ascorbic acid is an electron donor and acts as a cofactor for fifteen mammalian enzymes. Two sodium-dependent transporters are specific for ascorbic acid, and its oxidation product dehydroascorbic acid is transported by glucose transporters. Ascorbic acid is differentially accumulated by most tissues and body fluids. Plasma and tissue vitamin C concentrations are dependent on amount consumed, bioavailability, renal excretion, and utilization. To be biologically meaningful or to be clinically relevant, in vitro and in vivo studies of vitamin C actions have to take into account physiologic concentrations of the vitamin. In this paper, we review vitamin C physiology; the many phenomena involving vitamin C where new knowledge has accrued or where understanding remains limited; raise questions about the vitamin that remain to be answered; and explore lines of investigations that are likely to be fruitful.
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Affiliation(s)
- S J Padayatty
- Molecular and Clinical Nutrition Section, Digestive Diseases Branch, National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
| | - M Levine
- Molecular and Clinical Nutrition Section, Digestive Diseases Branch, National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
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Min J, Li XQ, She B, Chen Y, Mao B. Efficacy and safety of Gantong Granules in the treatment of common cold with wind-heat syndrome: study protocol for a randomized controlled trial. Trials 2015; 16:219. [PMID: 25986648 PMCID: PMC4488979 DOI: 10.1186/s13063-015-0735-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2014] [Accepted: 04/29/2015] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Although the common cold is generally mild and self-limiting, it is a leading cause of consultations with doctors and missed days from school and work. In light of its favorable effects of relieving symptoms and minimal side-effects, Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) has been widely used to treat the common cold. However, there is a lack of robust evidence to support the clinical utility of such a treatment. This study is designed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of Gantong Granules compared with placebo in patients with the common cold with wind-heat syndrome (CCWHS). Methods/Design This is a multicenter, phase IIb, double-blind, placebo-controlled and randomized clinical trial. A total of 240 patients will be recruited, from 5 centers across China and randomly assigned to the high-dose group, medium-dose group, low-dose group or placebo control group in a 1:1:1:1 ratio. All subjects will receive the treatment for 3 to 5 days, followed by a 7-day follow-up period. The primary outcome is the duration of all symptoms. Secondary outcomes include the duration of primary symptoms and each symptom, time to fever relief and time to fever clearance, change in TCM symptom score, and change in Symptom and Sign Score. Discussion This trial will provide high-quality evidence on the efficacy and safety of Gantong Granules in treating CCWHS, and help to optimize the dose selection for a phase III clinical trial. Trial registration The registration number is ChiCTR-TRC-14004255, which was assigned by the Chinese Clinical Trial Registry on 12 February 2014.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jie Min
- Department of Integrated Traditional and Western Medicine, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, 37 Guoxue Lane, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan Province, People's Republic of China.
| | - Xiao-qiang Li
- Anesthesia Department, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, 37 Guoxue Lane, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan Province, People's Republic of China.
| | - Bin She
- Department of Integrated Traditional and Western Medicine, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, 37 Guoxue Lane, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan Province, People's Republic of China.
| | - Yan Chen
- Department of Integrated Traditional and Western Medicine, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, 37 Guoxue Lane, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan Province, People's Republic of China.
| | - Bing Mao
- Department of Integrated Traditional and Western Medicine, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, 37 Guoxue Lane, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan Province, People's Republic of China.
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Hill C, Guarner F, Reid G, Gibson GR, Merenstein DJ, Pot B, Morelli L, Canani RB, Flint HJ, Salminen S, Calder PC, Sanders ME. Expert consensus document. The International Scientific Association for Probiotics and Prebiotics consensus statement on the scope and appropriate use of the term probiotic. Nat Rev Gastroenterol Hepatol 2014; 11:506-14. [PMID: 24912386 DOI: 10.1038/nrgastro.2014.66] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4599] [Impact Index Per Article: 459.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
An expert panel was convened in October 2013 by the International Scientific Association for Probiotics and Prebiotics (ISAPP) to discuss the field of probiotics. It is now 13 years since the definition of probiotics and 12 years after guidelines were published for regulators, scientists and industry by the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations and the WHO (FAO/WHO). The FAO/WHO definition of a probiotic--"live microorganisms which when administered in adequate amounts confer a health benefit on the host"--was reinforced as relevant and sufficiently accommodating for current and anticipated applications. However, inconsistencies between the FAO/WHO Expert Consultation Report and the FAO/WHO Guidelines were clarified to take into account advances in science and applications. A more precise use of the term 'probiotic' will be useful to guide clinicians and consumers in differentiating the diverse products on the market. This document represents the conclusions of the ISAPP consensus meeting on the appropriate use and scope of the term probiotic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Colin Hill
- Alimentary Pharmabiotic Centre, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
| | | | - Gregor Reid
- Lawson Health Research Institute and Departments of Microbiology &Immunology, and Surgery, University of Western Ontario, 268 Grosvenor Street, London, ON N6A 4V2, Canada
| | - Glenn R Gibson
- Department of Food and Nutritional Sciences, The University of Reading, Whiteknights, PO Box 226, Reading RG6 6AP, UK
| | - Daniel J Merenstein
- Department of Family Medicine, Georgetown University Medical Center, Building D 240, 4000 Reservoir Road NW, Washington, DC 20007, USA
| | - Bruno Pot
- Center for Infection and Immunity, Institut Pasteur de Lille, 1 Rue Prof Calmette, Lille 59019, France
| | - Lorenzo Morelli
- Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Via Emilia Parmense 84, Piacenza 29122, Italy
| | - Roberto Berni Canani
- Department of Translational Medical Science and European Laboratory for the Investigation of Food Induced Diseases, University of Naples Federico II, Naples 80131, Italy
| | - Harry J Flint
- Microbiology Group, Rowett Institute of Nutrition and Health, University of Aberdeen, Greenburn Road, Bucksburn, Aberdeen AB21 9SB, UK
| | - Seppo Salminen
- Functional Foods Forum, University of Turku, Turku 20014, Finland
| | - Philip C Calder
- Human Development and Health Academic Unit, Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, Southampton SO16 6YD, UK
| | - Mary Ellen Sanders
- International Scientific Association for Probiotics and Prebiotics, 7119 S. Glencoe Court, Centennial, CO 80122, USA
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Canali R, Natarelli L, Leoni G, Azzini E, Comitato R, Sancak O, Barella L, Virgili F. Vitamin C supplementation modulates gene expression in peripheral blood mononuclear cells specifically upon an inflammatory stimulus: a pilot study in healthy subjects. GENES AND NUTRITION 2014; 9:390. [PMID: 24604612 PMCID: PMC4026433 DOI: 10.1007/s12263-014-0390-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2013] [Accepted: 02/19/2014] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
In order to study the effects of vitamin C supplementation on gene expression and compare its action between physiological and inflammatory conditions, a pilot study was set up utilizing microarray and qPCR technologies. Five healthy volunteers were supplemented with 1 g vitamin C (Redoxon®) per day for five consecutive days. Peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMNC) were isolated before and just after the last supplementation, and RNA was isolated for the Affymetrix gene 1.0 ST chip analysis. PBMNC were also, ex vivo, treated with LPS, and gene expression was quantified by means of a “Human NFkB Signaling” qPCR array. Only a very moderate effect on the baseline gene expression modulation was associated with vitamin C supplementation. However, in spite of the limited number of subjects analyzed, vitamin C supplementation resulted in a markedly different modulation of gene expression upon the inflammatory stimulus, specifically at the level of the MyD88-dependent pathway and of the anti-inflammatory cytokine IL-10 synthesis. This study suggests that vitamin C supplementation in healthy subjects, not selected according to a specific genetic profile, consuming an adequate amount of vitamin C, and having a satisfactory vitamin C plasma concentration at the baseline, does not result in a significant modification of gene expression profile. Under this satisfactory micronutrient status, supplementation of vitamin C is “buffered” within a homeostatic physiological equilibrium. Differently, following a second “hit” constituted of an inflammatory stimulus such as LPS, able to trigger a critical burst to the normal physiological state, the higher availability of ascorbic acid emerges, and results in a significant modulation of cell response.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raffaella Canali
- Food and Nutrition Research Centre, Consiglio per la Ricerca e Sperimentazione in Agricoltura, Via Ardeatina 546, 00178, Rome, Italy,
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Allan GM, Arroll B. Prevention and treatment of the common cold: making sense of the evidence. CMAJ 2014; 186:190-9. [PMID: 24468694 PMCID: PMC3928210 DOI: 10.1503/cmaj.121442] [Citation(s) in RCA: 92] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/01/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- G. Michael Allan
- Evidence-Based Medicine, Department of Family Medicine (Allan), University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alta.; Department of General Practice and Primary Health Care (Arroll), University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Bruce Arroll
- Evidence-Based Medicine, Department of Family Medicine (Allan), University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alta.; Department of General Practice and Primary Health Care (Arroll), University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
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[Upper airway infections]. Monatsschr Kinderheilkd 2014; 162:137-145. [PMID: 32214491 PMCID: PMC7080139 DOI: 10.1007/s00112-013-2965-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
Background Upper airway infections contribute significantly to paediatric morbidity and hospitalization especially of young children, are often treated polypragmatically, and are one of the main reasons for antibiotic prescriptions. The severity varies between mild, self-limiting and potentially life-threatening airway obstructions. Diagnosis The physician involved can normally make the right diagnosis based on the patient's history and physical findings; additional diagnostic procedures (blood tests, imaging) should be restricted to unclear cases. Therapy Antibiotic stewardship should be applied. Imminent airway obstruction will require early and competent paediatric intensive care interventions. Since viral and bacterial upper airway infections can present with similar features, it is useful to approach them under topographical aspects. Prevention Following immunization recommendations can prevent an enormous amount of severe potentially life threatening airway infections.
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Efficacy of a carrageenan nasal spray in patients with common cold: a randomized controlled trial. Respir Res 2013; 14:124. [PMID: 24219370 PMCID: PMC3840586 DOI: 10.1186/1465-9921-14-124] [Citation(s) in RCA: 66] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2013] [Accepted: 11/10/2013] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The common cold is the most widespread viral infection in humans. Iota-carrageenan has previously shown antiviral effectiveness against cold viruses in clinical trials. This study investigated the efficacy of a carrageenan-containing nasal spray on the duration of the common cold and nasal fluid viral load in adult patients. Methods In a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial, 211 patients suffering from early symptoms of the common cold were treated for seven days. Application was performed three times daily with either a carrageenan-supplemented nasal spray or saline solution as placebo with an overall observation period of 21 days. The primary endpoint was the duration of disease defined as the time until the last day with symptoms followed by all other days in the study period without symptoms. During the study, but prior unblinding, the definition of disease duration was adapted from the original protocol that defines disease duration as the time period of symptoms followed by 48 hours without symptoms. Results In patients showing a laboratory-confirmed cold virus infection and adherence to the protocol, alleviation of symptoms was 2.1 days faster in the carrageenan group in comparison to placebo (p = 0.037). The primary endpoint that had been prespecified but was changed before unblinding was not met. Viral titers in nasal fluids showed a significantly greater decrease in carrageenan patients in the intention-to-treat population (p = 0.024) and in the per protocol population (p = 0.018) between days 1 and 3/4. Conclusions In adults with common cold virus infections, direct local administration of carrageenan with nasal sprays reduced the duration of cold symptoms. A significant reduction of viral load in the nasal wash fluids of patients confirmed similar findings from earlier trials in children and adults. Trial registration Current Controlled Trials ISRCTN80148028
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Rech Franke SI, Guecheva TN, Henriques JAP, Prá D. Orange Juice and Cancer Chemoprevention. Nutr Cancer 2013; 65:943-53. [DOI: 10.1080/01635581.2013.817594] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
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Abstract
BACKGROUND The common cold is one of the most common illnesses in humans and constitutes an economic burden both in terms of productivity and expenditure for treatment. There is no proven cure for the common cold and symptomatic relief is the mainstay of treatment. The use of intranasal ipratropium bromide (IB) has been addressed in several studies and might prove an effective treatment for the common cold. OBJECTIVES To determine the effect of IB versus placebo or no treatment on severity of rhinorrhoea and nasal congestion in children and adults with the common cold. Subjective overall improvement was another primary outcome and side effects (for example, dry mucous membranes, epistaxis and systemic anticholinergic effects) were reported as a secondary outcome. SEARCH METHODS In this updated review we searched CENTRAL 2013, Issue 3, MEDLINE (1950 to March week 4, 2013), MEDLINE in-process and other non-indexed citations (8 April 2013), EMBASE (1974 to April 2013), AMED (1985 to April 2013), Biosis (1974 to February 2011) and LILACS (1985 to April 2013). SELECTION CRITERIA Randomised controlled trials (RCTs) comparing IB to placebo or no treatment in children and adults with the common cold. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS Two review authors independently extracted data and assessed trial quality. We used a standardised form to extract relevant data and we contacted trial authors for additional information. MAIN RESULTS Seven trials with a total of 2144 participants were included. Four studies (1959 participants) addressed subjective change in severity of rhinorrhoea. All studies were consistent in reporting statistically significant changes in favour of IB. Nasal congestion was reported in four studies and was found to have no significant change between the two groups. Two studies found a positive response in the IB group for the global assessment of overall improvement. Side effects were more frequent in the IB group, odds ratio (OR) 2.09 (95% confidence interval (CI) 1.40 to 3.11). Commonly encountered side effects included nasal dryness, blood tinged mucus and epistaxis. The overall risk of bias in the included studies was moderate. AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS For people with the common cold, the existing evidence, which has some limitations, suggests that IB is likely to be effective in ameliorating rhinorrhoea. IB had no effect on nasal congestion and its use was associated with more side effects compared to placebo or no treatment although these appeared to be well tolerated and self limiting. There is a need for larger, high-quality trials to determine the effectiveness of IB in relieving common cold symptoms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zaina H AlBalawi
- Department of Medicine, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Canada.
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Weiss JR, Tessema B, Brown SM. Complementary and integrative treatments: upper respiratory infection. Otolaryngol Clin North Am 2013; 46:335-44. [PMID: 23764813 PMCID: PMC7118453 DOI: 10.1016/j.otc.2012.12.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
The combination of nasal congestion, rhinorrhea, sore throat, cough, and malaise is the symptomatic profile that constitutes an uncomplicated upper respiratory tract infection (URI), also known as the common cold. Because no known cure exists for a URI, numerous products are available, each marketed with the promise of alleviating the associated symptoms and/or shortening the duration of illness. The evidence supporting these claims is variable and is the focus of this article, with an emphasis on complementary and integrative therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica R Weiss
- Deparment of Surgery, Division of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, University of Connecticut School of Medicine, Farmington, CT 06030, USA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simon Spedding
- Nutritional Physiology Research Centre, University of South Australia
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Goldman RD. Treating cough and cold: Guidance for caregivers of children and youth. Paediatr Child Health 2013; 16:564-9. [PMID: 23115499 DOI: 10.1093/pch/16.9.564] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Despite the widespread use of over-the-counter (OTC) cough and cold medications (CCMs), the effectiveness of most CCMs has not been proven in children. A meta-analysis summarizing trials using OTC CCMs for viral-induced cough found no evidence for or against the use of OTC medicines in both paediatric and adult populations when cough frequency and severity, as well as physician assessments, were compared. Furthermore, North American data suggest that OTC CCMs may be associated with medication errors and adverse events, resulting in visits to emergency departments and even leading to death. The present article provides information on current evidence for cough and cold therapies, including fluid intake, humidified air, antihistamines, echinacea, zinc, honey and vitamin C, for caregivers of children and youth.
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Abstract
BACKGROUND Vitamin C (ascorbic acid) for preventing and treating the common cold has been a subject of controversy for 70 years. OBJECTIVES To find out whether vitamin C reduces the incidence, the duration or severity of the common cold when used either as a continuous regular supplementation every day or as a therapy at the onset of cold symptoms. SEARCH METHODS We searched CENTRAL 2012, Issue 11, MEDLINE (1966 to November week 3, 2012), EMBASE (1990 to November 2012), CINAHL (January 2010 to November 2012), LILACS (January 2010 to November 2012) and Web of Science (January 2010 to November 2012). We also searched the U.S. National Institutes of Health trials register and WHO ICTRP on 29 November 2012. SELECTION CRITERIA We excluded trials which used less than 0.2 g per day of vitamin C and trials without a placebo comparison. We restricted our review to placebo-controlled trials. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS Two review authors independently extracted data. We assessed 'incidence' of colds during regular supplementation as the proportion of participants experiencing one or more colds during the study period. 'Duration' was the mean number of days of illness of cold episodes. MAIN RESULTS Twenty-nine trial comparisons involving 11,306 participants contributed to the meta-analysis on the risk ratio (RR) of developing a cold whilst taking vitamin C regularly over the study period. In the general community trials involving 10,708 participants, the pooled RR was 0.97 (95% confidence interval (CI) 0.94 to 1.00). Five trials involving a total of 598 marathon runners, skiers and soldiers on subarctic exercises yielded a pooled RR of 0.48 (95% CI 0.35 to 0.64).Thirty-one comparisons examined the effect of regular vitamin C on common cold duration (9745 episodes). In adults the duration of colds was reduced by 8% (3% to 12%) and in children by 14% (7% to 21%). In children, 1 to 2 g/day vitamin C shortened colds by 18%. The severity of colds was also reduced by regular vitamin C administration.Seven comparisons examined the effect of therapeutic vitamin C (3249 episodes). No consistent effect of vitamin C was seen on the duration or severity of colds in the therapeutic trials.The majority of included trials were randomised, double-blind trials. The exclusion of trials that were either not randomised or not double-blind had no effect on the conclusions. AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS The failure of vitamin C supplementation to reduce the incidence of colds in the general population indicates that routine vitamin C supplementation is not justified, yet vitamin C may be useful for people exposed to brief periods of severe physical exercise. Regular supplementation trials have shown that vitamin C reduces the duration of colds, but this was not replicated in the few therapeutic trials that have been carried out. Nevertheless, given the consistent effect of vitamin C on the duration and severity of colds in the regular supplementation studies, and the low cost and safety, it may be worthwhile for common cold patients to test on an individual basis whether therapeutic vitamin C is beneficial for them. Further therapeutic RCTs are warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Harri Hemilä
- Department of Public Health, POB 41, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland.
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Kang EJ, Kim SY, Hwang IH, Ji YJ. The effect of probiotics on prevention of common cold: a meta-analysis of randomized controlled trial studies. Korean J Fam Med 2013; 34:2-10. [PMID: 23372900 PMCID: PMC3560336 DOI: 10.4082/kjfm.2013.34.1.2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2011] [Accepted: 10/12/2012] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Probiotics are currently under focus for their immune improvement function. Many studies have been performed to assess the potential efficacy of probiotics in allergic disease, viral disease, respiratory disease, as well as gastrointestinal disease. This study performed a systematic review to determine the effects of probiotics on the prevention of the common cold. Methods We searched MEDLINE (PubMed), EMBASE, CINAHL, and Cochrane CENTRAL for studies released through June 2011. Two authors independently extracted the data. To assess the risk of bias of included literatures, Cochrane Collaboration's risk of bias tool was used. Results We identified 10 studies in 7 articles. A total 2,894 participants, 1,588 in the probiotics group and 1,306 in the control group, were included. The effect of probiotics on the prevention of the common cold had a relative risk (RR) of 0.92 (95% CI, 0.85 to 1.00, I2 = 26%). In the subgroup analysis, the RR of administration of probiotics for 3 months or less was 0.82 (95% CI, 0.70 to 0.97). The RR of administration of probiotics over 3 months was 1.00 (95% CI, 0.92 to 1.09). The RR of administration of probiotics without any active intervention (vitamin and mineral) was 0.87 (95% CI, 0.78 to 0.97). Conclusion In this meta-analysis, there was marginal effect of probiotics on the prevention of the common cold. The results implied that probiotics had a modest effect in common cold reduction. The balance of benefit and harms needs to be considered when using probiotics for common cold prevention.
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Affiliation(s)
- En-Jin Kang
- Department of Family Medicine, Kangdong Sacred Heart Hospital, Hallym University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
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Treatment of common cold patients with the shi-cha capsule: a multicenter, double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled, dose-escalation trial. EVIDENCE-BASED COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE 2013; 2012:254571. [PMID: 23346193 PMCID: PMC3544370 DOI: 10.1155/2012/254571] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2012] [Accepted: 11/15/2012] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
This study was designed to determine the therapeutic efficacy and safety of the Shi-cha capsule, a Chinese herbal formula, in the treatment of patients with wind-cold type common cold. In our multi-center, prospective, double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled, dose-escalation trial, patients with wind-cold type common cold received 0.6 g of Shi-cha capsule plus 0.6 g placebo (group A), 1.2 g of Shi-cha capsule (group B), or 1.2 g placebo (group C), three times daily for 3 days and followed up to 10 days. The primary end point was all symptom duration. The secondary end points were main symptom duration, minor symptom duration, the changes in cumulative symptom score, main symptom score, and minor symptom score 4 days after the treatment, as well as adverse events. A total of 377 patients were recruited and 360 met the inclusive criteria; 120 patients constituted each treatment group. Compared with patients in group C, patients in groups A and B had significant improvement in the all symptom duration, main symptom duration, minor symptom duration, as well as change from baseline of cumulative symptom score, main symptom score, and minor symptom score at day 4. The symptom durations and scores showed slight superiority of group B over group A, although these differences were not statistically significant. There were no differences in adverse events. The Shi-cha capsule is efficacious and safe for the treatment of patients with wind-cold type common cold. Larger trials are required to fully assess the benefits and safety of this treatment for common cold.
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Abstract
Human rhinoviruses (HRVs), first discovered in the 1950s, are responsible for more than one-half of cold-like illnesses and cost billions of dollars annually in medical visits and missed days of work. Advances in molecular methods have enhanced our understanding of the genomic structure of HRV and have led to the characterization of three genetically distinct HRV groups, designated groups A, B, and C, within the genus Enterovirus and the family Picornaviridae. HRVs are traditionally associated with upper respiratory tract infection, otitis media, and sinusitis. In recent years, the increasing implementation of PCR assays for respiratory virus detection in clinical laboratories has facilitated the recognition of HRV as a lower respiratory tract pathogen, particularly in patients with asthma, infants, elderly patients, and immunocompromised hosts. Cultured isolates of HRV remain important for studies of viral characteristics and disease pathogenesis. Indeed, whether the clinical manifestations of HRV are related directly to viral pathogenicity or secondary to the host immune response is the subject of ongoing research. There are currently no approved antiviral therapies for HRVs, and treatment remains primarily supportive. This review provides a comprehensive, up-to-date assessment of the basic virology, pathogenesis, clinical epidemiology, and laboratory features of and treatment and prevention strategies for HRVs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samantha E. Jacobs
- Transplantation-Oncology Infectious Diseases Program, Division of Infectious Diseases, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, New York, USA
| | - Daryl M. Lamson
- Laboratory of Viral Diseases, Wadsworth Center, Albany, New York, USA
| | | | - Thomas J. Walsh
- Transplantation-Oncology Infectious Diseases Program, Division of Infectious Diseases, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, New York, USA
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Murphy C, DeBellis RJ. Pharmacotherapy in Lifestyle Medicine and the Role of the Pharmacist. Am J Lifestyle Med 2012. [DOI: 10.1177/1559827612444519] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Pharmacotherapy can have a significant impact on a patient’s quality of life and health status, potentially affecting multiple lifestyle areas, including weight, smoking status, sleep, and mood. Although pharmacotherapy can have a positive effect on such areas, its effects can also be detrimental. Pharmacists may be the most accessible health care providers to the general public, and their role in advising patients and other health care providers in making appropriate pharmacotherapy choices to positively affect one’s health and lifestyle areas is essential. This review will examine the effects of pharmacotherapy on different areas of lifestyle medicine and the role of the pharmacist as the medication expert in advising and informing patients and providers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Catherine Murphy
- Albany College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences, Colchester, Vermont
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Ahanchian H, Jones CM, Chen YS, Sly PD. Respiratory viral infections in children with asthma: do they matter and can we prevent them? BMC Pediatr 2012; 12:147. [PMID: 22974166 PMCID: PMC3471019 DOI: 10.1186/1471-2431-12-147] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2012] [Accepted: 09/03/2012] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Asthma is a major public health problem with a huge social and economic burden affecting 300 million people worldwide. Viral respiratory infections are the major cause of acute asthma exacerbations and may contribute to asthma inception in high risk young children with susceptible genetic background. Acute exacerbations are associated with decreased lung growth or accelerated loss of lung function and, as such, add substantially to both the cost and morbidity associated with asthma. DISCUSSION While the importance of preventing viral infection is well established, preventive strategies have not been well explored. Good personal hygiene, hand-washing and avoidance of cigarette smoke are likely to reduce respiratory viral infections. Eating a healthy balanced diet, active probiotic supplements and bacterial-derived products, such as OM-85, may reduce recurrent infections in susceptible children. There are no practical anti-viral therapies currently available that are suitable for widespread use. SUMMARY Hand hygiene is the best measure to prevent the common cold. A healthy balanced diet, active probiotic supplements and immunostimulant OM-85 may reduce recurrent infections in asthmatic children.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hamid Ahanchian
- The Queensland Children's Medical Research Institute, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
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Hemilä H, Al-Biltagi M, Baset AA. Vitamin C and asthma in children: modification of the effect by age, exposure to dampness and the severity of asthma. Clin Transl Allergy 2011; 1:9. [PMID: 22409829 PMCID: PMC3339402 DOI: 10.1186/2045-7022-1-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2011] [Accepted: 08/25/2011] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND We previously found a significant benefit of vitamin C supplementation in asthmatic children. PURPOSE To test whether the effect of vitamin C on asthma is heterogeneous over the participant population. METHODS Egyptian asthmatic children between 7 and 10 years of age (n = 60) were included in the cross-over trial. They were administered 0.2 grams per day of vitamin C and placebo for separate 6-week periods. The variation in the vitamin C effect on two clinically relevant outcomes was analyzed: the childhood asthma control test (C-ACT), which measures the severity of asthma symptoms (the scale ranges from 0 to 27 points, < 20 points indicating unsatisfactory asthma control), and FEV1. We used linear modeling to examine the variation of the vitamin C effect in the subgroups. RESULTS The effect of vitamin C on the C-ACT was significantly modified by age and baseline C-ACT levels. In the children aged 7.0-8.2 years with a baseline C-ACT of 18 to 19 points, vitamin C increased the C-ACT score by 4.2 points (95% CI: 3.3-5.3); whereas in the children aged 8.3-10 years who had a baseline C-ACT of 14 to 15 points, vitamin C increased the C-ACT score by only 1.3 points (95% CI: 0.1-2.5). The effect of vitamin C on the FEV1 levels was significantly modified by age and exposure to dampness. In the children aged 7.0-8.2 years with no exposure to dampness, vitamin C increased the FEV1 level by 37% (95% CI: 34-40%), whereas in the children aged 8.3-10 years with exposure to dampness or mold in their bedroom more than one year prior to the study, vitamin C increased the FEV1 level by only 21% (95% CI: 18-25%). CONCLUSIONS We found strong evidence that the effect of vitamin C on asthmatic children is heterogeneous. Further research is needed to confirm our findings and identify the groups of children who would receive the greatest benefit from vitamin C supplementation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Harri Hemilä
- Department of Public Health, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Mohammed Al-Biltagi
- Department of Paediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, Tanta University, Tanta, Gharbia Governorate, Egypt
| | - Ahmed A Baset
- Department of Paediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, Tanta University, Tanta, Gharbia Governorate, Egypt
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Hemilä H. Zinc lozenges may shorten the duration of colds: a systematic review. Open Respir Med J 2011; 5:51-8. [PMID: 21769305 PMCID: PMC3136969 DOI: 10.2174/1874306401105010051] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2011] [Revised: 05/04/2011] [Accepted: 05/19/2011] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND A number of controlled trials have examined the effect of zinc lozenges on the common cold but the findings have diverged. The purpose of this study was to examine whether the total daily dose of zinc might explain part of the variation in the results. METHODS The Medline, Scopus and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials data bases were searched for placebocontrolled trials examining the effect of zinc lozenges on common cold duration. Two methods were used for analysis: the P-values of the trials were combined by using the Fisher method and the results of the trials were pooled by using the inverse-variance method. Both approaches were used for all the identified trials and separately for the low zinc dose and the high zinc dose trials. RESULTS Thirteen placebo-controlled comparisons have examined the therapeutic effect of zinc lozenges on common cold episodes of natural origin. Five of the trials used a total daily zinc dose of less than 75 mg and uniformly found no effect. Three trials used zinc acetate in daily doses of over 75 mg, the pooled result indicating a 42% reduction in the duration of colds (95% CI: 35% to 48%). Five trials used zinc salts other than acetate in daily doses of over 75 mg, the pooled result indicating a 20% reduction in the duration of colds (95% CI: 12% to 28%). CONCLUSIONS This study shows strong evidence that the zinc lozenge effect on common cold duration is heterogeneous so that benefit is observed with high doses of zinc but not with low doses. The effects of zinc lozenges should be further studied to determine the optimal lozenge compositions and treatment strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Harri Hemilä
- Department of Public Health, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
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Reducing uncertainty in managing respiratory tract infections in primary care. Br J Gen Pract 2011; 60:e466-75. [PMID: 21144191 DOI: 10.3399/bjgp10x544104] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Respiratory tract infections (RTIs) remain the commonest reason for acute consultations in primary care in resource-rich countries. Their spectrum and severity has changed from the time that antibiotics were discovered, largely from improvements in the socioeconomic determinants of health as well as vaccination. The benefits from antibiotic treatment for common RTIs have been shown to be largely overstated. Nevertheless, serious infections do occur. Currently, no clinical features or diagnostic test, alone or in combination, adequately determine diagnosis, aetiology, prognosis, or response to treatment. This narrative review focuses on emerging evidence aimed at helping clinicians reduce and manage uncertainty in treating RTIs. Consultation rate and prescribing rate trends are described, evidence of increasing rates of complications are discussed, and studies and the association with antibiotic prescribing are examined. Methods of improving diagnosis and identifying those patients who are at increased risk of complications from RTIs, using clinical scoring systems, biomarkers, and point of care tests are also discussed. The evidence for alternative management options for RTIs are summarised and the methods for changing public and clinicians' beliefs about antibiotics, including ways in which we can improve clinician-patient communication skills for management of RTIs, are described.
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Constantini NW, Dubnov-Raz G, Eyal BB, Berry EM, Cohen AH, Hemilä H. The effect of vitamin C on upper respiratory infections in adolescent swimmers: a randomized trial. Eur J Pediatr 2011; 170:59-63. [PMID: 20689965 DOI: 10.1007/s00431-010-1270-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2010] [Accepted: 07/24/2010] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
The risk of upper respiratory infections (URIs) is increased in people who are under heavy physical stress, including recreational and competitive swimmers. Additional treatment options are needed, especially in the younger age group. The aim of this study was to determine whether 1 g/day vitamin C supplementation affects the rate, length, or severity of URIs in adolescent swimmers. We carried out a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial during three winter months, among 39 competitive young swimmers (mean age 13.8 ± 1.6 years) in Jerusalem, Israel. Vitamin C had no effect on the incidence of URIs (rate ratio = 1.01; 95% confidence interval (CI) = 0.70-1.46). The duration of respiratory infections was 22% shorter in vitamin C group, but the difference was not statistically significant. However, we found a significant interaction between vitamin C effect and sex, so that vitamin C shortened the duration of infections in male swimmers by 47% (95% CI: -80% to -14%), but had no effect on female swimmers (difference in duration: +17%; 95% CI: -38% to +71%). The effect of vitamin C on the severity of URIs was also different between male and female swimmers, so that vitamin C was beneficial for males, but not for females. Our study indicates that vitamin C does not affect the rate of respiratory infections in competitive swimmers. Nevertheless, we found that vitamin C decreased the duration and severity of respiratory infections in male swimmers, but not in females. This finding warrants further research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Naama W Constantini
- Hadassah Optimal Sport Medicine Center, Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Hadassah-Hebrew University Medical Center, Jerusalem, Israel.
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Reduction of common cold symptoms by encapsulated juice powder concentrate of fruits and vegetables: a randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial. Br J Nutr 2010; 105:118-22. [PMID: 20727236 PMCID: PMC3023145 DOI: 10.1017/s000711451000317x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Dietary supplements have been suggested in the prevention of the common cold, but
previous investigations have been inconsistent. The present study was designed to
determine the preventive effect of a dietary supplement from fruits and vegetables on
common cold symptoms. In a randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial, healthcare
professionals (mainly nursing staff aged 18–65 years) from a university hospital
in Berlin, Germany, were randomised to four capsules of dietary supplement (Juice
Plus+®) or matching placebo daily for 8 months, including a 2-month
run-in period. The number of days with moderate or severe common cold symptoms within 6
months (primary outcome) was assessed by diary self-reports. We determined means and
95 % CI, and differences between the two groups were analysed by ANOVA. A total
of 529 subjects were included into the primary analysis (Juice Plus+®:
263, placebo: 266). The mean age of the participants was 39·9 (sd
10·3) years, and 80 % of the participants were female. The mean number
of days with moderate or severe common cold symptoms was 7·6 (95 % CI
6·5, 8·8) in the Juice Plus+® group and 9·5
(8·4, 10·6) in the placebo group
(P = 0·023). The mean number of total days
with any common cold symptoms was similar in the Juice Plus+® and in
the placebo groups (29·4 (25·8, 33·0) v.
30·7 (27·1, 34·3),
P = 0·616). Intake of a dietary supplement
from fruits and vegetables was associated with a 20 % reduction of moderate or
severe common cold symptom days in healthcare professionals particularly exposed to
patient contact.
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Abstract
The self-medication phenomenon in upper respiratory tract infections, rhinosinusitis, asthma, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease are significant and will continue to increase. Current level of evidence is poor because of the small number of good quality studies, small sample size, short duration, and variation in the composition of the herbal interventions or therapies. The current review points to several potential therapies that could be effective either alone, or as adjuncts to conventional therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Wadie Najm
- Department of Family Medicine, Irvine School of Medicine, University of California, 101 The City Drive South, Building 200, Suite 512, Irvine, Orange, CA 92868, USA
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Immune-modulating efficacy of a polyphenol-rich beverage on symptoms associated with the common cold: a double-blind, randomised, placebo-controlled, multi-centric clinical study. Br J Nutr 2010; 104:1156-64. [PMID: 20487584 DOI: 10.1017/s0007114510002047] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
In the present study, the immune-modulating efficacy of a polyphenol-rich beverage on symptoms associated with the common cold was evaluated. For this purpose, ninety-eight patients reporting common cold symptoms that began no longer than 24 h before the study intervention were randomly assigned to consume either the test beverage or placebo twice per d for 10 d. The severity of the disease was expressed as the total score of the five cold symptoms 'general feeling of sickness', 'headache and/or joint aches', 'sore throat and/or difficulty swallowing', 'hoarseness and/or cough' and 'stuffy nose/sniffle'. Consequently, the decrease from 10.2 (sd 3.1) points at the beginning to 2.1 (sd 2.7) points by the end of the study in the verum group demonstrated a clear improvement, whereas in the placebo group only a reduction from 10.5 (sd 3.0) to 6.3 (sd 3.8) points could be observed. The mean difference between the groups (primary efficacy criterion) of 3.9 points was highly significant (P < 0.01). At the end of the study there were highly significantly (P < 0.01) more patients in the verum group complaint free than in the placebo group (secondary efficacy criterion). In addition to these self-reported values, several local findings of the physical examination were also significantly improved in the verum group.
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Kurihara S, Hiraoka T, Akutsu M, Sukegawa E, Bannai M, Shibahara S. Effects of (L)-cystine and (L)-theanine supplementation on the common cold: a randomized, double-blind, and placebo-controlled trial. JOURNAL OF AMINO ACIDS 2010; 2010:307475. [PMID: 22331996 PMCID: PMC3275984 DOI: 10.4061/2010/307475] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2009] [Accepted: 02/25/2010] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
The common cold is one of the most frequent illnesses caused by viral infection. Recently, we have reported that oral administration of cystine and theanine (CT) to mice enhanced the humoral immune response associated with antibody production. Based on this mouse study, we investigated the effects of CT supplementation on the common cold in humans as a pilot study. A total of 176 healthy male volunteers were randomized to receive either placebo or CT (490 mg) tablets twice daily for 35 days. The incidence outcome was assessed using the definition in our laboratory based on questionnaires regarding cold symptoms. The incidence of subjects with colds during the trial was significantly lower in the CT group than in the placebo group, although the duration of the colds was not significantly different between the groups. These results suggest that CT supplementation may be useful for the prevention of the common cold.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shigekazu Kurihara
- Research Institute for Health Fundamentals, Ajinomoto Co., Inc., Kanagawa 210-8681, Japan
| | - Takenori Hiraoka
- Research Institute for Health Fundamentals, Ajinomoto Co., Inc., Kanagawa 210-8681, Japan
| | - Masahisa Akutsu
- Wellness Promotion Center, Ajinomoto Co., Inc., Kanagawa 210-8681, Japan
| | - Eiji Sukegawa
- Research Institute for Health Fundamentals, Ajinomoto Co., Inc., Kanagawa 210-8681, Japan
| | - Makoto Bannai
- Research Institute for Health Fundamentals, Ajinomoto Co., Inc., Kanagawa 210-8681, Japan
| | - Susumu Shibahara
- Research Institute for Health Fundamentals, Ajinomoto Co., Inc., Kanagawa 210-8681, Japan
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Banerjee D, Kaul D. Combined inhalational and oral supplementation of ascorbic acid may prevent influenza pandemic emergency: a hypothesis. Nutrition 2010; 26:128-32. [PMID: 20005468 PMCID: PMC7127226 DOI: 10.1016/j.nut.2009.09.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2009] [Revised: 09/16/2009] [Accepted: 09/16/2009] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
Abstract
Occurrence of influenza pandemics is a worldwide phenomenon and a significant cause of mortality and morbidity throughout the globe. It is due to mutations in the influenza virus genetic material creating antigenic drift of pathogenic viral proteins resulting in emergence of new influenza virus strains. Therefore, the vaccines available for prevention of influenza offer no protection against influenza pandemics caused by new virus strains. Moreover, the existing drugs used to combat influenza may be ineffective to treat influenza pandemics due to the emergence of drug resistance in the pandemic virus strain. Therefore, a working strategy must be developed to combat influenza pandemics. In this review we have addressed this problem and reviewed the published studies on ascorbic acid in the common cold and influenza and laboratory studies on the effect of ascorbic acid on influenza virus. We have also correlated the clinical and laboratory studies and developed a hypothesis to prevent influenza pandemics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dibyajyoti Banerjee
- Department of Experimental Medicine and Biotechnology, Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research (PGIMER), Chandigarh, India.
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