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Baroni L, Rizzo G, Galchenko AV, Zavoli M, Serventi L, Battino M. Health Benefits of Vegetarian Diets: An Insight into the Main Topics. Foods 2024; 13:2398. [PMID: 39123589 PMCID: PMC11311397 DOI: 10.3390/foods13152398] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2024] [Revised: 07/24/2024] [Accepted: 07/27/2024] [Indexed: 08/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Vegetarian diets are plant-based diets including all the edible foods from the Plant Kingdom, such as grains, legumes, vegetables, fruits, nuts, and seeds. Dairy and eggs can be added in small amounts in the lacto-ovo-vegetarian subtype, or not at all in the vegan subtype. The abundance of non-processed plant foods-typical of all well-planned diets, including vegetarian ones-can provide the body with numerous protective factors (fiber, phytocompounds), while limiting the intake of harmful nutrients like saturated fats, heme-iron, and cholesterol. The beneficial effects on health of this balance have been reported for many main chronic diseases, in both observational and intervention studies. The scientific literature indicates that vegetarians have a lower risk of certain types of cancer, overall cancer, overweight-obesity, type 2 diabetes, dyslipidemia, hypertension, and vascular diseases. Since the trend of following a vegetarian diet is increasing among citizens of developed countries, the knowledge in the field will benefit from further studies confirming the consistency of these findings and clarifying the effects of vegetarian diets on other controversial topics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luciana Baroni
- Scientific Society for Vegetarian Nutrition—SSNV, 30171 Venice, Italy; (L.B.); (A.V.G.); (M.Z.)
| | - Gianluca Rizzo
- Scientific Society for Vegetarian Nutrition—SSNV, 30171 Venice, Italy; (L.B.); (A.V.G.); (M.Z.)
| | - Alexey Vladimirovich Galchenko
- Scientific Society for Vegetarian Nutrition—SSNV, 30171 Venice, Italy; (L.B.); (A.V.G.); (M.Z.)
- Earth Philosophical Society “Melodia Vitae”, International, Toronto, CA M9A4X9, Canada
| | - Martina Zavoli
- Scientific Society for Vegetarian Nutrition—SSNV, 30171 Venice, Italy; (L.B.); (A.V.G.); (M.Z.)
| | - Luca Serventi
- The New Zealand Institute for Plant and Food Research Limited, Lincoln 7608, New Zealand;
| | - Maurizio Battino
- Joint Laboratory on Food Science, Nutrition, and Intelligent Processing of Foods, Polytechnic University of Marche, Italy, Universidad Europea del Atlántico Spain and Jiangsu University, China, Via Pietro Ranieri 65, 60131 Ancona, Italy;
- International Joint Research Laboratory of Intelligent Agriculture and Agri-Products Processing, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang 212013, China
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Polytechnic University of Marche, Via Pietro Ranieri 65, 60131 Ancona, Italy
- Research Group on Foods, Nutritional Biochemistry and Health, Universidad Europea del Atlántico, Isabel Torres 21, 39011 Santander, Spain
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Baroni L, Bonetto C, Rizzo G, Galchenko A, Guidi G, Visaggi P, Savarino E, Zavoli M, de Bortoli N. Nutrient Composition of Four Dietary Patterns in Italy: Results from an Online Survey (the INVITA Study). Foods 2024; 13:2103. [PMID: 38998609 PMCID: PMC11240948 DOI: 10.3390/foods13132103] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2024] [Revised: 06/27/2024] [Accepted: 06/27/2024] [Indexed: 07/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Though Italy is a native land of Mediterranean diet, its adherence in the Italian population is low, witnessed by the high rates of overweight in its inhabitants. Vegetarian dietary patterns (i.e., lacto-ovo-vegetarian and vegan) are increasing in western countries, and also in Italy, where 9.5% of the population self-declared as vegetarian in 2023. Though the vegetarian diet has been associated with beneficial health effects, speculation on its alleged nutrient inadequacy exists. For this reason, we assessed the nutrient composition of the diet of 470 participants enrolled in an online survey (the INVITA study), who completed a weighted food questionnaire on three different days. Participants were divided into four dietary groups obtained according to their self-declared dietary intakes: 116 Meat Eaters (MEs), 49 Fish Eaters (FEs), 116 Lacto-Ovo-Vegetarians (LOVs), and 189 VegaNs (VNs). The mean intake of most of the main nutrients was similar among all groups and within the normal range expected for the Italian population, supporting the adequacy of diets within our Italian sample, especially the LOV and VN diet. Since the Mediterranean diet is a plant-based diet, some of its components still persist in the current Italian diet, representing a staple also for people adopting a vegetarian diet.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luciana Baroni
- Scientific Society for Vegetarian Nutrition-SSNV, 30171 Venice, Italy
| | - Chiara Bonetto
- Section of Psychiatry, Department of Neuroscience, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, 37134 Verona, Italy
| | | | - Alexey Galchenko
- Scientific Society for Vegetarian Nutrition-SSNV, 30171 Venice, Italy
- Earth Philosophical Society "Melodia Vitae", International, Toronto, CA, Canada
| | - Giada Guidi
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Translational Research and New Technologies in Medicine and Surgery, University of Pisa, 56126 Pisa, Italy
| | - Pierfrancesco Visaggi
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Translational Research and New Technologies in Medicine and Surgery, University of Pisa, 56126 Pisa, Italy
| | - Edoardo Savarino
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Surgery, Oncology and Gastroenterology, University of Padua, 35124 Padua, Italy
- Gastroenterology Unit, University Hospital of Padua, 35124 Padua, Italy
| | - Martina Zavoli
- Scientific Society for Vegetarian Nutrition-SSNV, 30171 Venice, Italy
| | - Nicola de Bortoli
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Translational Research and New Technologies in Medicine and Surgery, University of Pisa, 56126 Pisa, Italy
- NUTRAFOOD, Interdepartmental Center for Nutraceutical Research and Nutrition for Health, University of Pisa, 56126 Pisa, Italy
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3
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Schorr KA, Agayn V, de Groot LCPGM, Slagboom PE, Beekman M. A plant-based diet index to study the relation between diet and disease risk among adults: a narrative review. J Nutr Health Aging 2024; 28:100272. [PMID: 38815475 DOI: 10.1016/j.jnha.2024.100272] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2023] [Revised: 05/17/2024] [Accepted: 05/18/2024] [Indexed: 06/01/2024]
Abstract
Plant-based diets (PBD) may offer various health benefits and contribute to a sustainable way of life, but, if not planned correctly, may also confer risks, e.g., by focusing on plant foods with low nutrient density, such as foods primarily consisting of refined carbohydrates. A plant-based diet index (PDI) differentiating between a healthful, unhealthful, and overall PBD, offers a promising approach to standardize and compare studies and integrate results. In this review we (1) summarize current evidence on the PDI and disease risk of relevance to public health, (2) discuss the methodology of the PDI and how it can be sensibly applied in further studies and (3) indicate areas with a lack of knowledge, such as vulnerable populations. In summary, our amalgamation shows, that adherence to a healthier plant-based diet is associated with an 8-68% lower risk for metabolic risk factors, diabetes, and cardiovascular disease, while adherence to an unhealthier plant-based diet is associated with a 10-63% higher risk. Although differences in calculation methods and underlying diet patterns between populations should be accounted for, the PDI can be a useful tool to assess adherence to different plant-based diet patterns and their association with health outcomes in cohort studies across cultures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kerstin A Schorr
- Innoso BV, Den Haag, The Neterhlands; Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands.
| | | | | | | | - Marian Beekman
- Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
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Miyata M, Takeda K, Nagira S, Sugiura Y. Trimethylamine N-oxide ameliorates hepatic damage including reduction of hepatic bile acids and cholesterol in Fxr-null mice. Int J Food Sci Nutr 2024; 75:385-395. [PMID: 38690724 DOI: 10.1080/09637486.2024.2346765] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2023] [Accepted: 04/17/2024] [Indexed: 05/02/2024]
Abstract
There are conflicting animal experiments on the effect of trimethylamine N-oxide (TMAO), the dietary metabolite, on non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). This study aims to determine the effect of TMAO on NAFLD. A diet containing 0.3% TMAO was fed to farnesoid X receptor (Fxr)-null mice, a model of NAFLD, for 13 weeks. Fxr-null mice fed TMAO showed significant reductions in liver damage markers but not wild-type mice. Hepatic bile acid and cholesterol levels were significantly decreased, and triacylglycerol levels tended to decrease in TMAO-fed Fxr-null mice. Changes in mRNA levels of hepatic bile acid and cholesterol transporters and synthetic enzymes were observed, which could explain the decreased hepatic bile acid and cholesterol levels in Fxr-null mice given the TMAO diet but not in the wild-type mice. These results suggest that TMAO intake ameliorates liver damage in Fxr-null mice, further altering bile acid/cholesterol metabolism in an FXR-independent manner.
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Affiliation(s)
- Masaaki Miyata
- Department of Food Science and Technology, National Research and Development Agency, Japan Fisheries Research and Education Agency, National Fisheries University, Shimonoseki, Japan
| | - Kento Takeda
- Department of Food Science and Technology, National Research and Development Agency, Japan Fisheries Research and Education Agency, National Fisheries University, Shimonoseki, Japan
| | - Sayuri Nagira
- Department of Food Science and Technology, National Research and Development Agency, Japan Fisheries Research and Education Agency, National Fisheries University, Shimonoseki, Japan
| | - Yoshimasa Sugiura
- Department of Food Science and Technology, National Research and Development Agency, Japan Fisheries Research and Education Agency, National Fisheries University, Shimonoseki, Japan
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Padua E, Caprio M, Feraco A, Camajani E, Gorini S, Armani A, Ruscello B, Bellia A, Strollo R, Lombardo M. The Impact of Diet and Physical Activity on Fat-to-Lean Mass Ratio. Nutrients 2023; 16:19. [PMID: 38201847 PMCID: PMC10780510 DOI: 10.3390/nu16010019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2023] [Revised: 12/16/2023] [Accepted: 12/19/2023] [Indexed: 01/12/2024] Open
Abstract
In this retrospective study, we evaluated the efficacy of a personalised low-calorie Mediterranean Diet (MD) in promoting fat mass (FM) reduction while preserving fat-free mass (FFM). This study involved 100 Caucasian adults aged 18-65 years who followed a tailored low-calorie MD for two months. The total energy expenditure was assessed using a multi-sensor armband. The change in body composition (BC) was evaluated using the Δ% FM-to-FFM ratio, calculated as the difference in the FM to FFM ratio before and after the diet, divided by the ratio before the diet, and multiplied by 100. A negative value indicates a greater decrease in FM than FFM, while a positive value suggests a greater increase in FM than FFM. This study demonstrated a significant FM reduction, with an average decrease of 5% (p < 0.001). However, the relationship between caloric reduction and the Δ% FM-to-FFM ratio showed a weak negative correlation (r = -0.03, p > 0.05). This suggests that the calorie deficit had a minimal direct impact on the BC changes. Subjects over the age of 30 showed an increase in muscle mass, while younger subjects showed no significant changes. Moreover, a direct correlation was observed between the changes in MET (Metabolic Equivalent of Task) values and the Δ% FM-to-FFM ratio, indicating that improved average physical activity intensity positively influences BC. In the female subgroup, high protein intake, exercise intensity, and the duration of physical activity were positively correlated with an improvement in the Δ% FM-to-FFM ratio. However, for individuals with BMI 20-25 kg/m2, high fibre intake was surprisingly negatively correlated with the Δ% FM-to-FFM ratio. This study underscores the intricate interplay between calorie restriction, physical activity intensity, and BC changes. It also suggests that individual factors, including age, gender, and BMI, may influence the response to a low-calorie MD. However, further prospective studies with larger sample sizes are necessary to confirm and expand upon these findings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elvira Padua
- Department of Human Sciences and Promotion of the Quality of Life, San Raffaele Open University, Via di Val Cannuta, 247, 00166 Rome, Italy; (E.P.); (M.C.); (A.F.); (E.C.); (S.G.); (A.A.); (B.R.); (R.S.)
| | - Massimiliano Caprio
- Department of Human Sciences and Promotion of the Quality of Life, San Raffaele Open University, Via di Val Cannuta, 247, 00166 Rome, Italy; (E.P.); (M.C.); (A.F.); (E.C.); (S.G.); (A.A.); (B.R.); (R.S.)
- Laboratory of Cardiovascular Endocrinology, San Raffaele Research Institute, IRCCS San Raffaele Roma, Via di Val Cannuta, 247, 00166 Rome, Italy
| | - Alessandra Feraco
- Department of Human Sciences and Promotion of the Quality of Life, San Raffaele Open University, Via di Val Cannuta, 247, 00166 Rome, Italy; (E.P.); (M.C.); (A.F.); (E.C.); (S.G.); (A.A.); (B.R.); (R.S.)
- Laboratory of Cardiovascular Endocrinology, San Raffaele Research Institute, IRCCS San Raffaele Roma, Via di Val Cannuta, 247, 00166 Rome, Italy
| | - Elisabetta Camajani
- Department of Human Sciences and Promotion of the Quality of Life, San Raffaele Open University, Via di Val Cannuta, 247, 00166 Rome, Italy; (E.P.); (M.C.); (A.F.); (E.C.); (S.G.); (A.A.); (B.R.); (R.S.)
- Laboratory of Cardiovascular Endocrinology, San Raffaele Research Institute, IRCCS San Raffaele Roma, Via di Val Cannuta, 247, 00166 Rome, Italy
| | - Stefania Gorini
- Department of Human Sciences and Promotion of the Quality of Life, San Raffaele Open University, Via di Val Cannuta, 247, 00166 Rome, Italy; (E.P.); (M.C.); (A.F.); (E.C.); (S.G.); (A.A.); (B.R.); (R.S.)
- Laboratory of Cardiovascular Endocrinology, San Raffaele Research Institute, IRCCS San Raffaele Roma, Via di Val Cannuta, 247, 00166 Rome, Italy
| | - Andrea Armani
- Department of Human Sciences and Promotion of the Quality of Life, San Raffaele Open University, Via di Val Cannuta, 247, 00166 Rome, Italy; (E.P.); (M.C.); (A.F.); (E.C.); (S.G.); (A.A.); (B.R.); (R.S.)
- Laboratory of Cardiovascular Endocrinology, San Raffaele Research Institute, IRCCS San Raffaele Roma, Via di Val Cannuta, 247, 00166 Rome, Italy
| | - Bruno Ruscello
- Department of Human Sciences and Promotion of the Quality of Life, San Raffaele Open University, Via di Val Cannuta, 247, 00166 Rome, Italy; (E.P.); (M.C.); (A.F.); (E.C.); (S.G.); (A.A.); (B.R.); (R.S.)
| | - Alfonso Bellia
- Department of Systems Medicine, University of Rome “Tor Vergata”, Via Montpellier 1, 00133 Rome, Italy;
| | - Rocky Strollo
- Department of Human Sciences and Promotion of the Quality of Life, San Raffaele Open University, Via di Val Cannuta, 247, 00166 Rome, Italy; (E.P.); (M.C.); (A.F.); (E.C.); (S.G.); (A.A.); (B.R.); (R.S.)
| | - Mauro Lombardo
- Department of Human Sciences and Promotion of the Quality of Life, San Raffaele Open University, Via di Val Cannuta, 247, 00166 Rome, Italy; (E.P.); (M.C.); (A.F.); (E.C.); (S.G.); (A.A.); (B.R.); (R.S.)
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Lanng SK, Oxfeldt M, Johansen FT, Risikesan J, Hansen M, Bertram HC. Acute changes in the metabolome following resistance exercise combined with intake of different protein sources (cricket, pea, whey). Metabolomics 2023; 19:98. [PMID: 37999866 DOI: 10.1007/s11306-023-02064-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2023] [Accepted: 11/08/2023] [Indexed: 11/25/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Separately, both exercise and protein ingestion have been shown to alter the blood and urine metabolome. This study goes a step further and examines changes in the metabolome derived from blood, urine and muscle tissue extracts in response to resistance exercise combined with ingestion of three different protein sources. METHODS In an acute parallel study, 52 young males performed one-legged resistance exercise (leg extension, 4 × 10 repetitions at 10 repetition maximum) followed by ingestion of either cricket (insect), pea or whey protein (0.25 g protein/kg fat free mass). Blood and muscle tissue were collected at baseline and three hours after protein ingestion. Urine was collected at baseline and four hours after protein ingestion. Mixed-effects analyses were applied to examine the effect of the time (baseline vs. post), protein (cricket, pea, whey), and time x protein interaction. RESULTS Nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR)-based metabolomics resulted in the annotation and quantification of 25 metabolites in blood, 35 in urine and 21 in muscle tissue. Changes in the muscle metabolome after combined exercise and protein intake indicated effects related to the protein source ingested. Muscle concentrations of leucine, methionine, glutamate and myo-inositol were higher after intake of whey protein compared to both cricket and pea protein. The blood metabolome revealed changes in a more ketogenic direction three hours after exercise reflecting that the trial was conducted after overnight fasting. Urinary concentration of trimethylamine N-oxide was significantly higher after ingestion of cricket than pea and whey protein. CONCLUSION The blood, urine and muscle metabolome showed different and supplementary responses to exercise and ingestion of the different protein sources, and in synergy the summarized results provided a more complete picture of the metabolic state of the body.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sofie Kaas Lanng
- Department of Food Science, Aarhus University, Aarhus N, 8200, Denmark
- CiFOOD, Centre for Innovative Food Research, Aarhus University, Aarhus N, 8200, Denmark
| | - Mikkel Oxfeldt
- Department of Public Health, Aarhus University, Aarhus C, 8000, Denmark
| | | | - Jeyanthini Risikesan
- Department of Child and Adolescent Medicine, Regional Hospital Gødstrup, Aarhus C, Denmark
| | - Mette Hansen
- Department of Public Health, Aarhus University, Aarhus C, 8000, Denmark
| | - Hanne Christine Bertram
- Department of Food Science, Aarhus University, Aarhus N, 8200, Denmark.
- CiFOOD, Centre for Innovative Food Research, Aarhus University, Aarhus N, 8200, Denmark.
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Evans M, Dai L, Avesani CM, Kublickiene K, Stenvinkel P. The dietary source of trimethylamine N-oxide and clinical outcomes: an unexpected liaison. Clin Kidney J 2023; 16:1804-1812. [PMID: 37915930 PMCID: PMC10616480 DOI: 10.1093/ckj/sfad095] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2023] [Indexed: 11/03/2023] Open
Abstract
The profile of gut microbiota can vary according to host genetic and dietary characteristics, and be influenced by disease state and environmental stressors. The uremic dysbiosis results in a loss of biodiversity and overgrowth of microorganisms that may cause elevation of metabolic solutes such as trimethylamine N-oxide (TMAO), inducing pathogenic effects on its host. In patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD), TMAO levels are elevated because of a decreased clearance and an increased production from the uremic gut dysbiosis with a disrupted intestinal barrier and elevated enzymatic hepatic activity. Dietary precursors of TMAO are abundant in animal-derived foods such as red meat, egg yolk and other full-fat dietary products. TMAO is also found naturally in fish and certain types of seafood, with the TMAO content highly variable according to the depth of the sea where the fish is caught, as well as processing and storage. Although evidence points towards TMAO as being an important link to vascular damage and adverse cardiovascular outcomes, the evidence in CKD patients has not been consistent. In this review we discuss the potential dietary sources of TMAO and its actions on the intestinal microbiome as an explanation for the divergent results. We further highlight the potential of a healthy diet as one feasible therapeutic opportunity to prevent gut dysbiosis and reduce uremic toxin levels in patients with CKD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marie Evans
- Renal Unit, Department of Clinical Sciences and Technology (CLINTEC), Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Lu Dai
- Aging Research Center, Department of Neurobiology, Care Sciences and Society, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Carla Maria Avesani
- Renal Unit, Department of Clinical Sciences and Technology (CLINTEC), Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Karolina Kublickiene
- Renal Unit, Department of Clinical Sciences and Technology (CLINTEC), Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Peter Stenvinkel
- Renal Unit, Department of Clinical Sciences and Technology (CLINTEC), Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
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Zhang Q, Liu Y, He C, Zhu R, Li M, Lam HM, Wong WT. Nutritional Assessment of Plant-Based Meat Products Available on Hong Kong Market: A Cross-Sectional Survey. Nutrients 2023; 15:3684. [PMID: 37686716 PMCID: PMC10489762 DOI: 10.3390/nu15173684] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2023] [Revised: 08/17/2023] [Accepted: 08/21/2023] [Indexed: 09/10/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Plant-based meat (PBM) takes up ever-increasing market shares and draws great attention from both customers and retailers these days. However, little is known about the nutritional quality of PBM products. OBJECTIVE This study intended to profile and evaluate the overview nutrition of PBM with equivalent meat products on the Hong Kong market. METHODS We conducted a cross-sectional survey of 274 PBM and 151 meat products from 27 different brands on the Hong Kong market in October 2022. The nutritional differences between PBM and meat products were assessed using analysis of covariance (ANCOVA) and two independent sample t-test. The nutritional quality of PBMs was evaluated according to nutrient reference value, front-of-package (FoP) criteria and nutritional score. RESULTS PBM had relatively lower energy density, total fat, saturated fat, protein, and salt compared to meat. According to the FoP criteria, 91.36%, 17.88%, and 99.34% of PBMs were labeled as medium to high in fat, salt, and sugar, respectively. Through ingredient analysis of 81 PBM products, soy and canola were the main source of protein and fat. CONCLUSIONS PBM products have a roughly better nutrient quality compared to muscle-based meat, though there is still potential for further refinement in terms of production, consumption, and regulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qile Zhang
- School of Life Sciences, Faculty of Science, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China; (Q.Z.); (C.H.); (R.Z.)
| | - Yilin Liu
- The Jockey Club School of Public Health and Primary Care, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China;
| | - Chufeng He
- School of Life Sciences, Faculty of Science, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China; (Q.Z.); (C.H.); (R.Z.)
| | - Ruiwen Zhu
- School of Life Sciences, Faculty of Science, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China; (Q.Z.); (C.H.); (R.Z.)
| | - Minghui Li
- School of Pharmacy, University College London, London WC1N 1AX, UK;
| | - Hon-Ming Lam
- School of Life Sciences, Faculty of Science, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China; (Q.Z.); (C.H.); (R.Z.)
- State Key Laboratory of Agrobiotechnology, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Wing-Tak Wong
- School of Life Sciences, Faculty of Science, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China; (Q.Z.); (C.H.); (R.Z.)
- State Key Laboratory of Agrobiotechnology, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
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McClements IF, McClements DJ. Designing healthier plant-based foods: Fortification, digestion, and bioavailability. Food Res Int 2023; 169:112853. [PMID: 37254427 DOI: 10.1016/j.foodres.2023.112853] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2022] [Revised: 04/12/2023] [Accepted: 04/14/2023] [Indexed: 06/01/2023]
Abstract
Many consumers are incorporating more plant-based foods into their diets as a result of concerns about the environmental, ethical, and health impacts of animal sourced foods like meat, seafood, egg, and dairy products. Foods derived from animals negatively impact the environment by increasing greenhouse gas emissions, land use, water use, pollution, deforestation, and biodiversity loss. The livestock industry confines and slaughters billions of livestock animals each year. There are concerns about the negative impacts of some animal sourced foods, such as red meat and processed meat, on human health. The livestock industry is a major user of antibiotics, which is leading to a rise in the resistance of several pathogenic microorganisms to antibiotics. It is often assumed that a plant-based diet is healthier than one containing more animal sourced foods, but this is not necessarily the case. Eating more fresh fruits, vegetables, nuts, and whole grain cereals has been linked to improved health outcomes but it is unclear whether next-generation plant-based foods, such as meat, seafood, egg, and dairy analogs are healthier than the products they are designed to replace. Many of these new products are highly processed foods that contain high levels of saturated fat, sugar, starch, and salt, and low levels of micronutrients, nutraceuticals, and dietary fibers. Moreover, they are often rapidly digested in the gastrointestinal tract because processing disrupts plant tissues and releases the macronutrients. Consequently, it is important to formulate plant-based foods to reduce the levels of nutrients linked to adverse health effects and increase the levels linked to beneficial health effects. Moreover, it is important to design the food matrix so that the macronutrients are not digested and absorbed too quickly, but the micronutrients are highly bioavailable. In this article, we discuss how next-generation plant-based foods can be made healthier by controlling their nutrient profile, digestibility, and bioavailability.
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Najjar RS. The Impacts of Animal-Based Diets in Cardiovascular Disease Development: A Cellular and Physiological Overview. J Cardiovasc Dev Dis 2023; 10:282. [PMID: 37504538 PMCID: PMC10380617 DOI: 10.3390/jcdd10070282] [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: 05/24/2023] [Revised: 06/26/2023] [Accepted: 06/29/2023] [Indexed: 07/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is the leading cause of death in the United States, and diet plays an instrumental role in CVD development. Plant-based diets have been strongly tied to a reduction in CVD incidence. In contrast, animal food consumption may increase CVD risk. While increased serum low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol concentrations are an established risk factor which may partially explain the positive association with animal foods and CVD, numerous other biochemical factors are also at play. Thus, the aim of this review is to summarize the major cellular and molecular effects of animal food consumption in relation to CVD development. Animal-food-centered diets may (1) increase cardiovascular toll-like receptor (TLR) signaling, due to increased serum endotoxins and oxidized LDL cholesterol, (2) increase cardiovascular lipotoxicity, (3) increase renin-angiotensin system components and subsequent angiotensin II type-1 receptor (AT1R) signaling and (4) increase serum trimethylamine-N-oxide concentrations. These nutritionally mediated factors independently increase cardiovascular oxidative stress and inflammation and are all independently tied to CVD development. Public policy efforts should continue to advocate for the consumption of a mostly plant-based diet, with the minimization of animal-based foods.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rami Salim Najjar
- Institute for Biomedical Sciences, Georgia State University, Atlanta, GA 30303, USA
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Barber TM, Kabisch S, Pfeiffer AFH, Weickert MO. Metabolic-Associated Fatty Liver Disease and Insulin Resistance: A Review of Complex Interlinks. Metabolites 2023; 13:757. [PMID: 37367914 PMCID: PMC10304744 DOI: 10.3390/metabo13060757] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2023] [Revised: 06/12/2023] [Accepted: 06/14/2023] [Indexed: 06/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Metabolic-associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD) has now surpassed alcohol excess as the most common cause of chronic liver disease globally, affecting one in four people. Given its prevalence, MAFLD is an important cause of cirrhosis, even though only a small proportion of patients with MAFLD ultimately progress to cirrhosis. MAFLD suffers as a clinical entity due to its insidious and often asymptomatic onset, lack of an accurate and reliable non-invasive diagnostic test, and lack of a bespoke therapy that has been designed and approved for use specifically in MAFLD. MAFLD sits at a crossroads between the gut and the periphery. The development of MAFLD (including activation of the inflammatory cascade) is influenced by gut-related factors that include the gut microbiota and intactness of the gut mucosal wall. The gut microbiota may interact directly with the liver parenchyma (through translocation via the portal vein), or indirectly through the release of metabolic metabolites that include secondary bile acids, trimethylamine, and short-chain fatty acids (such as propionate and acetate). In turn, the liver mediates the metabolic status of peripheral tissues (including insulin sensitivity) through a complex interplay of hepatokines, liver-secreted metabolites, and liver-derived micro RNAs. As such, the liver plays a key central role in influencing overall metabolic status. In this concise review, we provide an overview of the complex mechanisms whereby MAFLD influences the development of insulin resistance within the periphery, and gut-related factors impact on the development of MAFLD. We also discuss lifestyle strategies for optimising metabolic liver health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas M. Barber
- Warwickshire Institute for the Study of Diabetes, Endocrinology and Metabolism, University Hospitals Coventry and Warwickshire, Clifford Bridge Road, Coventry CV2 2DX, UK
- Division of Biomedical Sciences, Warwick Medical School, University of Warwick, Coventry CV4 7AL, UK
- NIHR CRF Human Metabolism Research Unit, University Hospitals Coventry and Warwickshire, Clifford Bridge Road, Coventry CV2 2DX, UK
| | - Stefan Kabisch
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolic Medicine, Campus Benjamin Franklin, Charité University Medicine, Hindenburgdamm 30, 12203 Berlin, Germany
- Deutsches Zentrum für Diabetesforschung e.V., Geschäftsstelle am Helmholtz-Zentrum München, Ingolstädter Landstraße, 85764 Neuherberg, Germany
| | - Andreas F. H. Pfeiffer
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolic Medicine, Campus Benjamin Franklin, Charité University Medicine, Hindenburgdamm 30, 12203 Berlin, Germany
- Deutsches Zentrum für Diabetesforschung e.V., Geschäftsstelle am Helmholtz-Zentrum München, Ingolstädter Landstraße, 85764 Neuherberg, Germany
| | - Martin O. Weickert
- Warwickshire Institute for the Study of Diabetes, Endocrinology and Metabolism, University Hospitals Coventry and Warwickshire, Clifford Bridge Road, Coventry CV2 2DX, UK
- Division of Biomedical Sciences, Warwick Medical School, University of Warwick, Coventry CV4 7AL, UK
- NIHR CRF Human Metabolism Research Unit, University Hospitals Coventry and Warwickshire, Clifford Bridge Road, Coventry CV2 2DX, UK
- Centre for Sport, Exercise and Life Sciences, Faculty of Health & Life Sciences, Coventry University, Coventry CV1 5FB, UK
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Amoah I, Ascione A, Muthanna FMS, Feraco A, Camajani E, Gorini S, Armani A, Caprio M, Lombardo M. Sustainable Strategies for Increasing Legume Consumption: Culinary and Educational Approaches. Foods 2023; 12:foods12112265. [PMID: 37297509 DOI: 10.3390/foods12112265] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2023] [Revised: 05/28/2023] [Accepted: 06/01/2023] [Indexed: 06/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Legumes are nutrient-dense crops with health-promoting benefits. However, several barriers are associated with their consumption. Emerging issues including food neophobic tendencies or taboos, unclear dietary guidelines on legume consumption, health concerns, and socio-economic reasons, as well as long cooking procedures, adversely affect legume consumption frequency. Pre-treatment methods, including soaking, sprouting, and pulse electric field technology, are effective in reducing the alpha-oligosaccharides and other anti-nutritional factors, eventually lowering cooking time for legumes. Extrusion technology used for innovative development of legume-enriched products, including snacks, breakfast cereals and puffs, baking and pasta, represents a strategic way to promote legume consumption. Culinary skills such as legume salads, legume sprouts, stews, soups, hummus, and the development of homemade cake recipes using legume flour could represent effective ways to promote legume consumption. This review aims to highlight the nutritional and health effects associated with legume consumption, and strategies to improve their digestibility and nutritional profile. Additionally, proper educational and culinary approaches aimed to improve legumes intake are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Isaac Amoah
- Department of Biochemistry and Biotechnology, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi 0023351, Ghana
| | - Angela Ascione
- Department of Human Sciences and Promotion of the Quality of Life, San Raffaele Open University, Via di Val Cannuta, 247, 00166 Rome, Italy
| | - Fares M S Muthanna
- Pharmacy Department, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Science and Technology-Aden, Alshaab Street, Enmaa City 22003, Yemen
| | - Alessandra Feraco
- Department of Human Sciences and Promotion of the Quality of Life, San Raffaele Open University, Via di Val Cannuta, 247, 00166 Rome, Italy
- Laboratory of Cardiovascular Endocrinology, San Raffaele Research Institute, IRCCS San Raffaele Roma, Via di Val Cannuta, 247, 00166 Rome, Italy
| | - Elisabetta Camajani
- Department of Human Sciences and Promotion of the Quality of Life, San Raffaele Open University, Via di Val Cannuta, 247, 00166 Rome, Italy
- Laboratory of Cardiovascular Endocrinology, San Raffaele Research Institute, IRCCS San Raffaele Roma, Via di Val Cannuta, 247, 00166 Rome, Italy
| | - Stefania Gorini
- Department of Human Sciences and Promotion of the Quality of Life, San Raffaele Open University, Via di Val Cannuta, 247, 00166 Rome, Italy
- Laboratory of Cardiovascular Endocrinology, San Raffaele Research Institute, IRCCS San Raffaele Roma, Via di Val Cannuta, 247, 00166 Rome, Italy
| | - Andrea Armani
- Department of Human Sciences and Promotion of the Quality of Life, San Raffaele Open University, Via di Val Cannuta, 247, 00166 Rome, Italy
- Laboratory of Cardiovascular Endocrinology, San Raffaele Research Institute, IRCCS San Raffaele Roma, Via di Val Cannuta, 247, 00166 Rome, Italy
| | - Massimiliano Caprio
- Department of Human Sciences and Promotion of the Quality of Life, San Raffaele Open University, Via di Val Cannuta, 247, 00166 Rome, Italy
- Laboratory of Cardiovascular Endocrinology, San Raffaele Research Institute, IRCCS San Raffaele Roma, Via di Val Cannuta, 247, 00166 Rome, Italy
| | - Mauro Lombardo
- Department of Human Sciences and Promotion of the Quality of Life, San Raffaele Open University, Via di Val Cannuta, 247, 00166 Rome, Italy
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Lombardo M, Feraco A, Camajani E, Caprio M, Armani A. Health Effects of Red Wine Consumption: A Narrative Review of an Issue That Still Deserves Debate. Nutrients 2023; 15:nu15081921. [PMID: 37111141 PMCID: PMC10146095 DOI: 10.3390/nu15081921] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2023] [Revised: 04/04/2023] [Accepted: 04/14/2023] [Indexed: 04/29/2023] Open
Abstract
A strong controversy persists regarding the effect of red wine (RW) consumption and health. Guidelines for the prevention of cardiovascular diseases (CVD) and cancers discourage alcohol consumption in any form, but several studies have demonstrated that low RW intake may have positive effects on CVD risk. This review evaluated randomised controlled trials (RCTs), examining the recent literature on the correlations between acute and chronic RW consumption and health. All RCTs published in English on PubMed from 1 January 2000 to 28 February 2023 were evaluated. Ninety-one RCTs were included in this review, seven of which had a duration of more than six months. We assessed the effect of RW on: (1) antioxidant status, (2) cardiovascular function, (3) coagulation pathway and platelet function, (4) endothelial function and arterial stiffness, (5) hypertension, (6) immune function and inflammation status, (7) lipid profile and homocysteine levels, (8) body composition, type 2 diabetes and glucose metabolism, and (9) gut microbiota and the gastrointestinal tract. RW consumption mostly results in improvements in antioxidant status, thrombosis and inflammation markers, lipid profile, and gut microbiota, with conflicting results on hypertension and cardiac function. Notably, beneficial effects were observed on oxidative stress, inflammation, and nephropathy markers, with a modest decrease in CVD risk in five out of seven studies that evaluated the effect of RW consumption. These studies were conducted mainly in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus, and had a duration between six months and two years. Additional long-term RCTs are needed to confirm these benefits, and assess the potential risks associated with RW consumption.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mauro Lombardo
- Department of Human Sciences and Promotion of the Quality of Life, San Raffaele Open University, 00166 Rome, Italy
| | - Alessandra Feraco
- Department of Human Sciences and Promotion of the Quality of Life, San Raffaele Open University, 00166 Rome, Italy
- Laboratory of Cardiovascular Endocrinology, San Raffaele Research Institute, IRCCS San Raffaele Roma, Via di Val Cannuta, 247, 00166 Rome, Italy
| | - Elisabetta Camajani
- Department of Human Sciences and Promotion of the Quality of Life, San Raffaele Open University, 00166 Rome, Italy
- Laboratory of Cardiovascular Endocrinology, San Raffaele Research Institute, IRCCS San Raffaele Roma, Via di Val Cannuta, 247, 00166 Rome, Italy
| | - Massimiliano Caprio
- Department of Human Sciences and Promotion of the Quality of Life, San Raffaele Open University, 00166 Rome, Italy
- Laboratory of Cardiovascular Endocrinology, San Raffaele Research Institute, IRCCS San Raffaele Roma, Via di Val Cannuta, 247, 00166 Rome, Italy
| | - Andrea Armani
- Department of Human Sciences and Promotion of the Quality of Life, San Raffaele Open University, 00166 Rome, Italy
- Laboratory of Cardiovascular Endocrinology, San Raffaele Research Institute, IRCCS San Raffaele Roma, Via di Val Cannuta, 247, 00166 Rome, Italy
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A Vegetarian Diet Significantly Changes Plasma Kynurenine Concentrations. Biomolecules 2023; 13:biom13020391. [PMID: 36830760 PMCID: PMC9953657 DOI: 10.3390/biom13020391] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2023] [Revised: 02/10/2023] [Accepted: 02/15/2023] [Indexed: 02/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Tryptophan is an essential amino acid and a precursor of a number of physiologically important metabolites, including serotonin, melatonin, tryptamine, and kynurenines. We assessed tryptophan, kynurenines, and vitamin B2 and B6, as well as biomarkers of liver function and inflammation, in a group of 158 female omnivores and vegetarians aged 18-40 years. The majority of women were omnivores, and 22% were vegetarians. Vegetarians had 25% lower serum ALT, significantly higher pyridoxal concentrations, and significantly lower plasma concentrations of most kynurenines, varying from 8% lower concentrations of median plasma kynurenine to 42% lower concentrations of plasma xanthurenic acid, compared to omnivores. No significant differences were observed in vitamin B2 status or in inflammation markers, C-reactive protein and neopterin between the groups. Vegetarians had lower levels of several plasma kynurenines compared to omnivores. The reason for this is unknown; however, lower ALT concentrations, suggesting a better liver status, and a more favourable vitamin B6 status might be contributing factors.
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Effect of a Vegan Diet on Alzheimer's Disease. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms232314924. [PMID: 36499257 PMCID: PMC9738978 DOI: 10.3390/ijms232314924] [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: 11/05/2022] [Revised: 11/19/2022] [Accepted: 11/23/2022] [Indexed: 12/05/2022] Open
Abstract
There is evidence indicating that a vegan diet could be beneficial in the prevention of neurodegenerative disorders, including Alzheimer's disease (AD). The purpose of this review is to summarize the current knowledge on the positive and negative aspects of a vegan diet regarding the risk of AD. Regarding AD prevention, a vegan diet includes low levels of saturated fats and cholesterol, contributing to a healthy blood lipid profile. Furthermore, it is rich in phytonutrients, such as vitamins, antioxidants, and dietary fiber, that may help prevent cognitive decline. Moreover, a vegan diet contributes to the assumption of quercetin, a natural inhibitor of monoamine oxidase (MAO), which can contribute to maintaining mental health and reducing AD risk. Nonetheless, the data available do not allow an assessment of whether strict veganism is beneficial for AD prevention compared with vegetarianism or other diets. A vegan diet lacks specific vitamins and micronutrients and may result in nutritional deficiencies. Vegans not supplementing micronutrients are more prone to vitamin B12, vitamin D, and DHA deficiencies, which have been linked to AD. Thus, an evaluation of the net effect of a vegan diet on AD prevention and/or progression should be ascertained by taking into account all the positive and negative effects described here.
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Ahmad SR. Plant-based diet for obesity treatment. Front Nutr 2022; 9:952553. [PMID: 36159462 PMCID: PMC9493195 DOI: 10.3389/fnut.2022.952553] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2022] [Accepted: 07/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Obesity rates continue to rise, resulting in a global epidemic that shows no sign of slowing down. Our understanding of this complex disease is also constantly evolving, requiring healthcare providers to stay up to date with best practices. The application of plant-based diets (PBDs) may hold the key to a successful weight-control strategy. PBD refers to any dietary pattern that emphasizes the consumption of plant foods while excluding the consumption of most or all animal products. The purpose of this mini-review is to report on the application of PBDs as a potential treatment for obesity. PBDs have also been shown to be beneficial in the treatment of other non-communicable diseases, such as the prevention and treatment of type 2 diabetes. Many of the reported RCTs were of short duration. Longer-term studies, as well as studies focusing on strict adherence to the PBD regime, are needed. PBD is a beneficial approach to improving health, particularly in obese patients. Benefits include weight loss, improved cardiovascular health, lower blood pressure, and improved glucose metabolism.
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